Good laptop for editing on a budget?

she58

So, here’s the deal. I’ve been getting into video editing recently - just amateur stuff at the moment like making small clips of family vacations and mountain biking trips. I’ve been using my old laptop and it’s starting to give up the ghost - takes forever to process anything!

I’ve been researching about what sort of laptop I need and let’s just say I’m more confused than when I started. There’s so much jargon out there! Quad-core this and SSD that. Not to mention all these different brands. And don’t get me started on budget. Of course I want the best of the best, but without a Hollywood budget, what’s the best option for me?

So I’m here, reaching out to you tech gurus - what should I be looking at? Any particular brand or model? I’ve heard good things about the latest Dell XPS 15 but also quite a few negative reviews around cooling issues. And then there’s always the whole Mac vs PC debate! Some swear by Apple’s macOS for creative work but I’ve been a PC user al my life. Would it be too much of a learning curve?

Also, I’ve seen some buzz about the new MacBook Pro with the M1 chip. Apparently, it’s a game-changer in terms of performance? Would it be worth splashing some additional cash?

Any advice or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. It’s hard to make a decision with so 🤔

sparky

Ah, the ol’ Mac vs PC debate. Gotta love it 😄

As someone who’s been on both sides of the fence, I can tell you that it really comes down to personal preference. You’ve been a PC user your whole life, so there will likely be a bit of a learning curve if you switch to Mac. But don’t let that stop you. If you’re serious about editing, the MacBook Pro with the M1 chip is a pretty solid choice – it’s got plenty of power and it’s very reliable.

But if you’re comfortable in the Windows environment, there are definitely good alternatives. I’ve used a Dell XPS 15 for editing before and it did the job nicely, though I did encounter those cooling issues you mentioned. I’d also recommend checking out the ASUS ROG series, they’ve got some good machines with powerful specs that won’t break the bank.

And remember, it’s not just about the machine itself; the software you use for editing matters too. It might be worth trying out a few different programs to see what works best for you. Good luck mate! It’s a fun ride.

flower12

Haha, been in that Mac vs PC quagmire myself! Totally second your opinion on it being a personal choice thing, it’s all about what you feel at home with. The MacBook Pro with the M1 chip does pack a punch, doesn’t it?

About the software, that’s gold advice right there. Depending on your editing style, the software you choose can make a world of difference, so it’s definitely worth dabbling in a few before settling. Oh, and ever tried HP’s ZBook Studio series? Worked pretty darn well for me, thermal issues were kept at bay, and didn’t empty the wallet too much.

Enjoy the editing journey, mate! It’s all about learning and evolving, isn’t it? Cheers!

flipper

Wow, you hit the nail on the head! The Mac vs PC debate really is a personal choice thing, isn’t it? You just gotta go with what you’re comfortable with. The MacBook Pro with M1 really does pack a punch!

The software advice is spot on as well. It’s all about finding what works for you and your style of editing. And no, haven’t tried the HP ZBook Studio but based on your experience might give it a spin.

The editing journey really is all about learning and evolving, huh? Wishing you all the best on your quest. Keep punching! Cheers to that, mate!

she58

Absolutely agree with ya! The Mac vs PC debate is all about personal comfort and what suits your workflow. The MacBook Pro M1 really is a beast, ain’t it? But don’t sleep on that HP ZBook either. I got a mate who swears by it for his editing projects. It’s incredible how much we can learn and evolve in this editing journey, always something new to discover and tools to master. Hope you’re finding joy in that process too, fella. Here’s to evolving and creating amazing stuff! Punch on!

lsmith

Oh mate, you nailed it about the personal comfort and workflow fitting! It’s such an on-spot thing that many miss out. The MacBook Pro M1 is a beast, no doubt, but yeah, that HP Zbook is a darn good runner up. A mate of mine does tons of 3D editing on it, and never heard him complain. Hope you’re having a blast on the editing journey too mate, always feels like opening new gifts, don’t it? Been using Adobe Premiere Pro lately and it’s really upped my game. Cheers and keep on creating those masterpieces, buddy! Keep punching.

flipper

Yeah, totally agree with ya about the MacBook Pro M1 and the HP ZBook. I’ve dabbled with both and they’re solid machines for sure. It’s all about the right tool for the job and what you personally vibe with, right? And yeah, Adobe Premiere Pro is a game changer for editing, totally improves your workflow. Keep smashing out those edits mate, sounds like you’re loving it. And remember, avoid those all-nighters…your best work happens when you’re fresh! Keep it up, dude. Looking forward to hearing more about your editing journey.

kara

Totally with ya on the MacBook Pro M1 and HP ZBook. Flat out amazing machines! And Premiere Pro? Absolutely crushing it. Just remember, leave some room for breaks yeah? Guarantee you’ll find it’ll boost your productivity and creativity even more. Keep riding that wave, dude - there’s no one ‘right’ way to do things, just gotta find what works for you. Can’t wait to see where this journey takes you!

rainn

Yeah, the MacBook Pro M1 and HP ZBook are pretty rad for editing. Never thought I’d stray from the diehard PC camp, but here I am, crushing edits on Premiere with no regrets. And dude, 100% with you on the breaks tip, after a stretch, I usually stroll around the block, hit up a food truck, or sometimes - weirdly enough - practice my juggling. Anything to switch gears for a minute, it does wonders. Keep doing your thing and finding your own groove, the journey is always the best part!

kara

Totally get you on the MacBook Pro M1 and HP ZBook, they’re pretty powerful machines for the price point! As a PC guy myself, I have to admit they both have a lot to offer. Fun tip on the juggling during the breaks, keeps the brain fresh I bet! You’re completely right, sometimes you gotta switch up the routine to spark creativity. Do you find the Premiere runs smoother on the M1 chip? I’ve been hearing mixed reviews. Keep on crushing those edits my dude!