Since its founding in 2005, YouTube has grown from a small platform used to share home videos to a global streaming phenomenon that competes with titans like Netflix and Hulu. YouTubers like Rhett and Link, Mr. Beast and Markiplier utilized the platform to become Internet-celebrities — inspiring millions of others to do the same.
Whether you’re looking to become the next big YouTuber, or you just want a laptop that’s capable of streaming 4K YouTube content with ease, it’s important to pick the right device. Our number-one pick, the Apple MacBook Pro 16 Inch, never fails to impress, but there are also other suitable options that won’t break the bank.
What to know before you buy a laptop for YouTube
Which laptop is best for watching videos?
An important factor when considering which laptop is best for watching videos is connectivity. Streaming videos from YouTube (or to YouTube if you plan on live streaming) will require a stable connection; for this reason, we recommend staying away from laptops that require a robust internet connection for software and services. Laptops like the Google Chromebook, for example, require Wi-Fi for almost everything — eating away at megabits per second that would be better allocated to streaming your videos.
Which laptop is best for editing videos?
You’ll likely want a machine with a decent amount of RAM if you plan on making content that requires the use of editing software, as it can be a heavy load for your laptop to bear. Every laptop on our list has at least 16GB of RAM, which is the minimum you’ll want to consider if you plan on doing a lot of editing.
The central processing unit is an essential consideration as well. The CPU is a vital component for video editing; your core count will determine how fast you’re able to carry out editing tasks and is essential for video encoding as well.
Laptop for YouTube features
Plenty of RAM
The MacBook Pro 16 Inch comes with up to 64GB of RAM. If you’re just doing simple editing tasks, you won’t likely need more than 16GB of RAM, but some video editors find that they need 32GB to carry out all of their editing tasks smoothly.
Powerful graphics cards
A competent graphics card helps your video-editing software run even faster. Having a high-performance graphics card in your laptop is also helpful if your video projects require any 3D modeling or special-effects software.
Best laptop for YouTube cost
If you only need around 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage, you can spend as little as $1,500. If you decide to max out your computing potential at 64GB of RAM, you can expect to pay around $3,700.
Laptop for YouTube FAQ
Can I stream YouTube from my laptop to my TV?
A. Yes, both the Dell XPS 15 and the Razer Blade Pro 17 come with HDMI ports. The Apple MacBook Pro doesn’t have an HDMI port, but you can buy adapters that allow you to use HDMI with it. With the MacBook, you also have the option to stream YouTube to your TV wirelessly using Airplay if your TV supports it.
Which laptop has the largest screen?
A. The Razer Blade Pro has the largest screen of the three laptops on our list, at 17.3 inches. The MacBook has a 16-inch screen, and the XPS has a 15.6-inch screen, so no matter which one you choose, you won’t be lacking in screen size.
Which laptop for YouTube should I get?
Best of the best laptop for YouTube
MacBook Pro 16 Inch: available at Amazon
Our take: One of the world’s most popular laptops, and for a good reason.
What we like: Powerful eight-core CPU and RAM make for a smooth, lightning-fast experience whether you’re making videos or watching them. Easy to stream to your TV, whether using HDMI or wirelessly.
What we dislike: High price point. Extra accessories are required for HDMI.
Best bang for your buck laptop for YouTube
Dell XPS 15: available at Amazon
Our take: A highly efficient laptop at a fair price.
What we like: Automatic detection and prioritization of video streaming is an excellent feature for YouTube lovers. You save a significant amount of money with this device at roughly $1,000 less than both the MacBook and Razer Blade.
What we dislike: Comparatively small screen. Loud cooling fan.
Honorable mention laptop for YouTube
Razer Blade Pro 17: available at Amazon
Our take: A ton of power; perfect for YouTubers or gamers.
What we like: Captivating 17-inch touchscreen. Eight-core CPU and impressive RAM options for an ultrafast computing experience. Easily upgraded if need be. Equipped with a convenient vapor chamber that keeps your computer cool while editing.
What we dislike: High price tag.
Cody Stewart is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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