Lightroom is among the most effective and efficient ways to handle thousands of photos. It helps you arrange and manage your images quickly and easily using its intuitive interface. If you’re using an older or less powerful laptop, then you realize how complicated this process could be since each filter may take an entire century to take effect fully. Additionally, you’re experiencing the difference between the digital copy you’ve made and the print. The ideal laptop for photo editing is highly accurate in color, especially if you’re using a suitable external monitor. Editing is all about watching, and if the quality of your display isn’t high enough, you’ll not be able to achieve the results you want. So, here are a few aspects to consider when looking for a new laptop to use with Adobe Lightroom.
Per Adobe, minimum system requirements for the latest version of Adobe Lightroom is:
processor: Intel, AMD, or ARM processors that support 64-bit 2 GHz or higher processor
RAM 8GB
Storage 2GB
Monitor resolution: 1024 x 768 display
Graphic Card GPU equipped with DirectX 12 support (Windows)/GPU with support for Metal (Mac) that has 2GB of RAM
As you can see, a less expensive laptop will meet these requirements; however, if you’re a professional working with thousands of photos, it’s not the best choice for you. Instead, you should opt for better-performing equipment if you are looking for a smoother and faster workflow.
Adobe Lightroom can take advantage of multiple cores while performing specific tasks like exporting, building previews, and working in the development module. Therefore you must select at the very least the quad-core processor.
It is recommended to select at the very least an Intel Core Core i5 7+ generation and an AMD Ryzen5 processor. Alongside many cores, we must be aware of the clock’s speed because it plays a crucial part in the performance. It determines how fast processing can be. A processor that has a faster clock speed can help complete many Adobe Lightroom tasks; for example, altering the effects settings (contrast or highlights, saturation, crop clarity, vibrance, etc.) or scrolling through images can be much more efficient.
Pick a processor with a minimum 3GHz clock speed and quad-cores.
When we speak of memory that isn’t too expensive in the present, it would be ideal for getting 16GB of RAM. However, if you’re only planning to get 8GB RAM and it’s not recommended, you should ensure it’s upgradeable shortly. Because the more significant and better quality images are processed, more memory will be required.
It isn’t essential how powerful the laptop’s processor is; your performance will be reduced when you’re running out of memory.
To store data, I strongly recommend the use of an SSD. It could make a significant difference in the performance. An SSD can provide a much faster load speed whenever you export, open view, or even covert images. Outside of Lightroom, the overall system performance will be more efficient, like boot time and copy/paste/move speed. In addition, SSDs are more energy-efficient and reliable as well as lighter in comparison to conventional HDDs.
Next, we’ll move to the next section that is the display.
Quality of Display
If you are the majority of your workstation using a laptop, you must pay particular focus on the quality of the display. However, If you have external displays, then you must invest in a sound graphics card. We’ll discuss this shortly.
If you want to edit your photos, You should select at the very least an HD display. An IPS screen is suggested since it offers superior precision in color than other technology. It’s also quite popular, and laptops generally have it.
For those who edit photographs outdoors, the Laptops’ display must be bright enough. Particular laptops provide 100% sRGB or higher accuracy of a color, which guarantees exact quality printing.
Today convertible laptops are widespread. A laptop with a touch screen with 360-degree rotation or removable design makes photo editing more accessible and more efficient.
GPU
But, GPU acceleration is available in Adobe Lightroom, but you can only use it through the Develop module. In addition, GPU acceleration can only be adequate in environments with high resolution, in which the monitor has greater than 2K+ resolution.
If you have an integrated graphics card, you’ll benefit from the performance. You can go for a low-cost GPU with 2GB or 4GB VRAM; however, it’s recommended to purchase an expensive GPU when you consider future updates to the software. In addition, if you’re using an ultra-resolution monitor, you’ll need to buy a premium GPU like GTX 1050, Nvidia GTX, and GTX 1650.
Connectivity
If you plan to connect more than one monitor, take note of your laptop’s port. HDMI is a standard feature on most laptops. On top of that, you should look for the most recent USB Type-C (Thunderbolt) or mini DisplayPort to connect the other monitors.
The most recent USB Type-C port comes with many other benefits. For instance, you can transfer files faster from a compatible device or cam. In addition, particular laptops support USB Type-C charging, so you don’t have to connect a second cable if you’re bound to a compatible Type C monitor.
If you’re looking for a portable ultra-thin laptop, you may not have an HDMI port. Instead, search for several Ports Type C (Thunderbolt) as well as mini DisplayPort.
Let’s take a look at our recommendations for reliable laptops to use with Adobe Lightroom in 2021.
1. Acer Aspire 5 (Cheapest Laptop for Adobe Lightroom in 2021)
The most current Acer Aspire 5 could be the most suitable choice in 2021 if you aren’t looking to spend a lot on a laptop for photo editing. The budget laptop comes with the Intel Core i5-1035G1 Quad-Core processor that can run as high as 3.60 GHz speed. With inbuilt 8GB of memory, Nvidia MX350 dedicated GPU, and 512GB of SSD storage, it can provide decent performance. The most impressive thing is that this computer has an extra slot for upgrading RAM, and you can upgrade it up to 16GB which is ideal.
In terms of display quality, this machine isn’t among the most impressive on the list. However, it’s perfect for editing photos. The full HD IPS panel can deliver good picture quality.
This Acer laptop has a backlit keyboard, USB Type-C port, 8 hours of battery life, and a slim and sleek style. That’s why it’s such an excellent value for money.
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- Thin design with aluminum top cover
- Backlit keyboard and Type-C port
- Good picture quality with full HD IPS panel
- Excellent performance for a low price
- Upgradable memory
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2. Lenovo Legion Y540 (Best Mid Range Laptop for Lightroom with Gaming Capability)
Lenovo Legion series is quite popular with gamers. This gaming machine comes with four GB of Nvidia GTX1650 GPU dedicated to gaming, so it’s perfect for work. Additionally, thanks to the performance provided by its Intel Core i7-9750H processor, 32GB memory, as well as 1TB SSD + 1TB HDD combo, Legion Y540 isn’t going to give you any chances of complaining. So it’s not necessary to be concerned about the capacity of the storage.
It is possible to run several applications simultaneously, including Lightroom, and handle them with ease. The only drawback of the laptop is that it’s pretty heavy. Nevertheless, it’s a great tool for photo editing.
If we are talking about the display’s quality, it has an HD 15.6-inch display with IPS technology backed by a 72 percent NTSC color gamut which is ideal for editing photos. In addition, the brightness is also good.
If you are working with multiple monitors, the laptop will have you covered since it comes with the mini DisplayPort together with an HDMI 2.0 port. This means you can connect up to two monitors by using an “Extend” feature in windows. In addition, the USB Type-C port is offered with three USB 3.1 ports to ensure the seamless transfer of data from your hard drives or camera.
Lenovo Legion Y540 is undoubtedly a budget-friendly laptop that comes with unique features.
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- Robust performance ideal for multitasking
- Sharp, vivid display with full HD resolution and 72% NTSC color gamut
- Faster and larger storage with SSD and HDD combination
- Backlit keyboard, Mini DisplayPort, and USB Type-C
- Good battery life
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3. Microsoft Surface Book 3 (Portable Laptop for Photo Editing with Detachable Design)
Microsoft Surface Book laptop series is known for its portability and efficiency, particularly its remarkable removable design. The notebook can be used in various modes like notebook laptop, laptop, or studio, ideal for editing photos. However, you need to purchase additional accessories separately, like Surface Pen and Surface Dial.
Surface Book 3 features the high-resolution PixelSense touchscreen display that delivers real-time color accuracy. In addition, thanks to Surface Pen, the editing process can be more enjoyable.
The latest Surface Book 3 is available in a variety of configurations. For example, you can choose between 13-inch or 15-inch models. In addition, it’s offered in various formats, including Intel Core i5 and i7 10th Gen processors with up to 32GB of memory and 2TB of SSD storage. Moreover, Its i7 model is equipped with the GTX1650 GPU that is dedicated to Nvidia.
If you are looking to edit photos professionally, The i5 model may not be as powerful, which is why you need to think about your needs first.
Alongside its impressive performance and unique design, The Surface Book comes with the possibility of up to 17.5 minutes of life when mixed-use, which is incredible. Using this notebook, you can connect up to four monitors since it comes with two Surface Connect ports and one USB Type-C port. However, you’ll need adapters to do that.
The machine is costly, mainly if you discuss the 15-inch model, which has an integrated GPU. However, this might be an option if you’re among those looking for a device with a lot of power and do not want to sacrifice the quality of display and battery life.
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- Exceptional quality touch display
- Available with different configurations
- Astonishing performance and battery life
- Latest USB Type-C port with 2x surface connect ports
- The detachable design offers versatile usability
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4. Acer ConceptD 3 Ezel (Powerful and Portable Laptop for Lightroom)
Acer ConceptD3 Ezel is a little like the laptop to the Microsoft Surface Book, but it comes with more features less money. It features a powerful HexaCore i7-10750H processor with 16GB memory and the storage capacity of 512GB NVMe SSD and the NVIDIA GTX 1650 Max Q dedicated GPU. Its performance is fantastic. It allows multitasking effortlessly.
Concept three notebooks are packed with a high-definition display. A 100 percent sRGB color gamut can deliver exact quality images. In addition, Acer has provided the Wacom AES 1.0 stylus, which provides a natural drawing experience.
This laptop is convertible, as you can see in the picture; you can operate it in various ways according to your preference. The computer is available in 15.6 inches, but it’s heavy.
This notebook with a variety of functions can provide the capacity of 18 hours battery. This is quite impressive in itself. Furthermore, it includes all modern features, including a backlit keyboard, USB Type C port, fingerprint reader, and a convertible design.
If you’re looking for a lightweight and powerful laptop that doesn’t sacrifice performance and battery life and display performance, take a look at this Acer ConceptD 3 laptop.
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- 100% sRGB color gamut display
- Robust performance with Intel Hexa-Core processor and Nvidia GPU
- Impressive battery life
- Backlit keyboard, USB Type-C, and fingerprint reader
- Versatile design with a lightweight body
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5. Dell XPS 9310 (Best 2-in-1 Lightest Laptop for Adobe Lightroom)
The most recent Dell, the XPS 9310 laptop, comes with an Intel 11th Gen Core i7-1165G7 processor, 32GB of memory, and 512GB of NVMe SSD storage, which means that it will provide seamless performance. Unfortunately, there’s there is no particular GPU in this laptop. However, there’s no need to fret since the embedded IrixXe graphics are competent for photo editing and gaming.
XPS 9310 is a 13.4-inch notebook with 1920 1200 pixels of resolution, an anti-glare display, and the astronomical brightness of 500 nits. It’s an excellent choice to edit photos, and you can also utilize it outdoors. But indoors, it is essential to reduce the brightness less than you would like. Otherwise, you may be dissatisfied with the faded prints.
It has a unique function, lid sensors that allow users to lift the lid and immediately startup, no matter what state of power you’re in. Cool right! It also has a fingerprint sensor, two Thunderbolt 3 ports as well as a backlit keyboard.
The greatest thing about this laptop is that it is composed of aluminum and carbon fiber which is why it’s very durable and light. If you’re looking for a 13.4-inch screen, you could stop here as this laptop is light, portable, and probably has all the latest technology. But, it’s a higher-priced laptop than the previous suggestions.
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- Lightest and durable laptop made of carbon fiber and aluminum
- Beautiful design
- Lid sensor, fingerprint sensor, backlit keyboard, and latest Thunderbolt 3 ports
- Reliable and robust performance
- Brilliant battery life
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6. MSI Prestige 15 (Slim and Powerful Gaming Laptop with Premium Display Quality)
It’s a gaming laptop included in this list. However, it’s distinct from our previous Lenovo Legion Y540. It’s slimmer and lighter in weight, equipped with AdobeRGB’s whole color gamut, which can provide precise shades. In addition, you can finish your work from anywhere at any time since it’s equipped with a staggering capacity of 16 hours in battery time.
MSI Prestige 15 comes with the Intel Core i7-1070U processor with 32GB memory, 1TB SSD NVMe storage, and a dedicated Nvidia GTX1650 MaxQ GPU. As a result, its performance is outstanding, and you can play games and perform heavy multitasking with no issues.
Using an array of monitors won’t be an issue since it comes with 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports and an HDMI connection. Compared to other notebooks, it’s a bit expensive. However, it provides an excellent quality display and an ultra-compact and lightweight design.
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- Premium quality 4K display with AdobeRGB 100% color gamut
- Robust performance
- Portable and slim design
- 2x Thunderbolt 3 ports and backlit keyboard
- Long battery life
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7. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme (Durable Laptop for Photo Editing with Potent Performance)
Lenovo ThinkPad series are among the most durable and reliable models that is highly regarded by professionals. The ThinkPad X1 Extreme is powered by Hexa-Core Intel Core i7-10750H which is capable of up to 5GHz clock speed that is awe-inspiring. Additionally, it comes with 64GB memory as well as 1TB of SSD storage from NVMe as well as the Nvidia GTX1650Ti specially-designed GPU. I’m confident that you’ll be able play virtually any game and edit thousands of images and multitasking with a high level of intensity without delays.
In comparison to the MSI Prestige, this notebook’s screen quality isn’t the best however it’s still a great notebook to use for photo editing. It’s not the only option, however, it’s also available with a 4K display however it’s quite expensive. The ThinkPad has an backlit keyboard that’s spill-proof which adds to its long-lasting durability.
ThinkPad Extreme isn’t just robust or durable, but it’s among the most trusted gadgets. It is equipped with the fingerprint scanner and a discrete trusted platform module (dTPM)that keeps your important data secure.
Overall, if you’re searching for a high-end laptop to run Adobe Lightroom and other process-hungry tasks, choose the Lenovo The ThinkPad Extreme.
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- Outstanding performance with Hexa-Core processor and GTX 1650Ti dedicated GPU
- Spill-resistant backlit keyboard
- Very durable and sturdy design
- Highly secure machine with fingerprint sensor and dTPM module
- Thunderbolt 3 ports available
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8. Asus ZenBook Duo (Innovative Dual Screen Laptop for Adobe Lightroom)
Zenbook Duo is a laptop that is unique in our selection, that features a dual-screen. The first is a typical touch screen with HD resolution. However, the second touchscreen is tilted slightly and can be found over the keyboard called ScreenPad Plus. The primary benefit of the second screen is its productivity. A distinct control panel is available to users of Adobe software, and it includes four choices – buttons, Dials, Scrolls, and Sliders.
This laptop with a unique design is robust, and it comes with the most recent Intel Core processor, i7-1165G7. It also has 512GB SSD storage via PCIe with 8GB of RAM. The notebook comes in various configurations. If you require more power and superior display quality, you could also opt for its Pro model.
This model comes with two of the most recent Thunderbolt four ports that allow you to connect everything from your monitor to an external HDD. In addition, it comes with HDMI ports as well as the USB 3.1 port.
If you’re a graphic artist or editing photographs, the laptop will surely increase your productivity because of its unique design. This laptop is for those who have a lot of money.
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- Unique design with a dual-screen can enhance productivity
- Fantastic display quality
- Available with several configurations
- Latest Thunderbolt 4 ports
- Impressive performance
- Passed MIL-STD 810H test of reliability and durability
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9. Apple MacBook Pro (Most Premium Laptop for Adobe Lightroom in 2021)
Apple does not require much explanation since it’s known for its superior quality. However, the latest MacBook is more efficient as Apple recently announced its M1 chipset in its models. This chip is a massive leap in the areas of CPU, GPU, and machine learning capabilities.
The greatest thing about this is that the MacBook Pro provides the possibility of up to 20 hours of battery time which is undoubtedly worth it. It doesn’t matter how intensive work you put in; this beast will manage everything. It won’t experience any lag, even when you’re multitasking.
If we are talking about the quality of display which was already exceptional, the show is now enhanced and produces 25 percent more colors than sRGB. So, in general, you can perform things that require shade without difficulty. Even the brightness is relatively high, and it’s read in bright light.
You can always select a MacBook according to your needs. No matter what model you choose, Apple’s durable and reliable machine will not let you down if you’re looking to increase your spending.
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- Most color-accurate Retina display
- Available with different configurations
- Top-notch performance with the latest M1 chip
- Latest Thunderbolt 4 ports, Touch ID, and Wi-Fi 6
- A highly secure and reliable machine
- Premium quality Magic Keyboard
- Superb battery life
- Astonishing camera and mic quality
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10. Dell XPS 17 (Ultimate Laptop for Photo Editing Professionals)
If you’re searching for a laptop that can be used for gaming, graphics design, and editing photos, as well as video editing, Dell The XPS 17 is the best option. It comes with a massive UHD+ touchscreen with top performance and the latest technology, but it’s also the most expensive laptop on this list.
The 17-inch display is quite extensive. However, it’s smaller than 48% of 15-inch laptops due to the 93.7 percent screen-to-body ratio. Furthermore, this display is non-reflective and comes with 500-nits of brightness which is ideal for outdoor usage.
XPS 17 is powered by an Octa-Core Intel Core i9-10885H processor (supports up to 5.30 GHz clock speed), 32GB memory 1TB NVMe SSD, and Nvidia’s RTX 2060 Dedicated GPU. These are the mainstays of its outstanding performance.
Despite its impressive performance, the laptop is slim and lightweight. Additionally, it comes with four Thunderbolt three ports so that you can connect multiple devices with no trouble. If you’re searching for an all-four-monitor setup, the laptop is among the few alternatives.
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- Supreme performance in Windows laptops
- Large display with UHD+ resolution
- Four Thunderbolt3 ports
- Slim and portable
- Outstanding build quality
- Incredible sound
- Solid battery life
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We’ve discussed a variety of laptops. If you don’t have specific requirements, then you should consider the Lenovo Legion Y540. It won’t drain your account, and it offers decent performance and modern technologies. This laptop is also ideal for gaming. Wever If you’re looking for a specific feature like a 4K convertible, detachable dual-display, lightweight, or even powerful gaming, then browse our other choices.
Thank you so much for stopping by this website! Did you find the article helpful, or do you have any concerns? Feel free to leave a comment below, and we’ll be in touch with you soon.
