Top 7 Best Laptops for Animation and Graphic Design in 2024

Many designers go through a lot of confusion while selecting the perfect laptop which will assist them in graphic design works. The software like Photoshop and Flash and other 3D Tools that are to be used need a lot of space and memory and hence the right model that will perform without any lag is quite essential. The ideal laptop for these sorts of works will be a top-end model with the most advanced features and the prices for these models will also run at the higher end. Most designers will realize that using a poorly performing machine can be extremely frustrating during work.

So it is best to do some research and choose the right model than to realize at a later stage that your laptop is not powerful enough to handle the work. If you are looking for a laptop you are in the right spot as we have brought together seven of the best models that are ideal for animators and graphic designers and will review the same on this page. In addition, we will also list down some essential features that are needed for a laptop to smoothly handle the graphics software.

A Buying Guide For Best Laptops for Animation and Graphic Design

These models will need advanced technical specifications and a few are listed below as a reference.

RAM capacity

When speed and efficiency is a priority, it is not sensible to compromise on the RAM amount in a laptop. A laptop with 8GB RAM should be good enough for graphics design and related works. Those with higher needs can go for models with 16 GB RAMS. You can always start with an 8 GB model and add to it in the future if needed, so make sure that the memory can be expanded.

Hard Drive capacity

When you are working with files of large volume, it is best to choose models with 1 TB capacity. If you do not plan to use external hard drives a laptop with 2 TB capacity will be a good idea. Do keep in mind that any high-end design software will take up a lot of space for installation and if you are using three or more of them, space is an absolute necessity. HDD models come in large sizes and choosing one such unit will be prudent.

Screen size

For graphics and animation related work, a large screen is more advantageous as working with complex software needs a wider viewing screen. A 16-inch screen is definitely a good choice and if you have the budget, you can go for higher sizes. A screen resolution of 1600 x 900 or 1920 x 800 is definitely a good option. Anything less than that is not ideal for serious graphics designing work.

Graphics cards

These cards are essential parts of a laptop that is to be used by a graphics designer. A mid-end graphics card will be good enough for 2D projects. In case you want to future-proof your laptop or want to use 3D software, a high-end graphics card is an absolute must.

Processors

It is always recommended that a Graphics designer uses a high-end processor to support their work. This is also required to avoid any compatibility problems with the latest software and tools. The top-end processors of AMD and Intel can be considered for this purpose.

HP Zbook 15u G4 Workstation 15.6″ Notebook review

With top-end specifications and features, this laptop is a very good choice for graphic designers and will offer them great support.

Overview

While this laptop packs in some of the best specifications, it is built in a rugged fashion and will last long for rough users. This makes it a very effective workstation on all fronts and is also very stylish in terms of external design. This is a unit that has gathered a lot of praises and rightly so.

Feature and Benefits:

Great build

This unit is built ruggedly and is suited for both indoor and outdoor use. If you want to do some field work, this is a good choice as this unit will withstand shocks, vibrations, and crashes.

Multiple ports

The unit scores high in terms of connectivity and it has various ports like three USB 3.0 ports (one with power for charging devices), two Thunderbolt 3 ports, HDMI and VGA outputs, a Gigabit Ethernet port and an SD card slot. It also has the feature of fast battery charging.

Gorgeous display

The display in this unit is very good and the 15-inch screen offers the right sharpness and details with hardly any amount of backlight bleeding. The pictures are vibrant and colorful and viewing is an enjoyable experience.

Performance

The laptop is a solid performer and will smoothly run various demanding applications with ease. This makes it an ideal companion for designers and engineers.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: 2.7 GHz Intel Core i7
• Display: 15 inches full HD
• Weight: 19 pounds.
• RAM: 16 GB.
• Storage: 128 GB.

Pros and Cons:

This is a modern workstation that offers high-quality performance as needed for running high-end software.

Apple 15″ MacBook Pro

With a stunning display and great processing power, the MacBook provides a compelling package that redefines the high-end market.

Overview

This is one of the best build units out in the market and the quality is exceptionally good from all ends. The unit is also packed with top class features and is a powerhouse of a performance. This is one unit that will tackle all your needs with its speed and efficiency.

Feature and Benefits:

Solid build

The unit is light and compact but it is very sturdy and almost feels like being carved out from a single piece of aluminum. The tapered edges provide the whole unit a classy touch and the model looks and feel great from all angles.

Superb performance

The good processor and a 16 GB RAM makes this unit lightning fast. No matter which application you use, this laptop will leave you totally satisfied with its speed and performance.

Great display

This laptop is a real pleasure to use and watch and the display is perfect on all levels. The unit uses the Tre Tone technology that adjusts the color temperature to match the environment making it even more enjoyable.

Great features

The keyboard and the touchpad are improved than the earlier models and offer better performance. The audio quality is good and the sound will completely satisfy the music lovers.

Key Specifications:

•  Processor: 2.9GHz quad-core Intel Core i7
•  Dimensions: 13.75 x 9.48 x 0.61 inches
• Display: 4 inch Retina display.
• Weight: 02 pounds.
• RAM: 16 GB.
• Storage: 512GB SSD.

Pros and Cons:

This is one of the best units in the market and as a long term investment as a graphic designer, this will give you the right benefits.

ASUS ZenBook 3 Deluxe Ultraportable Laptop

This is a very well designed unit that delivers some of the best features at a very reasonable price that makes it ideal for designers.

Overview

This light and the stylishly designed unit is made from premium aerospace-grade aluminum and is a superb performer. The display and sound are amazing ads the battery life will keep you happy all through the day.

Feature and Benefits:

Portable model

Crafted out of aluminum, the unit has a great finish that gives it a premium look. It has diamond cut edges and is very light and compact making it a great model to carry around.

Great performance

With this unit, you need not compromise on any aspect of performance no matter what work you perform. The best in class components include an 8th Generation Intel Core i7 processor and a 16 GB RAM.

Good ergonomics

Even though it is small, the backlit keyboard offers great comfort at fast typing speeds and is extremely accurate. The touchpad is also well engineered delivering great accuracy and comfort of use.

Multiple features

The laptop comes with Harman Kardon audio technology that delivers exceptional sound quality. It also provides all day long battery life and even at high loads, the superior cooling technology keeps it extremely cool.

Key Specifications:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-8550U Processor 1.8 GHz
• Dimensions: 13 x 8.4 x 0.5 inches
• Display: 14 inches full HD.
• Weight: 4 pounds.
• RAM: 16 GB.
• Storage: 512GB SSD.

Pros and Cons:

Coming at a very good price with some great features, this unit is capable of all fields and will keep you happy with its performance.

HUION 8 x 6 Inches Digital Graphic Drawing Tablet

This tablet is ideal for artists and designers who are at the start of their career and it offers the right features at a reasonable price.

Overview

The unit offers a perfect surface for creating drawings of any nature and it also comes with a pen. The overall performance is very good and you can use it independently or attach it to your main computer for doing the necessary work.

Feature and Benefits:

Good surface area

The tablet offers a surface area of 8.0 x 6.0 inches and it is quite good for making sketches. For a wide range of activities like editing photos and digital painting drawing, this surface offers the perfect pen-on-paper touch.

Good pen

The unit comes with a pen that is very good for drawing work and works on AAA batteries. It is calibrated to provide the perfect pressure control and the right accuracy for drawing and design related works.

Great compatibility

The unit is compatible with Windows 7/8/10 and Mac OS 10.8.0 and even later versions. It also works with all major digital software like Adobe Photoshop, Corel Painter, Clip Studio and others.

Slim design

The slim design of the unit makes it very easy to carry and it can be easily put in your backpack and carried to the location you need.

Key Specifications:

• Dimensions: 12.6 x 0.3 x 10 inches
• Display: 8 x 6 inches @ 4000 LPI.
• Weight: 23 pounds.
• Pressure level:

Pros and Cons:

This unit can easily work in tandem with your laptop as an aid for your design related works and is a value for money offering.

XP-Pen Deco 01 10×6.25 Inch Digital Graphics Drawing Tablet

Fast and fashionable, this drawing tablet is designed perfectly to allow you to express your ideas in a perfect fashion.

Overview

With a large surface area and a very well designed pen, this unit is a very good choice for drawing related activity. The resolution is also very good and the unit also comes with a good amount of maneuverability. In addition, it is designed for both left and right-handed users.

Feature and Benefits:

Good design

The 8mm thickness makes this unit ultra-thin and light and you will be able to carry it without any issues. The overall design is very ergonomic to ensure comfort on all fronts.

Very good stylus

The unit comes with a stylus that has can provide 8192 levels of pen pressure providing a real pen-like experience. In addition, it also is free from batteries and goes without charging.

Good resolution

The unit offers 5080 lines per inch and an accuracy level of +-0.01 inch making it a great performer. The high resolution makes it a real pleasure to work with.

Customizable keys

The unit has eight different keys that can be adjusted to the needs of your fingertips. It also comes with a blind-spot reduction feature that is extremely helpful while working.

Key Specifications:

• Dimensions: 14.2 x 8.6 x 0.35 inches
• Display: 10 x 6.25 inches @ 5080 LPI.
• Weight: 34 pounds.
• Pressure level:

Pros and Cons:

With an impressive range of features and very good performance, this unit is highly recommended as a drawing and design aid.

Ugee 1910B Interactive Pen Display Drawing Monitor

Best Laptops for Animation and Graphic Design monitor is extremely versatile and can be used by artists and normal users to effectively enhance their existing laptop.

Overview

Whether it is a sketch or a painting job, this monitor will perfectly support all types of activities. It has a large screen and very good compatibility. It also comes with a one year warranty and has good customer service.

Feature and Benefits:

Good screen

The 19-inch screen is large and effective and comes with a stand. This makes it easy to place in any angle and on any surface as per your convenience.

Good build

The build quality of the unit is solid and reliable. It also has a very smart appearance and though it is not light, you will find it comfortable to carry around indoors.

The Pen

The pen is nicely designed and feels good when held in hand. It can be charged easily with a USB cable and you can adjust the pen sensitivity to suit your needs.

Performance

The driver in this unit offers solid performance and has a very comfortable pressure gradient proving you the pen-like feeling. The colors are bright and vivid offering a good user’s experience.

Key Specifications:

• Dimensions:  21 x 18.5 x 7 inches
• Display: 1inches with 800:1 contrast ratio.
• Weight: 15 pounds.
• Pressure level:

Pros and Cons:

This is a unit that will allow you to create accurate sketches at a fast pace and comes at a very good price.

Acer Aspire E 15, 15.6″ Full HD laptop

A load of best features and very aggressive pricing makes this laptop an ideal model for all sorts of professional quality works.

Overview

The core values of this laptop are a strong performance and an affordable price. It also features a very good battery life along with solid connectivity. The display is sharp and the keyboard is also very comfortable or uses making these a good all-rounder.

Feature and Benefits:

Good built

The plastic elements of this laptop are solidly built and feel reliable when you handle the unit. The keyboard is very comfortable to use and the metallic texture makes the unit look good from all angles.

Silent performance

The tick chassis makes the unit a very silent performer and the fans never make too much of a noise. The unit has enough space to allow the fans to disperse the heat and does not allow it to build up.

Good display

The display resolution of this unit is 1,366 x 768 and it also has a very good contrast ratio of 960:1. The color accuracy and gamma levels are very accurate, making the display very enjoyable.

Impressive performance

With a core i7 processor and 8GB of Ram, the performance of this laptop will surely keep you happy. You will find the unit having sufficient power to perform any challenging activity with ease.

Key Specifications:

• Dimensions: 15.02 x 10.2 x 1.19 inches
• Display: 1920 x 1080 LED backlit.
• Weight: 27 pounds.
• RAM: 8 GB DDR3 SDRAM.

Pros and Cons:

This is a model that punches well above its price category and stands out as one of the most value for money models in the current market.

Conclusion

So we have covered some of the Best Laptops for Animation and Graphic Design that you can purchase to support graphic designs and animation works. You need to decide whether you need a laptop or a drawing tablet depending on the nature of your work. If you have decided on a laptop, the HP Zbook 15u G4 Workstation 15.6″ Notebook is a very good choice from all respect. Not only does it have some very good features but it delivers them at a very good price.

The design is attractive and HP has kept things light and tidy so that the unit can be carried around easily. The display is very good and is perfectly suitable for design-related activity with very good color space coverage. The unit also scores well in terms of connectivity and has enough ports to keep you happy in that aspect. In terms of noise control, the unit performs very well and has an admirable battery life. On the whole, this is a very well designed laptop which will keep most users perfectly satisfied.