Best laptops for CyberLink PowerDirector 19 in 2023

CyberLink PowerDirector 19 screen

As someone who has spent countless hours using CyberLink PowerDirector 19 to edit and produce high-quality videos, I understand the importance of having the best laptop for video editing that can keep up with the demands of this powerful application. With so many laptops on the market, it can be challenging to find the one that meets the unique requirements of PowerDirector users. That's why I've taken the time to review an extensive laptop spreadsheet of recent releases, comparing specs and reviews, to help you find the best laptop for PowerDirector 19.

When looking for the best laptop for PowerDirector 19, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you need a laptop with a powerful processor and dedicated graphics card to handle the rendering and real-time playback demands of this application. Additionally, having ample RAM and fast storage is crucial for efficient video editing, as it allows you to work with large files and multiple layers without any hiccups. Finally, a color-accurate display is essential for ensuring that your final product looks its best on various screens and devices.

To help you find the perfect laptop for your PowerDirector 19 projects, I've narrowed down the top options based on these topic-specific requirements and various price ranges. Whether you're a professional video editor working on 4K content or a hobbyist looking to create stunning montages, this guide will provide you with the information needed to make an informed decision and choose the best laptop for your needs. So, let's dive in and find the ideal machine to elevate your PowerDirector 19 experience to the next level.

Processor that will work optimally with CyberLink PowerDirector 19

CPU blue

For the purpose of video editing and rendering, processor is the most important spec. It dictates how fast your laptop can handle CPU intensive tasks, which are heavily utilized during video editing and rendering.

Requirements

CPU for video editing is not like CPU for browsing the web. A fast multi-core CPU is what you need for successful video editing and rendering. For example, if you're planning to edit a movie with some effects, then that movie will be split across multiple frames (i.e., picture or scene). So each frame has to be processed separately by the CPU. But if your CPU only has one core – it can't do anything else at the same time, so it will slow down after some time.

Recommendations

If you're looking for a laptop for CyberLink PowerDirector 19, here are my recommendations:

  • Ryzen 5 4600H – medium range laptop with good single-core performance and 6 cores total; perfect for simple projects
  • Ryzen 7 5800U – recommended for experienced professionals who need a lot of power without going too high-end; 8 cores total with a pretty decent single-core performance
  • Ryzen 9 5900HS – for top-of-the-line performance; 8 cores total with the highest single-core performance
TL;DR
  • video editing requires fast multi-core CPU, not fast single-core CPU
  • 8 cores total with high single-core performance is best for video editing

The best graphics card for CyberLink PowerDirector 19 in 2021

Workstation vs. consumer graphics

GPU blue

You can find certified professional cards in the Quadro and FirePro lines, which offer the best performance for this application.

The three main differences are:

  • stability – the most stable chips are reserved for Quadro/FirePro lines
  • custom drivers for CyberLink PowerDirector that are specifically tweaked and tested to work with all the features CyberLink PowerDirector can offer
  • price – professional cards are more expensive, especially high-end cards.

Minimum graphics (under $1000)

As a minimum, you'll need a GTX 1650 Ti card to get by. It will give you a reliable framerate in lower resolutions and can handle up to 4K with some sacrifices in visual quality. I would recommend getting a better CPU, larger SSD, more VSTs, or sample packs if you're on a tight budget and don't work with video/3D and don't play new-ish 3D games.

Recommended consumer graphics ($1000 – $2000)

For $1000 – $2000, just go for a consumer-grade card such as RTX 2070. This will give you an excellent balance between stability and price. I'd also recommend these cards: RTX 2060 ($1700), RTX 2080 ($2600). If you're looking to spend less than $2000, I recommend these cards: RTX 3060 ($1600), RTX 3070 (~$2000).

TL;DR
  • professional cards are more expensive, especially high-end cards
  • consumer graphics are the best value for the money for video editing (especially RTX 2070)
  • go for a consumer graphics card (GTX 1650 Ti or better) if you're on a tight budget

Deciding on a memory

Minimum (8 GB)

RAM stick blue

It's been the standard for RAM capacity for the longest time. In 2021, 16 GB is becoming the new de facto choice for budget laptops, starting at around $650. If you can't go above that, 8 GB is still alright. In fact, it might be a wise choice if you're prioritizing the CPU, which is much more critical for CyberLink PowerDirector 19.

Recommended (16 GB)

If you aren't limited by a very tight budget – you'll most likely end up with a 16 GB laptop. It just seems to do the job for most laptops under $2k. That's the sweet spot for work, gaming, and everything in-between. These days a fast SSD can soften the impact of running out of RAM. That might be one of the reasons why I've noticed a slowdown in the continuous climb of RAM capacities in laptops. Especially if you're buying a bulkier laptop that can be easily upgraded, there's no need to sweat about getting 16 GB.

Best (32 GB)

If you're only running CyberLink PowerDirector 19, 32 GB is only necessary if you typically use lots of sample-based instruments (each running Multi-GB orchestral libraries & ROMpler style plugins, for example). But I doubt any of us are running CyberLink PowerDirector 19 "naked". I'd guess you'll have a browser running in the background and then a couple more applications on the side. In that case, 16 GB, while perfectly capable, is not optimal for the best laptop for CyberLink PowerDirector 19. That's why I recommend 32 GB for anyone going over $2000, where 32 GB laptops are ubiquitous. On top of that, 32 GB is a sure-fire way to future-proof your laptop.

More than 32 GB?

Is there a benefit going beyond 32 GB? Sure, the more, the merrier, but it's not necessary by any standard, and I'd instead invest in other components such as CPU or SSD.

TL;DR
  • the more RAM, the better for running complex projects with lots of instruments and effects
  • 16 GB is a good choice for budget laptops, starting at around $650
  • 32 GB is a sure-fire way to future-proof your laptop
  • going beyond 32 GB isn't necessary by any standard, and I'd instead invest in other components such as CPU or SSD.

Choosing a storage

The need for speed

Blue SSD

Some video editing programs are better at handling higher bit rates, while others are better at handling large, slow-motion clips. CyberLink PowerDirector 19 is the latter.

Storage needs for PowerDirector 19

To edit videos with CyberLink PowerDirector 19, you'll need at least 7 GB of free space on your computer's hard drive. That's not much when compared to other professional applications like AutoCAD or Premiere Pro, but it can be an issue if you don't have enough storage space.

The right size of SSD

While CyberLink PowerDirector 19 can run on a 256 GB SSD (or less), I recommend opting for a 512 GB drive instead. Even if you don't edit video footage in 4K resolution, you might want to start with a 1 TB drive if you plan on adding additional features in the future.

The right display

Essential display specs for video editing

Display video editing

It's not too difficult to find a decent display for video editing. Though, it might be a little harder to find the perfect one. Here are the key features you should be looking for:

  • Panel type – TN is an entry-level panel. It has mediocre image quality and doesn't support color-sensitive work (like video editing). Avoid TN displays, but if you're on a tight budget – it'll do.
  • Panel quality – better quality panels will provide you with better color accuracy, contrast, and brightness. But we're also looking for those displays that don't suffer from what's called "IPS glow". This means there's too much backlight bleeding and hence, you can see your own reflection on the screen. The ideal panel should have excellent contrast and colors as well as good brightness without IPS glow.
  • Display size – this can be tricky as it often depends on what you're using your laptop for. A smaller screen is fine for document editing and browsing the web. However, a bigger screen will be needed if you plan to edit videos or play games on your laptop. For video editing in particular, I would recommend 15" or 17" displays with high resolution (4K) to make sure your clips fit properly within the timeline without resizing them later on.

Laptop display recommendations for video editing

Here are the laptop displays I would recommend for video editing:

  • A 4K, IPS panel with high contrast and brightness. This is my personal favorite.
  • A 4K, IPS panel with excellent contrast and color accuracy.
  • A 4K, TN panel with decent contrast and color accuracy.
  • A FHD, IPS panel with decent contrast and color accuracy.
TL;DR
  • TN is an entry-level panel, avoid it for video editing
  • 4K displays are recommended for video editing in particular (15" or 17")
  • IPS panels are preferable over TN panels for video editing (no IPS glow)

PowerDirector FAQs

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Table of Best Laptops for {topic}

LaptopPrice (approx)

5 Best Laptops for CyberLink PowerDirector 19

$700
Ryzen 9 6900HX | RTX 3070 Ti | 64 GB RAM | 2000 GB SSD | 16″; 2560x1600 |

1.Lenovo Legion 5 Pro 16

CyberLink PowerDirector 19 laptop
Pros
  • Terrific processor (Ryzen 9 6900HX)
  • Splendid graphics card (RTX 3070 Ti)
  • Excellent memory amount (64GB)
  • Light-weight (5.48 lbs)
Cons
  • No IPS Panel (inferior color reproduction)
Alternatives
$730
HP Victus 15t
Pros
  • Low price
  • Solid entry-level gaming and productivity performance
Cons
  • Weak GPU leads to poor frame rates
  • Short battery life
$850
i7-12650H | RTX 3050 Ti | 64 GB RAM | 2000 GB SSD | 15.6″ IPS; 1920x1080 |

2.HP Victus

HP Victus is a budget gaming laptop, but its price-performance ratio falls short.
Pros
  • Easy serviceability, 2x SODIMM, 1x M.2 PCIe4 2280 SSD
  • Attractive visual design for a budget model
  • Relatively cool surface temperatures
  • Smooth 144 Hz refresh rate
Cons
  • Buggy battery life and fan behavior
  • No Thunderbolt or USB-PD support
  • Subpar Turbo Boost sustainability
Summary

Despite being a budget gaming laptop, HP Victus' GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU struggles to justify its price of $850. Its design is visually appealing, and its serviceability and smooth 144 Hz refresh rate are noteworthy features. However, buggy battery life and fan behavior, lack of Thunderbolt or USB-PD support, subpar Turbo Boost sustainability, and weak hinges are major downsides.

Alternatives
$880
HP Victus 15
Pros
  • Excellent price
  • Good gaming performance
Cons
  • Bad battery life
  • Rather plain design
$1,300
i7-12700H | RTX 3060 | 16 GB RAM | 1000 GB SSD | 15.6″ IPS; 1920x1080 |

3.ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74

ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74 is a great gaming laptop with powerful specs, but with some drawbacks.
Pros
  • Powerful specs, including 140 W TGP GeForce RTX 3060 and 12th gen Alder Lake-H CPU update.
  • 300 Hz IPS panel w full sRGB coverage.
Cons
    Summary

    The ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74 is a powerful gaming laptop with a 140 W TGP GeForce RTX 3060 and 12th gen Alder Lake-H CPU update. It features a 300 Hz IPS panel w/ full sRGB coverage, 2x SODIMM, 2x M.2 PCIe4 x4, and MUX switch. However, it comes with some drawbacks such as chassis base and lid flexing, no per-key RGB lighting, shorter WLAN runtimes, larger power brick, and spongy clickpad.

    Alternatives
    $1,230
    Dell G15
    Pros
    • Excellent CPU and GPU performance
    • Very good battery life
    Cons
    • Dim display with poor color space coverage
    • No Thunderbolt connectivity
    $2,310
    Ryzen 9 5900HX | RTX 3080 | 64 GB RAM | 4000 GB SSD | 15.6″ IPS-level G-Sync; 1920x1080 |

    4.ASUS ROG Strix Scar

    ASUS ROG Strix Scar is a sturdy gaming laptop with excellent performance, but is let down by high heat and noise emissions.
    Pros
    • Sturdy construction
    • Fast Wi-Fi 6E
    • Excellent response times and no PWM
    • Wide color gamut coverage with Dolby Vision support
    Cons
    • Limited display angle
    • No biometric login
    • High heat and noise emissions under load
    • Heavy SSD
    Summary

    The ASUS ROG Strix Scar is a powerful gaming laptop with an improved WQHD 240Hz panel, Intel Alder Lake Core i9-12900H and a 150W Nvidia RTX 3070 Ti. While it offers great performance, the laptop has some drawbacks such as high heat and noise emissions, limited display angle, and no biometric login.

    Alternatives
    $2,500
    Dell XPS 17 9720
    Pros
    • Excellent 4K display with AdobeRGB
    • High-quality case
    Cons
    • Lower graphics performance than the predecessor
    • Performance not completely stable under combined load
    $3,470
    i7-13700HX | RTX 4090 | 64 GB RAM | 4000 GB SSD | 17.3″ IPS; 2560x1440 |

    5.HP Omen 17

    HP Omen 17 is a high-performing QHD gaming laptop with expandable memory but is noisy with a short battery life.
    Pros
    • QHD display with 165 Hz
    • Advanced Optimus technology
    • Expandable working memory
    Cons
    • High noise level
    • Clattery case
    • Meager battery life
    Summary

    HP Omen 17 is an impressive QHD gaming laptop with a powerful configuration and expandable memory. It features a 165 Hz display and advanced Optimus technology. However, it has a high noise level, clattery case, and meager battery life.

    Alternatives
    $4,000
    MSI Titan GT77 12UHS-064
    Pros
    • Bright and vivid 4K display with good color coverage
    • High system performance with Core i9-12900HX and GeForce RTX 3080 Ti
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Heavy and bulky

    Table of the Best Laptops for CyberLink PowerDirector 19

    LaptopPrice (approx)
    Lenovo Legion 5 Pro 16$700
    HP Victus$850
    ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74$1,300
    ASUS ROG Strix Scar$2,310
    HP Omen 17$3,470
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    John Winstler
    With over a decade of experience in the tech industry, combined with a degree in computer science, I have developed an in-depth knowledge of laptops, PC games, software, 3D modeling, video editing, and photo editing. My detailed and unbiased laptop reviews have helped many people make informed decisions about their technology purchases.

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