As an avid video editor and HitFilm Pro enthusiast, I understand the importance of finding the best laptop for HitFilm Pro to optimize your editing experience. HitFilm Pro, known for its versatility and powerful features, demands a capable machine to run smoothly and efficiently. With this guide, I aim to help you find the perfect laptop that meets the requirements of this professional-grade video editing software without breaking the bank.
My laptop selection process involved reviewing an extensive spreadsheet of recent releases, comparing specs, and analyzing both professional and user-generated reviews. The top laptops were narrowed down based on topic-specific requirements and various price ranges, ensuring you'll find a suitable option regardless of your budget. As a HitFilm Pro user, you'll want a laptop with a dedicated graphics card to handle the software's GPU-accelerated effects, a high-performance CPU for smooth editing, and ample RAM to avoid bottlenecks during complex projects.
While scouring the HitFilm Pro community, including forums and YouTube creators, I've taken into consideration the unique needs and preferences of users within this niche. This laptop buying guide will focus on the essentials for getting the best performance and user experience while running HitFilm Pro, from the importance of a color-accurate display to the benefits of a fast SSD for quick project load times. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to choose the best laptop for your HitFilm Pro editing needs, and take your video production skills to new heights.
Powering up your editing workflow: Choosing the right processor for Hitfilm Pro
Video editing is a resource-intensive task, and having a fast processor is crucial. When it comes to choosing the right processor for Hitfilm Pro laptops, there are a few options available in the market.
Processor options
Apple has recently released MacBooks with ARM-based M1, M2, M2 Pro, and M2 Max system-on-chip modules, offering exceptional single-core performance and battery life. AMD has also captured 20% of the laptop CPU market, with many laptops available with 6th-generation Ryzen CPUs. Additionally, AMD has begun shipping the first batches of laptops equipped with its latest 7th-generation Ryzen processors.
Intel's 13th-generation Core processors have already been released, but the 12th-generation Core CPUs can still provide a lot of value, particularly if you don't need cutting-edge performance. Both Intel's and Apple's silicon chips have adopted hybrid performance/efficiency core design based on big.LITTLE. However, Intel chips tend to struggle to keep power consumption low enough. Ryzen models are best if you need a good battery life in a PC laptop.
How much CPU is needed for video editing?
Video editing requires a fast processor, and the minimum requirement for most modern video editing software is a quad-core processor. However, for optimal performance, we recommend at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor.
Is it worth investing in a fast processor for video editing?
Yes, investing in a fast processor is worth it for video editing. It can reduce the time it takes to render videos and improve overall performance. A fast processor can also handle complex effects, transitions, and color grading with ease.
Other considerations
When choosing a processor, other factors to consider include thermals and battery life. Video editing is a power-hungry task that can quickly drain the laptop's battery. Hence, it's crucial to find a laptop that balances performance and battery life.
Recommended processors
Here's a table of recommended processors, depending on your budget.
| Budget | Processor |
|---|---|
| Minimum | Intel Core i3-1115G4 |
| Recommended | Intel Core i5-1135G7 or AMD Ryzen 5 5600H |
| High-end | Intel Core i7-11370H or AMD Ryzen 7 5800H |
We recommend using benchmarks like Cinebench R23, PassMark, and video encoding time benchmarks to compare the performance of different processors. Finally, if you want to save some money, look for a mid-range CPU with an Nvidia GeForce GPU; they deliver decent performance at a lower cost.
Lights, Camera, Graphics: The Ultimate Laptop for Hitfilm Pro
If you're looking for a laptop to use with Hitfilm Pro, you'll want to make sure it has a dedicated graphics card. The CPU alone won't be able to keep up with the demands of real-time video effects.
Nvidia continues to dominate the laptop GPU market, and their RTX 30 series cards are still the most prevalent. However, the recently released RTX 40 series cards are starting to hit the shelves.
For video editing, you'll need at least a mid-range to high-end GPU that supports GPU acceleration for effects and color grading. You can use synthetic benchmarks like 3DMark to compare different GPUs.
It's worth noting that you don't need a dedicated graphics card if you're not using any effects or color grading; in that case, an integrated chip will suffice.
When it comes to choosing the best graphics card for video editing, Nvidia still has the edge in terms of performance and features. AMD also offers excellent graphics processors, but Nvidia is currently the preferred choice for most video editors.
Here are our recommended GPUs for Hitfilm Pro, sorted by price:
| GPU | Average Laptop Price |
|---|---|
| Minimum: GeForce GTX 1650 | $800 |
| Recommended: GeForce RTX 3050 | $1200 |
| High-end: GeForce RTX 2060 | $1600 |
Keep in mind that the exact GPU wattage is determined by the laptop manufacturer (OEM), so even laptops with the same GPU chipset can have vastly different performance levels. Therefore, it's essential to check reviews and benchmarks before making a purchase.
RAMming up your Hitfilm Pro game
If you're a video editor and looking for a laptop to run Hitfilm Pro, RAM is one of the most critical components to consider. With Hitfilm's latest version supporting GPU rendering, having adequate memory is even more important.
How much memory do you need for Hitfilm Pro?
For basic projects with 1080p footage, 16 GB of RAM is the minimum requirement. However, if you're dealing with 4K footage, we highly recommend going for at least 32 GB of RAM to ensure smooth editing.
Is DDR5 worth it?
While the latest-gen Intel and AMD CPUs support DDR5, the technology is still quite expensive and needs time to mature. DDR4 RAM is still perfectly suitable for most users. However, if you can afford it, upgrading to DDR5 RAM can give you a slight performance boost, but it's not worth the expense if you're on a budget.
Other considerations – ECC, frequency, CL timings
ECC (Error Correcting Code) memory is generally used in servers and workstations, and it's not necessary for most video editing tasks. RAM frequency and CAS latency (CL) timings are also not as important for video editing as they are for gaming or other memory-intensive tasks.
My recommendations for various budgets
For those on a tight budget, 16 GB of DDR4 RAM will suffice. We recommend going for 32 GB if you have a little extra money to spend.
For high-end users working with 8K footage or using multiple high-resolution displays, we suggest going for 64 GB of RAM. However, keep in mind that this can be quite expensive.
In summary, for most video editing tasks in Hitfilm Pro, we recommend a minimum of 16 GB of RAM, with 32 GB being the sweet spot for most users. DDR5 RAM can provide a slight performance boost but is not necessary. ECC memory, frequency, and CL timings are not significant factors to consider for most video editing tasks.
Hitfilm Pro Laptop: Answering Your Burning Questions
Q: What are the laptop requirements for Hitfilm Pro?
The recommended requirements for running Hitfilm Pro on a laptop are:
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel i5 or better
- Memory: 16 GB RAM
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or better
- Storage: 1 GB of available hard-disk space for installation
Which laptops are best for Hitfilm Pro?
The best laptops for running Hitfilm Pro are those that meet or exceed the recommended requirements. Some laptops that fit these requirements and offer great performance include:
- HP Victus 15t (starting at $900)
- Lenovo Legion 5 Pro (starting at $1,350)
- GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4 (starting at $1,600)
- ASUS ROG Strix Scar (starting at $2,310)
- ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo (starting at $3,170)
Can Hitfilm Pro run on a laptop?
Yes, Hitfilm Pro can run on a laptop if it meets the recommended system requirements.
How much RAM do I need for Hitfilm Pro?
The recommended amount of RAM for running Hitfilm Pro is 16 GB. However, if you plan on working with more complex projects and multiple applications running simultaneously, it's recommended to go for 32 GB or even 64 GB of RAM.
What processor do I need for Hitfilm Pro?
Hitfilm Pro requires an Intel i5 or better processor. For better performance, you can opt for i7 or i9 processors. The recommended processors for Hitfilm Pro are i5-1135G7 and i7-11370H.
How to choose a laptop for Hitfilm Pro?
To choose a laptop for Hitfilm Pro, you need to consider the recommended system requirements. Look for laptops with at least 16 GB of RAM, an Intel i5 or better processor, and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or better graphics card. Also, make sure that the laptop has adequate cooling to handle the demands of video editing.
Is Nvidia graphics card necessary for Hitfilm Pro?
While it's not necessary to have an NVIDIA graphics card to run Hitfilm Pro, it's highly recommended. NVIDIA graphics cards provide better performance for video editing applications like Hitfilm Pro.
What are the recommended laptop specs for Hitfilm Pro?
The recommended laptop specs for Hitfilm Pro are:
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel i5 or better (i5-1135G7 and i7-11370H recommended)
- Memory: 16 GB RAM (32 GB or 64 GB recommended for complex projects)
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 or better (GeForce RTX 3050 or RTX 2060 recommended)
- Storage: 1 GB of available hard-disk space for installation
Is SSD important for using Hitfilm Pro on a laptop?
While it's not mandatory to have an SSD for using Hitfilm Pro, it's highly recommended. An SSD offers faster read and write speeds, which can significantly improve the performance of Hitfilm Pro, especially when it comes to loading and saving large video files.
Is MacBook Pro good for Hitfilm Pro?
While MacBook Pro is a powerful laptop, it's not the best option for using Hitfilm Pro. Hitfilm Pro is designed to work best on Windows-based systems, and Apple's macOS may not provide the same level of compatibility and optimization as Windows. Moreover, Hitfilm Pro requires an NVIDIA graphics card, which is not available in most MacBook Pro models.
5 Best Laptops for Hitfilm Pro
1.HP Victus 15
The HP Victus 15 is a budget-friendly laptop that can handle most tasks, including gaming, but don't expect it to excel in any particular area.- Excellent price
- Good gaming performance
- Solid array of ports
- Can double as a work laptop
- Bad battery life
- Rather plain design
- Weak GPU yields unsatisfactory frame rates
- Screen only so-so despite 144Hz refresh rate
Summary
The HP Victus 15 is a reasonably priced laptop that balances most tasks well. It's a good option for budget-conscious buyers who want a gaming-capable machine that can also handle other everyday computing needs. However, its battery life and design are not its strong points.
Alternatives
Lenovo Legion 5 17.3
- Decent gaming performance
- Reasonably quiet under load
- Short battery life
- Small touchpad
2.Lenovo Legion 5 Pro
Lenovo Legion 5 Pro is a powerful laptop with a high-quality display, fast charging and MUX support.- High quality 165 Hz 16:10 IPS display
- Relatively easy serviceability
- Integrated numpad
- Very fast charging
- Low resolution webcam with no IR or privacy shutter
- Very warm CPUGPU temperatures when gaming
- Moderate-heavy uneven backlight bleeding
- Only average battery life
Summary
Lenovo Legion 5 Pro is a laptop with upgraded AMD Zen 3+ CPU and GeForce RTX 3070 Ti GPU. It has a 165 Hz 16:10 IPS display, easy serviceability, integrated numpad, fast charging, and MUX support.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74
- Faster than most other GeForce RTX 3060 laptops
- 300 Hz IPS panel w full sRGB coverage
3.GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4
The GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4 delivers top-notch performance, but beware of its power-hungry nature.- Highly responsive 165Hz panel
- High system performance
- PCIe 4.0 SSD
- Thunderbolt 4 and Power Delivery
- High power usage at idle and low load
- No card reader
- Only one USB-A port
Summary
The GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4 is a powerful and responsive gaming laptop that delivers impressive performance, with a high refresh rate display, wide colour gamut and PCIe 4.0 SSD. However, it has a high power usage at idle and low load, and lacks a card reader and multiple USB-A ports.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513RM
- Solid build quality
- Good inputs and IO
- Quirks affecting everyday ergonomics
- No ThunderboltUSB 4, card-reader, camera or biometrics
4.ASUS ROG Strix Scar
ASUS ROG Strix Scar is a beastly gaming machine with a few flaws.- Sturdy construction
- Fast Wi-Fi 6E
- Excellent response times and no PWM
- Wide color gamut coverage with Dolby Vision support
- Limited display angle
- Heavy SSD throttling during continuous reads
- High heat and noise emissions under load
Summary
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar is a powerful laptop designed for gaming enthusiasts, with its excellent response times, fast Wi-Fi, and Core i9-12900H and RTX 3070 Ti performance. However, it has some cons such as high heat and noise emissions under load, limited display angle, and heavy SSD throttling during continuous reads.
Reviews
Alternatives
Acer Predator Triton 500
- High performance capabilities
- Excellent 240-Hz display
- Soldered-in RAM
- Inaccessible SSD
5.ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo
ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo is a powerful and impressive machine for deep-pocketed enthusiasts.- Thin and elegant design with dual displays
- Refined two-screen layout
- Impressive gaming performance with high-end components
- High cost
- Awkward keyboard and touchpad layout
- Poor battery life
Summary
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 is a thin and elegant laptop that packs a punch with its dual-screen setup and top-notch performance. While it comes with a hefty price tag, it delivers impressive gaming performance with its GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU and Ryzen 9 CPU.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Strix Scar G733CX-XS97
- Good QHD panel with 240 Hz refresh rate
- High and stable gaming performance
- Inconsistent SSD performance
- Additional premium for HX CPU isnt worth it
Table of the Best Laptops for Hitfilm Pro
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| HP Victus 15 | $880 |
| Lenovo Legion 5 Pro | $1,350 |
| GIGABYTE AORUS 15 XE4 | $1,600 |
| ASUS ROG Strix Scar | $2,310 |
| ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo | $3,170 |
