Music production is an art that combines creativity with technical skill, and having the right tools is essential to bringing your musical visions to life. As the industry becomes more mobile, producers and DJs increasingly rely on laptops to create, mix, and edit tracks on the go. But not just any laptop will suffice—you need the best laptop for music production to handle the demands of your digital audio workstation (DAW) and plugins.
Confused about where to start? We’ll break it down for you.
Music production requires a laptop with enough power to run DAW software like Logic Pro, Ableton Live, or Pro Tools, handle multiple plugins, and store a vast library of tracks. While desktops are traditionally favored for their performance, modern laptops are now more than capable of meeting these needs, offering the flexibility to produce high-quality music wherever inspiration strikes.
In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the best laptops for music production, considering factors like processing power, RAM, storage, and portability. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or a top-of-the-line model, from brands like HP to Apple, we’ve got you covered with the top picks to help you find the perfect laptop for your music production needs.
Roundup of the Best Laptops for Music Production
| Overall Best Laptop | Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M3 Pro Chip |
| Best for Creative Flexibility | Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 (2023) |
| Best for High Performance | Dell XPS 9730 Laptop 2024 |
| Best for Budget-Friendly Option | ASUS VivoBook 16 Laptop, 16” WUXGA |
| Best for Gaming and Music Production | HP OMEN Transcend Gaming Laptop |
| Best for Portability | Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip |
| Best for Large Display | SAMSUNG 16″ Galaxy Book4 Pro Laptop PC Computer |
What Does a Laptop Need for Music Production?
We aren’t talking about the laptop specifications in this section. Here, we’ll read about the necessary elements the music production laptops should have (just like the essential music production equipment for producing music).
For example, the Central Processing Unit (CPU) needs to pack a punch to sustain the use of DAW software. But you don’t necessarily need a high-quality Graphical Processing unit (GPU). The GPU has a vital role in gaming laptops but is not crucial for music production.
RAM is again important, as music producers need to store large music files and audio tracks on the laptop. Instead, a laptop with less than 8GB RAM won’t cut. Storage is another aspect to consider, though you can still opt for external SSD storage if budget is an issue.
So, the three main things a laptop needs for music production are the latest CPU (Core i7/ i9), a large RAM (> 8GB), and SSD storage. Of course, there are more aspects to consider, such as the battery life, and we’ll deal with them in the coming sections.
What Kind of Laptop Do I Need for Music Production?
The kind of laptops or portable computers you need for audio production depends on the digital audio workstation (DAW) you use and the operating system you find comfortable to work with.
Let’s look at some music production specifications:
- CPU: Intel (> 2.3GHz i5) or AMD Multi-Core
- Operating System: > macOS 10.12 or > Windows 7 (64-bit)
- RAM: Min. 8GB though 16-32 GB RAM is recommended
- Hard Drive/Disk Space: Min. 6GB with additional storage space up to 76GB or more
The laptop specifications change depending on the music production applications you use. For example, Logic Pro 10 works the best with macOS 10.12 or higher operating systems.
Since most DAW software do not run on CPUs less than i5, we recommend going for something latest like i7 or i9 for the laptop to work faster.
Apple MacBook (especially Macbook Air) tends to overheat due to extended use, which is necessary for music composers. After all, you can’t mix tracks in a few minutes. Some MacBooks also need adapters to work with non-Apple devices. It’s up to you to decide if you want to stick to Apple products or whether Windows would be a preferred choice.
7 Things to Consider When Looking for the Best Music Production Laptop
When you look at the factors to consider for buying the best laptops for music production, you’ll notice a few common aspects of a gaming laptop. Both purposes require extensive laptop use, and a regular model cannot sustain such heavy usage over time.
1. CPU
The CPU performance is the first factor to consider for an audio production laptop. Luckily, we have a range of CPUs to choose from. Do you want to go for Intel, AMD, or Apple? Intel has been a global favorite for years, though AMD and Apple are not lagging in popularity.
You need a faster processor that can run large music production applications without getting stuck or freezing at a crucial moment. For example, AMD’s Ryzen processors are a favorite among gamers.
You can either go for R5 or higher from AMD or stick to Intel’s latest processors. If Apple is your choice, the M1 chip naturally tops the list, though not all software apps are yet compatible with it.
2. RAM
So, how much RAM is perfect for a music-making laptop? You might be tempted to go with the specifications listed by the DAW manufacturer. That’s the biggest mistake you’ll ever make. No kidding. The RAM specified won’t even handle half your requirements.
You know better than others about the size of audio tracks you need to play when producing music. Will a teeny RAM do the job? No. Our ideal RAM is 16GB, though we’d happily take 32GB. We might work with 8GB RAM too, but nothing lesser. Also, ask if the RAM is extensible and if you can upgrade it down the years.
3. Storage Space
If the audio applications you use have a sample library or an entire sound library, you’ll find it convenient to use solid-state drive (SSD) storage instead of a hard disk drive (HDD).
Unfortunately, we admit SSD storage is a little expensive, but it is also faster and can complete file transfers in a quick time compared to HDD.
You can also opt for both storage types, where you can store images and videos on the hard drive and audio files on SSD. You can also go for external hard drives, depending on your requirements.
4. Screen Size
There is no definite screen size for a music production laptop. That said, a bigger screen is more convenient to work with DAW software. Anything around 14 inches should be a decent choice.
Though it’s not mandatory, you can check out the touchscreen laptop models as these come with greater color vibrancy and reproduction than regular laptops.
5. USB Ports
USB ports are important for a laptop, and a USB-C port goes perfectly with SSD storage. However, you can easily add a few more ports by attaching a four-in-one USB port dongle to the laptop.
6. Battery Life
One factor people tend to forget is the battery life. If you work on the go, you need a battery life to last through the day without being charged. A musician would not want the laptop battery to die when fine-tuning the tracks for an event.
7. Operating System
Since we’ve already discussed the operating systems, we just say that the laptop’s operating system should work seamlessly with the music production software you use. If there are basic compatibility issues between the two, the laptop doesn’t suit music producers.
Top 7 Laptops for Music Producers
The following are some of the best laptops for music producers available in the market:
1. Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M3 Pro Chip
Overall Best Laptop
What Impressed Us
- Exceptional processing power for demanding music production tasks
- High-quality 16-inch Retina display
- Ample storage and memory options
- Wide range of ports for connectivity
- High-output 3.5mm headphone jack
- Excellent battery life, up to 22 hours
What Disappointed Us
- High price
- May not be necessary for those who do not require extreme processing power
The Apple 2023 MacBook Pro with the M3 Pro Chip emerges as the overall best choice for music production due to its exceptional performance and seamless integration with professional software. We selected this laptop for its ability to handle the most demanding DAWs and plugins, making it a top contender for serious music producers.
This MacBook Pro excels with its powerful M3 Pro chip, offering lightning-fast processing speeds and efficiency. Its large, high-resolution Retina display provides crisp and accurate visuals, essential for detailed audio editing and mixing.
Additionally, the laptop supports up to 64GB of unified memory, ensuring smooth multitasking and performance under heavy loads.
Regarding other aspects, the MacBook Pro features ample storage options, with configurations up to 8TB, accommodating extensive music libraries and projects. I
It boasts multiple USB-C ports for versatile connectivity and runs on macOS, which is renowned for its stability and compatibility with music production software. The battery life is impressive, providing up to 21 hours of use on a single charge, which is perfect for long studio sessions or working on the go.
In conclusion, the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro with the M3 Pro Chip offers unparalleled performance, a high-quality display, and extensive storage options, making it the ultimate choice for music production. Its robust features and reliability ensure it stands out as the best laptop for professional audio work.
View on Amazon: Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M3 Pro
2. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 (2023)
Best for Creative Flexibility
What Impressed Us
- Exceptional performance with modern components and dedicated AI processing
- Unique and versatile design with a convertible touchscreen
- High-quality build and premium materials
- Excellent for creative professionals seeking a powerful and portable laptop
What Disappointed Us
- High price point, especially for higher configurations
- Limited port selection, with only two USB-C ports and no HDMI port
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 (2023) is an excellent choice for creative professionals seeking flexibility. Its unique design allows you to switch between a traditional laptop mode, a studio mode with a tilting screen, and a tablet mode for ultimate versatility. This adaptability is perfect for artists, designers, and musicians who need a dynamic working environment.
Equipped with powerful hardware, including the latest Intel processors and a high-resolution PixelSense touchscreen, the Surface Laptop Studio 2 ensures smooth performance and vibrant visuals. The device supports the Surface Pen, making it ideal for sketching and note-taking.
In terms of specs, it offers up to 32GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage, giving you ample space for creative projects. It also has robust connectivity options and a battery life of up to 19 hours, ensuring you can work seamlessly throughout the day.
In summary, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 (2023) stands out for its innovative design and creative capabilities, making it the top choice for users needing versatile functionality in their workflow.
View on Amazon: Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 (2023)
3. Dell XPS 9730 Laptop 2024
Best for High Performance
What Impressed Us
- Powerful performance with high-end processor and graphics options
- Excellent display quality with 4K UHD+ InfinityEdge touch display
- Lightweight and portable design
- Customizable to meet specific needs and budget
- Suitable for demanding tasks like music production and video editing
What Disappointed Us
- Higher-end models can be expensive
- Internal sound card may not be suitable for music production without an external sound card
For those who demand top-tier performance, the Dell XPS 9730 Laptop 2024 is an exceptional choice. This powerhouse is equipped with cutting-edge components designed for intensive tasks such as music production, video editing, and high-end gaming.
Featuring the latest Intel Core processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, the XPS 9730 delivers incredible speed and efficiency. The high-resolution display provides stunning clarity and color accuracy, crucial for detailed visual work.
It comes with up to 64GB of RAM and 4TB of SSD storage, ensuring that you can handle large projects and multitask effortlessly. The laptop also offers extensive connectivity options and impressive battery life, supporting up to 18 hours of use.
In conclusion, the Dell XPS 9730 excels in performance and capability, making it an ideal choice for users who require the highest levels of computing power and speed.
View on Amazon: Dell XPS 9730 Laptop 2024
4. ASUS VivoBook 16 Laptop, 16” WUXGA
Best for Budget-Friendly Option
What Impressed Us
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good multitasking performance with AMD Ryzen CPUs
- Decent battery life, lasting around 8 hours
- Full-size keyboard with a Numpad and comfortable typing experience
- Good assortment of ports, including three USB-A, one USB-C, an HDMI, and a headphone jack
What Disappointed Us
- Integrated graphics are not suitable for demanding tasks like gaming or 3D graphics
- Display has a low contrast ratio and narrow color gamut, affecting color accuracy
The ASUS VivoBook 16 Laptop is a standout choice for those seeking a budget-friendly option without compromising essential features. Its 16-inch WUXGA display offers a spacious and clear viewing experience, suitable for a variety of tasks from casual browsing to media consumption.
Despite its affordability, the VivoBook comes with decent performance specs, including an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, making it capable of handling everyday computing needs. The laptop also features a 512GB SSD for fast data access and storage.
While it may lack some of the high-end features of more expensive models, it provides excellent value with its solid build quality and reliability. Battery life is also commendable, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge.
In summary, the ASUS VivoBook 16 offers an impressive balance of performance and affordability, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.
View on Amazon: ASUS VivoBook 16 Laptop, 16” WUXGA
5. HP OMEN Transcend Gaming Laptop
Best for Gaming and Music Production
What Impressed Us
- Powerful performance; equipped with power professors and ample RAM
- Advanced cooling system for long music production sessions
- Large and vibrant display
- Customizable keyboard
- High-quality audio component
What Disappointed Us
- Heavy and bulky
- High-performance components can drain the battery quickly
The HP OMEN Transcend Gaming Laptop is designed to handle both gaming and music production with ease. It features a high-refresh-rate display and powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics, providing smooth visuals for gaming and multimedia applications.
Under the hood, it boasts a high-performance Intel Core i7 processor and up to 32GB of RAM, ensuring fast and efficient performance for demanding tasks. The large SSD storage capacity also accommodates extensive game libraries and music production projects.
The OMEN Transcend is equipped with advanced cooling technology to keep the system running smoothly during intense gaming sessions. Its comprehensive connectivity options and long battery life make it a versatile choice for both gaming and professional use.
In conclusion, the HP OMEN Transcend delivers exceptional performance and versatility, making it the best choice for those who want a laptop capable of handling both high-end gaming and music production.
View on Amazon: HP OMEN Transcend Gaming Laptop
6. Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop With M2 Chip
Best for Portability
What Impressed Us
- Powerful performance to handle demanding music production software with ease
- Slim and lightweight design for portability
- Excellent battery life
- High-quality Retina display with True Tone technology
- Fanless design for silent operation
What Disappointed Us
- Limited ports; has only two Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports
- RAM and storage are not upgradable
The Apple 2022 MacBook Air with M2 Chips excels in portability, making it an ideal choice for users who need a lightweight and compact laptop without sacrificing performance. Its sleek, slim design ensures easy transportation, whether you’re traveling or moving between locations.
Equipped with Apple’s latest M2 chip, the MacBook Air delivers impressive speed and efficiency, capable of handling everyday tasks and light creative work. The Retina display provides vibrant visuals, and the battery life extends up to 18 hours, allowing for extended use without frequent recharging.
It offers up to 24GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage, providing ample space for files and applications. Despite its small size, the MacBook Air maintains robust build quality and a comfortable keyboard.
In summary, the Apple 2022 MacBook Air offers outstanding portability and performance, making it the perfect choice for users who need a powerful laptop that’s easy to carry.
View on Amazon: Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 Chip
7. SAMSUNG 16″ Galaxy Book4 Pro Laptop PC Computer
Best for Large Display
What Impressed Us
- Excellent OLED display with touch input
- Good performance for music production
- Robust build quality
- Decent battery life (around 10 hours)
- Budget-friendly
What Disappointed Us
- Limited audio ports
- Slim and lightweight design can result in inadequate cooling
The SAMSUNG 16″ Galaxy Book4 Pro is the top choice for those who need a large, high-quality display for work or entertainment. Its 16-inch AMOLED screen provides stunning clarity and vibrant colors, ideal for tasks that benefit from a larger viewing area, such as video editing or multitasking.
Powered by the latest Intel processors and integrated graphics, the Galaxy Book4 Pro offers solid performance for everyday computing needs. It also features up to 32GB of RAM and 1TB of SSD storage, ensuring fast access to files and efficient multitasking.
The laptop is designed with portability in mind, despite its large screen, and offers impressive battery life of up to 20 hours. It also includes various connectivity options and a sleek, durable build.
In summary, the SAMSUNG 16″ Galaxy Book4 Pro is perfect for users seeking a laptop with a large display and robust performance, combining high-resolution visuals with reliable power and portability.
View on Amazon: SAMSUNG 16″ Galaxy Book4 Pro Laptop PC Computer
Frequently Asked Questions About Music Production Laptops
Yes, it is enough in most instances. The 16GB RAM is the right choice for large projects as it can handle multiple music applications at once and easily runs sample libraries with acoustic instruments to deliver a realistic musical output.
An 8GB RAM is also enough if you work around less than 25 audio tracks (with multiple instruments).
Mac is considered a better choice for music production as it doesn’t crash often and delivers great performance. It has a longer lifetime, and the intuitive interface makes it a user-friendly model.
Though MacBooks tend to overheat, they are surprisingly stable and come with audio optimizations that make music composition a wonderful experience.
Yes, of course. Gaming laptops require the same or higher computing power and pace to run huge games in real-time. Similar features are necessary for music production.
Since gaming laptops have higher RAM, a powerful CPU, greater SSD, and long battery life, music producers can happily use them for DJing and music composition.
Final Words
After evaluating the top options for laptops suited for music production, it’s clear that the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro with M3 Pro Chip and the Dell XPS 9730 (2024) stand out as the best choices in their respective categories.
The Apple 2023 MacBook Pro with M3 Pro chip is the overall best option for its impressive blend of portability, performance, and battery life.
It offers a lightweight design and powerful M3 chip that excels in handling music production tasks, providing seamless performance with DAW software and other resource-intensive applications, all while being incredibly easy to carry around.
On the other hand, the Dell XPS 9730 (2024) is ideal for users who need high performance and exceptional build quality. It provides top-tier specs, including a powerful processor and ample RAM, catering to demanding tasks like music production and high-end audio processing.
Its superior display and build quality ensure smooth and efficient operation, making it a robust choice for professional music producers.
Both laptops deliver outstanding performance in their areas, making them top recommendations for anyone looking for either a portable powerhouse or a high-performance machine.
