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Laptops For Music Production And Recording

10 Best Laptops For Music Production And Recording 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera, Touch ID; Starlight

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Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera, Touch ID; Starlight

Apple

10.0 score

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The Apple 2025 MacBook Air with the M4 chip is a strong contender for musicians and producers needing a portable yet capable laptop. Its 10-core CPU and 16GB of unified memory provide smooth performance for running multiple music apps and plugins simultaneously. The 256GB SSD is on the smaller side for large audio libraries and sample packs, so you might want external storage if you work extensively with big projects. Audio-wise, the MacBook Air shines with a high-quality four-speaker system supporting Spatial Audio and a three-mic array designed for clear voice recording and isolation, which helps with vocal tracking and online collaboration. The built-in 3.5mm headphone jack supports professional high-impedance headphones, which is useful for accurate monitoring.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,268
Processor (CPU)
Storage
Audio Interface Compatibility

Most important from
4196 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The MacBook Air delivers smooth and snappy performance, effortlessly handling multitasking with its powerful M4 chip and 16GB unified memory.
Storage
The 256GB SSD is sufficient for cloud-based workflows, though external storage might be needed for large audio libraries or sample packs.
Audio Interface Compatibility
Connectivity options may require adapters or hubs to manage multiple audio interfaces or external devices effectively.
Display
Its 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display is sharp and vibrant, making it easy to work on complex audio sessions and media projects without eye strain.
Battery Life
Battery life impresses with up to 18 hours of use, allowing extended music production sessions unplugged.
Build Quality and Portability
The lightweight and portable design makes it perfect for carrying between studios, gigs, or lectures without sacrificing power.
#2
9.7 score

Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024), Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, 13.8" Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Elite (12 core), 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage, Dune

Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024), Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, 13.8" Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Elite (12 core), 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage, Dune

Microsoft

9.7 score

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The Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024) offers a strong package for music producers who value portability and battery life. Its Snapdragon X Elite 12-core processor and 16GB of fast LPDDR5x RAM provide smooth performance for running multiple music apps and plugins without lag. The 512GB SSD gives you ample space to store your projects and samples, though power users with large libraries might want additional external storage. The 13.8-inch touchscreen display with a sharp 2304 x 1536 resolution is bright and clear, helping you manage your digital audio workstation and plugins with ease.

Rating
9.7
Processor (CPU)
Storage
Audio Interface Compatibility

Most important from
814 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The Surface Laptop delivers snappy, responsive performance with its Snapdragon X Elite processor, making everyday tasks and multiple apps run smoothly and quickly.
Storage
SSD storage is sufficient for most projects, though power users with large libraries might need external storage solutions.
Audio Interface Compatibility
Some specialized audio hardware or software may require extra setup due to the ARM-based Snapdragon processor architecture.
Display
Its 120Hz touchscreen display is bright and color-accurate, offering a noticeably smoother and more vivid experience compared to competitors in the same class.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, lasting through long work or travel sessions without frequent charging interruptions.
Build Quality and Portability
The lightweight, slim aluminum body is easy to carry, combining solid build quality with a design that resists fingerprints better than some rivals.
#3
9.4 score

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Max, 16‑core CPU, 40‑core GPU: Built for Apple Intelligence, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 48GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD Storage; Space Black

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Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Max, 16‑core CPU, 40‑core GPU: Built for Apple Intelligence, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 48GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD Storage; Space Black

Apple

9.4 score

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The Apple 2024 MacBook Pro with the powerful M4 Max chip is a strong choice for music production and recording thanks to its high-performance 16-core CPU and 48GB of unified memory, which can handle demanding audio software and multitasking with ease. Its 1TB SSD provides fast storage, though some users might want more space for large audio libraries and project files. The inclusion of a high-fidelity six-speaker system, three studio-quality microphones, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack with advanced support for high-impedance headphones ensures excellent built-in audio quality and compatibility with professional audio interfaces.

Rating
9.4
Processor (CPU)
Storage
Display

Most important from
517 reviews

Processor (CPU)
The MacBook Pro delivers exceptional power and performance, easily handling demanding applications with its M4 Max chip and 48GB RAM.
Storage
Storage on the internal SSD can feel limited, but fast Thunderbolt 5 external drives effectively supplement space without compromising speed.
Display
The 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display offers a larger screen real estate that enhances detailed work and provides a vivid, sharp visual experience.
Battery Life
Battery life is outstanding, supporting long sessions unplugged and outlasting previous models by a significant margin.
Build Quality and Portability
Despite its weight being noticeable, the balance of size and portability is appreciated, especially for those prioritizing screen size over extreme lightness.

Top 10 Best Laptops For Music Production And Recording 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score
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Apple

Apple 2025 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M4 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera, Touch ID; Starlight

Processor (CPU): Apple M4 10-core CPU, 4+6 cores
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 256 GB
Audio Interface Compatibility: 3.5 mm jack, supports high-impedance
Display: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina, 2560x1664
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours streaming
Build Quality and Portability: Lightweight, 2.73 lbs, 8.46x11.97x0.44

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25% OFF

Chosen by 1268 this week

#2
9.7  score
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Microsoft

Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024), Windows 11 Copilot+ PC, 13.8" Touchscreen Display, Snapdragon X Elite (12 core), 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage, Dune

Processor (CPU): Snapdragon X Elite, 12 cores
RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5x
Storage: 512 GB SSD
Audio Interface Compatibility: Good on Windows 11, some limits
Display: 13.8-inch touchscreen, 2304x1536
Battery Life: 20 hours
Build Quality and Portability: Slim, lightweight aluminum body

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#3
9.4  score
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Apple

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Max, 16‑core CPU, 40‑core GPU: Built for Apple Intelligence, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 48GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD Storage; Space Black

Processor (CPU): Apple M4 Max 16-core CPU
RAM: 48GB unified memory
Storage: 1TB SSD
Audio Interface Compatibility: 3.5mm jack, supports high-impedance headphones
Display: 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR, 120Hz
Battery Life: Up to 21 hours streaming
Build Quality and Portability: Solid build, portable, 4.7 pounds

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13% OFF
#4
9.1  score
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Apple

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Max, 14‑core CPU, 32‑core GPU: Built for Apple Intelligence, 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 36GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD Storage; Space Black

Processor (CPU): Apple M4 Max 14-core CPU
RAM: 36GB unified memory
Storage: 1TB SSD
Audio Interface Compatibility: 3.5mm jack, Thunderbolt 5, HDMI
Display: 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
Battery Life: Up to 21h video, 14h web
Build Quality and Portability: 4.73 lbs, 0.66 inches thick

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13% OFF
#5
8.5  score
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Razer

Razer Blade 14 (2025) Gaming Laptop: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 - AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 CPU - 3K 120Hz OLED Display - 16GB LPDDR5X RAM - 1TB SSD - Thin & Lightweight - Chroma RGB - Windows - Black

Processor (CPU): 2 GHz ryzen_ai
RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5X
Storage: 1 TB SSD
Display: 14-inch 2880x1800 3K OLED 120Hz
Battery Life: 11 Hours
Build Quality and Portability: Aluminum body, thin, 7.79 pounds

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#6
8.2  score
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Apple

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 chip with 10‑core CPU and 10‑core GPU: Built for Apple Intelligence, 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display, 24GB Unified Memory, 1TB SSD Storage; Space Black

Processor (CPU): Apple M4, 10-core
RAM: 24 GB
Storage: 1TB SSD
Audio Interface Compatibility: Thunderbolt 4, HDMI port
Display: 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR
Battery Life: All-day performance

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15% OFF
#7
7.9  score
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Apple

Apple 2025 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M4 chip: Built for Apple Intelligence, 15.3-inch Liquid Retina Display, 16GB Unified Memory, 256GB SSD Storage, 12MP Center Stage Camera, Touch ID; Silver

Processor (CPU): Apple M4
RAM: 16 GB
Storage: 256 GB
Audio Interface Compatibility: Four-speaker sound system, Spatial Audio
Display: 15.3-inch Liquid Retina, 2880x1864 resolution
Battery Life: Up to 18 hours
Build Quality and Portability: 3.32 pounds, 9.35 x 13.4 x 0.45

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21% OFF
#8
7.3  score
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msi

MSI Thin 15 15.6” 144Hz FHD Gaming Laptop: Intel Core i7-13620H, NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4050, 16GB DDR4, 512GB NVMe SSD, WiFi 6E, Win 11: Black B13VE-2678US

Processor (CPU): 13th Gen Intel Core i7, 2.4 GHz
RAM: 16 GB DDR4
Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD
Audio Interface Compatibility: HD audio, multiple USB ports
Display: 15.6-inch Full HD, 1920x1080, 144Hz
Battery Life: 4 Hours
Build Quality and Portability: Good build, 7.4 pounds

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7% OFF
#9
7.3  score
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HP

HP 17.3 inch Laptop, FHD Display, Intel Core i5-1334U, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, Windows 11 Home, Natural Silver, 17-cn3399nr

Processor (CPU): Intel Core i5-1334U, 4.6 GHz, 10 cores
RAM: 16 GB DDR4-3200 MT/s, 2x8 GB
Storage: 512 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
Audio Interface Compatibility: Headphone/mic combo jack, no interface
Display: 17.3" FHD IPS, anti-glare, 300 nits
Battery Life: 8 Hours
Build Quality and Portability: Sturdy, 15.78x10.15x0.81 in, 4.6 lbs

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#10
7.0  score
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Lenovo

Lenovo V-Series V15 Business Laptop, 15.6" FHD Display, AMD Ryzen 7 7730U, 40GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Numeric Keypad, HDMI, RJ45, Webcam, Wi-Fi, Windows 11 Pro, Black

Processor (CPU): AMD Ryzen 7 7730U
RAM: 40 GB
Storage: 1 TB SSD
Audio Interface Compatibility: Headphone/microphone combo jack
Display: 15.6” Full HD, 1920 x 1080
Build Quality and Portability: Solid build, 3.64 pounds

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10% OFF
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Buying Guide for the Best Laptops For Music Production And Recording

When choosing a laptop for music production and recording, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure that the device can handle the demands of audio software and hardware. Music production requires a powerful and reliable machine that can run digital audio workstations (DAWs), virtual instruments, and plugins smoothly. Here are the key specs to focus on and how to choose the best fit for your needs.
Processor (CPU)The processor is the brain of your laptop and is crucial for handling the complex tasks involved in music production. A powerful CPU ensures that your DAW runs smoothly and can handle multiple tracks, effects, and plugins without lag. Look for a multi-core processor, such as an Intel i5 or i7, or an AMD Ryzen 5 or 7. For more demanding projects, consider an Intel i9 or AMD Ryzen 9. If you plan to work with large projects or use resource-intensive plugins, opt for a higher-end processor.
RAMRAM (Random Access Memory) is essential for multitasking and running large projects in your DAW. More RAM allows your laptop to handle more tracks, effects, and virtual instruments simultaneously. For basic music production, 8GB of RAM may suffice, but for more complex projects, 16GB or more is recommended. If you work with large sample libraries or orchestral compositions, consider 32GB of RAM to ensure smooth performance.
StorageStorage is where all your files, software, and projects are saved. For music production, it's important to have fast and reliable storage. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are preferred over Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) because they offer faster read and write speeds, which can significantly reduce loading times and improve overall performance. Aim for at least 512GB of SSD storage, but if you work with large audio files and sample libraries, 1TB or more may be necessary. Some laptops offer a combination of SSD and HDD for additional storage capacity.
Audio Interface CompatibilityAn audio interface is a crucial component for recording and producing music, as it allows you to connect microphones, instruments, and other audio equipment to your laptop. Ensure that the laptop you choose has the necessary ports (such as USB, Thunderbolt, or USB-C) to connect your audio interface. Additionally, check for compatibility with your preferred audio interface to avoid any connectivity issues.
DisplayA good display is important for music production, as it allows you to see your DAW and plugins clearly. Look for a laptop with a high-resolution screen (Full HD or higher) to ensure that you can see all the details in your projects. A larger screen size (15 inches or more) can also be beneficial for viewing multiple tracks and plugins simultaneously. If you plan to work on the go, consider a laptop with a bright and color-accurate display for better visibility in different lighting conditions.
Battery LifeWhile battery life may not be the top priority for a music production laptop, it's still important if you plan to work on the go or in locations without easy access to power outlets. Look for a laptop with a decent battery life (at least 6-8 hours) to ensure that you can work on your projects without constantly needing to recharge. Keep in mind that more powerful laptops with high-end specs may have shorter battery life, so balance your needs accordingly.
Build Quality and PortabilityThe build quality and portability of a laptop are important factors to consider, especially if you plan to travel or move around frequently with your device. Look for a laptop with a sturdy build and a durable chassis to withstand the rigors of daily use. Additionally, consider the weight and size of the laptop; a lighter and more compact laptop is easier to carry around, but make sure it doesn't compromise on performance and features.

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