Being in music production is no joke if you’re going to ask me.
I went through many technical problems with my laptop, and I don’t want you to do the same.
I listed the best laptop for DJing to save you some time, including other laptops with powerful specs for your BEST DJ experience!
Let’s dive right in.
At a Glance: Best DJ Laptops in 2022
A DJ laptop has SPECIFIC requirements, especially since using DJ software would require a lot out of a laptop. I have considered those in researching and reviewing a laptop for DJing.
Here are my top 7 picks:
# | Preview | Product | |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, 15.6"... | Check Price on Amazon | |
2 | ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED UX582... | Check Price on Amazon |
While the best DJ laptop has already been revealed, I suggest reading the in-depth review in the next heading.
This will help you find the right laptop for you, especially if you want something specific.
In-Depth Look: Best Laptops for Djing
This section will discuss all the features and benefits of these DJ laptops and their drawbacks.
I also included my overall thoughts, and I hope you can use that to find the BEST laptop for DJing for YOU.
#1 No products found. – Best Overall
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The Macbook Pro ranked the best DJ laptop because of its incredible functionality and impressive performance, especially music production.
It’s not exactly a cheap laptop, but if you’re talking about the BEST, the Macbook Pro ticks all the boxes on my criteria.
Specs/Features
- Processor: System on Chip (SoC) Apple M1 Pro Chip
- OS: Supports macOS
- Graphics: Integrated 16-core GPU
- Display/Screen: 14,2-inch, 3,024 x 1,064 Liquid Retina XDR display (mini-LED, 1,000 nits sustained brightness, wide color P3 gamut, ProMotion technology)
- Memory and Storage: 32GB Unified memory; up to 8TB
- RAM: Up to 64GB
- Dimensions and Weight: 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61 inches (31.26 x 22.12 x 1.55cm; W x D x H); 3.5 pounds (1.6kg)
- Battery Life: Up to 17 hours
- Ports: USB type-C ports 4.0 (3x); DisplayPort Thuderbolt (up to 40 Gbps); USB3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10 Gbps); HDMI port, SDXC card slot
- Inclusions: USB-C to Magsafe 3 Cable (2m); 67W USB-C Power Adapter (included with M1 Pro with 8-core CPU) 96W USB-C Power Dapater (included with M1 Pro with 10-core CPU)
My Two Cents
Good battery life is essential for DJ laptops, especially since some venues for your gigs would have outlets that are far from the stage. This laptop has proven itself to have that.
Not only that, but Apple’s Macbook Pro is the top choice of anyone in the creative industry, given that the music software and the DAW (digital audio workstation) can run seamlessly on this great laptop.
If you think your work and music files would require a top-performance laptop for DJing, this is the laptop for you. You can ask anyone in the creative industry, and they will tell you the same thing.
Especially since this laptop is upgradable, giving you more space and a higher level of performance no other laptop can do.
Of course, price is also one of the considerations.
So I would advise you to consider what you need in a DJ laptop before purchasing, especially if you won’t need this much processing power in a laptop.
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Pros
- A DJ software would work seamlessly on this laptop
- Impressive battery life
- User-friendly retina display
- Upgradable RAM and storage space
- Provided with warranty
- Relatively lightweight design
Cons
- NOT the most budget-friendly laptop
- Does not provide many ports; NOT IDEAL for a DJ setup
- Screen size may be small for some creative professionals
#2 No products found. – Best Value
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If you’ve seen the video showcasing all the beauty of this laptop, you will buy it too. This surface laptop does not disappoint.
This laptop is the top-of-the-line product of Microsoft, and I find its theater-like sound system enjoyable, especially when I’m using music production software.
Specs/Features
- Processor: 11th-Gen Intel Core i7-1185G7
- OS: Windows Operating System (Windows 10 Home and can be upgraded to Windows 11)
- Graphics: AMD Radeon Vega 11
- Display/Screen: 3.5-inch touch-screen, 2256 x 1504 (201 PPI)
- Memory and Storage: 512GB SSD (256GB, 1TB also available)
- RAM: 16GB
- Dimensions and Weight: 12.1 x 8.8 x 0.57 inches; 2.79 pounds
- Battery Life: up to 17 hours
- Ports: USB-C (1x); USB-A (1x), Surface connect port, headphone jack
- Inclusions: laptop, Quick Start Guide, Power supply (PSU)
My Two Cents
For me, the best laptops for DJs enable them to work with other people, especially those with the same music career.
Windows users enjoy this inclusivity, unlike Mac users. I especially liked that for its price, this laptop already has Intel Core I7, and with its 16GB RAM, this can surely handle DJing software.
For someone who travels a lot and would like to bring my work with me, this lightweight but powerful laptop is the BEST.
Have I mentioned that it has one of the most comfortable keyboards ever? Being a professional DJ can be tiring and monotonous, but this is an advantage.
The SSD storage is also HUGE, so you can save all the audio files you need for offline working and even create and save your tracks.
The laptop also has a built-in graphics card similar to other gaming laptops, so expect a screen resolution that even the music industry itself loves!
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Pros
- Touchscreen capability
- Perfect for multitasking
- Is fast charging compared to a gaming laptop
- Contains multiple USB ports for both USB-C and USB-A
- Has a built-in AMD Radeon graphics card
Cons
- Short battery life
- Does not have an SD card reader
- Some users complain of receiving defective products
- Touch screen is unusable if you use a DJ controller
#3 Acer Aspire 5 – Best Budget
You won’t always have to immediately splurge on the best laptop professional DJs use when starting your music production journey.
Everyone can start somewhere, and Acer Aspire 5 is a good starting point.
Specs/Features
- Processor: Intel Core i5-1035G1 (1.0 GHz with turbo boost up to 3.6 GHz)
- OS: Windows 10 Home
- Display/Screen: 15.6-inch 16:9 display, 1920 x 1080
- Memory and Storage: 8GB DDR4 memory; 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD, one available hard disk drive bay
- RAM: 8GB
- Dimensions and Weight: 14.31 x 9.74 x 0.71 inches; 3.96 pounds
- Battery Life: up to 5 hours
- Ports: USB 3.1 Gen 1 port (1x), USB 2.0 ports (1x), HDMI port with HDCP support
- Inclusions: AC Adapter, Power Cord
My Two Cents
If you want those powerful laptops that can do everything at the speed of light, this is NOT for you.
This is a mid-range laptop for DJing, especially when you are not using storage-heavy software.
I find this laptop lacking in numbers compared to other high-end laptops with advanced features, but I can say that this is the best laptop for a starting point.
Most DJs will appreciate its large screen, which allows more things to be seen from the laptop, providing more freedom and creativity for the DJ at work!
If you are someone new to the field of DJing and music production, consider trying out this laptop first before spending more money.
- Amd Ryzen 7 3700U dual-core processor (Up to 4.0 GHz) | 8GB DDR4 Memory | 512GB...
- 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen LED-backlit IPS display | AMD Radeon RX...
- 1 - USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, 2 - USB 2.0 Ports & 1 - HDMI Port with HDCP support
Pros
- Large 15.6-inch screen
- Built-in backlit keyboard – great for DJs working in dark clubs
- SUPER affordable!
Cons
- Only has the minimum system requirements
- Battery life is also short compared to most laptops
#4 Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 15
Have you ever seen a creative workstation as beautiful as this one? Well, neither have I, until I saw Asus Zenbook Pro Duo.
If you are wondering, the second screen is useful. This is a dream come true for everyone in the creative industry.
Specs/Features
- Processor: 10th generation Intel Core i9-10980HK Octa-Core Processor
- OS: Windows 10 Pro
- Graphics: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3070 GPU
- Display/Screen: 4K OLED HDR touchscreen; 3840 x 2160
- Memory and Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage
- RAM: 16 GB
- Dimensions and Weight: 14.17 x 9.87 x 0.85 inches; 5.16lbs (2.34kg)
- Battery Life: Up to 5 hours
- Ports: USB-C ports (3x) and HDMI
- Inclusions: Backpack, palm rest, sleeve, stylus, power adapter and cord, user guide, warranty card
My Two Cents
If you are looking for a laptop with big SSD storage, ASUS has your back.
In terms of operating systems, it also has the latest one, which is necessary if the DJ software requires that.
What sets the Zenbook apart from others is a seamless visual across both screens, or it can also be a multi-window experience.
Most DJs use different applications to put together the right tracks, so this could be an edge when you’re a multi-tasker like me.
I also believe that the best laptops don’t just have the numbers but also think about the user. It emits 70% less harmful blue light, so you can safely work for long hours without eye strain.
- Aspect Ratio:16:9
- ScreenPad Plus: 14 inch 4K matte touchscreen, giving your endless way to...
- 15.6 inch OLED 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) NanoEdge touchscreen glossy main display
Pros
- Dual-OLED touch screen takes care of visuals
- Powerful laptop at Intel Core i9
- Consists of high-speed RAM.
- Optimized cooling system addresses overheating
Cons
- Battery life can improve
- More costly compared to other laptops
#5 No products found.
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Versatile experience? Check. Fast processor? Check. Good battery life? Also, check.
At first glance, it’s easy for me to think that there isn’t much to this laptop and that it can’t do many jobs in music production, but that’s where I’m wrong. Let me show you why.
Specs/Features
- Processor: 10th Gen Intel Core i5 – Intel Core i7
- OS: Windows 11
- Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- Display/Screen: 13” PixelSense Flow Display (2880 x 1920p), up to 120Hz refresh
- Memory and Storage: 256 GB SSD storage
- RAM: 8GB – 32GB
- Dimensions and Weight: 12.74 x 9.09 x 1.91 inches; 1.7 lbs (0.77kg)
- Battery Life: Up to 10.5 hours
- Ports: USB-C port
- Inclusions: Power supply, Quick Start Guide, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG)
My Two Cents
Microsoft Surface Pro 8 is the company’s iPad version and has the same functionalities as a laptop.
The device has smaller bezels, which means bigger screens give that premium look.
Not to mention that it’s incredible how it has that level of resolution given its size AND a 120 Hz refresh rate. Honestly, that alone already sealed the deal for me.
However, I expected that the sound quality would be amazing, given that the color accuracy has been given attention.
The bassline is not clear in the background, and for someone in the music production industry who would be working with DJ software, that’s honestly a huge letdown.
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Pros
- Better battery life than most because of its Intel Evo certification
- Intel Core i5 or i7 delivers excellent music production
- Comes with a pre-installed version of Windows 11
- SUPER lightweight; perfect for people who travel a lot
Cons
- It does not have a USB-A port, so you have to get an adapter for that
- The type cover must be purchased separately
- Compared to other versions, its entry price is expensive
- It has a smaller SSD storage compared to others
#6 No products found.
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Dell has always been one of the most reliable laptop brands out there, and the XPS 13 is not an exception.
This laptop has earned its spot on the best laptops for DJs. And, it has got the specs to prove it.
Specs/Features
- Processor: 8th Generation Intel Core i7-8550U Processor (8M Cache, up to 4.0 GHz)
- OS: Windows 10 Home
- Graphics: Intel HD Graphics
- Display/Screen: 13.3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-Glare InfinityEdge Display, Non-touch Matte
- Memory and Storage: 256 GB flash memory
- RAM: 8GB RAM
- Dimensions and Weight: 7.87 x 0.59 x 11.97 inches; 2.64lbs
- Battery Life: Up to 9 hours
- Ports: SD card slot, USB 3.0 with PowerShare, Thunderbolt 3 Type C supporting: Power in/charging, PowerShare, Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps bi-directional), USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10Gbps), USB 3.0
- Inclusions: Power Adapter and Cord
My Two Cents
As someone who has experience with Dell laptops, I can say that they deliver when it comes to performance, and the laptops rarely slow down over time, even with heavy use.
However, given that the RAM of the Dell XPS 13 is only 8GB and it also has basic audio, I think mixing and creating your tracks would not be as enjoyable as in others.
Software such as Virtual DJ would require consistently great audio so you can work properly, and I don’t think it’s worth it if your laptop’s audio degenerates over time.
Speaking of audio, did you know that the Dell XPS 13 has many ports available within its hardware? This allows many DJs to utilize whatever device they want, like external speakers!
While Dell XPS 13 is amazing performance and speed-wise, it might not be the best investment if you’re planning to use it for DJing in the long term.
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Pros
- Impressive battery life
- Has a LOT of ports available
- Can be considered a portable workstation since it packs a punch for performance
Cons
- Some users have revealed they received a defective item
- Some users have been rejected for a refund
- The battery life may be shorter than advertised
- Price point is high
- Audio does not STAND OUT
#7 No products found.
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With such a beautiful display and resolution, who would not enjoy producing original tracks 24/7?
I have always been amazed by how Apple improves its product, and Macbook Pro 16 shows the dedication Apple puts into making sure its products help people.
Specs/Features
- Processor: Apple M1 Pro Chip
- OS: Mac OS
- Graphics: Apple 16-core GPU
- Display/Screen: 16.2-inch (diagonal) mini-LED backlit Retina display; 3456 x 2234 with ProMotion technology
- Memory and Storage: 512GB
- RAM: 16GB unified memory
- Dimensions and Weight: 0.66″ x 14.01″ x 9.77″; 4.7lbs (2.1kg)
- Battery Life: Up to 21 hours
- Ports: USB-C thunderbolt ports (3x)
- Inclusions: USB-C to MagSafe 3 Cable (2m), 140m USB-C Power Adapter
My Two Cents
The specification of this laptop makes it ideal for professionals in the music production industry, especially for those working with multiple software.
It may also be an excellent starting laptop for those who want to venture into DJing, but only for those who see it as a long-term career.
Purchasing a Macbook Pro is a HUGE investment; that’s why I would advise you to think it through before buying this laptop.
However, if you find yourself dedicated to DJing, feel free to buy this laptop, as I consider it a great asset to anyone working in the creative industry.
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Pros
- Great storage space for editing purposes
- Can manage powerful hardware and software (PCDJ DEX 3, Virtual DJ, etc.)
- Long battery life and sufficient RAM storage
- Supports fast charging
Cons
- Laptop is pricey
- Weighs heavier than others
Buying Guide for a Djing Laptop
I may have given you enough laptop options, but I’m certain you’re still unsure about what to choose.
When it comes to buying a laptop for Djing, it must meet the minimum requirements for DJing work to be done seamlessly.
Look for the following characteristics of a good laptop for your DJing journey:
Fast Processor & RAM
Music production requires some software that would need a lot of power and speed. Thus, you might need a processor with at least a minimum of Intel core i5 or its equivalent in Mac.
I know what you’re thinking, “How much RAM does my laptop need?”
Fast RAM is also recommended.
I would encourage you to get a laptop with at least 16GB of RAM available, as you would need this for huge files and plugins.
Remember, you don’t need to have a high graphics card with the best resolution and display, except if you would also be editing videos to add to your own tracks.
Some DJs do that, too, while some don’t. If you find yourself in the former group, feel free to go with a laptop with a high graphics card, as this can also aid you visually.
Battery Life
Everyone wants a laptop with a good battery, right? This factor is especially important for those who want to become a DJ.
Some gigs would have a stage where many outlets are available so that you can plug your laptop conveniently.
However, there are also some gigs with limited outlets, such as outdoor events. In these cases, longer battery life is recommended.
But, since a good DJing laptop would require a fast processor and RAM, the battery life is expected to be shorter than most.
I advise you to find a laptop that perfectly matches what you need, considering the upcoming gigs and where they are held.
Multiple Ports
If you have been a DJ before, you know the number of external devices you have to plug into your laptop, including the speakers, an external hard drive, and others.
This would be much more if you work with other music producers, especially using an external sound card and sometimes a DJ controller.
I would recommend having a laptop with a minimum of 3 USB ports, including one for USB-A and one for USB-C. This would ensure you can connect with either when necessary.
You may also purchase an onboard USB hub compatible with your laptop. In this way, you can connect multiple devices to a single hub and still have other ports open for other uses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
I’m sure you have questions and concerns even after reading this article.
This section, hopefully, will answer some of the questions you have! Here are the most frequently asked questions regarding the topic!
Why Do DJs Need Laptops?
Absolutely! A laptop is a must for anyone interested in becoming a DJ.
Although you can also use a tablet/iPad when accessing DJ software, a laptop would be necessary to mix your beats and prepare for your gigs.
What Are the Best DJing Software?
The most used software for a DJ is the following:
- DJ Pro
- Virtual DJ &Serato DJ
- Ableton Live
- PCDJ DEX 3
- Traktor
These DJ software range from ideal for starters until they become professional DJs.
These all can remix singular elements from multiple tracks and create new tracks from these same singular elements. It’s pretty amazing, honestly.
Should I Invest in an Expensive Laptop?
You’ve probably noticed that a lot of DJs use Mac laptops, and you’re wondering, “Should I buy the same?”
The answer is: IT DEPENDS.
It would help answer a few questions first before buying a new laptop.
- Am I dedicated to pursuing DJing, or am I just looking for a new hobby?
- Will I use this laptop exclusively for DJing or other purposes?
- Do I already have a laptop with similar specs that can do the job?
If you think that purchasing a Mac would be too big of an investment, that’s valid.
Especially since Mac has an exclusive operating system that would require an adjustment period if you’re previously using a Windows laptop.
Let’s Review: Top Three Best Djing Laptops
All the laptops enumerated here are exceptional, given that they all have their strengths and weaknesses.
Out of the 7 laptops, three stood out as best overall, value, and budget.
Best Budget Pick: Acer Aspire 5
- Amd Ryzen 7 3700U dual-core processor (Up to 4.0 GHz) | 8GB DDR4 Memory | 512GB...
- 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen LED-backlit IPS display | AMD Radeon RX...
- 1 - USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, 2 - USB 2.0 Ports & 1 - HDMI Port with HDCP support
Of course, you don’t always have to break the bank to do what you love.
The price of Acer Aspire 5 is half of the other high-end laptops here, while its performance isn’t half-bad.
You would have more limitations, yes, but Acer Aspire 5 promises that it would still get the job done.
Best Value: No products found.
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If I have some extra money to splurge, I won’t hold myself back from going with this laptop since its specifications speak for themselves.
I love how it has multiple ports for different types of USB. This makes this laptop inclusive and able to adapt to any situation.
It’s a high-range laptop, but there would be no regrets once you experience the extent of its power.
Best Overall: No products found.
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This laptop is hailed as the best because it has the perfect BALANCE of everything a DJing laptop needs without going overboard.
Aside from offering great value for money, it’s also VERSATILE, with upgradeable RAM and storage space.
I also love how it’s relatively light and can be brought around for work.
Some Last Words
DJing is one of the most interesting careers, but it does come with its requirements for good performances.
I hope you learned a thing or two from this article about the best laptop for DJing and hopefully found the right one for you!
Remember, if you can’t stop thinking about it, you’re probably meant to do it.
Thank you for reading! I hope your future DJing endeavors will make you SUCCESSFUL!