Why does choosing the right laptop even matter for podcasting?
Because your gear should support your creative flow, not hold it back.
A laptop's where your ideas come to life and rough cuts turn into polished episodes. You’re looking for something that’s not just portable but powerful enough to make editing smooth, whether you’re at home or recording on the move.
That’s why finding a balance between performance and portability is crucial—it needs to keep up with demanding audio and video software without weighing you down.
But here’s the thing: not all laptops are created equal for podcasting. Beyond standard specs, you’ll want a machine that runs multiple applications simultaneously without a hitch, keeping up with everything from editing software to storage needs.
Here’s a lineup of 2025’s top laptops for podcasting—each one picked to keep your process seamless, no matter where you’re creating.
Laptops vs Computers for Podcasting
Does portability matter more than power, or do you need both? The choice between a laptop and a desktop ultimately depends on your workflow and priorities as a creator.
Laptops bring the freedom to record anytime, anywhere—ideal for spontaneous creators who want to capture ideas on the fly. With built-in mics and noise-reducing features, many laptops make it easy to hit record wherever you are, even if the setting isn’t perfect. Laptops also let you edit on the go, giving you the power to refine your episodes while on a flight, at a cafe, or even in your parked car if inspiration strikes.
Desktops, on the other hand, pack in more processing punch, higher RAM, and stronger graphics capabilities, designed for intense editing sessions where precision matters. If your podcast involves a lot of post-production work, like detailed audio layering or video syncing, a desktop can handle it all smoothly, providing the stability that a mobile setup might lack. Desktops also come with extensive connectivity options, making it easy to plug in multiple external devices, from high-end mics to mixers.
Pros and cons of using a laptop for podcasting
Pros:
- More portable than a desktop computer
- Most laptops come with built-in microphones, which can be used for podcast recording
- Some laptops have advanced noise canceling technology to help reduce background noise during recordings.
Cons:
- Laptops may not offer the best sound quality compared to desktop computers
- Laptops are more prone to crashes and other technical issues than desktops
Pros and cons of using a desktop computer for podcasting:
Pros:
- More powerful processors and higher RAM capacity mean better sound quality
- More connectivity options for additional external devices.
Cons:
- Not as portable as a laptop
- Does not have built-in microphones for podcast recording.
Now that you know the pros and cons of both laptops and desktop computers, it’s time to choose a laptop that best suits your needs. Here are our top picks for best laptops for podcasting.
The 10 best laptops for podcasting
So, what is the best laptop for podcasting? Of course, there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question: it really depends on your needs. But to make your decision easier, we have put together a list of the best laptops for podcasting. We based our selection on expert reviews, specifications, and user feedback.
1) Apple MacBook Air M2 (2022)
The MacBook Air M2 is a powerhouse in a sleek design, featuring the Apple M2 chip with an 8-core CPU and 8-core GPU, 8GB of unified memory, and a 256GB SSD. Its fanless architecture ensures silent operation, ideal for recording sessions. The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display provides sharp visuals, and the battery life extends up to 18 hours, allowing for extended editing sessions without frequent charging. Its lightweight build makes it perfect for podcasters on the move.
Fun fact: fanless MacBooks are designed not only to dissipate heat efficiently through their aluminum body but also to manage processing power dynamically. If temperatures start rising, the system automatically throttles performance to prevent overheating
2) Dell XPS 15
The Dell XPS 15 combines robust performance with a stunning display. It comes equipped with up to a 13th Generation Intel Core i7-13620H Processor, 16GB DDR5 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD. The 15.6-inch FHD+ (1920x1200) InfinityEdge display offers vibrant colors and sharp details, enhancing the editing experience. Its advanced thermal design ensures the laptop remains cool and quiet during intensive tasks, making it suitable for recording and editing podcasts.
3) Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (Gen 9)
Renowned for its durability and performance, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 features an Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, 16GB LPDDR4x RAM, and a 512GB SSD. The 14-inch 16:10 display provides ample screen real estate for editing, and its lightweight design ensures portability. The laptop’s superior keyboard and overall build quality make it a reliable choice for podcasters seeking a dependable (and portable) studio.
4) HP Spectre x360 14
The Spectre x360 14 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop with an 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD. Its 13.5-inch 3:2 OLED display provides vibrant colors and more vertical space, beneficial for editing. The laptop’s convertible design allows for flexible use, and its integrated Bang & Olufsen speakers deliver high-quality audio playback – crucial for podcast editing.
5) Microsoft Surface Laptop 4
The Surface Laptop 4 offers a seamless blend of style and functionality. It comes with an 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD. The 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen display delivers crisp visuals, and the studio microphones ensure clear audio capture, essential for podcasting. Its slim profile and long battery life make it a great companion for podcasters on the go.
6) ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15
For those seeking a dual-screen experience, the ZenBook Pro Duo 15 is an excellent choice. It features a 10th Gen Intel Core i9 processor, 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD. The primary 15.6-inch 4K OLED display, combined with the 14-inch 4K ScreenPad Plus, offers unparalleled multitasking capabilities, allowing podcasters to manage scripts, recording software, and editing tools simultaneously.
7) Acer Aspire 5
The Acer Aspire 5 is a versatile laptop that balances performance and affordability, making it a solid choice for podcasters. Equipped with up to a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA graphics, it ensures smooth multitasking and efficient audio editing. The laptop features a 15.6-inch Full HD display, providing clear visuals for editing software. Its backlit keyboard enhances usability in various lighting conditions, and the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 ensures fast and reliable internet connectivity for uploading episodes. Additionally, the Aspire 5 offers ample storage options, including SSD configurations, to store extensive audio files.
8) Razer Blade 15
If you’re a podcaster who games on the side, the Razer Blade 15 delivers power and precision without compromise. Its 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics make it a powerhouse for both gaming and podcast editing, allowing smooth transitions between intense audio work and immersive gameplay. With its 15.6-inch Full HD display, you’ll enjoy vibrant visuals for editing and entertainment alike, while the high refresh rate ensures every frame is as clear as it is fluid. The Razer Blade 15’s sleek, durable design and top-tier performance make it ideal for those who need a laptop that performs in both worlds.
9) Samsung Notebook 9 Pro
The Samsung Notebook 9 Pro combines sleek design with impressive performance, ideal for podcasters seeking a portable yet powerful machine. Powered by an 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8565U processor and Intel UHD Graphics 620, it handles audio editing tasks with ease. The 13.3-inch Full HD touchscreen display offers vibrant visuals, and the included Active Pen allows for intuitive note-taking and editing. Weighing just 1.2 kg (2.84 lbs) and measuring 1.4 cm (0.55 inches) in thickness, it’s highly portable for on-the-go recording sessions. The Notebook 9 Pro also boasts a 55Wh battery with fast charging capabilities, ensuring you stay productive throughout the day.
10) Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
For gamers who dabble in podcasting or podcasters who love to game, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is a compact beast that caters to both passions. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, this laptop provides the power needed for intense editing sessions and high-performance gaming. Its 14-inch QHD display with a 120Hz refresh rate offers crisp visuals, whether you’re editing intricate audio or unwinding with a gaming session. Despite its power, the Zephyrus G14 remains lightweight and portable, making it easy to bring along for recording on the go. Plus, its advanced cooling system ensures it stays cool under pressure, keeping your workflows smooth and uninterrupted.
No matter which laptop you end up choosing, make sure to check the hardware specifications carefully before making your purchase. Having the best specs doesn’t necessarily guarantee great performance – you also need good software and a comfortable working environment to get the best results from your podcasting project. Good luck!
Audio Production FAQ
Can you do a podcast from a laptop?
Yes, you can do a podcast from a laptop. All you need is the right audio equipment and software, as well as an internet connection for uploading your finished podcasts. For best results, make sure to choose a laptop with good specs such as an Intel i7 processor, 16GB RAM and a dedicated graphics card. You’ll also need a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) for recording and editing your podcasts.
What are the best laptops for podcasting?
The best laptops for podcasting depend on your specific needs, budget and preferences. However, some of the best options currently available include the Apple MacBook Pro, ASUS ZenBook Pro, HP EliteBook Folio G1, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, Acer Aspire E15, Razer Blade 15, Dell XPS 15 and Microsoft Surface Pro 6. Make sure to check the laptop’s specs carefully before making your purchase to ensure that it has the best audio and video capabilities for your podcasting projects.
What to consider when buying a laptop for podcasting?
When buying a laptop for podcasting, the most important factors to consider are its specs and features. Look for laptops with an Intel Core i7 processor and 8GB RAM or higher for best performance. You should also look for best-in-class audio and video capabilities, as well as reliable security features if you’re planning on working with sensitive data. Additionally, make sure to check the laptop’s battery life and portability so that you can use it on-the-go without compromising its performance. Lastly, consider investing in a good Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software so that you can record and edit your podcasts with ease.
What laptop is best for podcast recording?
The best laptop for podcasting is one that offers best-in-class audio and video capabilities, as well as reliable security features. Look for laptops with an Intel Core i7 processor and 8GB RAM or higher to ensure best performance. Additionally, make sure to check the laptop’s battery life and portability so that you can use it on-the-go without compromising its performance. Finally, consider investing in a good Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software so that you can record and edit your podcasts with ease.
What’s the Difference Between a Laptop & Computer for Podcasting
The main difference between a laptop and computer for podcasting is portability. Laptops are typically smaller and more compact than computers, making them best suited for on-the-go use. Additionally, laptops have the benefit of being powered by batteries so that you can record your podcasts from anywhere without having to worry about an outlet or power source. Computers, on the other hand, are best suited for stationary work and can be used to create more complex audio recordings with higher fidelity.
Ready to Set Up Your Portable Podcast Studio?
All in all, whether you’re looking for a laptop or computer for podcasting, make sure to choose one that best meets your needs and budget. With the right equipment and software, you’ll be able to easily create high-quality podcasts that sound professional. Good luck and happy podcasting!
