So you’re a UX/UI designer, and you’re in the market for a new laptop. It’s a necessary purchase, so you want to ensure you get the best one for your needs. But what is the best laptop for a UI/UX designer? There are many options out there, and it can be tough to decide which is right for you.
Choosing the perfect laptop is never an easy task. But, if you think carefully, you will soon realize that some are better than others when catering to your needs as a UX/UI designer.
You need one that has a powerful processor and plenty of storage, so you can easily save your files. Plus, it’s essential to have a comfortable laptop with a screen that is easy on the eyes.
To find the best laptop for UX designers, we have researched for you and compiled a list of notebooks that will best suit your tasks. So, whether you are an experienced UX/UI designer or just starting, keep reading to find the best laptop for you!
Quick Shopping Tip
When searching for a laptop that can fully fulfill our needs as UX/UI designers, having a fantastic display should be of the utmost importance. We have to ensure we get a display delivering crisp colors to develop those eye-catching websites or mobile applications. Your processor is also a crucial component for performing all your tasks efficiently.
You also need enough RAM to keep large files open without the computer crashing every time something gets opened. Lastly, you don’t want to be stuck in your office chair all the time. Hence, you should opt for a device that offers portability alongside the necessary power, which will allow you to work remotely efficiently!
Our 8 Picks | Best Laptop for UI/UX Designers
Apple MacBook Pro
Our Best Pick
The MacBook Pro from Apple steals the number one spot on our list and is the go-to laptop for UX/UI design, according to the opinion of multiple designers.
The primary reason the MacBook Pro is such a golden pick for this task is because of its monumental “Retina display.” The color accuracy and crispness you get on Apple laptops are incomparable. Thus according to our research, this is one of the best choices to consider when looking for the best laptop for graphic designers.
Other than the display, the performance and the multitasking ability of a machine is always the next concern for a designer. When it comes to Apple laptops, you don’t need to worry about anything. Apple’s M1 chip, designed to perfection, guarantees performance like you have never witnessed before.
Furthermore, the 8GB of RAM will ensure smooth multitasking for those who like to switch between programs rapidly. In addition, the 256GB SSD is more than enough to safely store all your valuable project files.
We’ve chosen the MacBook Pro over its younger sibling (MacBook Air) due to the touch bar, which provides a more efficient workflow by displaying commands you need the most at the right time. If you are not interested in this feature, you can always check out the Apple MacBook Air.
Although the MacBooks lack ports, portability is an area where they shine by being slim and lightweight to carry around. Furthermore, the battery life you will get on this machine is outstanding. Your laptop will run the entire day efficiently on a single charge.
Summary of User Reviews on Amazon
The Apple MacBook Pro is a laptop that has stolen the hearts of its users. The love that the users have for this laptop can be judged by the massive amounts of positive reviews. According to the users that have tested and analyzed this laptop, it is lightweight and fast.
The graphics offered by this laptop are unbelievable. Many users have used and tested this laptop for graphic design, and they don’t seem disappointed. According to multiple users, the display is colorful and bright, making the MacBook Pro steel for UX designing.
| Processor | Apple’s M1 Chip |
| RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Graphics | Apple 8-core GPU |
| Display | 13.3″ Retina Display |
| Operating System | macOS |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours (Battery life varies with use) |
| Weight | Approximately 3.0 lb (1.4 KG) |
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4
Our Second Choice
Considering laptops with phenomenal displays, the Microsoft Surface makes its way into our list.
Don’t be deceived by this laptop’s small size. The moment you lift the screen lid, you will realize the greatness of this laptop’s display. With a screen resolution of (2256 x 1504), this laptop is made to deliver excellent visuals – a designer’s dream, right?
Besides the superb visuals, you also get the 10th generation Core i5 processor alongside 8GB of RAM. This CPU and RAM combination will efficiently handle your needs and instantly execute all of your tasks.
To have an SSD in today’s era is an absolute must. Having an SSD in your laptop will result in fast bootup speeds and an overall satisfying experience. With 512GB of SSD, you will enjoy all those luxuries in the Microsoft Surface laptop.
With such a compact and sleek design, this laptop is about as travel-friendly as you can get. Weighing only 2.76 pounds, you can put this laptop in your backup and carry it around easily when traveling the world. Furthermore, its battery life will also not disappoint.
Although battery life varies primarily with use, Microsoft claims to provide a battery backup of up to 17 hours per charge – quite breathtaking if you ask me! Overall this is an excellent laptop for designers on the hunt.
Summary of User Reviews on Amazon
Microsoft Surface is another laptop that is loved by users. According to a user, the Microsoft Surface feels nice in the hands, and the build is very premium. Furthermore, the graphics performance of this laptop tested by multiple users has been greatly appreciated. According to the users, this laptop is great for people that require a color-accurate display. Overall the Surface is an ideal ultra-portable laptop.
| Processor | 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 |
| RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Display | 13.5” (2256 x 1504) 10-point multi-touch Display |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours (Battery life varies with use) |
| Weight | Approximately 2.84 lb (1.28 KG) |
ASUS ZenBook 13
Our Budget Pick
The Asus ZenBook 13 is a delightful machine for under 800$. This laptop is a perfect blend of power, portability, and price.
You’re getting a laptop with an excellent display with sharp and crisp colors for such decent pricing. Great for those that want a color-accurate display without breaking the bank! Furthermore, Asus offers an OLED display in this laptop which is great for ramping up your work experience.
This machine is small and compact; however, its powerful components will not disappoint any user. Whether you are a video editor looking for a budget video editing laptop or a UX/UI designer, you will love this laptop.
This laptop has been made such that it does not compromise quality. In addition to being compact, it is robust and built with care and attention. The hinges can also be moved quickly, and this laptop has a high-quality feel despite being reasonably priced.
All the heavy tasks are not a problem for this sleek monster due to the 11th generation Core i5 processor. Furthermore, the famous 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD combo will work with the processor to deliver results that will make your day!
You’ll start to love your Mondays when you know the Asus ZenBook 13 is available for you to work on. In addition, it’s light so that you have a good time using it on your lap or while lying on the bed!
Summary of User Reviews on Amazon
The ASUS ZenBook 13 delivers quality performance and is equipped with a stunning display, all without breaking the bank. The users who have purchased and tested this laptop seem to love it. The users have loved the fact that this laptop is thin and light, greatly enhancing portability.
In many of the reviews, the body of the ZenBook is greatly liked by the users. Furthermore, the display is another aspect of this laptop that shines as, according to the users, the display is gorgeous.
| Processor | 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 |
| RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe Graphics |
| Display | 13.3″ OLED Full HD (1920 x 1080) Display |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 13 hours (Battery life varies with use) |
| Weight | Approximately 2.45 lb (1.1 KG) |
ASUS ProArt StudioBook 15
When it comes to excellent displays, laptops like this one shine. With a mind-blowing color accuracy validated by Pantone, this laptop will deliver game-changing results when playing with colors as a UX designer. The 4K display having thin bezels around it is nothing less than dazzling.
Every corner of this laptop looks premium and shouts quality. The chassis and lid are both robust without feeling cheap. The overall design of this laptop also looks a bit different, with the lid textured from the back. Thus adding to the aesthetics of this stylish powerhouse.
Getting into the specs of this laptop, ASUS has hooked this beauty up with 32GB RAM for those hungry for multitasking and who want multiple processes to take place at a single time. Furthermore, the 9th generation Intel Core i7 processor has been added to ensure you get a smooth butter experience while working.
With two 512GB SSDs, you will be getting a total of 1TB of solid-state storage, which is more than enough for anyone who designs user-friendly applications or website interfaces.
That’s not all. You are getting a powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card with 6GB of dedicated VRAM to enhance the visuals and take care of your graphical needs.
When searching for the best laptop for UI/UX designers, the StudioBook 15 gives tough competition to all the other options on the list, mainly because of its outclass display.
Summary of User Reviews on Amazon
For the UX/UI designers that desire a laptop with an extremely color-accurate screen, this might be a great option. According to a user, this ASUS laptop does a great job at displaying true colors. Furthermore, it is also good for video and photo editing.
| Processor | 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H |
| RAM | 32GB RAM |
| Storage | 512GB SSD + 512GB SSD |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 |
| Display | 15.6” 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) 100% Adobe RGB Pantone validated color accuracy |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 4-5 hours (Battery life varies with use) |
| Weight | Approximately 4.4 lb (1.9 KG) |
HP Spectre 13T
The Spectre 13T shows off a 4K OLED display, which delivers excellent colors and good picture quality. The touchscreen is a bonus for many. HP has also included a Stylus pen with this laptop which you can use to improve your designs further. Furthermore, the bezels on the sides of the display are also very thin in addition to the sharp and crisp display.
The design of this laptop is impeccable, with a futuristic and modern look. The aesthetics of this laptop greatly evoke a feeling of luxury, especially with that appealing color combination.
The Intel Core i7 10th generation is a highly speedy processor that will enable you to work faster. The 16GB will ensure that all heavy programs run like a breeze even when they are open simultaneously. The bootup timing of the Spectre 13T is lightning-fast thanks to its 512GB SSD.
Although the Spectre 13T packs a ton of power, HP has made sure you get a lightweight design that is not difficult to carry around. Furthermore, this laptop doesn’t overheat at all. You may feel some warmth while using it on your lap, but you won’t find it overheating.
With all these glorious specifications and a classy body, you may think that the battery life might be compromised. However, HP once again stuns the public by fitting a battery in the Spectre fully capable of lasting the entire day, so you don’t have to be worried about the charging adapter all the time.
In short, if you are willing to spend a few dollars on a machine without regretting it, the HP Spectre 13 is undoubtedly a great option.
Summary of User Reviews on Amazon
People seem to love the HP Spectre with its beautiful Gem cut design. According to some of the users that have tested this product, this laptop is excellent, with a clear and crisp display. Furthermore, the users have also loved this laptop lighting fast speed.
In addition, this laptop is also greatly recommended for tasks like graphics design due to its sheer power and stunning display.
| Processor | 10th Gen Intel Core i7-1065G7 |
| RAM | 16GB RAM |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Plus Graphics |
| Display | 13.3″ 4K UHD OLED touch screen (3840 x 2160) display |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 13 hours (Battery life varies with use) |
| Weight | Approximately 2.77 lb (1.26 KG) |
LG Gram 16
LG Gram is the kind of laptop that amazes us. You would expect a laptop with a 16-inch display to be quite heavy. However, LG stuns the world with its Gram 16 by producing a feather-light laptop with a huge screen.
The display is not just big but can also reproduce decent colors. Furthermore, the bezels are very thin to provide a more immersive visual experience.
The design of the LG Gram is nothing too special like the HP Spectre 13T, but it sure is clean without any flaws. Some people may be shy to take the HP Spectre into the office due to its dominating look. However, that is not the case with the LG Gram. It offers a rather basic look, perfect for office-going individuals.
Within this sleek machine, LG has included a beastly 11th generation Core i7 processor to boss every task you throw at it – beast inside a beauty if you ask me! You will also get 16GB RAM alongside a massive 1TB SSD, which makes the LG Gram speedy and allows you to easily store your heavy data.
By the name of this laptop, you know how travel-friendly it will be with such a lightweight body and impeccable battery life. The battery life deserves a lot of appreciation which, according to some claims, can last up to 21 hours depending on use. However, continuously surfing the web, you can expect almost 16 hours of run-time per charge, which is nothing less than superb!
Summary of User Reviews on Amazon
The users have found this laptop to be extremely light, and the all-day battery life is also credited. The keyboard and touchpad are also liked by the users. In addition, according to the users, you can use this laptop on your lap without worrying about it overheating.
Furthermore, the users have tested the LG Gram to be a fast and capable machine with good graphical capabilities.
| Processor | 11th Generation Intel core i7-1165G7 |
| RAM | 16GB RAM |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Graphics | Intel Xe Graphics |
| Display | 16″ (2560×1600) IPS Display |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 17 hours (Battery life varies with use) |
| Weight | Approximately 2.62 lb (1.88 KG) |
Razer Blade 15 Advanced
The Razer blade 15 is considered a Gaming laptop; however, its excellent display and monstrous specs can be an excellent choice for UX designers who are willing to spend a little over 2000$ on a laptop.
The 4K OLED display fitted into this laptop provides blazing fast response times. Furthermore, it displays vibrant and sharp colors, which can turn your projects from good to great because the screen is brilliantly color accurate. The screen bezels are also slim, which enhances the aesthetics of this laptop.
Gaming laptops are generally bulky; however, the Razer Blade 15 is not too bulky & heavy – it’s just right! The blade’s design is classy and clean, due to and it is also known as the MacBook of gaming laptops. Furthermore, the chassis is robust and gives tough competition to its rivals.
Performance-wise you should not have any issues at all. In terms of performance, this laptop is overall for those searching for the best laptop for UI/UX & graphic designers because of the beastly components that are way more powerful than what an average UX designer needs.
With a 10th generation Intel Core i7 processor, this laptop will deliver crazy speeds. The 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD further improve the performance of this laptop to a great level.
A graphics card is not very important for UX designers. However, with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Super graphics card, all the intense tasks requiring a graphics card, such as 4K video editing, will seem like a piece of cake!
Hence, if you are willing to spend more than 2000$ on a powerful laptop, the Razer Blade 15 is undoubtedly a great choice.
Summary of User Reviews on Amazon
Just like Apple, Razer is a brand that people love to buy. When it comes to the Razer Blade laptop, the users say that this laptop comprises a great build and also delivers amazing performance. In fact, a user appreciated this laptop by saying that this laptop is a beast that is hiding in a sober design.
People also tend to love the RGB keyboard and the ability to customize the lighting. On the downside, since this is a gaming laptop, the users analyzed that it gets hot. Furthermore, the battery life of this laptop is also not great.
| Processor | 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10875H |
| RAM | 16GB RAM |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Super |
| Display | 4K OLED Touch Display |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 6 hours (Battery life varies with use) |
| Weight | Approximately 4.56 lb (2.06 KG) |
Conclusion
In concluding our hunt for the best laptop for UI/UX designers, we think that the Apple MacBook Pro is best suited for this task. It delivers excellent visuals and colors while producing top-notch performance, all at a reasonable price. Secondly, Microsoft Surface is another superb option for UI designers. Lastly, if your budget is tight, we recommend you close your eyes and go for the ASUS ZenBook 13, as it packs all the features a UI designer dreams about at a fairly reasonable price. However, if you are willing to spend a bit more, all the other laptops in our are also golden options to consider.
For more laptop buying guides and information, Visit here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UX/UI?
UI is described as “the space where interactions occur between users and products.” It is essentially the user interface. The UI includes various controls designed to allow a person to interact with a computer or device, such as a keyboard, mouse, pointing stick, buttons, etc.
User Experience, on the other hand, is described as “the experience of using a product, system, or service. UX emphasizes the essential aspects of human-computer interaction and product ownership,” including experiential, affective, meaningful, and valuable aspects.
Who are UX/UI designers?
The people who create the user-friendly experiences that we enjoy regularly are called UX/UI designers. They are responsible for making the products of tomorrow as user-friendly as possible.
Their job is to create a simple, understandable, and interactive design that fits the product’s function. They work closely with programmers and graphic designers to ensure that end products are up-to-date and user-friendly.
What is laptop color accuracy?
Color accuracy is the degree to which it accurately displays colors on screen. The less accurate the colors are, the more likely that colored objects appear differently than they should. A color-accurate laptop can save time and money by minimizing color calibration for print and web design workflows. Furthermore, a color-accurate laptop ensures colors match industry standards and corporate branding guidelines.
Is a graphics card required for UX/UI designing?
No. Graphics cards are not required for UX/UI designing. They may be needed for other purposes, not UI/UI design.
The graphics card might be helpful when you need to run big and heavy software in which video rendering is required. But this is not the case with all the software; only some specific ones need this, so hence does not make graphics cards mandatory for UX/UI design.
Is 8GB RAM enough for UX design?
Yes, 8GB of RAM is enough for UX design. 8GB RAM has become the standard amount of memory in modern PCs. The majority of even entry-level laptops come with 8GB memory nowadays. Hence, UX designers can do all their work fine without more than this much memory.
However, higher-end laptops come with 16GB of RAM these days. If a UX designer performs heavy design tasks that would benefit from the extra memory, it might make sense to buy a laptop with 16GB RAM instead of 8GB. But in most cases, 8 GB will be enough for even demanding use.
What are Pantone-validated laptops?
Pantone-validated laptops are laptops that have been tested to ensure that their color is accurate to the Pantone color standard.
Pantone has long been the industry standard for matching colors in print for designers. For this reason, many feel it’s important to use Pantone-validated laptops when designing.
Once you own a Pantone-validated laptop, you’ll find there are many benefits. The biggest one is the fact that you’ll know your color will match Pantone standards, so if you use a Pantone color in your design, it will match perfectly.
Do UX designers need a laptop?
Yes, a laptop is compulsory to execute all your work smoothly as a UX designer.
Do I need a MAC to be a UX designer?
A MAC is not the only option for UX designers. However, it is one of the best options due to its butter-like performance and color-accurate retina display. Nevertheless, if a MAC is not what you desire, you can consider the other options in our guide.
Thank you for Reading!
