Artists, designers, and illustrators seeking portable solutions for their creative work find drawing laptops indispensable. The abundance of options can be overwhelming but fear not. We’ve done extensive research to streamline your selection process.
We’ve analyzed numerous drawing laptops to craft a comprehensive “Buying Guide” tailored for artists at every skill level. Whether you’re just starting out or a seasoned pro, our curated list aims to make your decision-making process a breeze.
When assessing these drawing laptops, we’ve focused on three key factors:
- Display: The quality of the display is crucial for accurately portraying colors and details in your artwork. We’ve examined features such as resolution, color accuracy, and screen size to ensure an optimal drawing experience.
- CPU: The processing power of a laptop is essential for seamless performance when running design software. We’ve rigorously tested the CPUs of each device to determine their efficiency and suitability for creative tasks.
- RAM and Storage: Sufficient RAM for multitasking and adequate storage space for your creations are important considerations. We’ve analyzed the RAM and storage configurations of each laptop to meet the demands of digital artists.
Stay tuned as we look into these aspects and unveil our top recommendations for the best drawing laptops. Whether you’re sketching, illustrating, or painting, rest assured, we’ve got you covered with the perfect tools to unleash your creativity.
Best Laptops for Drawing in 2024
| Laptops for Drawing | Display | CPU | RAM and Storage | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acer Aspire 3 Drawing Laptop | 15.6 Inches 1920 x 1080 | AMD Ryzen 5 7520U | 8 GB and 256 GB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Drawing Laptop | 13 Inches 2880 x 1920 | intel i7_2640m | 16 GB and 256 GB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| HP Envy Drawing Laptop | 15.6 Inches 1920 x 1080 | AMD Ryzen 5 7530U | 8 GB and 1 TB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| ASUS ROG G16 Drawing Laptop | 16 Inches 1920 x 1080 | Intel Core I7-13620H | 32 GB and 2 TB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| Alenware X17 R2 Drawing Laptop | 17.3 Inches 1920 x 1080 | Intel Core I7 12700H | 64 GB and 2 TB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| Lenovo Flex 5 Drawing Laptop | 14 Inches 1920 x 1200 | Intel Core i5-1235U | 16 GB and 1 TB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| HP Victus Drawing Laptop | 15.6 Inches 1920 x 1200 | Intel Core i5-12450H | 16 GB and 1 TB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| MSI FlipEvo Drawing Laptop | 13.4 Inches 1260P | Intel i7-1260P 12-Core | 16 GB and 512 GB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| LG Drawing Laptop | 16 Inches 2560 x 1600 | Intel 13th Gen | 16 GB AND 2 TB SSD | Check On Amazon |
| Dell Inspiron Drawing Laptop | 14 Inches 1920 x 1080 | AMD Ryzen 5 7530U | 8 GB and 1 TB SSD | Check On Amazon |
Best Laptops for Drawing Reviews
1. Acer Aspire 3 Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Performance-packed and sleek design.
The Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop is great for drawing. It features a large, vibrant display that enhances the appearance of your artwork. The device operates swiftly and smoothly, facilitating effortless drawing experiences. With ample storage capacity, it ensures you can keep all your creations securely.
It offers straightforward Wi-Fi connectivity for easy online access. Designed to perform well in low-light conditions, it allows you to work comfortably at any hour. The laptop remains cool through extended use, preventing overheating. Multiple ports for USBs and headphones add to its convenience. Equipped with Windows 11, it provides an intuitive interface that supports your artistic process efficiently.
Specifications
- Display: Sleek 15.6″ Full HD IPS display
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7520U Quad-Core Processor
- GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics
- RAM: 8GB LPDDR5 onboard memory
- Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD storage
- Connectivity: Wireless Wi-Fi 5 connectivity
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home for enhanced efficiency and productivity
- Acer’s TNR technology for high-quality imagery
- Enhanced thermals for prolonged usage
- Multiple ports for accessory compatibility
Pros
- Durable Design
- User-Friendly Interface
- Comfortable Typing
- Efficient thermal management
- Versatile port selection
Cons
- Integrated graphics may not satisfy advanced users
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Versatile 2-in-1 design.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 effortlessly merges the versatility of a tablet with the functionality of a laptop, making it an ideal choice for professionals and artists alike. Featuring a large 13-inch touchscreen, this device simplifies interaction and enhances productivity, supported by a built-in stand for easy conversion into a laptop mode.
Powered by an advanced Intel processor, the Surface Pro 9 delivers exceptional speed and performance, enabling seamless multitasking with its 16GB memory and ample 256GB storage space. Operating on Windows 11, it introduces efficient features such as Copilot, further streamlining your workflow. Whether utilizing the Surface Pen for precision tasks or engaging in video calls, the Surface Pro 9 is designed to elevate your work and creative endeavors.
Specifications
- Display: 13″ touchscreen display
- Processor: Intel 12th Gen i7 Fast Processor
- RAM: 16GB RAM
- Storage: 256GB storage
- Operating system: Windows 11 Home
Pros
- Portability and sleek design.
- Long battery life.
- Enhanced security features.
- Compatibility with Surface Slim Pen 2.
- Variety of Surface devices and accessories.
Cons
- Limited ports may require additional adapters for connectivity needs.
3. HP Envy Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Ultimate versatility for work and play.
The HP Envy touchscreen laptop excels in both work and entertainment scenarios, thanks to its powerful AMD Ryzen 5 7530U processor, which outperforms many competitors. Its large, vibrant touchscreen display, enhanced by slim bezels, offers an immersive experience for interactive tasks.
Equipped with 8GB of RAM and a 1024GB SSD, it ensures smooth multitasking and ample storage for all your files. The backlit keyboard facilitates typing in low-light conditions, and the included pen provides a fluid and natural drawing and writing experience.
Specifications
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7530U (hexa-core)
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 1024GB PCIe SSD
- Display: 15.6″ FHD touchscreen
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Special Features: Backlit Keyboard, Stylus Pen
- Wireless Connectivity: WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone Jack
Pros
- Lightweight and thin design for easy portability.
- Edge-to-edge touchscreen display enhances user experience.
- A backlit keyboard enables comfortable typing in low-light conditions.
- A Stylus pen is included for seamless note-taking and sketching.
Cons
- Some users may find the storage capacity insufficient for large media libraries.
4. ASUS ROG G16 Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Exceptional performance for graphic design and digital art.
ASUS has introduced its latest offering, the ROG G16, revolutionizing the laptop scene for digital artists and designers. Beyond gaming, this laptop excels in facilitating drawing and creative endeavors on your computer. Equipped with robust components such as the Intel Core i7-13620H processor and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card, it ensures powerful performance. With a spacious 16-inch display boasting vibrant colors, your artistic creations will come to life with stunning clarity.
Effortlessly multitasking, this laptop maintains its speed even when handling numerous tasks simultaneously, while providing ample storage for your drawings and files. Illuminated keyboard enhances visibility, allowing you to work comfortably even in dimly lit environments. User-friendly and complemented with advanced drawing tools, it caters perfectly to the needs of creative individuals seeking to unleash their artistic potential on their computers.
Specifications
- Display: 16″ FHD
- Processor: Intel Core i7-13620H
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
- RAM: Up to 32GB
- Storage: 2TB SSD
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
Pros
- Ergonomic Design
- Enhanced Cooling System
- Long-lasting Battery Life
- Efficient Multitasking
- Immersive Visual Experience
Cons
- Heavier and bulkier than specialized drawing tablets, limiting portability.
5. Alenware X17 R2 Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Exceptional drawing capabilities and stunning display.
Alienware’s X17 R2 Drawing Laptop caters to individuals who relish sketching digitally. Packed with functionalities that enhance the quality of your artwork, its spacious and crisp display ensures your creations shine. The drawing experience is seamless and hassle-free, courtesy of its remarkable screen resolution.
For drawing enthusiasts, this laptop is indispensable, akin to possessing a high-end sketchbook on-the-go. Besides artistic pursuits, it serves adeptly for entertainment purposes such as movie-watching or gaming. Hence, while its utility extends beyond drawing, it excels in this domain!
Specifications
- Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti
- Memory: Up to 64GB DDR4 RAM
- Storage: Up to 2TB SSD
- Wireless Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 6
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
- Screen Resolution: 1920 x 1080 (Full HD)
- Card Description: Dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti
- Color: Lunar Light
Pros
- Integrated Software
- Multi-Tasking Abilities
- Expandable Storage
- High-Quality Audio
- Energy Efficiency
Cons
- Limited Portability
6. Lenovo Flex 5 Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Versatile device with powerful specs.
Next up on our list of top drawing laptops is the Flex 5 by Lenovo. Sporting a 14-inch touchscreen and an accompanying pen for sketching, it boasts a smooth performance thanks to its robust processor and ample memory capacity. This versatile device offers the flexibility of functioning as a conventional laptop or transforming into a tablet, catering to your preferred drawing style.
Featuring a crystal-clear display, your artistic creations shine vividly on the screen. With the precision and ease provided by the included stylus, unleashing your creativity becomes effortless. Essentially, it offers the convenience of a portable digital sketchbook, empowering you to express yourself artistically wherever you go. Whether you’re sketching, doodling, or painting, this laptop ensures that the creative process remains enjoyable and hassle-free.
Specifications
- Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR4X-4266 Memory
- Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD
- Display: 14″ Full HD (1920 x 1200) IPS Touchscreen
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
- Ports: Thunderbolt 4/USB-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI, 4-in-1 Card Reader
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home 64-bit
Pros
- Versatile 2-in-1 design for flexible usage.
- Includes a stylus for enhanced drawing experience.
- Portable
- Long Battery Life
Cons
- Relatively heavy compared to other ultrabooks
7. HP Victus Drawing Laptop
Why Made the Cut: High Performance and Immersive Gaming
The HP Victus boasts impressive power with its Intel Core i5-12450H processor and 16GB of RAM, effortlessly handling multiple tasks, including running drawing apps, without any hiccups. Its vibrant and crystal-clear 15.6-inch screen enhances the visual appeal of your drawings.
Equipped with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, it ensures seamless and stunning performance for your designs. Moreover, the illuminated keyboard enables uninterrupted drawing sessions even in low-light conditions. Whether you’re sketching, drawing, or editing images, the HP Victus laptop is the ideal choice for bringing your artistic vision to fruition.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel 12th Core i5-12450H
- RAM: 16GB
- Display: 15.6″ FHD display with 144Hz refresh rate
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card
- Backlit keyboard for enhanced visibility
Pros
- Durable Build Quality
- Fast Charging
- Responsive Touchpad
- Enhanced Audio
Cons
- May not be as lightweight as some other laptops designed specifically for drawing.
8. MSI FlipEvo Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Powerful performance, versatile design.
The MSI E13 Flip Evo Laptop is a fast and versatile computer for work or fun, like drawing. It’s powered by an Intel Core i7-1260P and has lots of memory (16GB LPDDR5 RAM), so it works fast. The screen is 13.4 inches and super clear, with colors that look great. You can touch the screen to do things, just like on a phone.
It can flip all the way around, so you can use it like a regular laptop or flip it into a tablet. You can also connect other gadgets using a special port called Thunderbolt 4. And it comes with a special pen that makes drawing and writing easy. Whether you’re a business person or an artist, this laptop is perfect for you!
Specifications
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1260P for high-performance computing
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5 RAM for seamless multitasking
- Display: 13.4″ FHD+ touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD for fast storage and data access
- Connectivity: Thunderbolt 4 for versatile peripheral connectivity
- MSI Pen included for precise input and sketching
Pros
- Enhanced Security Features
- Sleek Design
- Durable Build Quality
- Integrated with Web Cam and Microphone
- Quiet Operation
Cons
- Small screen size may limit multitasking capabilities.
9. LG Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Powerful and lightweight for on-the-go productivity.
LG’s 16-inch Gram laptop, renowned for its lightweight design and stellar performance, excels at multitasking without any slowdowns. Its expansive and vibrant screen can be effortlessly flipped like a tablet, adding versatility to your usage. Notably durable, it provides peace of mind against breakage concerns.
Featuring Windows 11 Home, immersive Dolby Atmos sound, and a remarkably enduring battery life, it caters perfectly to work, gaming, or streaming online content. It embodies the essence of a robust and user-friendly device that effortlessly handles various tasks. Moreover, its sleek and lightweight build ensures convenient portability.
Specifications
- Processor: Intel 13th Gen Core i7
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
- Storage: 2TB SSD
- Display: 16″ WQXGA Non-Reflective IPS
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Audio: Dolby Atmos
Pros
- Exceptional battery life for extended productivity on the go.
- Its thin and lightweight design makes it easy to carry.
- Non-reflective IPS display reduces glare, enhancing viewing comfort.
- Integrated stylus pen offers precise control for drawing and note-taking tasks.
Cons
- Limited color options
10. Dell Inspiron Drawing Laptop
Why it Made the Cut: Versatile, powerful, and lightweight.
This Dell laptop incorporates the advanced AMD Ryzen 5 chip for smooth performance. With its spacious 1TB storage capacity, it accommodates ample photos and videos. Despite its moderate screen size, it delivers vivid visuals with vibrant colors. Its versatile design allows for seamless transformation into a tablet or conventional laptop, ensuring convenience.
Boasting rapid internet connectivity, you can seamlessly stream videos and engage in gaming activities. Moreover, it offers multiple connectivity ports for enhanced functionality. Pre-installed with Windows 11, it provides a user-friendly interface. Whether you’re completing assignments, enjoying entertainment, or browsing the internet, this laptop effortlessly meets your needs. However, frequent usage may necessitate more frequent charging sessions.
Specifications
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7530U
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 1 TB SSD
- Display: 14″ WUXGA IPS
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth
- Ports: USB-C, HDMI, USB Type-A
- Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
- Special Features: Backlit Keyboard, Fingerprint Reader
Pros
- Versatile 2-in-1 design
- Stylus and Portable
- User-Friendly Design
- Responsive Touch Screen
- Enhanced Multimedia Experience
Cons
- Moderate battery life for extended use.
Choosing the Best Laptop for Drawing
Drawing digitally has become increasingly popular among artists, designers, and hobbyists alike. To ensure a seamless and productive drawing experience, selecting the right laptop tailored to your needs is paramount. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:
1. Display
- Quality: Opt for a laptop with a high-resolution display (preferably 1920×1080 or higher) to ensure sharp and clear images. Consider displays with wide color gamuts, such as sRGB or Adobe RGB, for accurate color representation.
- Size: A larger display offers more workspace, but portability might be compromised. Choose a size between 13 to 15 inches, balancing between screen real estate and mobility.
- Refresh Rate: A higher refresh rate, ideally 60Hz or higher, ensures smoother visuals, reducing motion blur during drawing or animation.
- Aspect Ratio: A 16:9 aspect ratio is standard, but a 3:2 aspect ratio provides more vertical space, ideal for drawing and design tasks.
2. CPU
- Look for laptops equipped with a powerful CPU, preferably an Intel Core i5 or i7, or an AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 processor. Higher core counts and multithreading capabilities enhance performance, especially in multitasking scenarios.
- Higher clock speeds (2.5GHz and above) enhance performance, ensuring smooth multitasking and rendering capabilities.
3. RAM and Storage
- Aim for a minimum of 8GB RAM to handle resource-intensive drawing software efficiently. For more demanding tasks, consider 16GB or higher for smoother multitasking.
- Opt for SSD storage for faster boot times and application loading. A storage capacity of 256GB or more is recommended to accommodate large design files. Consider laptops with expandable storage options for future upgrades.
4. Stylus
- Choose a laptop compatible with a high-quality stylus, preferably with pressure sensitivity levels to mimic traditional drawing tools accurately. Look for features like tilt support for more natural drawing angles.
- Ensure palm rejection technology to prevent accidental inputs while drawing. Some styluses offer customizable buttons for quick access to drawing tools and shortcuts.
5. GPU
- A dedicated graphics card, such as NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon, enhances performance in graphic-intensive tasks like 3D rendering and animation. Look for GPUs with dedicated VRAM for smoother performance in demanding applications.
- Consider the GPU’s compatibility with your preferred drawing software, as some applications may leverage GPU acceleration for certain tasks.
6. Touchscreen and Keyboard
- A responsive touchscreen facilitates intuitive drawing and navigation. Look for laptops with high-precision touchscreens that support palm rejection and offer minimal latency.
- Select a laptop with a comfortable keyboard for typing and shortcuts, crucial for design workflows. Backlit keyboards are beneficial for working in low-light environments.
7. Operating System
- Both Windows 10 and Windows 11 offer robust drawing software options and compatibility with a wide range of peripherals. Choose the operating system that aligns with your preferred software ecosystem and workflow. Consider factors such as software compatibility, user interface preferences, and ecosystem integration.
- macOS is also a viable option for drawing, especially for users already invested in the Apple ecosystem and who prefer the macOS user interface and software offerings.
8. Connectivity
- Ensure the laptop has essential ports like USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and an SD card reader for seamless connectivity with peripherals and external displays. Look for Thunderbolt 3 ports for high-speed data transfer and support for external GPU setups.
- Consider laptops with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for faster wireless connectivity and compatibility with modern peripherals.
9. Portability
- Consider the laptop’s weight and dimensions for portability, especially if you plan to work on-the-go. Ultrabooks and 2-in-1 convertibles offer a balance between performance and portability, ideal for mobile artists.
- Look for laptops with durable build quality and long battery life to support extended drawing sessions away from power outlets. Consider features like fast charging for quick top-ups on the go.
10. Warranty
- Opt for a laptop with comprehensive warranty coverage, including accidental damage protection, to safeguard your investment against unforeseen issues. Consider extended warranty options for additional peace of mind, especially for high-end laptops.
Laptops for Drawing and Digital Art – FAQs
Ans: Yes, most laptops support external drawing tablets via USB or Bluetooth connections. Ensure compatibility with your preferred drawing tablet model.
Ans: Aim for a laptop with a battery life of at least 6-8 hours to support extended drawing sessions away from power outlets. However, battery life may vary based on usage and settings.
Ans: Some laptops allow RAM and storage upgrades, while others have soldered components. Check the laptop specifications and user manual for upgrade options.
Ans: Yes, gaming laptops often have powerful CPUs, GPUs, and high-resolution displays suitable for drawing. However, consider factors like portability and battery life for your specific needs.
Ans: 2-in-1 convertible laptops offer versatility, allowing you to use them in tablet mode for drawing or in laptop mode for productivity tasks. They combine the benefits of touchscreens with traditional keyboard inputs.
Ans: Yes, most laptops support external monitors via HDMI, DisplayPort, or Thunderbolt connections. Consider using external monitors for additional screen real estate and improved multitasking.
Ans: Ensure that the laptop supports active styluses with features like pressure sensitivity, tilt support, and palm rejection technology. Check compatibility with specific stylus models recommended by the laptop manufacturer.
Ans: Look for laptops with durable build materials, such as aluminum or magnesium alloys, and MIL-STD-810G certification for resistance against shocks and vibrations. Additionally, consider investing in a protective case or sleeve for added protection during transportation.
Ans: Touchscreen capability isn’t essential but can enhance the drawing experience, especially for intuitive navigation and multitouch gestures.
Ans: Ensure compatibility with your preferred drawing software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, or Clip Studio Paint. Check the software’s system requirements for optimal performance.
Conclusion
When choosing a laptop for drawing, make sure it has a clear screen and works with the pen you use for drawing. Get one that’s fast and has plenty of space for saving your drawings. Also, think about how heavy it is and if it’s comfortable to use. Make sure it can run the drawing programs you like, and don’t forget to check how long the battery lasts and if you can connect other devices to it. Just think about all these things, and you’ll find the right laptop for drawing!
Here are the top 3 recommendations before you pick one for yourself.
- Acer Aspire 3 Drawing Laptop: It has a nice screen and works fast.
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9 Drawing Laptop: It can be a tablet or a laptop, and it’s good for drawing.
- HP Envy Drawing Laptop: You can touch the screen to draw, and it comes with a special pen.
