Choosing the perfect laptop for FL Studio can feel overwhelming. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. While selecting a laptop for the same, there are many things that one has to take into consideration. This includes processor, RAM, and storage.
Additionally, Low DPC latency is further needed when considering a new laptop for FL studio. Low DPC latency ensures that audio signals are processed without delay or interruptions, leading to smoother playback and recording experiences. Look for laptops known for their low DPC latency performance. Additionally, you can check reviews and user feedback specifically mentioning DPC latency performance. This guide cuts through the noise, offering a detailed look at the top laptops fit for music production with FL Studio.
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Minimum System Requirements for FL Studio
To run FL Studio smoothly, your computer must meet certain specs. This ensures the software works well for music production. Here’s a breakdown:
- Operating System: Windows users need at least Windows 8.1. Yet, Windows 11 is best for top performance. Mac users should have macOS 10.13.6 (High Sierra) or newer.
- Disk Space: You’ll need 4GB of free space to start with FL Studio. However, having more space allows for additional plugins and projects.
- RAM: At least 4GB of RAM is required. More RAM means better multitasking with Plugins, effects, and smoother performance in complex sessions.
- CPU: The software runs on Intel or Apple Silicon CPUs. A fast processor helps reduce lag during playback and recording. Apple’s M2 or higher processor is recommended and for Intel, it should be an i5 or higher multi-core processor.
- Drives: Two SSD drives are recommended — one (500GB or 1TB) for your operating system and apps, including FL Studio; and another for projects and samples to boost performance. Don’t fall for HDD because its cheaper. Always get an SSD drive for higher reading speed and quick processing.
8 Best Laptops for FL Studio in 2024
Here’s the roundup of the best laptops for FL Studio. These are the best recommendations out there and it makes sense to pick these options available.
1. Apple 2023 MacBook Pro – Best for FL Studio
- Apple M3 Pro chip, 12-Core Processor
- 18 GB RAM
- 512GB/1TB SSD option
- 16.2 Inch Liquid Retina XDR Display
- MagSafe Charging Port, ThunderBolt 4, HDMI, SDXC Card Slot, 3.5mm Headphone Jack, Wi-Fi 6E
The Apple MacBook Pro stands out, when it comes to music production on FL Studio, thanks to its M3 Pro chip. This power-packed machine boasts a 12-core CPU and an 18-core GPU, making it a dream for anyone diving into music production or heavy-duty editing tasks. Its 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display brings your projects to life with stunning clarity and color accuracy, perfect for those long mixing sessions. With 1000nits of HDR Brightness, everything smallest knob, button, sound spectrum, and animations looks fabulous on this display.
Apple’s design choices ensure that this MacBook Pro isn’t just about raw power; it’s also about seamless integration within the Apple ecosystem. Copying text on your iPhone and pasting it into your DAW on the MacBook? Easy. The laptop’s advanced security features give you peace of mind, while the Magic Keyboard with Touch ID streamlines workflow like never before and also keeps the security intact.
The new lineup of Macbook Pro also gets the advantage when it comes to connectivity ports, crucial to connecting MIDI keyboards, mixers, guitar amps, etc. The new Macbook Pros now comes with a dedicated MagSafe charging port, 3x Thunderbolt 4 Type-C ports, an HDMI port, an SDXC Card Slot and a 3.5mm headphone jack. Compared to the previous generation of Macbooks, you don’t need to carry adapters to connect other music instruments/gears and computer peripherals.
We chose this as our number one pick because of its unbeatable combination of performance, connectivity, build and user-friendly features that cater specifically to creative professionals’ needs. Whether you’re laying down tracks or finalizing mixes, the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro offers unparalleled support every step of the way – truly a notch above in transforming creative visions into reality.
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2. Apple 2023 MacBook Air – Best Portable Macbook
- Apple M2 Chip, 10-Core Processor
- 8GB/16GB RAM Option, upto 24GB
- 512GB/256GB SSD Option
- 15.3 Inch Liquid Retina Display
- MagSafe Charging Port, 2x ThunderBolt 4 Ports, 3.5mm Headphone Jack
You need portability, power and speed for music production, and the Apple MacBook Air delivers. With its M2 chip, this laptop handles heavy software like FL Studio without breaking a sweat. Imagine layering dozens of tracks and effects; now you can do it faster than ever. The Liquid Retina Display makes every detail of your project pop with vibrant colors—editing has never felt so immersive.
The silent, Fanless design means you can work through the night without noise complaints, plus up to 18 hours of battery life keeps your sessions going long into the early morning. When you’re ready to share your creations, the advanced 1080p HD FaceTime camera, 3-Mic Array and 6 Speakers with Spatial Audio system ensure you look and sound as professional as your tracks. This MacBook Air doesn’t just keep up; it elevates your music production experience.
We ranked it No. 2 because while it’s nearly perfect, there might be options with higher RAM or more specialized ports for certain audio interfaces that edge out slightly in terms of sheer adaptability for studio setups—but barely. For most producers looking for a balance between performance, user experience, and portability, this MacBook Air hits all the right notes.
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3. ASUS TUF
- 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H Processor, 14 Cores
- 16 GB DDR4 RAM
- 2 TB SSD
- 8GB RTX 4070 GPU
- 15.6 Inch Full HD 144hz Display
- USB Type-C Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-A, RJ-45, 3.5mm Headphone Jack
The ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop is one of the popular choices for those who dive deep into music production. With its 12th Gen Intel Core i7 14-core processor and GeForce RTX 4070 graphics, this machine handles audio software and graphics like a pro. The hefty 64GB RAM and fast 2TB SSD make sure everything loads quickly, from big sample libraries to complex projects. Plus, the crisp 15.6″ FHD 144Hz display adds a visual treat when tweaking your mixes or editing videos.
What sets it apart is how it balances power with practicality. Its backlit keyboard lights up your late-night sessions while Wi-Fi 6 ensures smooth online collaborations or streaming tutorials. And let’s not forget—it comes with Windows 11 right out of the box, offering the latest in speed and security without extra fuss. Windows 11 seamless integration and compatibility with FL Studio make it an easy pick for anyone producing music on FL Studio.
We chose this as No.3 on our list because it’s more than just gaming gear; it’s a robust platform for creative minds in music production too. It’s where performance meets versatility—providing enough muscle for demanding tasks yet flexible enough for various creative uses. Whether you’re mixing down tracks or finalizing edits, the ASUS TUF gets the job done brilliantly. Anyone looking for the best laptop for FL Studio, this ASUS TUF gaming laptop checks everything you need to produce some dope music on FL Studio.
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4. MSI Crosshair
- 13th Gen 13620H Intel Core i7, 10-Core Processor
- 16GB DDR5 RAM, Upgradable upto 64GB
- 1 TB SSD (upto 4TB SSD)
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU
- 16 inch Full HD IPS Display
- USB Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-A, HDMI, 3.5mm Headphone/Mic combo jack
You’re on the hunt for a gaming laptop that can handle more than just games. Imagine mixing tracks and producing music without a glitch, or lags. That’s where the MSI Newest Crosshair Gaming Laptop shines. With its powerful Intel Core i7-13620H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics, you get smooth & seamless music production even with multi-track with added effects, plugins and additional sample packs. You won’t miss a beat or drop a frame, whether you’re laying down tracks.
The 16″ FHD+ display with a refresh rate of 144Hz offers crisp visuals, making every detail pop – essential when editing complex projects. Plus, the backlit keyboard isn’t just for looks; it lets you work into the night without straining your eyes. Upgrades? Easy. The original seal opens for enhancements only, ensuring you get exactly what you need to boost your creative process. Wi-Fi 6 support means fast downloads and uploads, so sharing your creations is quicker than ever.
Other than that, the multiple connectivity options let you connect external drives, external monitor/displays, music gears, and instruments without any fuss or compatibility issues. From USB Type-C to Type-A ports, this laptop got it all.
This MSI Crosshair isn’t just another laptop; it’s a powerhouse designed for creators who double as gamers – or vice versa. It effortlessly blends high-performance gaming with the demanding needs of music production software like FL Studio, offering unmatched versatility in its class.
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5. Dell G16
- 12th Generation Intel i7-12700H 14 Core Processor
- 16GB DDR5 RAM
- 1TB SSD
- 6GB Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
- 16-inch QHD 165hz Display
- USB 3.2 Type-A, HDMI 2.1, Thunderbolt 4, RJ-45, 3.5mm Headphone/Mic Combo Jack
The Dell G16 is a powerhouse, tailor-made for those who dive deep into music production and gaming. With its 12th Generation Intel i7-12700H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics, it easily handles demanding software like FL Studio. It’s a 14-core processor that includes 6P cores and 8E Cores processor for even better optimization of DAWs like FL Studio while maintaining the day-to-day task in motion without struggling for processing power.
The 16GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD ensure smooth multitasking and fast storage access – no more waiting for samples or projects to load. Most importantly, this laptop does not flinch. Although 1TB is enough SSD for storing sample packs, loops, plugins, and additional effects of FL Studio, if you feel like having more storage, the USB ports come in handy to connect external hard drives.
The 16-inch QHD 2560 x 1600p resolution Wide VA display is another plus point of Dell G16 that offers more real estate to fit the FL Studio interface. Controlling different parameters, effects, and virtual instruments gets easier when the display is large enough without losing the portability.
Cooling is crucial when you’re pushing your gear hard. The Dell G16 shines here too, thanks to its Alienware-inspired thermal system. It sucks in air from above the keyboard and below the chassis, then pushes heat out through four vents. This keeps everything cool even during intense multi-track sessions, letting you focus on mixing beats rather than worrying about overheating. Plus, the QHD display makes every detail pop – perfect when tweaking effects or editing clips.
For producers on the move, connectivity matters just as much as performance. The Dell G16 comes loaded with ports – Thunderbolt 4 for high-speed data transfer, HDMI 2.1 for connecting 4K displays, and USB-A ports for all your peripherals like MIDI controllers and external drives. And with its robust build yet sleek design, this laptop fits well both in a studio setting and at live gigs—definitely a top pick for creatives who need power without compromise.
Dell G16 checks everything when it comes to the best laptop for FL Studio. The best part is the price. It is affordable and offers great value for money.
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6. Acer Nitro V – Best Affordable
- 13th Gen Intel Core i5-13420H Processor
- 8GB DDR5 RAM (Upgradable upto 32GB)
- 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050
- 512GB SSD
- 15.6 inch 144hz Display
- USB 3.2 Type-C, Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Type-A Ports, HDMI 2.1, RJ-45, 3.5mm Headphone Jack
The Acer Nitro V is a powerhouse, perfect for gamers and creative minds alike. With its 13th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics, this laptop handles heavy software like a pro. Imagine running FL Studio with multiple tracks and plugins; the Nitro V doesn’t break a sweat. The 144Hz IPS display makes everything look crisp, from intricate music waveforms to fast-paced gaming scenes.
For those marathon sessions, whether mixing tracks or in the heat of gameplay, comfort is key. The dual fan system keeps things cool under pressure. Plus, with Wi-Fi 6 and an array of ports including Thunderbolt 4, connecting all your devices is seamless. It’s not just about power—it’s about making your workflow as smooth as silk.
This laptop’s design choices focus on user needs—like backlit keys for late-night creativity bursts and enough memory to juggle several projects. Whether you’re producing music or lost in-game worlds, the Acer Nitro V has your back. It is an affordable laptop that is suitable for beginners who are just starting with FL Studio and don’t want to spend much yet.
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7. ASUS ROG Strix G16 – Best Value for Money
- 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13650HX 14 Core Processor
- 16GB DDR5 RAM
- 512GB SSD
- 6GB Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060
- 16 inch Full HD Dolby Vision Display
- USB 3.2 Type-A, USB 3.2 Type-C, RJ-45, Thunderbolt 4 DisplayPort, HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm Headphone/Mic Combo Jack
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a powerhouse, perfect for those who need speed and power in their music production journey. With its 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13650HX 14 Core processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU, this laptop handles heavy software like a champ. Imagine loading up your most demanding tracks and plugins in FL Studio without breaking a sweat — that’s what the Strix G16 offers. The 16GB DDR5 RAM and PCIe SSD mean projects open fast, saving valuable time.
Cooling is key when pushing laptops to their limits. The ROG Intelligent Cooling system keeps everything running smoothly, even during intense mixing sessions. No more worrying about your laptop overheating when you’re lost in the creative flow.
The whole design of the ROG Strix G16 is so gorgeous. With an RGB strip around the laptop and an Aura Sync RGB keyboard, the thin bezel display looks just amazing on any desk setup.
Plus, the MUX Switch with Advanced Optimus balances gaming performance with battery life, making it ideal for producers on the go. And let’s not overlook the swift visuals of its 16-inch FHD 165Hz Dolby Vision Display; editing waveforms and navigating plugins feel incredibly fluid. The entertainment and gaming experience also gets better with Dolby Vision certification.
With features tailored for intensive tasks, from gaming to music production, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 stands out as a top choice for creators who demand high performance and reliability. Its design screams ‘future’, fitting perfectly into any modern setup — whether you’re at home or bringing your studio on the road.
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8. ASUS Vivobook 16X – Best Alternative of Macbook
- Intel Core i9-13900H 14-Core Processor
- 16 inch 3.2K OLED Display
- 8GB Nvidia Geforce RTX 4060
- 32GB DDR4 RAM
- 1TB SSD
- Thunderbolt 4, USB 3.2 Type-A, HDMI 2.1, SD 4.0 Card Reader, 3.5mm Headphone/Mic Jack
You’re looking for a laptop that keeps up with your music production needs, right? The ASUS Vivobook 16X is a powerhouse that demands attention. This laptop features a 1TB SSD and an impressive 32GB RAM. With an Intel Core i9-13900H 14 Core CPU at its heart, this machine breezes through software like FL Studio without breaking a sweat. It is the ultimate beast machine for its price.
With 32GB DDR4 RAM and an Intel Core i9 14-core processor, there are endless possibilities to experiment with. Be it a multi-track FL Studio session, adding complex plugins, and sound effects or storing heavy sample files, this laptop is just ready for all.
Now, picture tweaking your tracks on a stunning 16” OLED display that makes every color pop while ensuring crisp details, thanks to its 3200 x 2000p high resolution and 0.2ms response time. The 8GB NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4060 GPU adds an extra kick, perfect for video editing or graphic design tasks related to your music projects on FL Studio.
And let’s talk connectivity—Thunderbolt 4 means fast data transfer and versatile connections; it’s like having a studio setup streamlined into one sleek device. Along with that, it has USB 3.2 Type-A ports, an SD 4.0 Card Reader, HDMI 2.1 to connect an external 4K display and a standard 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack.
Don’t worry about getting disconnected mid-session either. With Wi-Fi 6E, you’re always online at lightning speeds. Plus, the array of ports ensures all your gear connects seamlessly. Whether it’s late-night mixing sessions or collaborating online with fellow artists, the ASUS Vivobook 16X supports every step of your creative journey.
It is indeed an expensive laptop to go with but if you are looking for a Macbook Alternative with a Windows operating system with even better specs, design, and value for money, the Asus Vivobook 16X is the best laptop for FL Studio you can grab in 2024.
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Do You Need GPU for FL Studio?
FL Studio works hard on the CPU and RAM, especially for big projects. This means that your computer’s brain does most of the work. But, there are ways to make FL Studio use your graphics card too.
You can change settings in the Nvidia Control Panel for this. Even though a strong CPU like an i7 is key, some plugins in FL Studio might use the GPU for processing graphics, animation, and other visual elements to keep the CPU idle for more important processing other than processing the graphics at the front end.
It’s smart to think about both the CPU and GPU when choosing a laptop for making music with FL Studio. While FL Studio mostly needs a good CPU, having a capable graphics card could help speed things up with certain plugins and settings.
Remember, good audio work needs a balance between processing power and smooth visuals. To answer the query, a GPU is not mandatory but having a dedicated GPU will definitely help the CPU in doing other important processing for smooth functioning of FL Studio. If you are budget allows, get a laptop with any decent GPU like RTX 30 series.
How Much RAM Do You Need for Best FL Studio Performance?
While a powerful GPU can enhance your visual experience, the amount of RAM is crucial for smooth music creation with FL Studio and other processes. Ideally, you should aim for at least 8GB of RAM. This allows basic projects to run without trouble.
However, 16GB offers more freedom and efficiency, handling complex tracks and plugins easily. For those using heavy sample-based instruments, plugins, effect packs or extensive multitasking in music production, stepping up to 32GB can prevent any performance lags.
Given that RAM isn’t too pricey and plays a vital role in FL Studio’s functioning—investing in adequate memory is wise. It ensures your sessions are free from disruptions like audio glitches tied to high CPU loads. All the above-mentioned laptops for FL Studio offer at least 16GB RAM while Asus Vivobook is offering 32GB RAM out of the box. In case, you don’t want to invest in heavy RAM-enabled laptops, aim for a laptop that at least offers idle slot for RAM expansion.
Choosing the right balance between RAM and CPU power keeps everything running smoothly, preventing common issues such as clicks or stutters during playback. Not only does this make the creative process more enjoyable but also far more productive.
Keep these requirements in mind when selecting your next laptop for music production with FL Studio—to guarantee you’re set up for success from the start.
Do I Need a PC or Laptop for FL Studio?
After discussing the RAM needed for FL Studio, let’s tackle if a PC or laptop is necessary. Both PCs and laptops can run FL Studio well, as it supports Windows 8.1 and up and is also available on macOS/OS X for x86 processors.
Your choice depends on your needs. If you like moving around while making music, a laptop might be better. For those who prefer a stable setup with possibly more power, a PC could be the way to go. A PC also becomes the first preference if someone requires a large display to see the FL Studio session. When you are working on multi-tracks, a large display is preferred along with powerful hardware, that’s where a PC makes more sense than a Laptop.
Choosing between a PC or laptop comes down to portability versus performance potential. Consider what matters most for your music production journey. Remember, both options work great with FL Studio; just make sure they meet the software’s system requirements to get optimal performance out of your digital audio workstation.
A PC should be your first preference if you want a robust music production setup while a laptop is good when you are on the go.
Best Laptop for FL Studio: Conclusion
Choosing the right laptop for FL Studio means getting something fast, reliable, and with a great display. The Apple 2023 MacBook Pro stands out with its big screen and massive storage—perfect for all your projects. Or, if you prefer something even more portable, the MacBook Air packs a powerful punch in performance with its M2 Chip and Liquid Retina display. Both are top picks for making your music creation journey smooth and enjoyable.
As the best alternative to Macbook Pro, the Asus Vivobook 16X can be an excellent choice. It is also portable, slim yet powerful with Windows 11 operating system. We have tried to mention all the possible laptops that are suitable for FL Studio. You can pick any of them that fits your style, requirements and budget.
