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10+ Best Laptops for Animation in 2024 (March Update)

10+ Best Laptops for Animation in 2024 (March Update)

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Struggling with laggy software and endless render times? That’s the worst nightmare for an animator – and it sounds like it’s time for an upgrade. So, we have curated a list of the 10 best laptops for animation in 2024.

From fluid rendering to pixel-perfect displays, we’ve rounded up the top contenders that promise to elevate your animation game. Whether you are a graphic designer, animation student, VFX artist, or video game designer, our list has something for you.

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So, let’s dive right in!

Quick List: 10 Best Laptops for Animation 2024

Here is a quick glance at the best animation laptops of 2024:

Which laptop is best for animation in 2024?

The Apple MacBook Pro 2023 turned out to be the best laptop for animation during our testing experience. It is not only fast and powerful but also boasts a beautiful display so you can see your animations in all their glory.

Best MacBook for Animation (Editor’s Choice)
Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro chip
5.0
$2,499.00 $2,299.98

The Apple MacBook Pro 2023 is the top choice for high-end animation tasks. Its M2 Max chip with a 12-core CPU and 38-core GPU delivers lightning-fast renders and smooth playback. The 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display offers vibrant colors and sharp details. With ample ports, wireless connectivity, and up to 22 hours of battery life, it's a powerhouse.

Pros:
  • M2 Max chip for high-end animation
  • Vibrant and sharp Liquid Retina XDR display.
  • Extensive connectivity options.
Cons:
  • Premium price tag.
Buy on Amazon Read Our Review
02/18/2024 06:51 pm GMT

Our Top 3 Picks

For Large Screen Lovers
Best Laptop for 2D Animation
Best Laptop for 3D Animation
4.9
4.8
4.7
$2,499.00$2,299.99
N/A
$2,099.99$1,999.99
Apple 38-core GPU
Iris Plus Graphics
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti
1tb
1 TB
2 TB
32 GB
16 GB
64 GB
16.2 Inches
14 INCHES
17.3 inches
3456 by 2234 pixels
2560 x 1600 pixels
1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Exceptional performance with M2 Max chip.
  • Stunning 16.2-inch display.
  • Exceptional 22-hour battery life for uninterrupted creativity.
  • High-performance Intel Evo platform.
  • Sharp 14" touchscreen display.
  • Acer Active Stylus with 4,096 pressure levels for precise sketching.
  • High-performance NVIDIA graphics.
  • Crisp 17.3" FHD display.
  • Versatile port options for enhanced workflow.
For Large Screen Lovers
4.9
$2,499.00$2,299.99
Apple 38-core GPU
1tb
32 GB
16.2 Inches
3456 by 2234 pixels
  • Exceptional performance with M2 Max chip.
  • Stunning 16.2-inch display.
  • Exceptional 22-hour battery life for uninterrupted creativity.
Best Laptop for 2D Animation
4.8
N/A
Iris Plus Graphics
1 TB
16 GB
14 INCHES
2560 x 1600 pixels
  • High-performance Intel Evo platform.
  • Sharp 14" touchscreen display.
  • Acer Active Stylus with 4,096 pressure levels for precise sketching.
Best Laptop for 3D Animation
4.7
$2,099.99$1,999.99
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti
2 TB
64 GB
17.3 inches
1920 x 1080 pixels
  • High-performance NVIDIA graphics.
  • Crisp 17.3" FHD display.
  • Versatile port options for enhanced workflow.
02/19/2024 12:12 pm GMT

 

Best Laptops for Running Animation Software in 2024

Read these detailed reviews and find a powerful laptop for your animation needs.


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1. Apple MacBook Pro 2023 — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)

 

Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop
Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop. Image Credits: Amazon

The overall best laptop for animation 2024

GPU: Apple 38-core GPU | STORAGE: 1tb | RAM: 32 GB | SCREEN SIZE: 16.2 Inches | RESOLUTION: 3456 by 2234 pixels

If you are a loyal Mac user looking for the best Mac for animation, the Apple MacBook Pro 2023 is just the right device for you. This is a powerhouse tailored for professionals like 3D and 2D animators, motion graphics designers, and visual effects artists.

For starters, the MacBook Pro 2023 is supercharged by the M2 Max chip, boasting a 12-core CPU and a staggering 38-core GPU. What does this mean for you?

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Lightning-fast renders, smooth playback, and the ability to easily handle complex scenes. Whether you’re working on intricate character animations or detailed architectural visualizations, this laptop won’t break a sweat.

“Even with performance aside, the MacBook Pro 16 is far ahead of most Windows laptops in areas like screen quality, audio, touchpad size, and build.” [Monica Chin, The Verge]

On top of that, the 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is a visual treat. With up to 1600 nits peak brightness and a 1,000,000:1 contrast ratio, every frame you animate will pop with vibrant colors and sharp details.

With three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an SDXC card slot, an HDMI port, and more, transferring large animation files or connecting to external monitors becomes so simple. Plus, the seamless wireless connectivity with Wi-Fi 6E ensures you’re always connected, whether you’re collaborating with a team or presenting to a client.

Animators know the value of time– and with up to 22 hours of battery life, the MacBook Pro ensures you’re always ready to animate, even on the go.

Offering unparalleled power and precision, it’s not surprising that this MacBook is quite expensive. But if you have the pocket for it, rest assured that it’ll be worth every penny.

Overall, the Apple MacBook Pro 2023 is the best MacBook for animation– with unmatched performance, a breathtaking display, and all the ports you’ll ever need. Whether you’re a seasoned animator or just starting, the MacBook Pro 2023 is sure to boost your animation work.

PROS CONS
➕ Powerful M2 Max chip for high-end animation tasks. ➖ Premium price tag.
➕ Vibrant and sharp Liquid Retina XDR display.
➕ Extensive connectivity options.
➕ Long-lasting battery life.

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

2. Acer Spin 5 Best Laptop for Rendering Animation in 2D

Acer Spin 5
Acer Spin 5. Image Credits: Amazon

Best budget laptop for 2D animation

GPU: Iris Plus Graphics | STORAGE: 1 TB | RAM: 16 GB | SCREEN SIZE:  14 INCHES | RESOLUTION: ‎‎2560 x 1600 pixels

In the realm of animation laptops, the Acer Spin 5 stands out, especially for professionals like 2D animators, motion graphics designers, and storyboard artists. Here’s why we found it to be the best 2D animation laptop:

The Spin 5 is built on the Intel Evo platform, ensuring high standards in both performance and battery life. With the latest 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P Processor and Intel Iris Xe Graphics, you can also expect seamless character animation, fluid motion graphics creation, and rapid rendering.

Additionally, the 14″ 2560 x 1600 touchscreen display offers a sharp, vibrant workspace. With an impressive 88% screen-to-body ratio, you get more screen real estate to perfect every frame, ensuring your animations are vivid and true-to-life.

The Acer Active Stylus with Wacom AES 2.0 further elevates your animation game. With 4,096 pressure levels, it’s perfect for intricate sketching, storyboarding, and bringing your 2D characters to life. The reduced latency ensures your strokes are captured in real time, making the design process feel incredibly natural.

Similarly, the Spin 5 doesn’t skimp on connectivity. With Killer Wireless Wi-Fi 6E and multiple USB Type-C ports supporting Thunderbolt 4, transferring large animation files or connecting to external devices is as smooth as it can get.

While the Acer Spin 5 is a powerhouse for 2D animation, it might not be the best fit for those looking for extensive RAM and HDD options. Additionally, the absence of a dedicated charging port means one of the USB C ports is often occupied for charging, which might be a minor inconvenience for some.

Still, the Acer Spin 5, with top-tier performance, a stunning display, and a precision stylus, stands out as the best laptop for 2D animation. Whether you’re a seasoned animator or just starting out, the Spin 5 can be a handy tool.

PROS CONS
➕ Exceptional performance with the Intel Evo platform. ➖ Limited RAM and HDD options.
➕ Vibrant and spacious touchscreen display. ➖ Absence of a dedicated charging port.
➕ Precision stylus with reduced latency.
➕ Multiple connectivity options.

Latest Price on Amazon:

 

3. Alienware m17 R5 — Best 3D Animation Laptop

Alienware m17 R5
Alienware m17 R5. Image Credits: Amazon

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The best laptop 3D animation professionals can use

GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti | STORAGE: 2 TB | RAM: 64 GB | SCREEN SIZE: 17.3 inches | RESOLUTION: 1920 x 1080 pixels

For 3D animators, motion graphics designers, and visual effects artists, the quest for the perfect animation laptop might just end with the Alienware m17 R5. With its power, speed, precision, and overall rendering capabilities, it stands out among the best laptops for 3D animation.

The heart of the Alienware m17 R5 is its AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX processor. With its octa-core capabilities, you’ll experience seamless multitasking, whether you’re rigging a complex character or rendering a detailed scene.

Paired with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti, this laptop ensures that every frame, texture, and shader is rendered with precision. For 3D animators, this means smoother viewport performances and faster render times.

The 17.3″ FHD display with a 360Hz refresh rate isn’t just for gamers. Animators will appreciate the clarity and detail, especially when working on intricate projects. The NVIDIA G-SYNC ensures that you get a tear-free experience, which is crucial when previewing animations or simulations.

With 2TB of PCIe NVMe SSD storage, you’ll have ample space for all your projects, assets, and software. The 64GB DDR5 RAM ensures that even the most resource-intensive tasks run without a hitch. Imagine running simulations or dynamics without constantly worrying about memory constraints.

Additionally, the plethora of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1, ensures that you can connect to multiple external displays or even a high-end graphics tablet, enhancing your animation workflow.

While the Alienware m17 R5 is a beast in terms of performance, it’s also quite hefty. For professionals always on the move, its weight might be a concern.

Additionally, while the speakers are decent, they might not be up to par for those who rely heavily on sound design. A good pair of headphones or external speakers might be a necessary addition.

Basically, in the realm of 3D animation, character design, or any intensive visual work, the Alienware m17 R5 stands out as an excellent gaming laptop for 3D animation– thanks to its processing power, image quality, and overall 3D rendering capabilities.

PROS CONS
➕ Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX processor paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti. ➖ Heavier than some competitors.
➕ Stunning 17.3″ FHD display with 360Hz refresh rate. ➖ Built-in speakers might not satisfy audio professionals.
➕ Massive storage and memory options.
➕ Variety of ports for enhanced connectivity.

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Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for 3D Animation
Alienware m17 R5
$2,099.99 $1,999.99
Buy Now
02/18/2024 08:29 pm GMT

 

4. Lenovo Touchscreen 15.6″ IdeaPad 3 — Best Animation Laptop for Students

Lenovo Touchscreen 15.6" IdeaPad 3
Lenovo Touchscreen 15.6″ IdeaPad 3. Image Credits: Amazon

Best laptop animation students can use

GPU: Intel Iris X Graphics | STORAGE: 1 TB SSD | RAM: 20GB | SCREEN SIZE: 15.6 Inches | RESOLUTION: 1920 x 1080 pixels

For budding animators and seasoned professionals alike, finding the right laptop can be a daunting task. That being said, next on our list is the Lenovo Touchscreen 15.6″ IdeaPad 3– a laptop with just the right power and specs to help students breeze through the intricate tasks of animation.

At the heart of the IdeaPad 3 lies the 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 Processor. With 4 cores and 8 threads, it ensures that your animation software runs seamlessly, be it for 3D modeling, rigging, or simulation dynamics.

The 15.6″ FHD IPS touchscreen display is a treat for visual artists. Its anti-glare feature ensures that you can work for hours without straining your eyes, while the 300 nits brightness ensures vibrant colors, crucial for texture painting and shading.

With 20GB RAM, multitasking becomes a breeze. Whether you’re running multiple animation software or rendering a scene, the 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD ensures that everything loads in a flash.

The inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 further ensures that you’re always connected at lightning speeds, be it for downloading assets or collaborating online with your team.

However, the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, while competent for many tasks, might not be the best choice for heavy-duty 3D rendering or complex visual effects. Professionals might need an external GPU for such intensive tasks.

Additionally, while the touchscreen really comes in handy, you might still need a dedicated drawing tablet for precision work.

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a gem for animation students and professionals on a budget. It offers a blend of performance, display quality, and storage that’s hard to beat at its price point. Whether you’re sketching out a storyboard, designing a character, or bringing a scene to life, this laptop can transform your vision into reality.

PROS CONS
➕ Powerful 11th Gen Intel Processor ➖ Integrated Graphics might not suffice for heavy 3D tasks
➕ Vibrant Touchscreen Display ➖ Touchscreen, though handy, isn’t a replacement for a professional drawing tablet
➕ Generous RAM and Storage
➕ Wi-Fi 6 Connectivity

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for Animation Students
Lenovo Touchscreen IdeaPad 3 Laptop
$629.99
Buy Now
02/18/2024 08:32 pm GMT

 

5. Dell Inspiron 3525 — Best Value for Money Animation Laptop

Dell Inspiron 3525
Dell Inspiron 3525. Image Credits: Amazon

Best budget laptop for 3D animation

GPU: ‎AMD Radeon Graphics | STORAGE: 1 TB SSD | RAM:‎ 32 GB DDR4 | SCREEN SIZE:‎ 15.6 Inches | RESOLUTION: ‎1920 x 1080 pixels 

The Dell Inspiron 3525 emerges as the best laptop for 3D and 2D animators, motion graphics designers, and other professionals in the field. Moderately priced but highly powered, this Dell laptop makes the best animation laptop for those seeking to get the best worth for their money.

Powered by the Ryzen 7-5825 Eight-Core Processor, the Inspiron 3525 ensures that character animation, 3D modeling, and even complex simulations are executed seamlessly. With a CPU speed of up to 4.5 GHz, you can handle demanding tasks without a hitch.

The 15.6-inch FHD display, boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, ensures every frame of your animation is rendered with flowy precision. Whether you’re working on texture painting, shading, or architectural walkthroughs, the visuals are sharp and lifelike.

On top of that, the 32GB RAM makes multitasking breezy, be it running multiple animation software or rendering scenes. The 1TB SSD not only provides ample storage but also guarantees quick boot-up and faster data access.

From HDMI to USB Type-C, the variety of ports ensures that you can connect to multiple devices, which is essential for collaborative projects or presentations.

However, the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics, while suitable for many tasks, might fall short for high-end 3D rendering.

Additionally, the laptop’s plastic construction might raise durability concerns for those who are always on the move. A protective case or sleeve might be a wise investment.

All in all, the Dell Inspiron 3525 stands out as an ideal choice for animation professionals seeking a blend of performance and value. If you’re looking for a laptop that offers a bang for your buck without compromising on essential features, this might just be your perfect match.

PROS CONS
➕ Powerful Ryzen 7 Processor ➖ Integrated Graphics might not suffice for high-end 3D tasks
➕ Vibrant 120Hz Display ➖ Plastic construction raises durability concerns
➕ Generous RAM and Storage
➕ Multiple Connectivity Options

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Value for Money Animation Laptop
Dell Inspiron 3525 Business Laptop
$799.00
Buy Now
02/19/2024 09:07 am GMT

 

6. Razer Blade 15 Advanced — Best Laptop for Motion Graphics and Animation

Razer Blade 15 Advanced Laptop
Razer Blade 15 Advanced Laptop. Image credits: Razer / Amazon

Best laptop for animation and video editing

GPU: ‎NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q | STORAGE: ‎512 GB SSD | RAM:‎ 16 GB DDR4 | SCREEN SIZE: 15.6 Inches |RESOLUTION: 1920 x 1080 pixels

In the realm of animation and graphic design, where precision and performance are paramount, the Razer Blade 15 Advanced stands out as arguably the best laptop for graphics and animation. Let’s explore in detail what makes it one of the best laptops for graphic design and animation.

The heart of this beast, the 8-Core 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10875H processor, ensures that from character animation to architectural walkthroughs, everything runs buttery smooth. With speeds reaching up to 5.1GHz, multitasking becomes second nature.

On top of that, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super Max-Q graphics card brings your creations to life. Whether you’re into motion graphics creation or 3D modeling, the vibrant 15.6″ FHD 300Hz display ensures every pixel is perfect.

Crafted from CNC aluminum, the Razer Blade 15 Advanced is also highly durable, ensuring it withstands the rigors of daily use. At just 0.7″ thin, it’s the perfect companion for on-the-go professionals.

The innovative vapor chamber cooling system further ensures that even under intense workloads, the laptop remains cool, allowing you to focus on your craft without any hitches.

But on the flip side, the laptop tends to run hot during intensive tasks, which might be a concern for prolonged usage. So, you might want to invest in a laptop cooling pad.

Moreover, we did experience some issues with the touchpad, especially during typing-heavy tasks. A potential workaround could be using an external keyboard or touchpad when working on extensive projects.

Simply put, the Razer Blade 15 Advanced is a testament to what’s possible when power meets design. It’s tailor-made for professionals in animation and graphic design, offering a blend of performance, aesthetics, and portability.

PROS CONS
➕ Stellar Performance with 8-Core Processor ➖ Can get quite hot during heavy tasks
➕ Vivid 300Hz Display ➖ Touchpad might be problematic for some
➕ Durable CNC Aluminum Build
➕ Advanced Cooling System

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for Motion Graphics and Animation
Razer Blade 15 Advanced Gaming Laptop
$1,864.00
Buy Now
02/19/2024 09:08 am GMT

 

7. Asus Zenbook Pro Duo — Best Laptop for Animation Professionals

ASUS Zenbook Pro Duo 15 OLED 12th Gen
ASUS Zenbook Pro Duo. Image Credits: Amazon

Best dual touchscreen laptop for animation work

GPU: ‎NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 | STORAGE: 32 GB DDR4 | RAM: ‎2 TB | SCREEN SIZE: 15.6 Inches | RESOLUTION: 3840 x 2160 pixels

In the ever-evolving world of animation and graphic design, the Asus Zenbook Pro Duo stands out for its power and versatility. Tailored for professionals like 3D animators, visual effects artists, and storyboard creators, this machine offers an unparalleled dual-screen experience, making multitasking and referencing a breeze.

The Zenbook Pro Duo’s most striking feature is its dual screens. The primary 15.6″ 4K UHD OLED touchscreen offers vibrant visuals, while the secondary ScreenPad Plus enhances productivity. Imagine rigging a character on the main screen while referencing a storyboard or tutorial on the second.

Powered by the Intel Core i7-12700H 14-Core processor and paired with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, you can do almost any sort of graphics task. This laptop ensures smooth character animations, intricate motion graphics creations, and detailed architectural walkthroughs.

With a 1TB PCIe SSD and 16GB LPDDR5 RAM, you can also store large animation projects and multitask with ease. Whether you’re texture painting or working on medical visualizations, lag is a thing of the past.

The celestial blue color and compact design further make this ASUS laptop aesthetically pleasing. At the same time, the plethora of ports, including HDMI and USB 3.2 Type-C Gen2, ensure you’re always connected.

However, the Zenbook Pro Duo’s unique dual-screen setup might require a learning curve. The lack of a comprehensive manual, especially for optimizing the dual-screen experience, can make it hard to use.

Overall, the Asus Zenbook Pro Duo is designed keeping in mind the needs of animators and graphic designers. If you’re looking for a laptop that lets you reference while working or multitask like never before, this is your best bet.

PROS CONS
➕ Revolutionary dual-screen setup for enhanced multitasking. ➖ Steeper learning curve due to unique design.
➕ Robust performance with Intel i7 and RTX 3060. ➖ Lack of a detailed operational manual.
➕ Generous storage and memory.
➕ Vibrant 4K UHD OLED display.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Computer for Artists and Gamers
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo Laptop 15.6"
$1,749.99
Buy Now
02/19/2024 09:16 am GMT

 

8. Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 — Best Battery Performance

Microsoft Surface Laptop 5
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5. Image Credits: Amazon

Best laptop for long animation sessions

GPU: Integrated | STORAGE: 1TB | RAM: 32 GB | SCREEN SIZE: 15 Inches‎ | RESOLUTION: 2496 x 1664 pixels

If you are a hustler looking for a laptop that can keep up with your long animation sessions, then the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is just the right animation laptop for you. Designed with the intricate demands of animation in mind, this laptop emerges as the best Windows laptop for animation.

The 15” PixelSense touchscreen offers a resolution of 2496 x 1664, ensuring every frame, texture, and shade you work on reflects with utmost clarity. Whether you’re a 2D animator sketching out a scene or a visual effects artist adding the finishing touches, the vibrant screen brings your creations to life.

With the latest 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, multitasking becomes a breeze. Imagine seamlessly toggling between 3D modeling, texture painting, and rigging without a hint of lag.

But the Surface Laptop 5 isn’t just about performance– it’s also a statement in design. Its slim profile, combined with a weight of just 3.05 pounds, makes it an ideal companion for on-the-go professionals.

Additionally, with up to 18 hours of battery life, those long animation rendering sessions or back-to-back client meetings won’t be interrupted. Plus, the Thunderbolt 4 port ensures faster data transfer, streamlining your workflow.

The Surface Laptop 5, while packed with features, offers only one USB C/Thunderbolt 4 port. For professionals juggling multiple peripherals, this could pose a challenge. A potential workaround? Investing in a quality USB hub. Additionally, while the battery life is impressive, real-world usage might vary based on the intensity of tasks.

In sum, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is a laptop tailored for animators, graphic designers, and other visual professionals who hustle for long hours. If you’re seeking a Windows laptop that understands the nuances of your animation work and complements your creative process, this is the one for you.

PROS CONS
➕ Stunning PixelSense touchscreen display. ➖Limited to one USB C/Thunderbolt 4 port.
➕ Robust performance with Intel i7. ➖Battery life might vary based on usage.
➕ Ultra-portable with impressive battery life.
➕ Enhanced camera and mic experiences for virtual collaborations.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best 16GB RAM Laptop to Work on the Move
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5
$1,799.99 $1,379.99
Buy Now
02/19/2024 09:10 am GMT

 

9. HP Pavilion x360 — Best Budget Laptop for Animation

HP Pavilion x360
HP Pavilion x360. Image Credits: Amazon

Best budget laptop for VFX and animation

GPU: ‎Intel Iris | STORAGE: 256 GB | RAM: 8 GB | SCREEN SIZE: 14 Inches | RESOLUTION: ‎1920 x 1080 pixels

Navigating the world of animation requires a laptop that can keep up with your creativity without breaking the bank. The HP Pavilion x360, with its blend of performance and affordability, emerges as the best budget laptop for animators, graphic designers, and visual artists.

The 14-inch capacitive touchscreen offers a resolution of 1920 x 1080, ensuring your animations and designs reflect with precision. For storyboard artists and 2D animators, this means a more intuitive drawing and sketching experience right on the screen.

On top of that, the 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, combined with Intel Iris Xe graphics, ensures you can handle tasks like rigging, texture painting, and lighting without any hitches. And with 8GB RAM, multitasking between apps becomes seamless.

The PCIe NVMe SSD storage not only offers faster boot times but ensures your software and projects load in a snap. Plus, with Wi-Fi CERTIFIED 6 and Bluetooth 5, you can stay connected and transfer files with ease.

Additionally, the laptop boasts HP speakers, fine-tuned in collaboration with Bang & Olufsen, ensuring your motion graphics and visual effects are paired with top-notch sound. The HP Wide Vision HD Camera also ensures you present your best self in virtual team meetings or client pitches.

However, its “battery life don’t hold up well against similarly-priced competition” [PC World]. While advertised at over 10 hours, it lasted only around 2.5 to 3 hours for us when used for intensive tasks. So, for those long animation rendering sessions, you might need to stay plugged in. If you move around often, you’ll also need a power bank.

Additionally, while it is a 2-in-1 laptop, its weight might make prolonged tablet mode usage a tad cumbersome.

Despite these minor shortcomings, the HP Pavilion x360 is a budget-friendly yet robust tool designed with the animator’s needs in mind. If you’re an animator or designer seeking a blend of performance, versatility, and affordability, this is just the device to go for.

PROS CONS
➕ Vibrant 14-inch touchscreen display. ➖ Real-world battery life might be shorter than advertised.
➕ Robust performance with Intel i5 and Iris Xe graphics. ➖ Slightly heavy for prolonged tablet mode usage.
➕ Fast SSD storage for quicker project loads.
➕ Enhanced audio experience with B&O tuning.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Budget Laptop for Animation
HP Pavilion x360 2-in-1 Laptop
$329.99
Buy Now
02/19/2024 09:19 am GMT

 

10. Lenovo Legion Pro 7i — Best Laptop for Visual Effects

Lenovo Legion 7i Gaming Laptop
Lenovo Legion 7i Gaming Laptop

Best laptop for animators who work with visual effects

GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 | STORAGE: 1TB | RAM: ‎16 GB | SCREEN SIZE:‎ 16 Inches | RESOLUTION: ‎2560 x 1600 pixels

If you are seeking a laptop that is powerful and versatile enough to handle your animation and VFX tasks, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i might just be the end of your search. We tested this Lenovo laptop for animation, and here’s what we found out:

The 16-inch QHD+ display with a screen resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels ensures every frame, every texture, and every shade you work on comes out with utmost clarity. For storyboard artists and 2D animators, this means more accurate color grading and finer details.

Powered by the Intel Core i9 processor and paired with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080, this laptop also ensures smooth rendering, be it character animation or architectural walkthroughs. And with 16GB RAM, multitasking between software like Maya, Blender, or Adobe After Effects becomes super smooth.

While it’s a beast for animation tasks, this budget friendly laptop is also equipped for gaming. This versatility means after a long day of work, you can unwind with some high-end gaming, making it a perfect companion for game designers and gamers.

Beyond its power, the laptop boasts of a sustainable design, incorporating recycled materials. The Lenovo AI Engine+ further ensures the system’s performance is always at its peak, adapting to your usage patterns.

However, while its battery life is decent, it might not last an entire day of intensive tasks. And for those who prioritize portability, its weight might be a tad on the heavier side. But remember, with great power comes a bit of heft.

To sum up, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i, an affordable laptop for animators, offers unparalleled quality and performance to animators and VFX artists. Whether you’re a video game designer looking to test out new environments or a medical animator working on intricate visualizations, this laptop is equipped to cater to your every need.

PROS CONS
➕ Crystal-clear 16-inch QHD+ display. ➖ Might feel a bit heavy for some.
➕ Top-tier performance with Intel i9 and RTX 4080. ➖Battery life could be better for prolonged tasks.
➕ Versatile for both work and play.
➕ Sustainable design with AI-enhanced performance.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for VFX and Animation
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16" Gaming Laptop
$2,299.99 $2,149.00
Buy Now
02/18/2024 07:38 pm GMT

 

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Selecting and Testing the Best Laptops for Animation in 2024

1. How We Picked the Laptops for Animation

1.1. Collaboration with Professionals:

We collaborated closely with 3D and 2D animators, motion graphics designers, visual effects artists, and other professionals in the animation industry. Their insights and expertise were invaluable in understanding the specific needs and challenges faced in various animation tasks.

1.2. Current Market Analysis:

Our team conducted a thorough market analysis to identify the latest laptop models. We focused on those with features and specifications tailored for character animation, 3D modeling, texture painting, and other animation-related tasks.

1.3. User Reviews and Feedback:

We scoured online forums, websites, and social media platforms to gather feedback from animators and designers who had hands-on experience with the latest laptops. This helped us understand real-world performance and potential issues.

1.4. Hardware Specifications:

Given the intensive nature of tasks like simulation dynamics, lighting, and rendering, we prioritized laptops with high-end processors, ample RAM, dedicated graphics cards, and fast SSD storage.

1.5. Software Compatibility:

We ensured that the laptops we selected were compatible with popular animation software such as Blender, Maya, Adobe After Effects, and others. This is crucial for storyboard artists, video game designers, and architectural visualization artists.

1.6. Brand Reputation:

While new players emerge in the tech industry, we gave preference to brands with a proven track record of reliability, customer support, and consistent performance in the animation sector.

2. How We Tested the Laptops for Animation

2.1. Real-world Animation Tasks:

In collaboration with our team of professionals, we subjected each laptop to a series of real-world animation tasks. These included character animation, motion graphics creation, and architectural walkthroughs, among others.

2.2. Software Performance:

We installed and ran various animation software suites on each laptop, assessing their performance in tasks like 3D modeling, texture painting, and rigging. Special attention was given to software that is commonly used by medical and forensic animators.

2.3. Rendering Speed:

Given the importance of rendering in animation, we conducted tests to measure the rendering speed of each laptop. This involved both CPU and GPU rendering benchmarks.

2.4. Display Quality:

For graphic designers and visual effects artists, display quality is paramount. We evaluated the color accuracy, brightness, and resolution of each laptop’s screen, ensuring it met the standards for professional animation work.

2.5. Battery Life:

While performance is crucial, so is longevity. We tested the battery life of each laptop under intensive tasks to ensure that animators could work for extended periods without interruptions.

2.6. Heat Management:

Animation tasks can be resource-intensive, leading to increased heat production. We monitored the thermal performance of each laptop, ensuring it remained within safe limits during prolonged use.

2.7. User Experience:

Beyond technical specifications, the overall user experience is vital. We assessed the keyboard comfort, trackpad responsiveness, and build quality, ensuring the laptops were suitable for long hours of work.

2.8. Feedback from Professionals:

After our technical tests, we sought feedback from our collaborating professionals. Their hands-on experience provided insights into any nuances or specific challenges they faced while using the laptops for their animation projects.

By following this comprehensive SOP, we ensured that our selection of the best laptops for animation in 2024 was both informed and thorough, catering to the diverse needs of professionals in the animation industry.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for the Best Laptops for Animation in 2024

Whether you’re into character animation, architectural walkthroughs, or medical visualization, the right laptop can make or break your work. This makes the task of finding the best laptop for your animation needs all the more overwhelming. So, here’s our comprehensive guide, crafted with insights from industry experts, to help you make an informed decision.

🖥️ Display Quality:

  • Resolution: For detailed tasks like texture painting and shading, a high-resolution display (preferably 4K, as the Asus Zenbook Pro Duo has) is essential. It offers clarity, ensuring your designs are pixel-perfect.
  • Color Accuracy: Especially crucial for graphic designers and visual effects artists. Opt for a laptop with a wide color gamut and high color accuracy, such as the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i.

🚀 Performance:

  • Processor: 3D modeling, simulation dynamics, and other intensive tasks demand a powerful processor. Look for the latest multi-core CPUs, like the Alienware m17 R5 has, for smooth performance.
  • Graphics Card: A dedicated GPU is a must. NVIDIA’s RTX series or AMD’s Radeon series are popular choices among professionals for tasks like lighting and rendering. This makes the Razer Blade 15 Advanced an excellent choice.
  • RAM: Don’t skimp here. 16GB (Asus Zenbook Pro Duo, for example) is a good starting point, but 32GB (like in the Dell Inspiron 3525) or more is ideal for complex projects.

💾 Storage:

  • Type: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster and more reliable than HDDs. They ensure quicker boot times, faster software launches, and speedier file transfers.
  • Capacity: With large project files, especially in video game design or architectural visualization, ample storage is crucial. Aim for at least 1TB, such as the Lenovo Touchscreen 15.6″ IdeaPad 3.

🔋 Battery Life:

While you might often work plugged in, a good battery life ensures you can work on the go, especially useful for storyboard artists or those who travel. This is why the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is the best animation laptop for hustlers.

⌨️ Keyboard & Trackpad:

Comfort is key, especially during long hours of work. A responsive trackpad and a comfortable keyboard layout can significantly enhance your work experience.

🔌 Connectivity:

Multiple USB ports, HDMI output, and a reliable Wi-Fi card are essential. Whether you’re transferring large files or connecting to external displays, robust connectivity options are a must.

🎧 Sound:

While not the primary concern for many animators, decent sound quality can be beneficial, especially if you’re into motion graphics creation with audio or digital content creation. This makes the HP Pavilion x360 a perfect laptop for animation and multimedia content creation.

🌡️ Thermal Management:

Animation can push laptops to their limits. Ensure your choice has an efficient cooling system to prevent overheating during intensive tasks– as the Razer Blade 15 Advanced does.

💡 Software Compatibility:

Make sure the laptop you choose is compatible with industry-standard software like Blender, Maya, or Adobe After Effects. It’s frustrating to have powerful hardware hindered by software incompatibilities.

🏷️ Price & Warranty:

Set a budget, but remember, you’re investing in your work. Sometimes, spending a bit more upfront can save costs in the long run. Also, a good warranty period and customer support are invaluable.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Final Thoughts on the Best Laptops for Animation

Choosing the perfect laptop for your animation needs is a blend of understanding technical specifications and knowing your unique requirements. Whether you’re a medical animator diving into intricate visualizations or a motion graphics designer creating captivating content, the right laptop is out there.

Based on our experience with animation laptops, we found the Apple MacBook Pro 2023 to be the best laptop for animation, owing to its powerful CPU, high clock speed, solid performance, and the ability to run multiple programs with ease. Its unparalleled display quality and the fact that it boasts the longest battery life are other reasons why it’s our favorite.

What do you think about these animation laptops? Make sure to tell us in the comments below!

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