Best Laptop for Crafting: Top Picks for 2023‍

The best laptops for crafting are:

1.   Apple 2023 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip
2.   ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023) Gaming Laptop
3.   Dell Inspiron 15 5510
4.   HP OMEN 16 16.1" Gaming Laptop
5.   Acer Swift X SFX14-41G-R1S6 Creator Laptop
6.   Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop
7.   2023 Lenovo Legion 5 17.3'' FHD IPS 144Hz Gaming Laptop
8.   ASUS ZenBook 14 Ultra-Slim Laptop
9.   Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio - 14.4" Touchscreen
10.   HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T
11.   ASUS VivoBook F512 Thin and Lightweight Laptop

Crafting is a creative outlet for many people, and in today's digital age, the perfect laptop can be an essential tool for bringing those imaginative ideas to life. Whether you're into sewing, scrapbooking, or digital illustration, a reliable and versatile laptop will make all the difference in your crafting experience.

Laptops for crafting need to be powerful enough to run multiple applications, have high-quality displays for accurate color representation, and feature ample storage for large files. To cater to these specific requirements, it's crucial to consider factors such as the processor, RAM, graphic capabilities, and battery life when making a purchase.

As a crafter myself, I know that finding the right laptop can feel overwhelming with so many options available. That's why I devoted countless hours to researching and testing various models, paying close attention to their performance, build, and user experience. My goal is to help you find the perfect laptop to make your crafting projects effortless and enjoyable.

I'm excited to share my findings with you, as we dive into the world of laptops specially designed for crafting enthusiasts. Let's explore the top contenders that made the cut, ensuring that your creative journey is supported by the best technology on the market.

Best Laptops for Crafting

As a fellow crafter, I understand how important it is to have the right tools. That's why I've put together a list of the best laptops for crafting, so you can find the perfect one for your needs.

Apple 2023 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip

This is a fantastic choice for crafters seeking power and performance in a sleek design.

Pros

• Stunning and spacious Liquid Retina Display

• Powerful M2 chip for smooth multitasking

• Long-lasting battery life of up to 18 hours

Cons

• Relatively heavy for an "Air" model

• Limited configurations available on Amazon

• Additional accessories may be necessary

Buy Apple 2023 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Apple 2023 MacBook Air with the M2 chip, and I'm loving it. The 15.3-inch Liquid Retina Display makes all of my crafting projects pop with vibrant colors and incredible detail. It feels like I'm working on a much larger canvas, which is a game-changer for my projects.

The M2 chip delivers impressive performance, allowing me to run multiple apps and tools seamlessly. The laptop features allow me to easily switch between my CAD software, photo editor, and browser without any lag. This has significantly improved my productivity and workflow as a crafter.

Although I'm thrilled with its performance and display, I did notice that the MacBook Air feels heavier than I expected. It's not a deal-breaker for me, but it can be slightly inconvenient when I need to move around with it. Additionally, Amazon has limited configurations available, so I had to purchase my preferred specs elsewhere.

In conclusion, the Apple 2023 MacBook Air with M2 chip offers an amazing crafting experience with its stunning display and powerful performance. Just be prepared for a slightly heavier device and the potential need for additional accessories.

ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023) Gaming Laptop

I highly recommend the ASUS ROG Strix G16 for crafters in need of a powerful and versatile laptop.

Pros

• Exceptional performance with Intel Core i9 and RTX 4070

• Fast memory and storage for smooth multitasking

• Advanced cooling system for long gaming sessions

Cons

• Bulky design may not be suitable for everyone

• No dedicated F keys or full-size keyboard

• Upgrading RAM and storage might be complicated for some users

Buy ASUS ROG Strix G16 on Amazon

The ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023) Gaming Laptop has been an excellent choice for all my crafting needs. Its powerful Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU ensure top-notch performance when I'm running resource-intensive software or multitasking between various applications.

When it comes to memory and storage, the laptop is equipped with 16GB of DDR5 memory and a fast 1TB PCIe SSD. This allows me to run multiple programs and open large files quickly, significantly improving my productivity. Additionally, the ROG Intelligent Cooling system ensures the laptop stays cool during extended use, preventing overheating and allowing me to work for longer periods without interruption.

One drawback of the Strix G16 is its bulky design, which might not appeal to everyone. Furthermore, the lack of dedicated F keys and a full-size keyboard can be inconvenient for certain tasks. Lastly, some users may find the process of upgrading RAM and storage to be challenging.

Overall, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2023) Gaming Laptop is a fantastic option for crafters who require a high-performance machine. While the design and keyboard may have minor drawbacks, the laptop's power and capabilities more than make up for these shortcomings. If you're looking for a reliable and powerful laptop, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 is worth considering. ASUS also makes some of the best laptops for animators, too. You can check them out at the provided link.

Dell Inspiron 15 5510

The Dell Inspiron 15 5510 is a great laptop for crafting enthusiasts offering smooth performance and a comfortable user experience.

Pros

• Fast and smooth performance with 11th Generation Intel Core i5 processor

• Mechanical camera shutter for enhanced privacy

• Lid-open sensor for quick startup

Cons

• Not a touchscreen

• Short trial period for Microsoft Office applications

• Potential issues with the keyboard and sound

Buy Dell Inspiron 15 5510 on Amazon

I recently started using the Dell Inspiron 15 5510 for my crafting needs, and I couldn't be more satisfied. It offers fast and smooth performance with its 11th generation Intel Core i5 processor, allowing me to easily switch between crafting software and other tasks.

One feature that really impressed me is the mechanical camera shutter. It provided me with a sense of privacy and prevented any awkward slip-ups during video calls. Additionally, the lid-open sensor is a convenient feature that allows the laptop to start immediately upon opening, even if it's turned off or in hibernation mode.

On the downside, the Dell Inspiron 15 5510 is not a touchscreen laptop, which might disappoint some users. Additionally, the trial period for Microsoft Office applications is relatively short, requiring users to purchase a subscription sooner than they might expect. Some users have reported issues with the keyboard and sound, though I haven't experienced any problems myself.

Overall, I am pleased with the Dell Inspiron 15 5510 and believe it to be a valuable investment for anyone in need of a powerful laptop for their crafting activities. The laptop provides an enjoyable user experience while offering optimal performance for all your crafting needs.

HP OMEN 16 16.1" Gaming Laptop

This HP OMEN 16 laptop is a fantastic option for crafters seeking exceptional performance and versatility in their work.

Pros

• Powerful 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor

• Dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics

• Generous amount of memory and storage space

Cons

• Slightly heavier than other laptops

• No optical drive included

• Potential warranty issues with HP

Buy HP OMEN 16 on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the HP OMEN 16 gaming laptop, and I couldn't be more impressed with its capabilities for crafting projects. The powerful Intel 13th Gen Core i7 processor and dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics ensure a smooth and efficient experience, allowing me to work on intricate designs without any lag or hiccups.

The laptop's 16.1-inch Full HD display offers crisp and accurate color representation, which is essential when working on detailed projects. Additionally, the 64GB of DDR5 RAM and 2TB PCIe SSD provide more than enough space and efficiency for all my software and files, ensuring I can easily access and manage my work.

One thing I noticed while using the HP OMEN 16 was its slightly hefty weight of 5.4 pounds. However, this minor inconvenience is overshadowed by its powerful performance and excellent display quality.

Although there's no optical drive included with this laptop, it's equipped with plenty of ports, such as Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-A, HDMI 2.1 output, and more, allowing me to connect it with various crafting peripherals and external storage devices.

It's worth mentioning that some users have reported having to clarify the warranty with HP. Despite this, I believe the HP OMEN 16's incredible performance and versatility make it a fantastic laptop choice for crafters.

Acer Swift X SFX14-41G-R1S6 Creator Laptop

I highly recommend the Acer Swift X for crafting enthusiasts looking for a powerful and portable laptop.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor

• NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti GPU for smooth graphics

• Lightweight and portable design

Cons

• Keyboard backlight issues

• Chassis can get hot during heavy use

• Battery life may vary

Buy Acer Swift X on Amazon

I recently had the opportunity to use the Acer Swift X SFX14-41G-R1S6 Creator Laptop for crafting, and I was genuinely impressed by its performance. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor and NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti GPU work together seamlessly, allowing me to run demanding crafting software without any hiccups.

The portability of this laptop is a significant advantage for those on the go. At just 3.06 lbs and featuring a thin metal design, it's easy to carry around, and its 512GB SSD provides ample storage space for all my crafting projects. Additionally, the laptop's Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 capabilities ensure quick and reliable connections to other devices and the internet.

However, it's worth noting that the keyboard backlight can be uneven, causing some difficulty in typing during low light conditions. Also, the chassis can become relatively hot during extended periods of intense usage, which might be uncomfortable for some users. The laptop's battery life, while generally good, can vary depending on the tasks being performed.

In conclusion, the Acer Swift X SFX14-41G-R1S6 Creator Laptop is an excellent investment for anyone in the crafting industry. Its powerful performance, portability, and connectivity options outweigh the minor drawbacks, making it ideal for both professional and personal use.

Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop

The Dell XPS 13 9310 is a fantastic laptop for creatives, offering powerful performance and stunning display, making it a top choice for crafting enthusiasts.

Pros

• Exceptional 3.5K OLED touchscreen display

• Strong performance with Intel Core i7-11195G7 processor

• Compact and sleek design

Cons

• Tends to run hot under heavy use

• Limited port selection

• May have shorter battery life than expected

Buy Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop on Amazon

I recently had the pleasure of using the Dell XPS 13 9310 for my crafting projects, and the first thing I noticed was the brilliant 13.4-inch 3.5K OLED touchscreen display. The vivid colors and sharp details made my designs come to life and the anti-reflective coating proved handy when working in bright environments.

Performance-wise, the laptop's Intel Core i7-11195G7 processor and 16GB of RAM ensure speedy multitasking and smooth running of my crafting software. However, I did notice that it can become quite warm when under heavy load, which might be a concern for some users.

The Dell XPS 13 9310 has a beautifully slim and lightweight design, making it very convenient to carry around. The only drawback to this sleek package is the limited selection of ports. I had to rely on adapters to connect my external hard drive and other peripherals, which can be a bit cumbersome at times.

Speaking of battery life, I was expecting more longevity based on the product description but found myself needing to recharge more frequently than I'd like, especially when running resource-intensive applications.

Overall, the Dell XPS 13 9310 is an excellent option for those seeking a powerful laptop for crafting purposes, boasting a stunning display and strong performance in a compact package. With the right accessories and adapters, it becomes an even more versatile tool for creatives.

2023 Lenovo Legion 5 17.3'' FHD IPS 144Hz Gaming Laptop

The Lenovo Legion 5 is a fantastic gaming laptop for crafters that delivers top-notch performance without compromising on great battery life either.

Pros

• Impressive AMD Ryzen 7-5800H processor

• High-quality NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics

• Immersive 17.3'' FHD IPS display with 144Hz refresh rate

Cons

• Slightly heavy at 6.57 lbs

• Limited battery life during intense gaming sessions

• White backlit keyboard may not suit everyone's taste

Buy 2023 Lenovo Legion 5 on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use the 2023 Lenovo Legion 5 and was blown away by the powerful performance packed into this sleek gaming laptop. The AMD Ryzen 7-5800H processor offers both speed and reliability, ensuring smooth operation for gaming and crafting projects alike.

Equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card, it's capable of handling even the most graphics-intensive crafting applications without a hitch. The 17.3'' FHD IPS display with its 144Hz refresh rate and 300 nits of brightness makes everything look sharp and vibrant, enhancing my gaming and crafting experience significantly.

However, the Legion 5 is on the heavier side at 6.57 lbs, which might limit its portability for some users. Moreover, during longer gaming sessions, I noticed that the battery life could have been longer. Additionally, the white backlit keyboard might not be everyone's cup of tea, especially those who prefer customizable RGB lighting options.

In conclusion, the 2023 Lenovo Legion 5 is an excellent choice for gamers and crafters looking for performance and quality in a sleek design. With an impressive processor, stunning graphics, and a vivid display, it offers a well-rounded user experience, albeit with a few minor drawbacks that can be overlooked considering its overall performance and functionality.

ASUS ZenBook 14 Ultra-Slim Laptop

This ASUS ZenBook 14 is a top choice for crafters seeking a portable and versatile laptop with powerful performance.

Pros

• Impressive AMD Ryzen 7 5800H Processor and Radeon Vega 7 Graphics

• Ultra-slim design and lightweight for easy portability

• 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD and 16GB LPDDR4X RAM for fast storage and multitasking

Cons

• Average webcam resolution

• Preinstalled Windows 11 and McAfee bloatware

• Potential Wi-Fi connectivity issues with older Wi-Fi card

Buy ASUS ZenBook 14 on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use the ASUS ZenBook 14 Ultra-Slim Laptop, and I must say, it's a delight for crafters like me who need a reliable machine. Its AMD Ryzen 7 5800H Processor, coupled with Radeon Vega 7 Graphics, makes it powerful enough to to handle multiple tasks and various design applications with ease.

The ZenBook 14's ultra-slim design and lightweight body make it easy to carry around, whether I'm working from my home studio or taking it on the go for crafting projects. With 1TB of PCIe NVMe SSD and 16GB of LPDDR4X RAM, I can store multiple large files and effortlessly multitask.

However, I did notice that the laptop's webcam resolution could be better, particularly for video calls or capturing crafting tutorials. Additionally, the preinstalled Windows 11 and McAfee bloatware can be a nuisance as it takes up space and requires additional management.

Lastly, I experienced a few Wi-Fi connectivity issues which may be due to an older Wi-Fi card (AC8265). Nonetheless, these issues can be fixed with updates or by replacing the Wi-Fi card if necessary.

Overall, the ASUS ZenBook 14 Ultra-Slim Laptop is an excellent choice for crafters who need a portable and powerful laptop with versatile features. Although it has its drawbacks, the impressive performance outweighs the cons and makes it worthwhile for those seeking a budget laptop used for crafting purposes.

Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio - 14.4" Touchscreen

This Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is the best choice for crafting enthusiasts looking for powerful performance and versatility.

Pros

• Powerful performance with Intel Core i7 and 32GB RAM

• Sleek, boundary-pushing design with 14.4" touchscreen

• Excellent pen experience with Surface Slim Pen 2

Cons

• Somewhat heavier than other laptops

• Keyboard layout may take some getting used to

• High price tag

Buy Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio on Amazon

When I first unboxed my Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio, I couldn't help but get excited about the endless possibilities it opened up for my crafting projects.

The sleek and unique design immediately set it apart from other laptops, making it easier for me to switch between work and play. The 14.4-inch touchscreen is vibrant and responsive - it feels like I'm working directly on paper when using the Surface Slim Pen 2.

While this laptop has truly changed the way I approach my crafting projects, it's not without its share of drawbacks. The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is a bit heavier than some other laptops, which might make it less ideal for those frequently traveling or commuting. Additionally, the keyboard layout took me some time to get accustomed to, but once I did, I found it quite comfortable to type on.

The high price point of this laptop may be a concern for some potential buyers, but the benefits far outweigh the costs. The powerful performance, courtesy of the Intel Core i7 processor and 32GB RAM, ensures that I can run even the most demanding crafting applications smoothly and efficiently.

Paired with the groundbreaking NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics card, my designs come to life on the bright and colorful display.

In conclusion, if you're a crafting enthusiast searching for the ultimate laptop that offers both power and flexibility, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is an ideal choice. Despite the heftier price tag and slight learning curve with the keyboard, the laptop's impressive performance, boundary-pushing design, and seamless pen experience make it an invaluable tool for anyone serious about their crafting projects.

HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T

The HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T is an excellent choice for crafters who need a powerful, stylish, and versatile laptop.

Pros

• Exceptional performance with Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB RAM

• Stunning 13.5" WUXGA touchscreen with 3:2 aspect ratio for better productivity

• High-quality Bang & Olufsen speakers for immersive audio

Cons

• Slightly heavier at 10.19 pounds

• Windows 11 Pro, not Windows 10 Pro, as advertised

• Price might be steep for some

Buy HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use the HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T, and it quickly became apparent why it's a top choice for crafters. The laptop's powerful Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor and 16GB of RAM allowed me to run multiple demanding applications simultaneously without any hiccups.

I particularly appreciated the 13.5" WUXGA touchscreen display with its 3:2 aspect ratio, which provided me with more screen real estate to work on my crafting projects. The colors were vibrant and crystal clear, making it a pleasure to edit photos and design digital layouts.

The audio quality delivered by the Bang & Olufsen speakers was excellent, and I loved putting on some music while working on my projects. It truly made the entire experience more enjoyable and immersive.

Although the HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T is not the lightest laptop available at 10.19 pounds, its stunning design and solid construction made it feel like a high-quality, premium device. While the laptop came with Windows 11 Pro instead of Windows 10 Pro as advertised this wasn't a deal-breaker for me, but it's something to consider if you're specifically looking for Windows 10 Pro.

In conclusion, the HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T is a fantastic laptop for crafters who need a powerful, versatile device packed with features to enhance their creative process. It might be on the pricier side, but the performance, display, and overall experience it offers are well worth the investment.

ASUS VivoBook F512 Thin and Lightweight Laptop

I highly recommend the ASUS VivoBook F512 for crafters in search of a powerful yet sleek laptop with a stunning display.

Pros

• Immersive 15.6-inch FHD NanoEdge bezel display

• Fast AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor and AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics

• Ergonomic backlit keyboard with fingerprint sensor

Cons

• Limited storage space with 256GB SSD

• No optical drive included

• Potential difficulty for users unfamiliar with Windows 10

Buy ASUS VivoBook F512 on Amazon

Just recently, I had the pleasure of using the ASUS VivoBook F512 for crafting purposes, and I must say it exceeded my expectations. The 15.6-inch FHD NanoEdge bezel display provided an immersive visual experience, allowing me to focus on intricate details of my projects with ease.

One of the standout features of this laptop is its powerful AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor coupled with AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics. I was able to run multiple applications and design programs simultaneously without experiencing any lags or slowdowns.

Additionally, the ergonomic backlit keyboard with a front fingerprint reader and sensor not only ensured comfortable typing but also offered an extra layer of security through Windows Hello activation.

However, the laptop has a few drawbacks. With a 256GB SSD, its storage capacity may be limiting for some users—especially those who work on large or numerous projects regularly. Additionally, the lack of an optical drive may pose an inconvenience to those who still rely on CDs or DVDs for their work. Finally, users who are unfamiliar with Windows 10 might need some time to adapt to the operating system.

Overall, the ASUS VivoBook F512 is an excellent choice for crafters in search of an affordable yet powerful laptop with an immersive display and ergonomic design. Despite some minor limitations, I believe the benefits it offers far outweigh the cons, making it a valuable asset for any creative individual.

Buying Guide

When I'm on the hunt for the perfect laptop for crafting, there are several features and aspects I consider to ensure I'm making the right choice. In this section, I'll share my insights to help you find the best laptop for your crafting needs.

Performance

In crafting, it's essential to have a laptop with a capable processor and sufficient RAM. These components handle the heavy lifting when working on crafting projects, especially when using design software. I look for at least an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor and a minimum of 8GB of RAM to ensure smooth performance.

Display

A high-quality display is crucial in the world of crafting. An excellent screen will make your designs come to life, ensuring accurate colors and sharp details. I aim for a laptop with at least a Full HD (1920x1080) resolution and, if possible, an IPS panel for better color reproduction and viewing angles.

Storage

Having enough storage to save all my projects is essential. I consider getting a laptop with at least 256GB of storage – ideally in the form of an SSD – as they're faster than traditional hard drives, leading to shorter loading times and an overall snappier system performance.

Portability & Battery Life

As a crafter, I often find myself working on the go or attending workshops. Therefore, I prioritize portability and long battery life when choosing my laptop. Lighter laptops with a slim design make it easier to carry around, and a battery life of at least 6-8 hours ensures I can work uninterrupted throughout the day.

Connectivity

A good selection of ports and connectivity options is essential for flexibility in crafting. I look for laptops that feature USB-A and USB-C ports, an SD card slot (great for importing photos or designs), and an HDMI port for connecting an external monitor for more screen real estate. Additionally, having fast Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support helps when collaborating on projects or transferring files wirelessly.

By considering all these factors while searching for a crafting laptop, I'm confident in finding a device that meets my needs and provides the right balance of performance, display quality, storage, portability, and connectivity. Happy crafting! If you liked the above list, also check out this list on the best laptops for Blender.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top laptops for crafters in 2023?

In 2023, the top laptops for crafters are those with powerful processors, ample storage, and great displays. Some of my favorites include:

• Apple MacBook Pro

• Dell XPS 13

• HP Spectre x360

• Microsoft Surface Book 3

These laptops offer excellent performance, sleek designs, and seamless compatibility with crafting software.

Which laptops meet Cricut Maker 3 requirements?

Cricut Maker 3 demands laptops with at least 4GB RAM, a recent processor, and running Windows 10 or macOS 10.15 or later. Some laptops meeting these criteria are:

• Apple MacBook Air

• Dell Inspiron 15 3000

• Lenovo Ideapad 3

Remember to check for USB ports or Bluetooth for connecting your Cricut Maker 3.

What are the budget-friendly options for Cricut Explore Air 2?

Budget-friendly laptops for Cricut Explore Air 2 include:

• Acer Aspire 5

• ASUS VivoBook 15

• Lenovo IdeaPad 3

These laptops have decent specs and meet the minimum requirements for Cricut Explore Air 2 at affordable prices.

How to choose a laptop for Cricut and design?

When choosing a laptop for Cricut and design, consider:

1. System requirements: Ensure the laptop meets the software's minimum requirements.

2. Processor: A recent CPU for faster performance.

3. RAM: At least 8GB for smooth multitasking.

4. Storage: Preferably an SSD for speedy access to files.

5. Display quality: A high-resolution screen for crisp visuals.

Which HP laptops are suitable for Cricut?

Some suitable HP laptops for Cricut include:

• HP Spectre x360

• HP Pavilion x360

• HP Envy x360

These laptops offer great performance, stylish designs, and compatibility with Cricut software.

Can I use a laptop for digital art and crafting?

Yes, you can definitely use a laptop for digital art and crafting. Choose a laptop with a powerful processor, sufficient RAM and storage, and a high-quality display. You might also consider models with touchscreens or stylus support for added convenience and creativity.