With the autumn season bringing intensified workloads and tighter deadlines, graphic designers require laptops that deliver uncompromising performance, color accuracy, and reliability. ZDNET's expert reviewers have rigorously tested the latest 2025 models, evaluating displays, processing power, battery life, and suitability for demanding creative software. The results reveal clear leaders across different needs and budgets.

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The Reigning Champion: Apple MacBook Pro M4 (2024)

Securing the top spot, Apple's MacBook Pro M4 ($1,599) sets a new benchmark. Its M4 chip, tested by ZDNET Senior Reviews Editor Kerry Wan, "outperforms its predecessors, as well as some of the latest Windows machines running Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite and Intel Core Ultra chipsets." This translates to seamless handling of resource-intensive tasks like high-resolution image manipulation and complex vector graphics.

The display is a major differentiator. The Liquid Retina XDR panel (available in 14-inch or 16-inch sizes) now features an optional nano-texture coating, creating a matte finish that "significantly reduces glare," enabling comfortable outdoor or bright-environment work. Paired with 16GB of unified memory to power upcoming Apple Intelligence features, it represents the pinnacle of integrated creative workstations.

"Demanding workflows like 4K video editing feel natural on the M4 MacBook Pro," notes Wan, highlighting its processing prowess.

Key Challengers & Specialized Picks

  • Best Mac Alternative: Apple MacBook Air M3 ($1,499): Offering remarkable performance in an ultra-portable form, the M3 Air supports dual external monitors – crucial for expanded workspace – and integrates with Apple's evolving AI ecosystem.
  • Best 2-in-1: Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 ($880): Its vibrant 2.8K OLED touchscreen and included stylus make it ideal for designers who sketch or annotate directly on screen. The unique hinge-mounted speakers provide exceptional audio clarity.
  • Best for Drawing: Asus ProArt PZ13 ($1,100): Powered by Snapdragon X Plus, this detachable shines with its 3K AMOLED touchscreen supporting Dolby Vision and 100% DCI-P3 gamut. The Creator Hub app allows real-time color calibration, and its battery life exceeds an astounding 21 hours.
  • Best Budget: HP OmniBook 5 ($549 starting): Featuring a surprisingly good 2K OLED touchscreen and Snapdragon X Plus efficiency, this lightweight (2.84 lbs) Windows option offers excellent value, though its integrated GPU limits extremely high-end 3D work.
  • Most Compact: Dell XPS 13 (2024) ($1,100 as tested): Weighing just 2.6 lbs with a sleek design and a sharp 13.4-inch 3K OLED touchscreen, it's powered by Intel Core Ultra 7 and 32GB RAM, perfect for designers on the move.
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Technical Considerations Beyond the Spec Sheet

ZDNET's analysis dives deeper than raw specs:

  • Battery vs. Power: Ultra-portables and budget models prioritize longevity (e.g., ProArt PZ13's 21+ hours), while powerhouse laptops (like the new Asus ProArt P16 with Ryzen AI HX 370 and RTX 5070) sacrifice some battery for maximal performance, often requiring AC power for intensive sessions.
  • The Great OS Debate: While Apple's hardware and integrated creative app ecosystem (like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro) remain highly regarded, Windows laptops have closed the gap significantly in raw power and display quality. The choice often hinges on specific software needs and workflow preferences.
  • Connectivity Matters: Professionals using multiple peripherals or external monitors should note port limitations on ultra-slim models (like the XPS 13 or OmniBook 5). Docking stations become essential accessories.
  • Gaming Laptops as Contenders: Models like the MSI Creator Z16 offer desktop-grade power (CPUs, GPUs, RAM) and high-refresh-rate displays suitable for design, but their weight, cost, and often gamer-centric aesthetics can be drawbacks.

The Evolving Landscape

The recent launch of the Asus ProArt P16 highlights the intense competition in the Windows creative space, offering AMD Ryzen AI and Nvidia RTX power as a direct challenge to Apple's dominance. As ARM architectures (Snapdragon X) mature in Windows laptops, promising both performance and efficiency, and Apple continues its Silicon evolution, graphic designers have more capable and diverse tools than ever. The key is matching the machine's strengths – whether it's the M4 Pro's seamless integration, the ProArt PZ13's drawing prowess, or the OmniBook 5's value – to the specific demands of the creative work at hand.