Best Laptop for Photo Editing Under $1000: Top Picks for 2023‍

The best laptops for photo editing under $1000 are:

1. Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop
2. Acer Nitro 5 AN515-55-53E5 Gaming Laptop
3. ASUS TUF Gaming F15
4. Lenovo Legion 5 17.3" FHD Laptop
5. HP Pavilion 15 Laptop
6. Lenovo ThinkBook 15 Gen 4 15.6" FHD Touchscreen
7. Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series 3530 Laptop
8. HP Envy x360 Touchscreen 2-in-1 Laptop
9. Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming Laptop
10. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5-2023
11. Microsoft Surface Laptop Go

As a staple in almost every form of digital art, photo editing is a skill that requires powerful and versatile tools. One of the most important of these tools is a reliable laptop that can handle the demanding software used for editing high-resolution images.

With so many options on the market, finding the right laptop for photo editing under $1000 can be a challenge, but it's essential for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Laptops specialized for photo editing offer a balance between performance, display quality, and portability. They must have powerful processors, ample memory, and sufficient storage space to run graphics-intensive applications without any lag or delay. Additionally, the laptop's display should be well-calibrated and capable of reproducing accurate colors for an optimal editing experience.

When making a purchase, it's crucial to consider factors such as the laptop's CPU, GPU, RAM, storage capacity, and display quality.

These ensure that your laptop can run photo editing software like Adobe Photoshop, Lightroom, and other editing programs smoothly. Investing in a laptop that meets these criteria will make editing tasks more efficient and enjoyable.

After meticulous research and testing, I have narrowed down the options to help you find the best laptop for photo editing under $1000.

These laptops will provide the ideal balance of performance, display quality, and portability, ensuring that your photo editing experience is second to none. You can also check out this list of the best laptops for photo storage, too.

Best Laptops for Photo Editing under $1000

I have compiled a list of the best laptops for photo editing under $1000. Let's dive in and discover the perfect laptop for all your photo editing needs, all while staying within your budget.

Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop

The Acer Swift 3 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers a great balance of performance and portability for photo editing enthusiasts.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 4700U Octa-Core Processor

• Lightweight design at only 2.65 pounds

• Impressive battery life of up to 11.5 hours

Cons

• Mediocre display quality

• Limited upgrade options for memory

• Entry-level graphics capabilities

Buy Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop, and I was impressed by its performance while editing photos. The AMD Ryzen 7 4700U Octa-Core processor offers speedy performance, which made light work of loading and processing large image files.

The lightweight design of this laptop makes it convenient for carrying around, meaning I can work on my photo editing projects anywhere. With up to 11.5 hours of battery life, it's perfect for long editing sessions without constantly searching for a power socket.

However, I did notice that the display quality is not the best I've seen in this price range. Although it has a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution, it might not provide the most accurate color representation for professional photo editing. So, if you're extremely particular about color accuracy, you might want to consider other options.

The memory (8GB LPDDR4) and storage (512GB NVMe SSD) provided within the laptop are decent but may be limiting for users with more demanding tasks, as there are no options for upgrading the memory on this model. As a photo editor, you might find that the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics are just about adequate, but not ideal for heavy graphical tasks or gaming.

In summary, the Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop is a good choice for photo editing enthusiasts on a budget, providing great performance and portability, though with some compromises on the display quality and upgrade options. If you're looking for a secure laptop to store your photos, check out this list of the best laptops for photo storage.

Acer Nitro 5 AN515-55-53E5 Gaming Laptop

The Acer Nitro 5 is a reliable choice for photo editing and gaming enthusiasts on a budget.

Pros

• Powerful Intel Core i5-10300H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU for excellent graphics

• Full HD 144Hz IPS Display for sharp visuals

Cons

• Only 8GB of RAM (expandable to 32GB)

• Limited 256GB NVMe SSD storage

• Bulky design at 5.07 lbs

Buy Acer Nitro 5 AN515-55-53E5 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

I recently used the Acer Nitro 5 AN515-55-53E5 gaming laptop for a photo editing project, and I was impressed with its overall performance. The Intel Core i5-10300H processor and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU made editing large files a breeze. The Full HD 144Hz IPS Display provided crisp and vivid visuals that helped me accurately fine-tune my work.

One potential drawback is that the laptop only comes with 8GB of RAM. However, it is expandable up to 32GB, so you can easily upgrade if you need more memory for your projects. The 256GB NVMe SSD might also fill up quickly if you're working with large files, but luckily there are additional slots for storage expansion.

The keyboard on the Nitro 5 is backlit and comfortable to type on, but the dedicated NitroSense key next to the backspace key may take some getting used to as it could be accidentally pressed. A unique feature I enjoyed was Alexa Show Mode, allowing me to use the laptop as an interactive display and control other Alexa-enabled devices.

Despite its somewhat bulky design, the Acer Nitro 5 remains a strong contender for the best laptop for photo editing under $1000. Its powerful processing capabilities and upgradability make it a great investment for any creative professional.

ASUS TUF Gaming F15

This laptop is a great choice for budget-conscious photo editors looking for reliable and powerful photo editing laptops.

Pros

• Excellent performance with Intel Core i5-12500H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 for smooth visuals

• FHD 144Hz display with Adaptive-Sync for optimum clarity

Cons

• Battery life might fall short for some users

• Washed-out colors on the display

• Chassis materials may not be the most premium

Buy ASUS TUF Gaming F15 on Amazon

Being a photo editor, I was thrilled to try out the ASUS TUF Gaming F15. Right off the bat, the 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12500H processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM allowed me to work at optimal productivity levels, smoothly juggling between various photo editing programs and multitasking.

The FHD 144Hz display with Adaptive-Sync eliminated lag and offered a rather enjoyable experience when previewing and editing my work. However, I must point out that the display appeared somewhat washed-out, which might not appeal to users who require the most accurate color representation.

The overall build quality is solid, staying true to the TUF gaming name, although the chassis materials may not be as premium as other high-end gaming laptops in the market. When it comes to battery life, I did find the battery draining fairly quickly when photo editing. But this didn't particularly bother me since I mostly edit at my desk, close to a charging point.

In conclusion, the ASUS TUF Gaming F15 is a strong contender for photo editors on a budget. With its powerful processor, smooth visuals, and dependable build quality, this laptop provides solid value under $1000. However, if display and battery life are a priority for you, it might be worth exploring other options.

Lenovo Legion 5 17.3" FHD Laptop

I think the Lenovo Legion 5 is a solid choice for photo editing under $1000 thanks to its powerful processor, dedicated graphics, and impressive display.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 5600H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics

• 17.3" FHD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate

Cons

• Slightly heavier at 8lbs

• Limited storage capacity with 512GB SSD

• No optical drive

Buy Lenovo Legion 5 17.3" FHD Laptop on Amazon

When I first took the Lenovo Legion 5 out of the box, the Phantom Blue color and minimalistic design caught my eye. The build quality feels durable, and I had no issue setting it up with Windows 11 pre-installed. As a photo editor, I need a laptop with a powerful processor, and this one has an AMD Ryzen 5 5600H, which helps me run multiple applications without any lag.

The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card allows me to run high-resolution images and apply complex edits efficiently. The 17.3" FHD IPS display, along with 72% NTSC color accuracy and support for Dolby Vision, ensures accurate color reproduction, a must for photo editing. The display also provides a smooth experience thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate.

One downside I found while using the Lenovo Legion 5 is its weight. At 8lbs, it's not the lightest option available, which could be a concern if you often need to move your laptop. Additionally, the 512GB SSD might fill up quickly, especially when working with large photo files. Lastly, the laptop lacks an optical drive, which may be a dealbreaker for some users who work with physical media.

Despite these drawbacks, the Lenovo Legion 5 excels in delivering powerful performance and contends for the best photo editing laptop under $1000. The combination of its great processor, dedicated graphics, and impressive display make it my top pick. If you can work around its weight and storage limitations, I believe this laptop will serve you well in your photo editing endeavors.

HP Pavilion 15 Laptop

The HP Pavilion 15 Laptop is a great choice for photo editing under $1000 due to its powerful performance and impressive display.

Pros

• Impressive Intel Iris Xe Graphics

• Long battery life up to 8 hours

• Fast 11th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor

Cons

• No touch screen functionality

• Track pad might feel less responsive

• Comes with Windows 11 Pro instead of Windows 10 Pro

Buy HP Pavilion 15 Laptop on Amazon

I recently had the pleasure of using the HP Pavilion 15 Laptop for some photo editing tasks, and I was impressed by its performance and capabilities. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics brought crisp, and stunning visuals to the table, making it easier for me to work on my projects. The 15.6-inch Full HD micro-edged screen provided a larger screen-to-body ratio which helped maximize my view, almost like bringing theater-quality entertainment to my workspace.

The 11th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor delivered instant responsiveness and allowed me to complete my tasks with ease. While editing photos, multitasking was a breeze, thanks to the 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage.

The laptop's compact design and long battery life (up to 8 hours) made it a reliable companion for working on the go. Furthermore, I appreciated the HP Fast Charge feature, which allowed the laptop to go from 0 to 50% charge in approximately 45 minutes.

One downside to note is the absence of touch screen functionality, which some users might appreciate. Additionally, the track pad might feel less responsive compared to other laptops, and while I can adapt to it, users who prefer a more responsive track pad should consider this point.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that this laptop comes with Windows 11 Pro instead of Windows 10 Pro as advertised, so keep this in mind if you have a strong preference for Windows 10.

Overall, I can confidently recommend the HP Pavilion 15 Laptop for anyone looking for a powerful, sub-$1000 photo editing laptop with an impressive display and reliable performance.

Lenovo ThinkBook 15 Gen 4 15.6" FHD Touchscreen

I would highly recommend the Lenovo ThinkBook 15 Gen 4 Touchscreen laptop for photo editing under $1,000 due to its powerful performance and high-quality display.

Pros

• High-performance 12th gen Intel processor

• Responsive touchscreen display

• Excellent connectivity options

Cons

• Limited battery life

• Fingerprint reader not fully supported for Linux users

• Potential learning curve for Windows 11

Buy Lenovo ThinkBook 15 Gen 4 on Amazon

When I first started using the Lenovo ThinkBook 15 Gen 4, I was immediately impressed by its processing power, thanks to the 12th generation Intel Deca-Core i7-1255U processor. Multitasking was a breeze, and the narrower bezels with a 15.6" FHD IPS anti-glare touchscreen display made my photo editing experience truly enjoyable.

During my editing sessions, I particularly appreciated the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, which enabled me to connect multiple monitors via HDMI, Thunderbolt 4, and Type-C for enhanced productivity. The laptop's connectivity options, including USB 3.2 and Wi-Fi 6, ensured quick and seamless data transfer for all my projects.

However, I couldn't help but notice the limited battery life. This issue might present difficulties for those who need to work on the go without a power source nearby. Furthermore, if you're a Linux user, be prepared for some functionality limitations, such as the unsupported fingerprint reader.

Lastly, while the Lenovo ThinkBook 15 comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Pro, it is eligible for a free upgrade to Windows 11 Pro. Although some users might find the transition to Windows 11 somewhat challenging, I believe the benefits outweigh the learning curve.

Overall, the Lenovo ThinkBook 15 Gen 4 Touchscreen laptop offers a powerful and user-friendly experience for photo editing at an affordable price. With its high processing power and quality display, I can confidently recommend this laptop for anyone seeking an effective photo-editing solution under $1,000.

Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series 3530 Laptop

Dell Inspiron 15 3530 is an impressive photo-editing laptop under $1000, offering great performance and essential features.

Pros

• Powerful 13th gen Intel Core i7 processor

• Massive 64GB RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD storage

• Vibrant 15.6" FHD touchscreen display

Cons

• Mediocre battery life

• On the heavier side at 3.64 pounds

• Lacks a dedicated graphics card

Buy Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series 3530 Laptop on Amazon

As a photographer, I recently used the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series 3530 Laptop, and it exceeded my expectations for a laptop under $1000. The powerful 13th gen Intel Core i7 processor and substantial 64GB RAM allowed me to smoothly run multiple photo-editing applications simultaneously, without any lag.

The 15.6" FHD touchscreen display was a game-changer for me, as it provided detailed and true-to-life colors for my editing work. The anti-glare LED backlight and narrow borders also made it more enjoyable to work on images for extended periods.

However, the laptop does have some shortcomings. Its battery life isn't the best, requiring me to plug it in more often than I'd prefer. Additionally, the Inspiron 15 3530 weighs 3.64 pounds, which can be a bit cumbersome for carrying around. Lastly, the absence of a dedicated graphics card might limit its performance in more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming.

Overall, the Dell Inspiron 15 3530 is an excellent choice for photo-editing enthusiasts looking for a reliable, powerful, and feature-rich laptop under $1000. While its battery life and weight could use improvement, the performance and display quality make it well worth it for photo editors on a budget.

HP Envy x360 Touchscreen 2-in-1 Laptop

The HP Envy x360 is a fantastic option for photo editing enthusiasts seeking a powerful yet budget-friendly laptop.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5825U Processor

• Responsive 15.6-inch touchscreen

• Upgradable RAM and SSD storage

Cons

• May be slightly heavy for some users

• Short warranty period (1 year)

• No dedicated GPU for professional photo editors

Buy HP Envy x360 Touchscreen 2-in-1 Laptop on Amazon

I recently tried the HP Envy x360 and found it to be a pretty solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile laptop for photo editing tasks. Its AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor provides impressive performance, allowing me to run multiple photo editing applications simultaneously without any hiccups.

The 15.6-inch touchscreen display offers crisp visuals and makes editing or browsing through my images a breeze. Moreover, the touchscreen adds convenience and flexibility when working on detailed image editing projects.

What stood out to me was the upgradability of the laptop's RAM and SSD storage. The base model comes with 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, but with the option to upgrade, you can ensure that your laptop stays future-proof and caters to your growing storage and performance needs.

One downside I noticed was that the laptop is quite heavy, about 4.11 pounds, which might be a concern for those who prefer a lightweight device. Additionally, the warranty period is only one year, which could be a potential issue for long-term reliability.

Despite not having a dedicated GPU, the integrated AMD Radeon Graphics perform decently for casual photo editing tasks. However, if you're a professional editor in need of advanced graphic performance, this laptop might fall short.

In conclusion, the HP Envy x360 2-in-1 laptop offers excellent performance and useful features within a $1000 budget, making it a great choice for those looking to get into the world of photo editing without breaking the bank.

Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming Laptop

This Lenovo IdeaPad L340 is an excellent choice for photo editing under $1000, thanks to its powerful performance and impressive visuals.

Pros

• Strong Intel Core i5-9300HF processor

• Crisp 15.6" Full HD display

• NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics

Cons

• Limited 256GB SSD storage

• 8GB RAM might need upgrading for heavy multitasking

• Plastic build feels slightly flimsy

Buy Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

I recently had the opportunity to use the Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming Laptop for photo editing, and it exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and display quality. The Intel Core i5-9300HF processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics ensured smooth editing, even with multiple applications running simultaneously.

The 15.6" Full HD display provided crisp, clear images with accurate colors, which is essential for photo editing. The matte screen finish also helped reduce glare and reflections.

However, the 256GB SSD storage and 8GB RAM might feel limiting when working with large files or running numerous applications at once. An upgrade might be necessary for professionals who need more power for extensive multitasking. Additionally, while the plastic build keeps the laptop light, it feels slightly flimsy and might not be as durable as other options on the market.

Overall, the Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming Laptop is a solid choice for photo editing under $1000. Its powerful performance and impressive display will surely satisfy the needs of most users, although some might need to consider upgrading the storage and memory for heavier workloads.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5-2023

For those seeking an an affordable laptop, yet powerful 2-in-1 laptop for photo editing, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5-2023 is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Versatile 2-in-1 design with multiple modes

• AMD Ryzen 5 processor with Radeon graphics

• 16GB RAM and 256GB storage

Cons

• Digital pen for editing sold separately

• Limited battery life compared to some competitors

• Webcam privacy shutter could be more durable

Buy Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5-2023 on Amazon

As a photographer, I found myself enjoying the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5-2023 for its blend of functionality and portability. This 2-in-1 laptop's touchscreen and convertible design enabled me to switch between laptop, tent, stand, or tablet mode with ease—perfect for tailoring my workstation according to the task at hand.

Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and Radeon graphics, the Flex 5-2023 packs a punch in terms of performance. Coupled with 16GB RAM and a 256GB SSD storage, I experienced no significant lag or slowdowns while editing my photos.

Unfortunately, the Flex 5-2023 does not come with a digital pen, which needed to be purchased separately. Although not a deal-breaker, it's worth noting for those who want an all-in-one photo editing solution.

I also noticed that the laptop's battery life was slightly less impressive compared to some competitors in the market. While it should last through a standard workday, it may demand a charge sooner than some may like.

Additionally, I appreciated the privacy features of the built-in webcam shutter to keep out unwanted attention. However, I found the shutter a tad flimsy and could benefit from stronger materials.

As a whole, I highly recommend the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5-2023 to anyone searching for the best laptop for photo editing under $1000. Its performance, versatility, and convenience make it a great companion for aspiring photographers and creatives alike.

Microsoft Surface Laptop Go

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go is a fantastic option for those seeking a lightweight and portable laptop for photo editing under $1000.

Pros

• Sleek and lightweight design

• Responsive touchscreen display

• Impressive performance with 10th Gen Intel Core processor

Cons

• Average battery life

• Lacks a backlit keyboard

• Limited to Windows 10 S operating system

Buy Microsoft Surface Laptop Go on Amazon

I recently used the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go for photo editing, and I was incredibly impressed with its capabilities. Weighing just 2.44 pounds and having a slim profile, it's easy to carry around throughout the day.

The 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen display is an absolute dream to work on, providing accurate colors and smooth performance. It made editing my photos a breeze, which left me wanting to use it for all my creative projects.

The 10th Gen Intel Core Processor packed a punch, allowing me to run multiple applications without any hiccups. However, I did notice that the Surface Laptop Go has an average battery life of 8.5 hours, which might not be suitable for full-day editing sessions without charging in between.

One downside I came across was the absence of a backlit keyboard. It made working in dimly lit conditions a bit difficult. Another limitation I faced was the pre-installed Windows 10 S operating system, which restricts users by allowing only apps from the Microsoft Store. Although it can be switched to a full Windows 10 version, some people might find this process inconvenient.

Despite those drawbacks, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Go is a solid choice for photo editing under $1000 due to its sleek design, touchscreen display, and strong performance.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best laptop for photo editing under $1000, it's essential to consider a few key features that will significantly impact your editing experience. I will share some factors to help you make an informed decision without breaking the bank.

Performance: The performance of a laptop is crucial for photo editing tasks. You'll want to find a laptop with a powerful processor (CPU), preferably a quad-core or hexa-core, and at least 8GB of RAM to ensure smooth and efficient performance while editing high-resolution images.

Display: A good display is vital for photo editing. Look for a laptop with an IPS panel, which offers better viewing angles and color accuracy than traditional TN panels. A screen resolution of at least 1920x1080 (Full HD) is recommended, but higher resolutions, like 2K or 4K, can provide even better image clarity.

Color Accuracy: Color accuracy is essential for photographers working on professional projects. When shopping for a laptop, check the color gamut coverage, ideally 100% sRGB or Adobe RGB. Higher color gamut coverage will provide more accurate and vibrant colors, essential for editing and color grading.

Storage: Fast and ample storage is necessary for working with large image files. I recommend getting a laptop with at least 256GB of SSD storage, as SSDs are faster and more reliable than traditional hard drives. You can also consider laptops with additional HDD storage, which will allow you to store even more photo and project files. If you would need to import a lot of external files, also prioritize an SD card reader in your laptop.

Graphics Card: While a dedicated graphics card isn't always necessary for photo editing, it can become beneficial when using GPU-accelerated features in some editing software. A dedicated GPU will provide faster performance and smoother image manipulation.

Battery Life: If you plan to edit photos on the go or work in different environments, you'll want a laptop with good battery life. Aim for a laptop with at least 6-8 hours of battery life under regular use. However, it's important to remember that actual battery life may vary depending on the tasks you're performing.

To summarize, when looking for the best laptop for photo editing under $1000, focus on performance, display quality, color accuracy, storage, graphics card, and battery life. With these features in mind, you're well-equipped to find a budget laptop that that suits your needs and delivers an enjoyable photo editing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top laptops for photo editing within budget?

I've compiled a list of the top laptops for photo editing under $1000:

1. Acer Swift 3

2. Dell Inspiron 15

3. HP Pavilion x360

4. Lenovo Flex 5 14"

5. ASUS VivoBook S15

All of these laptops provide powerful performance at an affordable price, making them ideal choices for photo editing within a budget.

Which laptops handle Photoshop well under $1000?

I recommend the following laptops for handling Photoshop under $1000:

1. Acer Swift 3

2. Dell Inspiron 15

3. HP Pavilion x360

4. Lenovo Flex 5 14"

5. ASUS VivoBook S15

These laptops have reliable processors, sufficient RAM, and adequate storage to ensure smooth Photoshop performance.

Is the Lenovo Legion 5 good for photo editing?

Yes, the Lenovo Legion 5 is suitable for photo editing. It has a powerful AMD Ryzen processor, a dedicated NVIDIA graphics card, and a high-quality display, which makes it suitable for photo editing tasks.

What are the key specs to look for in a budget photo editing laptop?

When looking for a cheap laptop for photo editing, prioritize the following specs:

1. Processor: A powerful processor (e.g., Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5) for faster image processing.

2. Memory: At least 8GB of RAM for handling large files and multitasking.

3. Storage: A minimum of 256GB SSD for faster data access and ample storage for files.

4. Graphics: A dedicated GPU or an integrated one with good performance for seamless image rendering.

5. Display: A high-quality display with accurate colors and good brightness.

What is a suitable amount of RAM for a photo editing laptop?

I suggest having at least 8GB of RAM for a photo editing laptop. This allows you to work on large image files and run multiple applications simultaneously without sacrificing performance.

Can you recommend some Windows laptops for editing under $1000?

Here are some Windows laptops I can recommend for photo editing under $1000:

1. Acer Swift 3

2. Dell Inspiron 15

3. HP Pavilion x360

4. Lenovo Flex 5 14"

5. ASUS VivoBook S15

These laptops provide a good balance of performance, display quality, and storage, making them suitable for photo editing tasks within a budget.