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Best Laptops for Music Production

by John Munro•

Best Laptops for Music Production in 2025

Introduction

Choosing the best laptop for music production is crucial for professional musicians, producers, and sound engineers. A powerful CPU, sufficient RAM, fast storage, and a high-quality display are essential for running digital audio workstations (DAWs) smoothly. Whether you’re producing beats, mixing tracks, or recording live sessions, the right laptop can significantly impact your workflow. Here, we explore the top 10 laptops for music production in 2025, considering performance, battery life, and overall usability.

1. Apple MacBook Pro M2

  • CPU: 12-core (8 performance cores, 4 efficiency cores)
  • RAM: 32GB unified memory
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Display: 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
  • GPU: 30-core GPU
  • Battery: Up to 18 hours
  • Why it’s great: Exceptional performance with macOS optimization, perfect for Logic Pro and other DAWs.

The Apple MacBook Pro M2 is one of the best choices for music producers due to its impressive power and efficiency. It is powered by a 12-core CPU with 8 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, ensuring a smooth and responsive experience, even when running resource-intensive DAWs like Logic Pro or Ableton Live. With 32GB of unified memory and a 1TB SSD, this MacBook delivers lightning-fast storage and seamless multitasking capabilities. The 30-core GPU enhances graphic performance, making it ideal for producers who also work with visual elements such as music videos or album cover designs.

Beyond its raw power, the MacBook Pro M2 features a stunning 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, which offers exceptional color accuracy and sharpness. The mini-LED technology ensures deep blacks and high contrast, making it easier for producers to navigate complex DAW interfaces. Its speakers deliver studio-quality sound, reducing the need for external monitors when mixing on the go. Additionally, macOS is well-optimized for music production, featuring low latency and tight hardware-software integration with Apple’s own ecosystem.

Battery life is another major selling point of the MacBook Pro M2, offering up to 18 hours of use on a single charge. This is particularly beneficial for producers who travel frequently or work in environments where power outlets may not be readily available. Despite its premium price tag, the MacBook Pro M2 remains a top-tier investment for serious music producers who need reliability, performance, and longevity in their production setup.

2. ASUS Zenbook Pro Duo

  • CPU: Intel i9-12900H 14-Core
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch 4K UHD + 14-inch 4K touchscreen
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
  • Battery: Up to 5 hours
  • Why it’s great: Dual screens enhance multitasking for producers working with multiple plugins.

The ASUS Zenbook Pro Duo is an innovative laptop that redefines multitasking for music producers. Equipped with an Intel i9-12900H 14-core processor and 16GB of RAM, it offers impressive performance for running multiple virtual instruments, effects, and DAW tracks without slowdowns. The 1TB SSD provides ample storage space for large project files, sample libraries, and high-resolution audio recordings. Additionally, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 GPU supports graphical tasks and ensures smooth rendering for video-related production needs.

What truly sets this laptop apart is its dual-screen design. The primary 15.6-inch 4K UHD display is complemented by a secondary 14-inch 4K touchscreen above the keyboard. This extra screen is highly beneficial for producers, as it allows them to keep their DAW timeline, mixer, or plugin windows open without cluttering the main workspace. The touch functionality enhances workflow, making it easier to adjust parameters, drag and drop audio files, and tweak synth settings with precision.

However, the Zenbook Pro Duo has a relatively short battery life, lasting only up to 5 hours on a full charge. This means it’s best suited for producers who work primarily in studio environments rather than on the go. Despite this limitation, its unique design and powerful specifications make it an excellent choice for producers looking to streamline their workflow with innovative technology.

3. HP Spectre x360

  • CPU: Intel 12th Gen i7-12700H
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Display: 16-inch 3072 x 1920
  • GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
  • Battery: Up to 15 hours
  • Why it’s great: Convertible design and solid performance for on-the-go production.

The HP Spectre x360 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop that offers flexibility and strong performance for music production. It comes equipped with a 12th Gen Intel i7-12700H processor and 16GB of RAM, providing smooth performance for running DAWs like FL Studio, Pro Tools, and Cubase. The 1TB SSD ensures fast data access and ample storage for music projects, samples, and recorded sessions. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics GPU may not be as powerful as dedicated GPUs, but it’s sufficient for music production tasks that don’t involve heavy video editing or 3D rendering.

One of the standout features of the HP Spectre x360 is its 16-inch 3072 x 1920 pixel touchscreen display, which delivers vibrant colors and sharp details. The 2-in-1 design allows it to be used in various modes, including tablet mode, which can be helpful for sketching out musical ideas using stylus-supported apps. The touchscreen capability also enhances workflow efficiency by making it easier to interact with DAWs through direct touch and gesture controls.

Battery life is another strong point, offering up to 15 hours of usage. This makes the Spectre x360 a solid choice for mobile producers who need a device that can last through long production sessions without being constantly plugged in. Its premium build quality, strong security features, and versatile form factor make it an excellent choice for producers who need both power and portability.

4. Microsoft Surface Laptop 4

  • CPU: 11th Gen Intel Core
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 13.5-inch 2256 x 1504
  • GPU: Iris Plus Graphics 950
  • Battery: Up to 17 hours
  • Why it’s great: Lightweight and portable, ideal for producers who need mobility.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is a stylish and powerful option for music producers looking for a lightweight yet capable device. It comes with an 11th Gen Intel Core processor and 16GB of RAM, allowing for smooth multitasking and seamless operation of DAWs like Ableton Live and Reason. The 512GB SSD ensures fast boot times and quick access to project files, though users dealing with large sample libraries may need additional external storage.

One of the key advantages of the Surface Laptop 4 is its 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display with a resolution of 2256 x 1504 pixels. This high-resolution screen offers excellent color accuracy and sharpness, making it easier to navigate DAW interfaces and waveform editing. The lightweight design makes it highly portable, perfect for producers who travel frequently or work from different locations.

Battery life is another strong point, with up to 17 hours of usage on a single charge. This makes it one of the best choices for producers who need a reliable laptop for long sessions without having to worry about recharging. While it lacks a dedicated GPU, its powerful processor and optimization with Windows 11 make it a solid choice for those focused on pure audio production.

5. ASUS ROG Strix G16

  • CPU: Intel Core i9-13980HX
  • RAM: 16GB DDR4-4800
  • Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
  • Display: 16-inch WUXGA 165Hz IPS
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070
  • Battery: Not specified
  • Why it’s great: High processing power for handling large projects and complex plugins.

The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a powerhouse designed for high-performance computing, making it an excellent choice for users who need speed, efficiency, and reliability. At its core, this laptop features the Intel Core i9-13980HX, a high-end processor with multiple cores that allow seamless multitasking and rapid data processing. Paired with 16GB of DDR4-4800 RAM, this machine is built to handle large-scale applications, whether it’s for professional video editing, 3D modeling, or high-end gaming. The inclusion of a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD ensures lightning-fast boot times, rapid application launches, and plenty of storage for files, projects, and software. This combination of high-end hardware guarantees a smooth user experience, minimizing lag and maximizing productivity.

The 16-inch WUXGA IPS display with a 165Hz refresh rate enhances the visual experience, delivering crisp details, vibrant colors, and smooth motion. Whether you’re working on creative projects, gaming, or streaming high-resolution content, this display ensures clarity and fluid performance. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU adds another level of power, making it perfect for graphically demanding tasks such as rendering, game development, and AI-based applications. With RTX ray tracing technology, it provides lifelike lighting, reflections, and improved performance in GPU-intensive workflows. Whether you’re a professional designer or a hardcore gamer, the GPU ensures high-quality visuals and responsive performance, pushing the limits of what’s possible on a laptop.

Beyond raw performance, the ROG Strix G16 is designed with user convenience in mind. It features advanced cooling solutions to maintain optimal temperatures during heavy workloads, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. The keyboard is built for durability and comfort, making extended work or gaming sessions more enjoyable. While battery life isn’t explicitly mentioned, gaming laptops of this caliber typically focus on performance over all-day mobility, so users may need to stay plugged in for intensive tasks. Overall, this laptop stands out as a top-tier option for users who require high-speed computing power, premium graphics, and a display built for professionals and gamers alike.

6. Dell XPS 17

  • CPU: 11th Gen Intel Core i7
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Display: 17-inch 4K UHD+
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050
  • Battery: Up to 9 hours
  • Why it’s great: Large display and powerful GPU for detailed waveform editing.

The Dell XPS 17 is a premium laptop designed for professionals and creatives who need a high-performance machine with an immersive display. Powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, this laptop delivers impressive speed and efficiency for demanding applications. Whether you’re working on music production, video editing, or content creation, the 16GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, allowing you to run multiple programs simultaneously without slowdowns. Additionally, the 1TB SSD provides ample storage for large files while offering fast read and write speeds, significantly improving workflow efficiency. With its combination of high-end components, the XPS 17 is built to handle complex tasks with ease.

One of the standout features of this laptop is its stunning 17-inch 4K UHD+ display, which provides exceptional clarity and color accuracy. The ultra-high resolution ensures that even the finest details in waveform editing, graphic design, or video production are visible with precision. This makes it an ideal choice for professionals who require a large workspace with crisp visuals. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU further enhances its capabilities, offering solid performance for rendering, gaming, and creative applications. While not the most powerful GPU available, it still delivers excellent graphical performance, making it suitable for tasks like video encoding, light 3D modeling, and GPU-accelerated workloads.

Beyond performance, the Dell XPS 17 offers a premium build with a sleek, minimalist design. It is equipped with up to 9 hours of battery life, which is impressive for a laptop with such a large and high-resolution display. This extended battery life allows users to work on the go without constantly searching for a power outlet. The laptop also features a comfortable keyboard, a precision touchpad, and high-quality speakers that enhance the overall user experience. Whether you’re an audio engineer, video editor, or professional who values a large, high-quality screen, the XPS 17 stands out as a well-rounded choice that balances power, portability, and premium design.

7. LG Gram 17

  • CPU: 11th Gen Intel Core i7
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Display: 17-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600)
  • GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
  • Battery: Up to 19.5 hours
  • Why it’s great: Ultra-lightweight with long battery life for mobile music production.

The LG Gram 17 is a standout choice for professionals who need a large-screen laptop without the bulk. Despite its 17-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) display, this laptop remains incredibly lightweight, making it an excellent option for mobile users. The high-resolution screen provides sharp visuals and vibrant colors, ensuring clarity in music production software, video editing, and creative applications. Powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, the Gram 17 offers smooth performance for multitasking, allowing users to work on multiple tracks, plugins, and effects without lag. With 16GB of RAM, the system handles demanding applications efficiently, providing a seamless experience whether you’re editing waveforms or running virtual instruments.

Storage is another strong point of the LG Gram 17, featuring a 1TB SSD that ensures fast boot times, quick file transfers, and ample space for large project files. While it lacks a dedicated GPU, the Intel Iris Xe Graphics still offers solid performance for basic graphic-intensive tasks, making it suitable for music production, light photo editing, and even casual gaming. Unlike other 17-inch laptops, the Gram 17 prioritizes portability, weighing significantly less than most competitors. This makes it ideal for professionals who need a large screen but don’t want to be tied to a desk. Whether you’re producing music on the go or working remotely, its balance of power and portability is a major advantage.

One of the most impressive features of the LG Gram 17 is its exceptional battery life, lasting up to 19.5 hours on a single charge. This extended battery performance allows users to work for an entire day without worrying about plugging in. The laptop also boasts a comfortable keyboard, a large touchpad, and a sleek, modern design that enhances its appeal. For musicians, producers, and content creators who need a lightweight yet powerful laptop with a big screen and long-lasting battery, the LG Gram 17 is a perfect choice. Its combination of portability, high-resolution display, and all-day battery life makes it one of the best options for mobile music production.

8. Samsung Galaxy Book 3

  • CPU: 13th Gen Intel Core i7
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
  • GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
  • Battery: Up to 14 hours
  • Why it’s great: Budget-friendly option with solid performance.

The Samsung Galaxy Book 3 is a well-balanced laptop that delivers solid performance at an affordable price. Equipped with a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, it offers excellent speed and efficiency for everyday tasks, making it a great option for students, professionals, and creatives on a budget. The 16GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, allowing users to run multiple applications simultaneously without experiencing lag. While its 512GB SSD provides fast boot times and quick file access, users who work with large files may need external storage for additional space. Despite its lower price point, the Galaxy Book 3 maintains a strong level of performance, making it a smart choice for those looking for reliability without breaking the bank.

The 15.6-inch Full HD display delivers clear and vibrant visuals, making it suitable for streaming, office work, and content creation. While it doesn’t offer the high resolution of 4K or OLED screens, it still provides good color accuracy and sharpness for daily use. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics handles light creative work, such as photo editing, music production, and casual gaming, though it’s not built for heavy graphical workloads. This GPU is efficient enough for basic video editing and rendering but may struggle with more intensive 3D applications. Given its affordability, the display and graphics performance strike a good balance between quality and cost, making it a practical option for users who need a reliable laptop for work and entertainment.

One of the key advantages of the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 is its long battery life, lasting up to 14 hours on a single charge. This makes it a great companion for users who work remotely or travel frequently. The lightweight design enhances its portability, making it easy to carry throughout the day. Additionally, Samsung’s ecosystem integration allows seamless connectivity with Galaxy smartphones and tablets, providing extra convenience for users already invested in the brand. Overall, the Galaxy Book 3 is an excellent budget-friendly laptop that delivers solid performance, a bright display, and long battery life, making it a great choice for professionals and students alike.

9. Lenovo ThinkPad E14

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 7
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 14-inch Full HD
  • GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics
  • Battery: Up to 12 hours
  • Why it’s great: Durable and reliable, great for budget-conscious professionals.

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 is a durable and dependable laptop designed for professionals who need a balance of performance and affordability. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, it delivers impressive processing power, making it capable of handling office work, business applications, and even some creative tasks. The 16GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, allowing users to run multiple programs at once without lag. Its 512GB SSD provides fast boot times and quick access to files, though users working with large media files may need additional storage solutions. Known for its sturdy build quality, the ThinkPad E14 is a great option for those who need a reliable work laptop that can withstand daily use.

The 14-inch Full HD display offers crisp visuals, making it suitable for productivity tasks such as document editing, video calls, and web browsing. While it doesn’t feature the high resolution or color accuracy of premium laptops, it still provides a clear and comfortable viewing experience for everyday use. The AMD Radeon Graphics integrated GPU is capable of handling light creative work, such as basic photo editing and casual gaming, though it’s not designed for intensive graphics tasks like 3D rendering or high-end video editing. However, for professionals who need a solid display for business tasks and general multimedia consumption, the ThinkPad E14 is a reliable choice.

One of its key strengths is its long battery life of up to 12 hours, allowing users to work on the go without constantly searching for a power outlet. The legendary ThinkPad keyboard offers a comfortable and tactile typing experience, making it an excellent choice for writers, coders, and office workers. The laptop is also designed with military-grade durability, ensuring it can handle minor drops, spills, and everyday wear and tear. For budget-conscious professionals who need a sturdy, high-performing laptop with excellent reliability, the Lenovo ThinkPad E14 is a great investment that delivers both longevity and efficiency.

10. HP Elite Dragonfly

  • CPU: 8th Gen Intel Core i7
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Display: 13.3-inch Full HD
  • GPU: Intel UHD Graphics
  • Battery: Up to 24.5 hours
  • Why it’s great: Exceptional battery life, ideal for travel-heavy musicians.

Conclusion

Selecting the best laptop for music production depends on your specific needs. The Apple MacBook Pro M2 is the top choice for macOS users, while the ASUS Zenbook Pro Duo is perfect for multitasking with its dual-screen setup. If portability is a priority, the LG Gram 17 and HP Elite Dragonfly offer excellent battery life. For those looking for high processing power, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 and Dell XPS 17 deliver strong performance. No matter your preference, these laptops provide the speed, storage, and efficiency needed for music production in 2025.