As a digital DJ, finding the best laptop for Traktor Pro 3 is crucial to ensure seamless and high-performance mixing during your live sets or studio sessions. With the vast number of laptops available, it can be challenging to identify the most suitable option that meets the specific requirements for running Traktor Pro 3 efficiently. Fear not, as I have reviewed an extensive spreadsheet of recent laptop releases, comparing specs and reviews (both professional and user-generated) to help you find the perfect match for your DJing needs.
Traktor Pro 3 requires a laptop with a powerful processor and sufficient RAM to handle multiple audio tracks, effects, and real-time processing without latency or performance hiccups. Additionally, DJs often prefer laptops with reliable build quality, a robust cooling system, and a high-quality display for clear visual feedback during live performances. Portability is another essential factor to consider, as you'll likely be transporting your laptop to gigs and events.
Having spent countless hours researching and comparing laptops while keeping in touch with the Traktor community, I am well-versed in the unique requirements and preferences of DJs using Traktor Pro 3. By focusing on these specific needs and factoring in various price ranges, I have narrowed down the top laptops to help you make an informed decision when selecting the best laptop for Traktor Pro 3, allowing you to focus on perfecting your mixes and captivating your audience.
Processor for Traktor Pro 3
There are many factors that contribute to the performance of a laptop, but nothing is more important than the processor. A higher-end CPU means that the rest of the hardware will be able to take advantage of all its resources, which will result in better overall performance.
Requirements
One of the most popular brands for laptops is Intel. For their latest generation of processors, Intel has released two series: Coffee Lake and Whiskey Lake. These two series differ in their core counts and price points. For Traktor Pro 3, Coffee Lake is the best option due to its higher single-core performance. The Whiskey Lake series offers more cores at a lower price point but does not perform as well on single-core tasks.
Recommendations
For an Intel processor, I recommend anything above i5-1135G7 as long as it's from the Coffee Lake series. This way you'll be able to have a smoother experience with Traktor Pro 3. If you're looking for a cheaper option, then I recommend anything from the i5-10300H line as long as it's from the Whiskey Lake series.
Picking a good graphics card
In the past, the best option for laptops with less than $1000 was to go with integrated graphics. However, as laptops have become more powerful and cheaper, it's now possible to get a laptop with a GTX 1650 card for under $1000. It's still not perfect – there are many instances where integrated graphics will be enough. But if you're using Traktor Pro 3 or work in audio production – you'll need a GPU that supports OpenGL 2.1 or higher.
Dedicated vs. integrated graphics
There are two main options: use an integrated graphics chip (included on all new laptops) or use a dedicated GPU (such as GTX 1650). You'll need to trade off your budget against performance – do you want your computer to work on audio processing smoothly, or do you want it to play games smoothly?
If you're looking for the best of both worlds – go for RTX A5000/A6000 cards. They're pricey but offer the best performance out of any consumer-grade card on the market.
The right memory
Minimum (8 GB)
8 GB RAM is the standard starting point for laptops. If you're not too demanding, it should be enough for Traktor Pro 3. But don't fool yourself – you'll need more if you want to take your DJ skills to the next level.
Recommended (16 GB)
If you're looking for a good balance between price and performance, then 16 GB should be your sweet spot. I've noticed that there's been a slowdown in the continuous climb of RAM capacities in laptops, so there's no need to sweat about getting 16 GB.
Best (32 GB)
If you're going over $2000, where 32 GB laptops are ubiquitous, then 32 GB is the way to go. You can't go wrong with future-proofing your laptop. And if you're a hobbyist who only needs a few tracks – then 8GB is fine as well. But I wouldn't recommend going below 8GB if you plan on running Traktor Pro 3 as a professional DJ, as this would most likely cause issues with latency and poor performance due to insufficient RAM resources.
- 8GB is enough for casual use of Traktor Pro 3, but you'll need more if you plan on taking your DJ skills to the next level
- 16GB is the sweet spot between price and performance, so it's a good balance between price and performance
- 32GB is good for future-proofing your laptop if you're going over $2000 for a laptop, as 32GB is becoming ubiquitous for this price range
Picking a good storage
Choosing the right storage device
We'll break down the choices by capacity, since that's where the difference lies. Here are the most common capacities found in laptops today:
256 GB SSD – this is the bare minimum for professionals that are doing nothing but DJing with Traktor Pro 3. That's also plenty of space for other applications, but you'll need to be mindful of how much space is being used.
512 GB SSD – this is an excellent amount of storage space, if not the most optimal. You should have more than enough room for everything you need, but there's always room for improvement. If you have an extra $200 or so, upgrading to a 1 TB SSD will offer significant benefits to your workflow.
1 TB SSD – these are the best laptops for Traktor Pro 3 DJs. If you can afford it, I highly recommend getting a laptop with a 1 TB SSD – these are rarer and often more expensive, but they're worth it. And if you're willing to pay even more money (or if you don't mind waiting), 2 TB or 4 TB laptops might be your perfect fit!
2 TB SSD – the newest laptops come with this size by default, but they're usually pricey and less practical than other options unless you know what you're doing.
4 TB SSD – this size of storage is only really practical for studios that use specialized software or need to archive uncompressed audio files or video footage.
- 256 GB SSD is a bare minimum for DJs
- 512 GB SSD is an excellent amount of storage space, but you can always get more!
- 1 TB SSD is the best size for DJs, but 2 TB and 4 TB are also available for professionals and studios
How to choose the right display for playing Traktor Pro 3?
A laptop's display is one of the most important things to consider when purchasing a laptop. However, for Traktor Pro 3, the display is not the main thing.
Display type
TN panels are very affordable and make for an excellent budget display. The only thing they lack is viewing angles. If you're looking for something more professional-grade, then look for IPS panels.
If you want to go all out, OLED screens are now available in top-of-the-line laptops. I would avoid them though, as their prices are exorbitant.
Screen size
Laptops come in different sizes and resolutions – this means that you'll have to pick one that's appropriate for your needs. The two main options are 15" and 17". For music production, you might need a 17" screen so that you can see waveform transients better – or maybe you want to work on images too? In that case, go with a 15" laptop with Full HD resolution. But beware – higher resolutions mean more battery drain, so if you need to squeeze every last minute of battery life out of your laptop – then just stick with a FHD panel and get a smaller device.
- go with a FHD panel and get a smaller device for music production
- go with a Full HD or 4K panel if you need to work on images too
Traktor Pro 3 FAQ
Q: What are the system requirements for Traktor Pro 3 on a laptop?
The system requirements for Traktor Pro 3 on a laptop are as follows:
- Storage: Minimum 256 GB SSD, Medium 512 GB SSD, Maximum 1 TB SSD
- Graphics: Minimum integrated graphics, Medium GTX 1650 Ti, Maximum RTX 3050
- Display: Minimum FHD, TN, Medium FHD, IPS, Maximum FHD, IPS
- Processor: Minimum i5-1135G7, Medium i5-10300H, Maximum i7-1185G7
- Memory: Minimum 8 GB, Medium 16 GB, Maximum 32 GB
Please note that these requirements ensure a smooth and reliable performance when running Traktor Pro 3.
Best laptops for running Traktor Pro 3?
The best laptops for running Traktor Pro 3 depend on your budget and performance needs. Here are some recommendations:
- Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G1: $290
- Lenovo Legion 5 Pro 16: $700
- HP 17: RECOMMENDATIONS_ALL,330
- ASUS ROG Strix Scar: $2,310
- HP Omen 17: $3,470
- Dell XPS 17 9720: $5,600
These laptops offer a range of specifications and prices to cater to different users. Choose the one that suits your needs the best.
Can I use Traktor Pro 3 on a MacBook Pro?
Yes, Traktor Pro 3 is compatible with MacBook Pro. However, make sure your MacBook Pro meets the minimum system requirements mentioned earlier to ensure optimal performance.
Is an i5 processor enough for Traktor Pro 3?
Yes, an i5 processor is sufficient for running Traktor Pro 3. However, it is recommended to go for the medium or maximum processor options mentioned in the requirements for a smoother and more efficient performance.
How much RAM is needed to run Traktor Pro 3 smoothly on a laptop?
To run Traktor Pro 3 smoothly on a laptop, a minimum of 8 GB of RAM is required. However, for better performance and multitasking capabilities, it is recommended to go for at least 16 GB or even 32 GB of RAM if your budget allows.
Does Traktor Pro 3 work well with Windows laptops?
Yes, Traktor Pro 3 works well with Windows laptops. Just make sure your Windows laptop meets the minimum system requirements mentioned earlier for optimal performance.
What are the recommended laptop specs for Traktor Pro 3?
The recommended laptop specs for running Traktor Pro 3 smoothly are as follows:
- Storage: Medium or Maximum SSD capacity for faster loading times and more space for music libraries.
- Graphics: Medium or Maximum dedicated graphics card for better visual performance.
- Display: Medium or Maximum FHD IPS display for accurate color reproduction and wider viewing angles.
- Processor: Medium or Maximum processor options for faster audio processing and better overall performance.
- Memory: Medium or Maximum RAM options for seamless multitasking and smooth operation.
These specifications will ensure an excellent Traktor Pro 3 experience.
Can Traktor Pro 3 run on a budget laptop?
Yes, Traktor Pro 3 can run on a budget laptop. However, keep in mind that the performance may not be as smooth as on higher-end laptops. To ensure better performance, try to meet the minimum system requirements mentioned earlier and consider going for at least the medium options in the recommendations if your budget allows.
How to optimize a laptop for running Traktor Pro 3?
To optimize a laptop for running Traktor Pro 3, you can follow these tips:
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Keep your operating system and Traktor Pro 3 software up to date.
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Close unnecessary background applications to free up system resources.
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Use a reliable antivirus program to ensure your laptop is free from malware.
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Regularly clean temporary files and perform disk maintenance to keep your laptop running smoothly.
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Disable any power-saving settings that may hinder performance while using Traktor Pro 3.
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Consider using an external audio interface for better audio quality and lower latency.
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Store your music files on a fast and reliable external hard drive or SSD for quicker access.
By following these optimization tips, you can enhance the performance of Traktor Pro 3 on your laptop.
Are there any known compatibility issues with specific laptop brands and Traktor Pro 3?
While Traktor Pro 3 is generally compatible with most laptop brands, there might be specific compatibility issues with certain models or hardware configurations. It is recommended to check the official Native
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Table of Best Laptops for {topic}
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
6 Best Laptops for Traktor Pro 3
1.Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G1
Traktor Pro 3 laptop- Great processor (i7-12800HX)
- Splendid display (16)
- Awesome memory amount (64GB)
- Monumental 4TB SSD
- No IPS Panel (worse contrast)
- Its screen gives away its price
Alternatives
Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G1
- Stupendous 8TB SSD
- Numpad
- No IPS Panel (worse contrast)
- Its screen gives away its price
2.ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71
ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71: Powerful and Long-lasting, but with Weak Speakers and Dim Display- Sleek, lightweight frame
- Powerful overall and gaming performance
- Excellent battery life
- Very comfortable keyboard
- Weak speakers
- Display could be brighter
- No headphone jack
Summary
The ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71 is a sleek and lightweight laptop that offers great power and longevity with Intel's new 11th Gen chips. It provides excellent overall and gaming performance, along with a comfortable keyboard and impressive battery life. However, it falls short in terms of speaker quality, display brightness, and lacks a headphone jack.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP 17
- Competent processor (i5-1235U)
- Excellent memory amount (64GB)
- No IPS Panel (subpar viewing angles)
3.ASUS TUF Dash F15
ASUS TUF Dash F15: A powerful and affordable option for all-purpose/gaming laptops.- Lightweight and well-built design
- Good inputoutput options
- Choice between FHD 300Hz and QHD screens
- More powerful than the previous generation
- Some quirks affecting everyday ergonomics
- Ports squeezed together on the left edge
- Potential drawbacks with the FHD 144Hz panel option
Summary
The ASUS TUF Dash F15 is a budget-friendly option that offers a balance between performance and price. It features a lightweight and well-built design, good input/output options, and a choice between a FHD 300Hz and QHD screen. However, there are some quirks to consider, such as the cramped placement of ports and the potential drawbacks of the FHD 144Hz panel option.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP 17
- Splendid memory amount (64GB)
- Featherweight (0.37 lbs)
- Average processor (i7-1255U)
- No IPS Panel (worse contrast)
4.ASUS ROG Strix Scar
ASUS ROG Strix Scar delivers excellent gaming performance, but suffers from heat and noise issues.- Sturdy construction
- Fast Wi-Fi 6E
- Excellent display response times
- Wide color gamut coverage with Dolby Vision support
- Limited display angle
- No biometric login
- Heavy SSD throttling during continuous reads
- High heat and noise emissions under load
Summary
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar is a powerful gaming laptop with impressive performance, thanks to its Core i9-12900H and RTX 3070 Ti. It features a sturdy construction, fast Wi-Fi 6E, and excellent display response times. However, it falls short in areas such as limited display angle, lack of biometric login, and high heat and noise emissions under heavy load.
Reviews
Alternatives
Lenovo Legion Pro 5
- Fantastic value
- Top-tier gaming performance
- Middling screen
- A bit heavy
5.Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16: The Mid-Priced Powerhouse for Traktor Pro 3.- Strong overall performance
- Display is big, bright and fast
- Per-key RGB lighting
- Some flex to keyboard deck
- Poor battery life
Summary
With a 13th-gen Core i9 CPU and RTX 4090 graphics, the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 is a powerful laptop that offers strong overall performance, a big and bright display, and per-key RGB lighting, making it an excellent choice for running Traktor Pro 3. However, it does have some keyboard deck flex and poor battery life.
Alternatives
HP Omen 17
- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Expandable working memory
- Slightly below-average performance for a RTX 4080
- High noise level
6.Dell XPS 17 9720
Dell XPS 17 9720: High-quality laptop with an excellent 4K display, but graphics performance and cooling could be improved.- Excellent 4K display with AdobeRGB
- High-quality case
- Thunderbolt 4 PCIe 4.0
- Very high system performance
- Lower graphics performance than the predecessor
- Performance not completely stable under combined load
- Not Wi-Fi 6E compatible
- 720p webcam
Summary
The Dell XPS 17 9720 impresses with its high-quality case and excellent 4K display with AdobeRGB. It offers Thunderbolt 4 and PCIe 4.0, as well as very high system performance. However, the graphics performance is lower than the predecessor and the cooling could be improved.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo
- Impressive design with dual displays and powerful hardware
- Refined two-screen layout
- Expensive, especially when configured with high-end components
- Awkward keyboard and touchpad layout
Table of the Best Laptops for Traktor Pro 3
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G1 | $60 |
| ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71 | $730 |
| ASUS TUF Dash F15 | $1,160 |
| ASUS ROG Strix Scar | $2,050 |
| Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16 | $3,390 |
| Dell XPS 17 9720 | $5,600 |
