Elevate your UX design game in 2024 with our recommendations for “laptops for UX designers.”
You require a powerful laptop for your work as a UX designer. Choosing the best laptop for UX design is difficult because many options are available. In 2024, I recommend designers wanting to purchase a new laptop.
This is because too many distinct types of computers are readily available on the market. Thus, each laptop has slightly different specifications and may employ jargon in its description that not everyone will be familiar with. In all of this, it is easy to become lost. You need a gadget with a powerful central processing unit and plenty of storage capacity for simple file storage. Additionally, you must have a comfortable laptop with an attractive screen.
The matter is that there are currently too many distinct types of computers available. Each laptop has somewhat different specifications, and fine print in technical specifications matters when selecting Laptops for UX Design Professionals and Students. I will advise you on choosing the ideal laptop for your UI and UX design work in this post. Budget-friendly choices for novices and students of design will also be included in this post.
I’ll pick a laptop that will work for every UI or UX designer. This covers the contemporary UI/UX design position and specialized UI and UX designers. We’ll lead you through three stages to aid in your decision. Choose a Mac or a PC for UI/UX design. The specifications your designed laptop should have. Based on the first two phases, here are my suggestions. I’ve updated this guide with the most recent information to ensure you buy the best laptops for UX designers in 2024.
Windows or Mac for UX Design – What’s Good for UX Designers?
The first step in choosing the finest laptop for UI and UX design is to decide between Windows and Mac. Mac formerly reigned supreme in the design world. However, a Windows computer may be used properly for design. Most designers still use Macs in modern times. This is how it has always been.
One of the most popular tools designers use, Sketch, is only accessible as a native macOS program. Perhaps it is why they acted in this way. The unknown! In any case, a Mac is not a must for UI or UX designers. Yes, it is frequent, but other factors must be considered. These are the two queries you should ask.
What Devices do Your Coworkers or Business Partners Use?
Following the computers of your coworkers or business partners will save you a lot of time and stress. Together, they perform better. Do all of your coworkers use Mac computers? Also, purchase a Mac. Last but not least, there’s the myth that Mac computers cost more than Windows laptops.
The premium MacBook Pro is incredibly pricey. But the same holds for a comparable Surface Book 3. Look at the comparative picture up there. It will assist you in selecting Windows or Mac for your new laptop regarding UI and UX design.
Selecting The Right Laptop Specifications for UI and UX design
For UI and UX design, there isn’t just one type of computer that works well. There are many different specifications, brands, and models to choose from. If you’re searching for a new computer, pay more attention to these laptop specifications than brands. Most manufacturers provide laptops with the features you need in a good laptop for UX design.
You need to be aware of a few different sorts of needs. I’ll provide a minimal standard for each of these areas.
- CPU
- RAM
- GPU
- Storage
- Screen size
CPU
The Central Processing Unit is known as the CPU. It serves as the computer’s brain. To manage your everyday job as a UX designer, you need a strong CPU. A powerful CPU has multiple cores and a high clock speed (GHz).
If you look at laptops, you’ll see many of them have Intel CPUs. Intel has i3, i5, i7, and i 9 CPUs. Apple, however, has turned away from Intel. For more information on the CPU Apple now utilizes in its laptops, see my article on the best Mac for UX design.
In the design world, there is continuous debate over choosing an i5 or an i7 CPU for your laptop. You will be OK using a laptop with an i5 CPU as a UI and UX designer.
The i7 is available if you desire more but is not required. Remember that every CPU belongs to a certain generation. For instance, a slower generation i7 than a faster version i5.
CPU – In brief, you need a laptop with at least the most recent Intel i5 CPU if you’re a UI and UX designer. It’s optional to go higher than that.
GPU
The term “Graphics Processing Unit” is used. On your laptop, it is in charge of rendering visuals. GPUs may be split into two groups. In the first, the GPU is integrated with the CPU. An internal GPU is a system of this type. Since internal GPUs are more economical, energy-efficient, and smaller, you frequently find this in less expensive laptops.
A dedicated GPU, sometimes known as a GPU on a separate chip, is the opposite. Such a GPU costs more money and is much more powerful. The tools UI and UX designers use are frequently vector-based; therefore, they do not need this capability. However, I still advise purchasing a laptop with a dedicated GPU because designers frequently work on many tools simultaneously.
GPU in brief -Purchase a laptop with an integrated GPU. Any laptop you wish to utilize for UI and UX design must have it. Tools for vector-based design don’t demand a lot from the GPU. Having that additional headroom, though, makes your laptop future-proof.
RAM
Random access memory: Your laptop’s short-term memory is its memory or RAM. It goes by quickly. Everything that your program needs to access immediately is stored in RAM. You become aware of this when you launch an application for the second time. It will start up a lot faster. Opt for at least 16 GB of RAM if you want your design apps to perform properly. Better is more RAM. In comparison to other laptop specifications, upgrading is inexpensive for UX design. RAM has seen a great deal of progress. ‘DDR4’ RAM is the current standard. DDR4 memory is present in
RAM in brief – Because RAM is quite inexpensive, you may purchase a sizable quantity of RAM for a reasonable cost. As a result, I suggest getting a new laptop with at least 16 GB of RAM.
Storage
Bigger is better, but laptop storage has to be faster and made with the latest technology. Your papers, photos, and movies will have more space with extra storage. Modern laptop storage is referred to as a solid-state drive (SSD). The typical HDD is much slower than a solid-state device. It also uses less electricity, has fewer moving components, and produces less noise. SSDs come in a variety of shapes and sizes. PCIe is the latest one. In terms of size, it is the tiniest and moves the fastest. PCIe may be up to six times quicker than SATA SSDs and up to twenty times faster than the conventional HDD compared to the older SATA standard.
Storage in brief– To put it briefly, we advise sticking with at least 250 GB of storage for your laptop. If you can, opt for 500 GB. Remember that purchasing extra storage will cost you more because solid-state drives (SSDs) are still pricey.
Screen size
Typically, laptops range in size from 13 to 16 inches. Again, more is preferable, but it has a cost. The screen size most likely influences the price of your laptop. Sometimes, upgrading to a bigger screen could result in a price increase for your laptop. The major reasons for this are the often high cost of display panels and the generally superior specifications of bigger laptops. The resolution of your laptop screen is another item to take into consideration. I advise using a laptop with at least a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution for UX and UI design work. However, get a 1440p or 4K screen with a higher budget for a laptop.
Choose a laptop with a 13- or 14-inch screen size if you work on a second screen to save money. If you don’t mind things appearing a little crowded on the screen, you can get away with this size screen. A laptop with a smaller screen typically also has lower other specifications.
I recommend viewing the video above, comparing the 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro, depending on screen size. Finding the proper screen size is crucial for you. Screen size: If you’re a UI and UX designer, I’d advise settling on a 13 or 14-inch laptop. But if you can, choose the larger size. The larger screen is advantageous.
Top Laptops For UX Designers (2023)
| Laptop | Brand | Features |
Apple MacBook Pro M2 Pro 14″ – $2500 | MacBook | a really powerful laptop that lasts all day at work. |
| Microsoft Surface Book 3 13.5 – $1150 | Microsoft | support for touch and the Surface Pen in a 2-in-1 hybrid. |
| Surface Laptop 4 13.5″ – $899 | Microsoft | a great option if you prefer a non-hybrid Surface. |
| Apple MacBook Pro M2 13″ -$1460 | MacBook | includes the M2 chip, which uses less power. |
| Legion 5″ – $1199 | Lenovo | It has the GPU necessary to serve as a gaming laptop as well. |
| i5 Touch HP – $533 | HP | with an i5 processor and specialized graphics. |
| HP Pavilion – $599 | HP | large SSD storage and GPU. |
| MSI GF63 – $750 | MSI | large-screen computer for use in UX design |
| IdeaPad Flex 5 – $749 | Lenovo | more affordable 2-in-1 hybrid option |
| ZenBook 14 – $745 | Asus | The most exquisite budget laptops from Asus. |
| Galaxy Book Odyssey – $815 | Samsung | The Surface Book and MacBook rival from Samsung. |
| ConceptD 3 | Acer | a large-screen computer for use in UX design |
This table has some of the top laptops for UX designers currently on the market. They are all based on the enumerated characteristics.
- CPU: Intel i5 or higher current generation.
- GPU: A specialized GPU, such as an NVIDIA GeForce.
- RAM: 16GB or more.
- Storage: An SSD with at least 250 GB of space.
- Minimum 13-inch display size for the screen.
Most online stores let you filter based on these criteria. You may find the laptops I described above and others on Amazon, for instance, if you search for laptops there.
Laptops that work well for UX design
I advise you to get a MacBook Pro or a Microsoft Surface Book 3 from the list I listed above.
A major benefit is having the same business develop the hardware and the software. As you’ll discover, this is true for both the Mac and the Surface Book. In my opinion, both of them are excellent machines on their own. Both their pricing and performance are comparable. You will have plenty of work as a UX or UI designer for years.
Let’s examine the two laptops.
Macbook Pro – 14″ M2 Pro
The most recent MacBook Pro comes first. The 14-inch M2 Pro setup looks like this. After using it for a time, I can confidently declare that any designer would benefit much from this machine.
As I have stated, the fact that the same company makes the hardware and software is crucial. Apple complies with this. The hardware is of the highest calibre, and macOS is a speed demon. The specifications are shown below.
- CPU and GPU: 10-core CPU and 16-core GPU in the M2 Pro.
- Up to 8 TB of storage.
- RAM: Options for RAM up to 96 GB.
- 14-inch screen size.
- A 17-hour battery life is possible.
Yes, you need the MacBook Pro 14-inch model. The 14-inch and 16-inch variants function pretty similarly. The 16-inch model may be set up to have an M2 Max. However, you do not require the M2 Max to operate your design programme. I also think the laptop has adequate space for you to complete your UX design work. You may always get a second monitor if this is insufficient for your UX design job. Select the more compact variant. Additionally, you’ll save hundreds of dollars on an already pricey buy with the 14-inch model.
Surface Book 3 – 13.5″
Any designer will like the Surface Book 3. I have a short attention span. Microsoft has at last created a Windows-based MacBook Pro substitute.
You may also use this hybrid 2-in-1 laptop as a tablet. The laptop also supports the Microsoft Surface Pen for all your creative requirements. Consider what you can do while you’re moving. Here are some details on the Surface Book 3.
- CPU: an Intel Core i7 running at 1.3 GHz.
- GPU: Dedicated GeForce graphics from NVIDIA.
- RAM: 8 GB and 16 GB are available.
- Options for 256 GB and 512 GB of storage.
- 13-inch screen size.
- 20-hour battery life
I need not go into greater detail about what Windows 10 can achieve for you now. You may utilize all the necessary applications like Figma and the Adobe Creative Suite. The Microsoft Surface Book 3 recently received a hardware upgrade, so it will still be a fantastic investment in 2024.
Also read- 7 Best Laptops for Engineering Students
Best Laptop for UX Design Below $1000
Since purchasing a new laptop might be expensive, I’ll also provide cheaper alternatives in the list above. You can use these laptops without any problems. Still, as you move from the student to the professional phase or as your UI/UX design business expands, you can consider upgrading to more powerful laptops.
UX Design Laptop Accessories
You need a few add-ons for your laptop to set up a complete workplace for yourself. The two most crucial are a laptop stand and a second screen since they will help you avoid neck and back pain after long hours at a desk. An external keyboard, mouse, mouse pad, and storage are further add-ons. A comprehensive list of laptop accessories is something I’m working on. To see the most recent list, come back soon.
Conclusion
Many excellent alternatives are available for the best laptops for UI/UX designers and graphic artists. However, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5, LG Gramme 15, and ASUS ZenBook 14 all stand out as good options. Each provides advantages and features tailored to the particular requirements of UI/UX designers. The best option will ultimately rely on your tastes and financial situation. Purchasing a high-quality laptop, regardless of the model you decide, will enable you to work more productively and provide better results.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
The suggested specifications for laptops used for UI and UX design are complete. However, I still have a few commonly asked topics to address before I wrap up. Please look at them down below.
Q. 1 What is the best laptop for UI/UX design?
Having the appropriate laptop may significantly increase your efficiency and creativity in UI/UX design. When picking a laptop for UI/UX design, keep the following elements in mind:
Laptop Screens Size and Resolution: You can see more of your design work and make more accurate revisions with a larger screen and better resolution.
Performance: To tackle the demands of UI/UX design software, you’ll need a laptop with a quick CPU and lots of RAM.
Battery life is crucial for UI/UX designers because they frequently work on the move.
You should get a portable laptop to transport it to meetings and workspaces easily.
Q. 2 Should I get a hybrid two-in-one computer like the Microsoft Surface Book, for instance?
You can, indeed! The tablet-laptop hybrid market has a tonne of fantastic possibilities. Consider all the Microsoft Surface laptops available to graphic artists. The Microsoft Surface Book 3, a superb two-in-one Windows computer, is among my favourites. I heartily endorse it. It fulfils each need I listed above. It may even function as a tablet, which is convenient if you frequently travel and enjoy drawing.
Q.3 Can a UX designer use a tablet?
To provide you with a quick response. Using a tablet, you can work as a UI, UX, or graphic designer. Every year, new iterations of tablets from manufacturers like Apple and Microsoft improve the technology. All you need to do is ensure your tablet has a powerful enough processor and a large enough screen. Any tablet may be used to access Figma. If you use a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse, it will function perfectly well. The Microsoft Surface Book 3, a superb two-in-one Windows computer, is among my favourites. I heartily endorse it. It fulfils each need I listed above. Even a tablet may be used with it, which is convenient for you.
Q.4 Gamers’ laptops—are they suitable for graphic design?
Yes! You may utilize gaming laptops for graphic design in practically every situation. But it also works the opposite way around. These laptops would need a potent dedicated GPU in both scenarios. There is a good possibility that your gaming laptop has a powerful GPU. You require just that. There is, however, more. I suggest reading my piece on why gaming laptops are useful for graphic design if you want to learn more about it.
Q.5 What computer requirements do I have for graphic design?
You should choose an AMD or Intel contemporary CPU for an excellent graphic design laptop. Regarding MacBooks, Apple has its chip—the M1—which also functions superbly. If you want to future-proof the laptop and choose Intel or AMD, we advise purchasing a 13th-generation Intel or AMD Ryzen 7000 mobile processor. Look for the M2 series of processors if you’re an Apple enthusiast. The more RAM you have, particularly if you wish to multitask, the better. We advise a minimum of 8GB RAM. However, 16GB RAM is optimal if your budget allows it.
Consider using a dedicated graphics card, especially for workloads that need heavy graphics. However, they may significantly increase the cost of a laptop, and contemporary integrated GPUs are sufficient for regular graphic design use. However, a standalone graphics card is necessary for any intensive usage.
Q.6 Which laptop manufacturers provide the greatest UI/UX designs?
UI/UX designers and graphic designers frequently use laptops from the following manufacturers: Apple, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and ASUS. When choosing a laptop, it’s necessary to consider personal preferences and spending limits because these businesses provide a selection of laptop models with different features and pricing points. Considerations like construction quality, customer service, and general reputation in the design world should be considered when selecting a brand.
Q.7 What laptop specifications are necessary for UI/UX design?
A UI/UX design laptop should have at least an Intel Core i5 or i7 CPU, 8GB or 16GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card to enable a smooth workflow and effective design process. Additionally, it should have a monitor with a high resolution and correct colour representation, as well as enough storage to accommodate huge design files.
Hopefully, this exploration into laptops for UX designers has provided valuable insights, empowering you to make an excellent choice that fuels your creativity and enhances your design journey.
