Putting soul to your animated character requires the backing of solid memory, a powerful processor, a dedicated GPU, a proper cooling system, and plenty of storage space.

In addition to being packed with serious specs, your laptop should also be compatible with all animation design software.

Finding a suitable machine in a crowded market can be challenging at times. However, the best laptops for animation will be able to run popular 2D and 3D animation apps with no questions asked.

Here are the best laptops for animation available today.

The Razer Blade 15 Studio edition will be your perfect partner for animation designing with its 8-core CPU, and GDDR6 RTX5000 GPU provides plenty of processing power for long rendering sessions. You can increase the clock speed to 5.1GHz and use the 8-cores to provide the power needed to run your animation software smoothly. A widescreen of 15.6-inches provides a much wider area to handle all design work.

This machine's high thermal efficiency, combined with vacuum-sealed, liquid-filled copper vapor chamber spans, further enhances its operation since it does not overheat even with graphics-intensive computing. The substantial 1TB SSD storage and 16GB RAM compensate for the bulky weight and allow the user to increase efficiency in their workflow. Thus, the next time you are working on 3D modeling on multiple software simultaneously, you won't experience shutters and response delays.

Although rendering takes a lot of time and the relatively small battery backup isn't enough, this laptop's processing capabilities can decrease the processing time of tasks by a great deal. As such, 3DSMax, Blender, Unity & Unreal Engine are all supported by the laptop, and all of those software programs will display crisp and clear images on the Studio Edition's 4K OLED screen.

Further displays can be connected via the laptop's numerous ports. Additionally, its sleek design allows for maximum portability and maneuverability. Razer Blade 15 studio edition provides Windows Hello facial recognition software as a security feature.

Key Features
  • 4K OLED Screen
  • Air cooling system
  • Facial Authentication (Microsoft Hello)
  • Aluminum build provides sturdy support and protection
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-10875H
  • GPU: Nvidia Quadro RTX 5000 Studio Edition
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Battery: 5 Hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 15.6-inch, 1920x1080
  • Camera: 5.0MP front-facing 720p HD camera
  • Speakers: Standard Factory Speakers
  • Memory: 32GB
  • Ports: 3x USB 3.1, 1x USB-C, 1x 3.5mm Jack, 1x HDMI, 1x Mini Display Port, 1x SD-Card Reader
  • Dimensions: 13.98 x 0.7 x 9.25 inches
  • Weight: 9.03lbs
  • Brand: Razer
Pros
  • Able to handle all animation related processing tasks
  • Eliminates stutters and response delays during modeling tasks
  • Ability to adjust clock speeds
  • Powerful processor
Cons
  • It does not come with a dedicated security chip
  • Although the air-cooling system is present, the system heats up around the hinge area
Buy This Product
Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition
Editors choice

2. Apple Macbook 13-Inch M1

9.60 / 10
Read Reviews

The MacBook Pro with the M1 chip and 8-core GPU unit is a go-to device for people in various professions, from simple graphics design to 3D animation. With Apple's GPU, you can complete all your rendering projects without sacrificing performance. Furthermore, the unified 16GB RAM allows an uninterrupted workflow by eliminating all kinds of bottlenecks and limitations of clock speed on the GPU.

MacBooks are renowned for their durability and are often used as workstations in professional settings. Users with animation files in GBs have the option of upgrading to 2TB of SSD storage. However, it is up to you to decide how much space you need. Thanks to the special 16-core neural engine, animation applications can be processed at an exponential rate, allowing the user to work more efficiently while reducing eye strain with the 2K Retina Display.

The MacBook's low power consumption MacOS and a large battery make up for all of its processing power and give you a backup of up to 20 hours, allowing you to run heavy software such as MAYA and 3DS Max throughout your day with a single charge. Considering the above specifications, the security sector of the MacBook comes with official Apple certification. However, it does not include a dedicated chip, but it still protects your data from being transgressed by unauthorized fingers.

Despite this, Touch-ID authentication, voice control, and Siri access add even more fun to the table.

Key Features
  • Touch-ID for authentication
  • 2K Retina display
  • 16GB neural engine for AI tasks and machine learning
  • Voice control
  • Siri access
  • Unified memory module
Specifications
  • Operating System: Mac OS11
  • CPU: Apple M1 Chip
  • GPU: M1 8-Core GPU
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Battery: 20 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 13.3-inch, 2560x1600
  • Camera: 720p HD
  • Speakers: Stereo Speakers with Dolby Atmos Support
  • Memory: 16GB Unified
  • Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 3/USB-4, 1x 3.5mm Jack
  • Dimensions: 11.97 x 8.36 x 0.61 inches
  • Weight: 6.7lbs
  • Brand: Apple
Pros
  • Lightweight
  • Reliable and durable
  • Fast processing speeds
  • Compact and highly portable
Cons
  • Lack of connectivity/input ports
  • No 4K Retina display
Buy This Product
Apple Macbook 13-Inch M1
Best value

3. Acer Spin 5

9.00 / 10
Read Reviews

The Acer Spin 5 has the power of an 8-core CPU that handles all graphics-intensive tasks inherently, regardless of its graphical limitations. This device will not hang, lag or shut down while processing countless frames. Its compatibility with various high-end animation software, including MAYA, 3DS MAX, and Corel Draw makes it an excellent investment.

The Acer Spin 5's orientation around its touch-screen capability makes it an ideal choice for drawing and 2D animation tasks that require more hands-on effort than 3D modeling. When this is combined with 16 GB dual-channel RAM, you will experience no stuttering and be amazed at the responsive IPS display that accurately traces what the built-in/supplied Stylus draws, thanks to its high sensitivity. Additionally, the 360nit brightness and a 2K IPS display with a 3:2 aspect ratio enable you to retouch even more delicate details of your design.

Nevertheless, if you are used to working on a large display, the 13.5-inch may seem a bit small at first, but getting used to it shouldn't take longer than one week. Although the machine incorporates powerful hardware, its lightweight design makes it easier to use even while traveling. In addition, the laptop comes with a 15-hour battery backup that adds to the portability, making it a viable choice for 2D/3D animation tasks. The laptop's energy efficiency and long battery life will appeal to digital nomads.

As for the security measures of the Acer Spin 5, the secure firmware prevents transgressors from illegally accessing your official data. However, installing a third-party virus protection software will foolproof its security. Its aluminum frame is very sturdy and durable, so even harsh environmental conditions won't harm the structure, ensuring it will last long.

Key Features
  • IPS Full Touch screen display
  • Dual-torque hinge
  • Convertibility into four modes
  • Quick charging dock
  • Stylus included
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-1065G7
  • GPU: Intel Iris Plus Graphics
  • Storage: ‎512GB SSD
  • Battery: 15 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): ‎13.5-inch, 2256x1504 pixels
  • Camera: 720p HD
  • Speakers: Standard Factory Speakers
  • Memory: ‎16GB
  • Ports: ‎2x USB 3.1, 2x USB Type-C, 1x Charging port, 1x HDMI, Micro-SD Card slot
  • Dimensions: 11.81 x 9.25 x 0.59 inches
  • Weight: ‎2.6lbs
  • Brand: Acer
Pros
  • Responsive IPS screen
  • Sleek and ergonomic design
  • Suitable for 2D animation
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Wi-Fi 6 support
  • Sturdy build
Cons
  • No dedicated high-power GPU
  • Intense tasks will result in lagging
Buy This Product
Acer Spin 5

If you want one computer that can handle all your animation projects, the MSI GL75 Leopard is a perfect choice. With a powerful processing capability, the machine fulfills, if not exceeds, the computing requirements for a working and complete animation setup. The system features an 8-core Intel Core i7 10th gen CPU and an Nvidia GPU that proves its worth when running animation design software like Blender, 3DS Max, Unity, Unreal Engine, and MAYA.

The RTX 2070 eliminates bottlenecking and allows the CPU to run at its maximum speed, eliminating lag or hangs that interfere with your job at hand. A 17.3-inch FHD screen is the biggest asset to this machine, and 16GB of dual-channel SDRAM will let you maximize immersion and efficiency. No matter how graphically intensive your job gets, the device won't run out of memory. These reasons make the GL75 Leopard the perfect choice for animators, gamers, graphic designers, and more, dealing with intensive computing tasks.

With the GPU's power and numerous ports, this device can support a huge external display, offering a great deal of flexibility if you already own an external display. While the GL75 can act as the central hub for robust hardware, making it suitable for both professional and personal uses, it is still relatively portable with a lower weight.

Additionally, MSI hasn't failed to lose its aesthetic appeal even as it focuses on performance and hardware, so its elegant design will truly astonish anyone who looks at it. Despite the small chassis of this machine, the dedicated cooling system for both CPU and GPU provides a comfortable level of cooling for the GL75 Leopard. The laptop remains cool even under stress.

Key Features
  • Powerful processor with a good clock speed
  • Steelseries gaming keyboard with mechanical features
  • Specialized camera and mic
  • Dedicated cooling system for CPU and GPU
  • Sturdy metal frame and durable construction.
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-10750H
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Battery: 6 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 17.3-Inch, 1920x1080
  • Camera: 720p HD Camera
  • Speakers: Standard Factory Speakers
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Ports: 3x USB 3.2, 1x USB Type-C, 1x Charging port, 1x HDMI, 1x RJ-45, 1x SD-Card Reader, 1x Mini Display port
  • Dimensions: 1.1 x 15.63 x 10.67 inches
  • Weight: 5.51lbs
  • Brand: MSI
Pros
  • Upgradeable RAM and storage
  • Plenty of Ports
  • Smooth performance with no lag
  • High thermal efficiency
  • Rugged design
Cons
  • Hefty power consumption reduces total battery time
  • The display isn't high-end
  • Not viable for extreme maneuverability
Buy This Product
MSI GL75 - Leopard

HP laptops are known for their versatility, and the Envy 2019 version with a powerful 8-core CPU packs the required punch allowing the users to give breath to their animations. Combining it with a vital MX 250 graphics card that can handle low to high graphics processing eliminates the lags and glitches a low-budget device experiences while rendering large files. In short, the disbalance of hardware won't cause any bottlenecks that delay your next project submission.

The HP Envy 2019 beats every other model with its massive 1TB storage capacity. Further, with 16GB of Optane memory, this device allows you to run all rendering software needed for 3D and 2D modeling while handling memory-hungry applications like 3DS Max, MAYA & Blender without experiencing lag or stuttering. Overall, the device is pretty efficient when it comes to thermal heat management while working long hours.

Its improved design maintains the aesthetic of the HP Envy series while remaining relatively light. Furthermore, the 17.3-inch wide FHD Anti-Glare display enhances your design experience by giving you the most immersive look with brilliant and vibrant colors. Furthermore, you won't have to remain tethered most of the time since the battery backup is enough to handle a long day of animation.

With regards to security, this device has a fingerprint reader for quick authentication and sign-in, and robust firmware protects the user against all kinds of possible threats.

Key Features
  • Optane memory allows for faster execution of programs
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Metal frame reinforces the machine in terms of sturdiness
  • Better thermal efficiency
  • Optimal battery optimization
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-10510U
  • GPU: NVIDIA MX250
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Battery: 10 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 17.3-inch, 1920x1080
  • Camera: 720p HD
  • Speakers: Standard Factory Stereo Speakers
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Ports: 1x USB-C, 3x USB 3.2, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x 3.5mm Audio Combo, 1x Charging Port, 1x Charging Port
  • Dimensions: 15.94 x 10.47 x 0.88 inches
  • Weight: 6.14lbs
  • Brand: HP
Pros
  • Good range of ports
  • Large display
  • Upgradable memory and storage
  • Long battery life
  • Compatible with most animation software
Cons
  • Lack of 2K/4K resolution
Buy This Product
HP Envy 2019

Those looking for a single PC that can handle both work and gaming simultaneously may also find Acer Nitro 5 to be a great option. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 dedicated GPU paired with the powerful 9750H core i7 processor allows you to power up the needs of your animation software easily. Glitches, screen sticking, display errors, and sudden shutdowns won't interfere with your work.

With a smooth frame flow, the device minimizes rendering time, so it can handle even the most intense animation scenes without lagging. Its 15.6-inch FHD screen comes with a 144Hz refresh rate, which allows animators to explore the depth of their animated character and enables them to quickly inspect the median frames between scenes so they can make final edits rapidly. With Acer CoolBoost technology, which comes with twin fans and dual exhaust ports, you won't have to worry about the heat we usually experience while executing graphics-intensive tasks.

The 9750H's clock speed aligns perfectly with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060's capability to eliminate stutters caused by hardware bottlenecks, while the 16GB of dual-channel RAM allows the laptop to be used for long design sessions. The 256GB SSD storage space may not be enough to hold large files, but thanks to the additional M.2 slot, users can easily add more storage for larger files.

With its relatively long battery life of eight hours and comparatively low weight and dimensions, the Nitro 5 is an excellent choice for portability and off-desk work. By integrating Bluetooth and Wi-Fi 6, connectivity hurdles are no longer an obstacle, allowing users to connect to other devices easily. The presence of numerous ports and display connectors also facilitates this function. Thanks to the sturdy build, you won't have to worry about this device's durability.

Key Features
  • Acer TrueHarmony & Waves MaxxAudio optimized speakers
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capability
  • 144Hz refresh rate provides a seamless and stutter-less experience
  • Acer CoolBoost technology
  • Backlit Keyboard with smooth key travel
Specifications
  • Operating System: ‎Windows 10 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-9750H
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
  • Storage: ‎256GB SSD
  • Battery: ‎8 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): ‎15.6-inch, ‎1920x1080
  • Camera: 720p HD
  • Speakers: Waves MaxxAudio System & Acer TrueHarmony
  • Memory: ‎16GB
  • Ports: ‎2x USB 3.1, 1x USB Type-C, 1x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x 3.5mm Audio Combo, 1x Charging Port, 1x RJ-45
  • Dimensions: 14.31 x 10.04 x 0.96 inches
  • Weight: ‎4.84lbs
  • Brand: Acer
Pros
  • Ergonomic and lightweight
  • Rugged design
  • Optimal screen size allows for a better viewing experience
  • Numerous ports increase connectivity
  • Dedicated M.2 slot
  • Dedicated graphics card
  • Relatively large battery life
Cons
  • Lack of fast charge ability
Buy This Product
Acer Nitro 5

Asus Tuf is known for its combination of the all-powerful GTX 1650Ti GPU with a core i5 10300H processor, with a base clock speed of 2.5GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.5GHz. Use your laptop for graphics-intensive work at a faster clock speed or save power when performing general tasks. While designing 3D animation and modeling the character for your next VFX video, you'll be blown away by the performance of all your design software.

Additionally, the GTX 1650Ti incorporates ray tracing and tensor cores, enhancing the GPU's performance. Thanks to the Asus TUF's 16GB dual-channel SDRAM, rendering will be faster than ever. When the job gets tough, and your laptop starts to generate more heat than usual, you'll have to place it on a raised stand to increase airflow since the device does not have a thermal cooling system.

Those accustomed to working on larger screens will appreciate the 15.6-inch FHD, anti-glare, LED-backlit IPS display on this machine, which allows you to work for long hours without tiring your eyes. Additionally, the device features a 1920x1080 resolution and 144Hz refresh rate. With these specs, this laptop is at the top of its class.

Despite its relatively high weight and short battery life of only six hours, the laptop is still an excellent choice for beginners aspiring to become great animators.

Key Features
  • Intel Turbo Boost technology for high-level processing
  • Variety of connecting ports
  • Anti-glare display
  • The higher refresh rate of 144Hz
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • DTS Audio features provide a smooth hearing experience
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i5-10300H
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650Ti 4GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Battery: 6 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 15.6-inch, 1920x1080
  • Camera: 720p HD
  • Speakers: DTS Audio with Dual Speakers
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Ports: 1x USB 2.0, 2x USB 3.2, 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x USB 3.2 Type-C, 1x 3.5mm Audio Combo, 1x Charging Port, 1x RJ-45
  • Dimensions: 14.2x10.1x1 inches
  • Weight: 5.07lbs
  • Brand: Asus
Pros
  • Ergonomic Design
  • High processing speed
  • Rugged and Portable
  • Long-lasting device
  • Thermally efficient.
  • More space to work on the large screen
Cons
  • Short battery life
  • 4-core CPU as compared to other options of 8-core CPUs
Buy This Product
Asus TUF 2020

FAQ

Q: Can I Use All Laptops For Animation?

You can create animations on any laptop that supports your animation software. If the machine's specs are not high-end, you might experience frequent lags, crashes, and sudden shutdowns of your software. You will end up losing hours of effort you put into your project as well as being frustrated. To accomplish your task effectively, make sure your laptop is equipped with powerful processors, high RAM, and a high-end GPU.

Q: What Specs To Look For While Buying A Laptop For Animation?

If you are going to buy a laptop, make sure it has a powerful processor. In most cases, Intel processors are used, so if that's the case for you, make sure it's a Core i5 or higher. Aside from high processing, you need 8GB or more of RAM and dedicated graphics, which can vary depending on your budget. The more, the better. It is also essential to have a lot of storage space to hold all your work in one place since animation files are typically large.

Q: Which Is Better For An Animation Laptop or PC?

A PC or workstation is an excellent choice because you can customize it the way you like - feature laptops do not offer. In addition, PCs have relatively large housings that ensure efficient heat flow out of the system, making them thermally efficient. Furthermore, you can upgrade your PC at any time, which is not possible with a laptop. Therefore, if mobility is not an issue for you, get a PC to handle all your animation work. If you plan to travel a lot with your device, invest in a powerful laptop.