You’ve got your camera, and you’ve taken some great pictures that you’re excited to edit and make even better. The only thing you’re missing is a laptop that’s up for the task. In this article, we’ll share with you about some of the best laptops to use for photography. Whether you’re a professional or you simply enjoy photography as a hobby, we think you’ll find something of value here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How large are the screens on these laptops?
The laptops on this list have screens that range in size between 11 inches all the way up to 15 inches. Some screens are touch-screens, but most are simply standard screens.
How long will the battery last?
On average, you can expect your computer’s battery to last between seven and 10 hours. This depends on many factors – namely how you are using your computer. There is one computer on this list that has an especially strong battery, and you’ll be able to use this one up to 18 hours on a single charge. We’ll make sure to point this computer out for you when we get there.
Buying Guide
With so many features to consider, it can be hard to choose which laptop for photography is right for you. As you narrow down your options, here are a few things to keep at the front of your mind:
- RAM: RAM refers to the short-term memory stored on your computer. This is different from your hard drive (which we’ll cover soon). RAM storage keeps data within reach so that your processor can access it more easily (and quickly). This mainly affects the apps that you have up and running at a given moment.
- Hard Drive: This is where you’ll keep items (like pictures) for long-term storage. Since high-quality pictures can be large files, you’ll want a computer with a large enough hard drive to hold all of your albums.
- Processor: This is the brain of your computer. It determines how capable your computer is of performing tasks such as editing photos, streaming videos, or even surfing the web. Not only does it tell you what your computer is capable of, but it will give you an idea of how quickly your computer can perform these tasks.
- Weight: People love laptops for their portability. However, a laptop will be easier to bring with you on the road or to a coffee shop if it is lighter.
- Apps: While you can download some apps after you get the computer, you might also be curious to learn what apps come preloaded onto your computer.
- Compatibility: What can (and can’t) you plug into your computer? Some computers require adapters to plug in your SD card, which is a common tool many use to store pictures on their camera.
Lenovo Laptop for Photography
Best Overall
Touch Display is Fully Reversible
This computer is versatile, easy to use, and offers superior battery life. No setup is required – all you’ll need is an active Google account. The 11-inch touch display allows you to easily use your computer for surfing the web, accessing multimedia, and performing other computing tasks.
Why We Love It:
- Includes 4gb of RAM
- Sold in two different styles (blizzard white or English keyboard)
- Comes equipped with a MediaTEk MT8173C processor, Chrome OS, and 64 GB eMMC
- Weighs only 2.6 pounds
Something to Consider:
- Requires an adapter if you want to use a microSD card
Acer Laptop for Photography
Best Screen
1920×1080 Widescreen Backlit Display
This computer offers up to 7.5 hours of battery life on a single charge, and is compatible with Google Classroom on Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer 11. You’ll love the expanded start menu, automatic updates, and Radeon Vega 3 graphics.
Why We Love It:
- Includes one USB 3.1 port, two USB 2.0 ports, and one HDMI port
- Offers built-in Alexa voice assistant
- Features a 128gb hard drive
- Capable of 3.5GHz memory speeds
Something to Consider:
- Maximum power supply of 65W
Apple Laptop for Photography
Best FaceTime Camera
Includes 13-Inch Retina Display
This computer works well for photography, and it makes high-quality video calls as well. You’ll be able to use your computer throughout the day thanks to a battery that is capable of 18 hours of life on one charge. The M1 chip with 8-core CPU delivers performance 3.5 times faster than other computers, which will help you get more done in less time.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in three colors
- Available with two hard drive sizes (256gb or 512gb)
- Packed with apps that you can use right out of the box
- Runs Adobe creative cloud, Microsoft 365, and Google Drive
Something to Consider:
- Considerably more expensive than other options on this list
HP Laptop for Photography
Best Screen
Offers 82% Screen-to-Body Ratio
While many computers offer less viewing space, this computer’s display stretches as far to the edge as possible. This gives you more room to view your screen whether you’re working on editing photos or simply surfing the web.
Why We Love It:
- Available in four styles, including choices with HD or touch screen displays
- Sold in three different colors
- Features a 14-inch HD SVA display
- Includes Micro SD reader
Something to Consider:
- Battery life is better on other computers
Samsung Laptop for Photography
Most Durable
Made with Military-Grade Durability
If you’re worried about damage that may happen from occasional bumps or accidental drops, that won’t be as great of a concern with this computer. The hard-body case offers exceptional strength and durability, setting you up for long-term use. The computer also offers advanced security thanks to multiple layers of built-in virus protection.
Why We Love It:
- Sold with a 32gb or 64gb hard drive
- Features an 11.6 inch HD screen
- Offers 4gb of internal RAM
- Google Assistant-enabled
Something to Consider:
- Does not have a touch screen
