The 7 Best Laptops for DJs Reviewed
Software for DJs needs some high specs, but it’s not hard to find a decent computer ready to tackle your sounds. With a few specific specifications, you can get exactly what you need to mix music and fill a room with your beat. We found the seven best options with the right hardware to make your software work to it’s best ability.
While lower-end computers can get the job done, laptops with higher specs will handle any challenge with ease and make your job easier. You need a computer with a solid-state drive for speed while running multiple applications and an impressive processor to prevent lag time. We found the options with the best price and options to get your music out into the world.
Best Laptops for DJs
1. ASUS ZenBook Duo UX481 Laptop
If you are looking for the laptop of tomorrow, then you need the ASUS ZenBook Duo UX481 Laptop. Especially as a DJ, this laptop will excel at helping you create music with ease. First, you will notice the laptop provides additional screen space. Second, you will notice that the extra screen allows you to have different apps open on the smaller screen while still providing a full screen above.
Despite the added screen where the keyboard normally goes, this computer still provides a full-sized keyboard (no numeric pad) and a full trackpad too. The trackpad is off to the side and comes with two-click keys as well. Music arts will love the ability to keep the soundboard on the keyboard screen with the rest above. It’s a feature you can also use for video editing or even photography, even if you dabble in multiple fields.
Another great feature of the laptop is the keyboard screen works with a stylus for writing or drawing too. As for the specs, the laptop includes an Intel i7 processor, GeForce Mx250 graphics card, 16GB of RAM, 1TB SSD, and a 14-inch screen. The Zenbook also comes with dual fans for longevity and triple heat pipes. It also comes with a MicroSD card reader, audio jack USB ports, DC-in, and an HDMI port.
Lastly, get ultrafast connectivity with up to Wi-fi 6(802.11ax). Moreover, the laptop works with voice control, using Alexa for more options. All this in a shell made of military-grade material ready to stay strong so you can make music. You also get a webcam, Bluetooth, Windows 10 Pro, full HD, and lightweight of just 3.5 pounds, and the battery lasts for around 6 hours, which is the only downfall, but the benefits far outweigh the problems.
- ScreenPad Plus: 12.6 inch matte touchscreen, giving your endless way to optimize your multitasking experience by extending the screen or split windows and apps on both displays
- 14 inch Full HD NanoEdge touchscreen glossy main display
- Latest 10th generation Intel Core i7-10510U Processor (8M Cache, up to 4.9 GHz) with NVIDIA GeForce MX250
- Detachable palm rest, sleeve and ASUS active stylus pen included
- Fast storage and memory featuring 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD with 16GB RAM
2. Apple MacBook Pro
The new Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Chip comes with a price comparable to the Windows-based competition but with a far faster processor. We love this computer except for the 13-inch screen. Hopefully, this new year will bring the 16-inch option DJ’s and others need with the M1 Chip. However, this 13-inch size still packs a powerful punch and gives you everything you need to create music and more.
With the MacBook Pro, you get 8GB of Ram, which is faster thanks to the M1 Chip as it’s made of silicone. The computer still includes a fan but mainly as a backup as your computer will rarely need it, which means you don’t have to listen to the fan sounds from the computer. Moreover, this model offers 512 GB of storage space on a solid-state drive ready to hold music, software, files, and more. Even better, the computer comes with a battery ready to last for an astounding 20 hours!
This model comes with 8 GB of RAM, which goes farther thanks to the M1 chip. It even comes with a 512 GB solid-state drive ready to provide tons of space for music, software, and files. Also, the battery lasts for an impressive 20 hours, which is astounding, and the most ever seen on a laptop. The real advantage is the Touch-bar with Touch ID for safety and fast access to settings, music, and much more.
Another great feature of the MacBook Pro is it comes with macOS and your favorite software such as GarageBand and iTunes. Add in the camera, Bluetooth, and stereo Dolby Atmos speakers for more functionality. Finally, you get multiple USB ports, a Thunderbolt port, a display port, and a headphone jack.
- Apple-designed M1 chip for a giant leap in CPU, GPU, and machine learning performance
- Get more done with up to 20 hours of battery life, the longest ever in a Mac
- 8-core CPU delivers up to 2.8x faster performance to fly through workflows quicker than ever
- 8-core GPU with up to 5x faster graphics for graphics-intensive apps and games
- 16-core Neural Engine for advanced machine learning
3. Apple MacBook Air
One step below the MacBook Pro is the New Apple MacBook Air with all the same great features as the Pro but without the Touchbar and a smaller price. DJ’s and music lovers alike will appreciate that the computer doesn’t have or need a fan, which means no fan noise interrupting your music at all. All the new M1 Chip is silicone, it doesn’t heat up, and so no fan needs to interrupt your work.
For more reasons to choose this option, it also comes with stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos playback, a mic, and a headphone jack, all for an exceptional musical experience. The other specs are similar to the MacBook Pro with 8GB of RAM, but again this eight-core chip runs faster than Intel, and you get more speed and processing for incredible performance. Moreover, the battery lasts for an incredible 18 hours thanks to this new chip and lower heat levels too.
Also, you can listen to music for up to 18 hours before you need to charge the machine. All this on a 13.3-inch display that weighs under three pounds for ultra-portability. Add in a massive leap in the GPU, CPU, and performance-ready to provide five times faster graphics. Add in the 512GB SSD drive for plenty of storage space at your fingertips.
Lastly, the computer includes macOS with incredible apps like iTunes and GarageBand. Of course, the laptop comes with a stunning Retina display, built-in mic, camera, and tons of included software. The only downfall is the refresh rate on Apple laptops are rather low, making it a secondary option for gaming but perfect for everything else. Full-fill all of your music-making needs with this brand new machine ready to impress.
- All-Day Battery Life – Go longer than ever with up to 18 hours of battery life.
- Powerful Performance – Take on everything from professional-quality editing to action-packed gaming with ease. The Apple M1 chip with an 8-core CPU delivers up to 3.5x faster performance than the previous generation while using way less power.
- Superfast Memory – 8GB of unified memory makes your entire system speedy and responsive. That way it can support tasks like memory-hogging multitab browsing and opening a huge graphic file quickly and easily.
- Stunning Display – With a 13.3” Retina display, images come alive with new levels of realism. Text is sharp and clear, and colors are more vibrant.
- Why Mac – Easy to learn. Easy to set up. Astoundingly powerful. Intuitive. Packed with apps to use right out of the box. Mac is designed to let you work, play, and create like never before.
4. Lenovo ThinkPad E15
Windows fans should check out the 2020 Lenovo ThinkPad E15 because it’s an impressive machine with tons of features you need to make DJing easier. Get plenty of space for your work on a 15.6 inch full HD screened laptop. Even better, it includes fingerprint sign-in making it a comparable option to the MacBook above. More importantly, it has the specs you need to run high-end DJ software.
The Lenovo ThinkPad includes an Intel i7 processor, 16GB of RAM on a 1TB SSD drive, all ready to work quickly and provide tons of short-term and long-term storage. It includes Windows 10 Pro, perfect for getting to work done. Before buying, note that the product is an upgraded version of a base model, so it will not come sealed, but it does still include a one year warranty.
Furthermore, the laptop comes with an affordable price considering everything you get, especially compared to higher-end brands. The computer includes protection for privacy and security. With a Trusted Platform Module, making this a great option for those working in careers requiring extra security. If you ever worry about leaving your equipment out at a venue, worry no more.
Next, connect anything you need with multiple USB ports, and HDMI, RJ-45, and audio jack. The computer also includes an HD camera and Bluetooth for superior connectivity. However, the laptops a bit heavy at 4.30 pounds. However, the battery can last up to 12.2 hours, which is rather impressive, and it charges quickly, too, thanks to Rapid Charge Technology. Finally, the computer includes Dolby Audio and 2 x 2W speakers by Harman, so you can listen to your tunes with ease.
5. Microsoft Surface Laptop 3
If you don’t mind the exceptionally high price and want a dedicated Microsoft machine, then check out the New Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 – 15″ Touch-Screen Laptop. It comes with a 15-inch touchscreen giving you more options to manage music than with just a mouse or trackpad. Also, it’s less bulky than the Surface 2 and lighter too at just 4 pounds despite the large screen size.
The computer includes impressive components such as an AMD Ryzen 7 processor, which is the fastest in its class. Also, the laptop offers a whopping 32GB of RAM, meaning you can have tons of applications open without any issues with speed. As for storage, you get an impressive 1TB SSD ready to store as much music as you need and still have quick access to the information.
Another great advantage of the laptop is the long battery life of up to 11.5 hours with standby mode too. Get easy connectivity, too, with both USB-C and USB-A ports incase you need to hook up to a docking station. All this with a clean and elegant design with incredible graphics better than HD and Windows 10 Home built-in. Lastly, the computer includes face recognition for sign in making this a computer of the future along with other built-in security measures.
- Clean, elegant design — thin and light, at just 3. 4 pounds, Surface Laptop 3 15” is easy to carry.
- Complement your style with rich color and premium finishes.
- Improved speed and performance to do what you want, with the latest processors – Surface Laptop 3 with AMD Ryzen 7 Microsoft Surface Edition Processor is the fastest in the 15” class.
- More ways to connect, with USB-C and USB-A ports for connecting to displays, docking stations and more, as well as accessory charging.
- All-day power on the go, with up to 11. 5 hours of battery life, plus standby time when you're away.
6. Dell Gaming G3 Laptop
With the Dell G3 15 3500 15 Inch Gaming Laptop, you get a laptop ready for multiple worlds. You can use it for gaming, work, and more. As a gaming computer, it comes with impressive sound for an immersive gaming experience, which you can easily translate over to an immersive music experience. Using the Nahimic sound center and dual speakers, you can experience music on a new level.
Gamers can enjoy the turbo-boost of power available on the keyboard that will also work when you need extra oomph for music. The G3 also includes incredible graphics and system specs. The Intel Core i7 10th gen offers speed along with the 16 GB of RAM for the ability to run multiple applications with ease, all on Windows 10 Home.
The solid-state drive offers 512GB, which can store your music and games easily. Add in the Nvidia GTX 1650 Ti for epic graphics and a refresh rate of 144Hz, all on a Full HD anti-glare display. The keyboard is backlit as well for more visibility. A dual-fan cooling system keeps the system cool but can make the computer a little louder. Also, it’s heavy and doesn’t come with an impressive battery life, which is why it’s lower on the list.
- 1920 x 1080 FHD 300 nits IPS Anti-Glare
- 802.11ac 1x1 WiFi
- 16GB DDR4-2933MHz, 2x8G
- Heighten your immersive gaming experience with optional 4-zone RGB backlit keyboard and Nahimic Sound Center with dual speakers
7. Acer Predator Helios 300
The only reason the 2020 Latest Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop is lower on the list is the rather high price. Mind you, it’s not as expensive as the Microsoft Surface above, but it is pricy, but you get a lot for the money as this is a beast of a machine. If you like to play Call of Duty and use high-end DJ software, or just blare sound, then this laptop will serve you well.
With a 15.6 inch screen, you can view anything you need, including two screens up at once. Add in the gorgeous specs like 16GB of RAM and a 1TB of storage on a solid-state drive. Moreover, the computer includes a 10th Gen Intel 6-Cord i7 processor ready to handle practically any feat with Turbo Boost Technology. For a little more money, you can upgrade the RAM to 32GB or even 64GB with up to 2TB on the hard drive.
Get a full RGB backlit keyboard, AeroBlade 3D fan, Bluetooth, HD webcam, and ultra audio. However, the battery life is short at around 6 hours, and it’s heavy at over five and a half pounds. It doesn’t include a fingerprint reader either. The Predator Helios does offer a refresh rate of 144Hz, though, and an Nvidia Geforce RTX graphics card for gorgeous visuals. Also, the fan provides noise-reduction thanks to a unique shape making this an exceptional option for gamers and DJs alike. Lastly, the computer allows for more customization and control giving you more freedom to work the way you want.
No products found.
Buying Guide for Laptops for DJs
Take a few key factors into consideration before deciding what computer will work best for your needs.
Software
Before you do anything else, go to the website of the software you plan to use and look for the system requirements. If it’s within your budget, try to go for the top specs instead of the minimum to get the most out of the software. On average, you should look for a computer with an Intel Core i7 processor, 512GB SSD hard drive, and a 13 inch or larger screen. Even better, it would be great if the computer has a dedicated graphics card and a long battery life of over eight hours.
Portability
DJs rarely stay in one place, which is why a laptop is optimal. However, you need to consider size and weight as you may have a lot of gear to transport. Choose a laptop with a lower weight and smaller size if space is an issue. Also, consider a computer with tougher skin if you are worried about it falling from the base or uncomfortable settings.
Ports
Lastly, you need to consider how many ports a laptop has and what ports you need for your equipment. Some laptops don’t have enough ports or not the right ports for already owned equipment. It’s best to do a check before purchasing, or you may later find you need to purchase a port expander.
Questions About Laptops for DJs
What else do I need besides a laptop for music rendering?
You would be wise to invest in a high-end pair of headphones along with the laptop. Start out with those two items, and later you can add in a turntable, mixer, controllers, speakers, storage for the equipment, and of course, software. Mind you, software can replace parts of this list with the right choice. Eventually, you could add lighting too.
Which operating is better for DJs?
Both are fantastic options. Again, before buying a laptop, check the software you want to use to make the right decision. Most software works on both but maybe better geared toward one option. Shop around for your software of choice before choosing a laptop if possible, or opt for a computer with high enough stats to work for any software.
Would a touchscreen computer or tablet be a good option for DJs?
Depending on the specs, absolutely. If you prefer a tactile experience, then a touchscreen or tablet might be a better option for you. Don’t be afraid of a gaming computer either, as they light up and offer fun features.
Conclusion
We love the ASUS ZenBook Duo UX481 Laptop for DJ’s as it provides additional screen space on the keyboard not available on any other laptop. With this added space, you get easier access to controls and a separation not previously known in the laptop world. Moreover, it has the specs you need and want along with the ability to connect to Wi-fi 6. Now it’s time to start making music.