Whether your old laptop just can't handle the strain of running large music production software or you're looking to get your first laptop with music production capability in mind, this guide is for you. Computers are a big purchase so it's extremely important to be sure the one you choose will be able to handle the necessary functions you're looking for. In this guide, I reviewed the best laptops for music production to help you make the most informed purchase decision possible.
What are the Best Laptops for Music Production?
There are many different models out there from the top electronics manufacturers that offer high-quality laptops for making music. They all have their own strengths and weaknesses, and it's important to consider your unique needs when deciding which laptop to purchase.
That said, all of them essentially serve the same purpose, so it really comes down to personal preference and what budget you're willing to spend.
Before we get into specific laptop models, let's go over the first question you're probably thinking: Mac or PC?
Mac vs. PC for Music Production
There's a few things to keep in mind when deciding between the 2 main types of laptops, but the most important thing to consider is what DAW (digital audio workstation) you'll be using. Our preferred DAW, Logic Pro X, is only available on Mac, so this is something you should keep in mind when deciding what's the best option for you.
Macs also come pre-loaded with Garageband, a high-quality free DAW that's perfect for beginners who are just getting their feet wet with music production. Macs are also compatible with all the main DAW options out there, so you'll have more freedom to pick whichever one is right for you.
Overall, while both Mac and PC offer laptop options that are more than capable of running music production software, Macs give you a bit more flexibility when it comes to DAW choice, so just keep that in mind while making your purchase decision.
With all that out of the way, let's get into our list of the best laptops for music production.
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 512 GB
Cost: $1,899.00
Pros: The MacBook Pro M1 is by far one of the best laptops for music production, and the value is actually pretty great at under $2,000. The new M1 chips offer excellent processing power (which you'll need when running your DAW + any 3rd party plugins you buy), it stays relatively cool when running lots of programs, and the fan stays pretty quiet, which is especially important if you plan on recording near your computer.
As briefly mentioned before, all Macs come with Garageband pre-downloaded, so you'll have the option to mess around in there before committing to a paid DAW.
Cons: The newer MacBooks only offer USB-C ports (most music gear connects via USB-A). While slightly annoying, this problem is pretty easily solved by buying a USB-C adapter.
Final Thoughts: With very few downsides, the Apple MacBook Pro M1 is easily our top pick for newer music producers considering the features and relatively low price point.
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 1 TB
Cost: $1,439.99
Pros: If you're leaning more towards going with a PC, the ASUS VivoBook Pro is an excellent option. The 1 TB of internal storage is a really nice selling point compared to the MacBook considering music project files and sample libraries take up a lot of space. The processing power is excellent on this laptop and it features both USB-A (2) and USB-C (1) ports, meaning you won't need an adapter to connect any music gear that connects via USB-A.
Cons: As with most PC models, the loud fan and poor battery life are a couple downsides you'll need to consider before making your final purchase decision. Logic Pro X, one of the most popular DAWs, is also not available on PCs.
Final Thoughts: All-in-all, the relatively cheap price point makes this laptop a great value and one definitely worth considering if you're more of a PC person.
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 1 TB
Cost: $2,999.99
Pros: The Razer Blade 15 is designed as a gaming laptop, but the features translate well to music production. It runs on the newest Intel processors, making this laptop run lightning-fast and the 1 TB of internal storage comes in handy as well. It also contains a pretty unique feature where you can customize the keyboard and make keyboard shortcuts easier in whatever DAW (or other program) you're running.
Cons: The issues of a loud fan and poor battery life plague this computer as well, which is something you'll need to consider if you want to record audio near your computer or take your laptop on the go without having to worry about constantly needing the charger. Logic Pro X is also not available on this laptop.
Final Thoughts: All-in-all, the lighting-fast speed, the keyboard customization, and the dual-use as a gaming computer make this an intriguing option for those who want to go with a PC.
RAM: 32 GB
Storage: 1 TB
Cost: $3,379.99
Pros: The MacBook Pro M1 Max is last on the list due to the high price tag, but it's without a doubt the best laptop for music production at the time of writing this article. Similar to the regular M1 Pro, this laptop has a very quiet fan and stays cool when running large software and plugins.
The 32 GB of RAM also make this laptop lightning-fast and makes crashes extremely rare. It will be able to easily handle any DAW and any number of external plugins without sacrificing performance.
Cons: Similar to the regular M1 Pro, you'll need to get a USB-C adapter if you need USB-A ports. That said, these adapters are cheap, readily available, and easy to use.
Final Thoughts: While the price tag is high, if you go with the M1 Pro Max, you'll be confident you have the best laptop currently on the market when it comes to music production and you won't have to upgrade again anytime soon.
I hope this guide helps you decide on which laptop is best for you and your personal music production needs! Enjoyed this guide? Make sure to check out our Bedroom Producer Essentials Guide or some of our other reviews/buyer's guides.
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