Crafting stunning videos shouldn’t break the bank. If you’re a budding filmmaker or content creator on a budget, finding the right laptop is crucial. The right machine can handle demanding video editing software smoothly, without sacrificing performance or speed. That’s where our guide to the best laptops for video editing under $800 comes in. We’ve meticulously researched and reviewed laptops that deliver incredible power and features without exceeding your budget.
From smooth 4K video playback to rendering complex projects in a reasonable timeframe, these laptops offer a balance of affordability and performance. We’ll dive deep into essential factors like processor power, RAM capacity, storage space, and display quality, to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned editor, our curated list of the best laptops for video editing under $800 will empower you to bring your creative vision to life.
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A Glimpse into the Best Laptops for Video Editing Under $800
Navigating the world of video editing can be daunting, especially when you’re on a budget. Finding a laptop that can handle the demands of video editing without breaking the bank is a challenge, but not impossible. The good news is, there are several excellent options available under $800 that can deliver impressive performance and meet the needs of many video editors.
While you won’t find top-of-the-line workstations in this price range, there are still solid laptops that can handle basic to intermediate-level video editing tasks. These laptops often prioritize key features like a powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, ample RAM, and a decent display.
Choosing the best laptops for video editing under $800 requires a careful consideration of your specific needs and the type of video editing you plan to do. If you’re primarily editing simple projects like home videos or short social media clips, a more budget-friendly option might suffice. However, if you’re working on more demanding projects with high-resolution footage and special effects, you might need to invest in a slightly more powerful machine.
The key is to find a laptop that strikes a balance between price and performance. Look for laptops with at least an 8th generation Intel Core i5 processor or an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, a dedicated graphics card like the NVIDIA GeForce MX450, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. You may also want to consider features like a comfortable keyboard, a good trackpad, and a display with a high resolution and good color accuracy.
Remember, these are just general guidelines. The best laptop for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. With a little research and careful consideration, you can find a laptop under $800 that will meet your video editing needs without breaking the bank.
5 Best Laptops For Video Editing Under $800
Product 1: Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R74Z
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R74Z is a solid choice for video editors on a budget. It boasts a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, providing ample performance for editing 1080p video projects. The 15.6-inch Full HD display offers decent color accuracy, making it suitable for basic color grading. The laptop also features a dedicated AMD Radeon graphics card, which can handle light gaming and some basic video editing tasks. Overall, the Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R74Z is a well-rounded laptop that offers good performance and value for video editing under $800.
However, if you plan on editing 4K footage or working with complex editing software, you may need to consider a more powerful laptop. The 8GB of RAM might limit your multitasking capabilities, and the display’s color accuracy could be improved. Nevertheless, for beginner video editors and those working primarily with 1080p footage, the Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R74Z is a solid option.
Product 2: Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15ITL6
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15ITL6 is another excellent option for video editing under $800. This laptop comes equipped with an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, offering smooth performance for editing 1080p videos. The 15.6-inch Full HD display boasts impressive color accuracy, making it ideal for color grading and ensuring your videos look their best. The laptop also features integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which can handle basic video editing tasks and even some light gaming.
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 15ITL6 is a great option for budget-conscious video editors who prioritize a good display and overall performance. While it might not be ideal for intensive 4K video editing, it provides a solid foundation for beginners and those primarily working with 1080p content. The laptop’s sleek design and long battery life further enhance its appeal.
Product 3: HP Envy x360 15-ed0000
The HP Envy x360 15-ed0000 offers a unique combination of portability and power, making it a compelling choice for video editors on the go. This 2-in-1 laptop features an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, ensuring smooth performance for editing 1080p videos. The 15.6-inch Full HD touchscreen display is responsive and provides decent color accuracy, making it suitable for basic color grading. The laptop also comes equipped with a dedicated AMD Radeon graphics card, which can handle light gaming and basic video editing tasks.
The HP Envy x360 15-ed0000’s versatility shines through its 360-degree hinge, allowing it to transform into a tablet for on-the-go editing or drawing. Its sleek design and long battery life make it a convenient choice for video editors who frequently travel or work remotely. However, the display’s color accuracy might not be ideal for professional-level color grading, and the 8GB of RAM could limit your multitasking abilities. Nevertheless, the HP Envy x360 15-ed0000 offers a great balance of portability, performance, and features for video editing under $800.
Product 4: ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA-BQ5112W
The ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA-BQ5112W is a solid choice for video editors who value performance and value. This laptop is powered by an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD, delivering smooth performance for editing 1080p videos. The 15.6-inch Full HD display offers decent color accuracy, making it suitable for basic color grading. The laptop also features integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which can handle basic video editing tasks and some light gaming.
The ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA-BQ5112W stands out for its impressive battery life, which can last for up to 10 hours on a single charge. This makes it an ideal choice for video editors who work on the go or need a laptop that can last through long editing sessions. While the laptop’s design is not as sleek as some of its competitors, its robust construction and durable build quality ensure it can withstand the rigors of everyday use. If you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting laptop for video editing under $800, the ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA-BQ5112W is a solid choice.
Product 5: Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series is a budget-friendly option for video editors who need a reliable and capable laptop. It features an Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, providing decent performance for editing 1080p videos. The 15.6-inch Full HD display offers decent color accuracy for basic color grading and editing. The laptop also includes integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which can handle basic video editing tasks.
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series is a solid choice for beginner video editors who need a laptop that can handle basic editing tasks without breaking the bank. The laptop’s sleek design and comfortable keyboard make it a pleasant option for everyday use. However, the 256GB SSD might be limiting for those who store large video files, and the display’s color accuracy could be improved for more professional-level editing. Nevertheless, for those on a tight budget and seeking a reliable laptop for video editing, the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series is a suitable option.
Why You Need a Laptop for Video Editing Under $800
Video editing is a growing hobby and profession, but it can be expensive to get started. You need a powerful computer with plenty of storage space and RAM to handle demanding editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. However, you don’t need to spend a fortune to find a good laptop for video editing. In fact, there are some excellent options available for under $800.
A dedicated laptop for video editing offers several advantages over using a desktop computer or a cheaper laptop. Firstly, laptops are portable, allowing you to work from anywhere. This is especially beneficial if you’re on the go a lot or prefer to work in different locations. Secondly, laptops often come with built-in webcams and microphones, which are essential for video conferencing and recording voiceovers. Lastly, a dedicated video editing laptop ensures you have the necessary processing power and software to edit your videos efficiently and smoothly.
While finding the best laptops for video editing under $800 can be challenging, it’s definitely possible. You just need to know what to look for. The best laptops in this price range will have a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, a dedicated graphics card, and a large storage capacity. They will also have a good display and a comfortable keyboard.
Investing in a laptop designed for video editing under $800 is a smart choice for anyone serious about their craft. With the right features and performance, you can bring your video editing dreams to life without breaking the bank.
Processor Power and RAM
The processor, also known as the CPU, is the brain of your laptop. For video editing, you’ll need a powerful processor with multiple cores and threads to handle the demanding tasks of rendering and exporting videos. Look for laptops with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor. You should also pay attention to the RAM, which is the short-term memory your computer uses to store data. For video editing, 8GB of RAM is a minimum, but 16GB is recommended for smoother performance, especially when working with large video files.
Graphics Card Considerations
While you might not need a top-of-the-line graphics card for basic video editing, a dedicated GPU can significantly speed up rendering times and provide smoother playback. Integrated graphics cards found in many laptops are sufficient for basic editing, but a dedicated graphics card like an NVIDIA GeForce MX series or AMD Radeon RX series will deliver a noticeable performance boost. Look for laptops with at least 2GB of dedicated VRAM for optimal video editing performance.
Storage and Display
Choose a laptop with ample storage space, as video files can take up a lot of space. A 512GB SSD is a good starting point, but a 1TB SSD is ideal if you work with large video projects. A fast SSD is also crucial for quick loading times and smoother workflow. The display is another important factor for video editing. Look for a laptop with a high-resolution display, preferably at least 1080p resolution. A wide color gamut, like sRGB or DCI-P3, is also beneficial for accurate color representation. Additionally, a matte screen will minimize glare and reflections, making it easier to work on video projects.
The Best Laptops for Video Editing Under $800: A Buying Guide
Editing videos on a laptop can be a great way to create content on the go, but finding a device that can handle the demands of video editing software without breaking the bank can be tough. Fortunately, there are a number of solid laptops available for under $800 that can deliver a smooth editing experience. But before you start your search, it’s important to consider a few key factors that will help you choose the best laptop for your needs.
1. Processor (CPU)
The processor, or CPU, is the brain of your laptop, and it’s responsible for handling all the calculations necessary to run your video editing software. A powerful CPU is crucial for video editing, as it allows you to quickly and efficiently render your videos. Look for a laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor. These processors are powerful enough to handle most video editing tasks without breaking a sweat. For smoother editing and faster rendering times, consider laptops with Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processors, although these might push the budget a little higher. Remember that the higher the number associated with the processor (e.g., i5-1035G1 vs i5-1135G7), the more recent and powerful the processor is.
2. RAM
RAM, or Random Access Memory, is the short-term memory of your laptop. It stores the data that your computer is actively using, and the more RAM you have, the more programs and files you can have open at the same time without slowing down your system. For video editing, you’ll want at least 8GB of RAM, but 16GB is recommended for smoother performance, especially when working with large video files. Some laptops may offer expandable RAM, which allows you to upgrade the RAM later on if you need more.
3. Storage
Storage is where your files are saved, and for video editing, you’ll need plenty of space. A solid-state drive (SSD) is the best option for video editing, as it offers significantly faster read and write speeds compared to a traditional hard disk drive (HDD). This means you’ll be able to open and save your video files much quicker, which is essential for a smooth editing workflow. Look for a laptop with at least 256GB of SSD storage, but 512GB is recommended for storing large video files and projects. Some laptops might offer a combination of SSD and HDD storage, which can be a cost-effective way to get more storage space.
4. Graphics Card (GPU)
The graphics card, or GPU, is responsible for rendering the visuals on your screen. While not as essential as the CPU or RAM for video editing, a dedicated GPU can still improve performance. It’s particularly helpful for tasks like color grading and adding special effects, which can be demanding on the system. While a dedicated GPU might not be essential for light video editing, it’s definitely a bonus for those who want to take their editing to the next level. Look for a laptop with at least an NVIDIA GeForce MX series or AMD Radeon RX series GPU.
5. Display
The display is where you’ll be viewing your edited videos, so it’s important to choose a screen that’s big enough and has good color accuracy. For video editing, a 15.6-inch or larger display is ideal, and you’ll want a screen with a resolution of at least 1920×1080 (Full HD). A screen with a higher resolution, such as 2560×1440 (QHD), can provide even better detail and clarity, but it might be more expensive. Look for a display with good color accuracy, as this will ensure that your videos look their best.
6. Battery Life
Battery life is a critical factor for any laptop, but it’s especially important for video editing, as you may need to work on your projects on the go. Look for a laptop with at least 6 hours of battery life, but 8 hours or more is ideal for longer editing sessions. Keep in mind that battery life can be affected by factors like screen brightness, CPU usage, and the type of software you’re using.
7. Ports and Connectivity
Finally, consider the ports and connectivity options offered by the laptop. For video editing, you’ll likely need to connect external devices like external hard drives, monitors, and microphones. Make sure the laptop has enough ports to accommodate your needs. Additionally, consider the type of wireless connectivity offered, such as Wi-Fi 6 or Bluetooth 5.0.
FAQs
FAQs: Best Laptops for Video Editing Under $800
1. What are the most important specs to consider for video editing?
When choosing a laptop for video editing, the most important specs are processor (CPU), RAM, and storage. The CPU is responsible for handling the complex calculations involved in rendering videos. A powerful CPU like an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 will ensure smoother editing and faster rendering times. RAM is the computer’s short-term memory, and a larger amount will allow you to work with larger video files and multiple applications simultaneously. Finally, a fast SSD will provide quick loading times and efficient data transfer, which is crucial for video editing workflow.
You should also consider the graphics card (GPU). While a dedicated GPU is not essential for basic editing, it can significantly speed up the rendering process and provide better performance in demanding projects. However, most laptops in this price range may have integrated graphics, which can still handle light to medium video editing tasks.
2. What is the difference between a laptop with an i5 processor and an i7 processor?
Intel Core i5 and i7 processors are both powerful options for laptops, but the i7 series offers higher performance due to a greater number of cores and threads. This translates to faster processing speeds and the ability to handle more demanding tasks, including video editing. While an i5 processor can be sufficient for basic editing, an i7 will be more advantageous for more complex projects or if you plan to edit 4K footage.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your individual needs and budget. If you are on a tight budget and mostly edit simpler videos, an i5 processor might be enough. However, if you plan to work with larger video files or require smoother performance, an i7 processor will be a better investment in the long run.
3. How much RAM do I need for video editing?
The amount of RAM needed for video editing depends on the complexity of your projects and the software you use. For basic video editing, 8GB of RAM is generally sufficient. However, for more demanding projects, especially if you work with 4K footage or use resource-intensive editing software, 16GB or even 32GB of RAM is recommended.
More RAM allows your laptop to handle multiple applications and processes simultaneously, resulting in smoother performance and faster rendering times. It also prevents your system from becoming sluggish due to memory overload. So, while 8GB might work initially, consider investing in a laptop with at least 16GB of RAM for a more future-proof and efficient editing experience.
4. What kind of storage should I look for?
For video editing, a fast SSD (Solid State Drive) is highly recommended. SSDs offer significantly faster read and write speeds compared to traditional HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). This translates to faster boot times, quicker loading of video files, and a much smoother editing workflow overall.
While some laptops in this price range might still come with HDDs, it’s best to prioritize models with SSDs. If your budget is tight, consider a laptop with a smaller SSD for the operating system and core programs, and a larger HDD for storage. This allows you to have the speed of an SSD for your editing workflow while still having ample space for your video files.
5. What is the benefit of having a dedicated GPU for video editing?
A dedicated GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) can significantly speed up the video editing process, particularly when rendering and exporting videos. It handles the heavy lifting of graphics processing, freeing up the CPU to focus on other tasks. While a dedicated GPU isn’t strictly necessary for basic video editing, it can make a big difference for more complex projects or if you work with demanding software like Adobe Premiere Pro.
If you’re primarily editing simpler videos and budget is a concern, an integrated GPU might suffice. However, if you plan to work on more advanced projects or desire smoother performance, a laptop with a dedicated GPU will be a worthwhile investment.
6. Can I upgrade the RAM or storage on a laptop?
Upgrading RAM and storage on a laptop can be challenging, depending on the specific model and its design. Some laptops offer user-accessible slots for RAM and storage upgrades, while others have soldered components that cannot be easily replaced.
It’s crucial to check the laptop’s specifications and user manual to determine whether it offers upgrade options. If you plan to upgrade, it’s also essential to ensure the laptop is compatible with the desired RAM or storage type.
7. What is the best software for video editing on a laptop?
There are many great video editing software options available, both free and paid. Some popular choices for beginners include DaVinci Resolve, which offers a free version with powerful features, and OpenShot, a user-friendly open-source software. More advanced options include Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro X, which are known for their professional features and extensive capabilities.
The best software for you will depend on your individual needs and experience level. It’s always a good idea to explore different options and try out free trials before making a decision. Many video editing software also offer tutorials and resources to help you get started.
The Bottom Line
Finding the perfect laptop for video editing under $800 can feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With careful consideration of your needs and the options available, you can discover a powerful and reliable device that fits your budget. The laptops highlighted in this article offer a compelling mix of performance, portability, and affordability. Whether you’re a budding filmmaker or a seasoned editor, these machines provide the necessary tools to bring your creative visions to life without breaking the bank.
Remember, the best laptop for video editing under $800 is the one that best meets your specific requirements. Consider your editing software, project complexity, and desired portability when making your decision. By utilizing the insights provided in this guide, you can confidently choose the right machine to help you achieve your video editing goals.