Video editing is a resource-intensive task that demands a powerful machine, but you don’t necessarily need to break the bank to get the right tools. Whether you’re editing YouTube videos, short films, or client projects, there are budget-friendly laptops that can handle video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro. Below, we’ll explore the best laptops for video editing under $1000 in 2024, considering performance, display, battery life, and more.

Key Factors to Consider for Video Editing Laptops

Before jumping into specific models, let’s look at the important aspects that a good video editing laptop should have:

1. Processor (CPU)

A powerful CPU is the backbone of video editing. Intel’s i5 or i7 and AMD’s Ryzen 5 or 7 are excellent choices under $1000. Multithreading capabilities (often found in these CPUs) ensure faster rendering times.

2. Graphics Card (GPU)

While integrated graphics can suffice for basic tasks, a dedicated GPU such as NVIDIA GTX 1650 or higher is essential for smooth video editing, especially in 4K.

3. RAM

For video editing, a minimum of 16GB RAM is recommended for efficient multitasking and handling high-resolution videos. While 8GB may work for lighter projects, upgrading to 16GB or more will provide smoother performance.

4. Storage (SSD)

A laptop with an SSD (Solid State Drive) is crucial for faster read and write speeds. Look for at least 512GB of SSD storage, especially if you work with large video files.

5. Display Quality

A high-quality display with good color accuracy is vital for video editors. Aim for at least a Full HD (1920 x 1080) display with a decent color gamut, preferably covering 100% of the sRGB spectrum.

6. Battery Life

Video editing can quickly drain battery life, so look for a laptop that offers at least 5-6 hours of battery backup when working on intense tasks.

Now that we’ve covered what to look for, here are the top laptops for video editing under $1000.


Best Laptops for Video Editing Under $1000 in 2024

1. Acer Nitro 5

Specifications:

  • Processor: Intel Core i5-12500H
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
  • RAM: 16GB DDR4
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (144Hz)

The Acer Nitro 5 is a budget-friendly powerhouse, especially for content creators. With its high refresh rate display and powerful GPU, it excels in handling video editing software. Its cooling system ensures that the laptop remains cool even during extended editing sessions.

Pros:

  • Excellent CPU and GPU for the price.
  • Fast SSD storage.
  • Great cooling performance.

Cons:

  • Bulky design.
  • Battery life could be better.

2. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3

Specifications:

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5600H
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650
  • RAM: 8GB DDR4 (Upgradeable)
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch Full HD

While primarily marketed as a gaming laptop, the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is also a solid option for video editing. The AMD Ryzen 5 5600H provides excellent multi-core performance, and it can easily handle video editing tasks. Its keyboard and trackpad are also well-built, ensuring a comfortable editing experience.

Pros:

  • Excellent CPU for multitasking.
  • Upgradable RAM.
  • Affordable pricing.

Cons:

  • Slightly lower RAM, upgrade recommended for serious editing.
  • Average color accuracy.

3. Dell G15

Specifications:

  • Processor: Intel Core i7-11800H
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
  • RAM: 16GB DDR4
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch Full HD

The Dell G15 is a solid option with a sleek design and powerful internals. The Intel Core i7 and GTX 1650 combo makes it suitable for 1080p video editing, while its solid build quality ensures durability. The laptop also offers good heat management, making it ideal for long editing sessions.

Pros:

  • Powerful Intel i7 processor.
  • Decent build quality and design.
  • Good thermal performance.

Cons:

  • Slightly heavier.
  • Battery life could be longer.

4. ASUS TUF Dash F15

Specifications:

  • Processor: Intel Core i7-11370H
  • Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti
  • RAM: 8GB DDR4 (Upgradeable)
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (144Hz)

ASUS is known for its reliable, high-performance laptops, and the TUF Dash F15 is no exception. It comes with a powerful GPU and high refresh rate display, making it perfect for both gaming and video editing. The laptop is relatively light for its category, which adds to its portability.

Pros:

  • Strong GPU performance.
  • High refresh rate display.
  • Portable and lightweight.

Cons:

  • Only 8GB RAM out of the box (upgrade is recommended).
  • Average battery life.

5. HP Pavilion 15

Specifications:

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U
  • Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics
  • RAM: 16GB DDR4
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch Full HD

For those who need a balance between performance and portability, the HP Pavilion 15 with AMD’s Ryzen 7 is an excellent choice. While it doesn’t have a dedicated GPU, its integrated AMD Radeon Graphics performs surprisingly well for light to moderate video editing tasks. The laptop’s sleek design and solid battery life are added bonuses.

Pros:

  • Excellent Ryzen 7 processor.
  • Good battery life.
  • Sleek and lightweight design.

Cons:

  • No dedicated GPU.
  • Not suitable for 4K video editing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I edit 4K videos on laptops under $1000?

Yes, but the experience might be smoother on laptops with dedicated GPUs like the NVIDIA GTX 1650 or higher. For heavier 4K editing, consider upgrading RAM and opting for better cooling systems to avoid throttling.

2. Is 8GB of RAM enough for video editing?

For lighter tasks and 1080p video editing, 8GB can suffice, but upgrading to 16GB will provide a more seamless experience, especially for multitasking and working with higher-resolution footage.

3. Which is more important for video editing: CPU or GPU?

Both are important, but the CPU plays a larger role in tasks like rendering, encoding, and exporting. A dedicated GPU will help with playback and rendering effects. If possible, aim for a balance of both.

4. Can I use a gaming laptop for video editing?

Yes, many gaming laptops come with the powerful processors and GPUs needed for video editing. Just ensure that the display quality and color accuracy are up to the mark, as they are vital for editing.

5. What is the ideal display size for video editing?

A 15.6-inch display strikes a balance between portability and screen real estate, making it a popular choice for video editors. A Full HD resolution is essential, and if you can, opt for a laptop with higher color accuracy.


In conclusion, finding the best laptop for video editing under $1000 is possible if you know what to prioritize. Performance, display, and storage should top your list. Each of the models listed above brings something unique to the table, and with the right upgrades, they can be excellent tools for video editors on a budget.

This page was last edited on 6 October 2024, at 4:53 pm