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Are you a beginner or professional photo editor looking for the best Mac laptop for photo editing? We’ve listed the seven best Mac laptops for photo editing. Generally, getting the best laptop out there can be very challenging, especially if you are not tech-savvy or probably do not know how to go about it.
Thankfully, we’ve simplified the entire process for you by selecting the best Mac laptops for photo editing among thousands of options in the marketplace.
Moreover, the ✅2019 Apple MacBook Pro takes the top lead out of the seven laptops featured in this review.
So, stay with us for more insight into these laptops’ features.
Comparison Table For The Best Mac Laptops For Photo Editing
Click the image in the table below to get the best Mac laptops for photo editing on Amazon.
| Product Name | Product Image | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 Apple MacBook Pro |   | Processor: 6-core Intel Core i7 Display: 16-inch RAM: 16 GB Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Mac OS |
| 2020 Apple MacBook Pro |   | Processor: Apple M1 Chip Display: 13" RAM: 16 GB Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Mac OS |
| Apple MacBook Air |   | Processor: Apple M1 Chip WITH 8-core Display: 13" RAM: 16 GB Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Mac OS |
| 2020 Apple MacBook Air Laptop |   | Processor: Apple M1 Chip Display: 13" RAM: 8 GB Storage: 256 GB SSD Operating System: Mac OS |
| Apple MacBook Air |   | Processor: Apple M1 Chip Display: 13" RAM: 16 GB Storage: 256 GB SSD Operating System: Mac OS X |
| Apple 2018 MacBook Air |   | Processor: Intel Core i5 Display: 13" RAM: 8 GB Storage: 256 GB SSD Operating System: Mac OS |
| Apple 2018 13.3in MacBook Air |   | Processor: Intel Core i5 Display: 13" RAM: 8 GB Storage: 128 GB SSD Operating System: Mac OS |
Best Mac Laptop For Photo Editing; An Overview
On a general note, the Apple brand is arguably one of the best producers of premium and high-end computers.
They produce different electronic devices and gadgets of which the laptops are some of their best products.
Speaking of laptops, Apple has different lineups that can handle different tasks and functions, regardless of the workload.
These lineups include the following: MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Mac mini, iMac, and Mac Pro.
In addition, each of these lineups provides spectacular performances for different tasks, including photo editing.
Having stated these facts, let’s talk more about the best Mac laptop for photo editing.
Editing photos can be intellectually and technically demanding.
First, you’ll need to use your creativity and skills to turn basic-looking pictures into stunning finished work.
Likewise, you’ll need high-end gadgets and software to achieve the above.
This is where Apple MacBooks come in because they’re equipped with high-end components and features that can handle the intense demands of photo editing.
Specifically, Most recent Apple laptops come with an amazing M1 Silicon Chip processor that can handle any task, including photo editing.
Likewise, models later than 2020 and renewed Apple laptops come with strong Intel processors.
Aside from the processor, other unique components that can make image post-production a breeze include a great display, plenty of storage, strong graphics, good battery life, latest Operating System, among others.
These features are commonly seen in most recent models.
That is why it is so easy to get confused when searching for the best.
With that in mind, let’s look at these features in detail to know exactly what you need in the best Mac laptop for photo editing.
Essential Specs For The Best Mac Laptop For Photo Editing
As we mentioned earlier, photo editing can be very demanding.
Hence, you need a laptop with high-end specifications for the tasks.
Ideally, you need a laptop that can handle editing applications like Photoshop, Adobe Lightroom, Affinity Photo, and others.
Nonetheless, here are the specs you should look out for in the best Mac laptop for photo editing.
Quality Display/Weight
A good laptop display is essential for photo editing because it determines the kind of visual feedback you get.
Thankfully, Most Apple laptops feature an amazing Retina display that can produce a billion colors and an impressive visual experience.
In addition, getting a laptop with True Tone technology, a good refresh rate, and higher resolution will be perfect for photo editing work.
Furthermore, aim to get a laptop with a decent screen size of 13 to 15 inches because the laptop’s screen size ultimately affects its weight.
Concerning the weight, we suggest you opt for a laptop that weighs around 4 pounds so you can easily move around with it, especially if you are an editor on the go.
Processor/Graphics
The processor is another factor you need to consider when buying a laptop for photo editing.
It oversees and coordinates the entire operation that goes on in the computer.
Therefore, you are assured of snappy and smooth performance in your editing tasks with a speedy processor.
Fortunately, with Apple’s M1 Silicon Chip processor, you’ll have no issues working on any computational tasks, including photo editing.
Likewise, a multi-core Intel processor will deliver impressive performance.
In addition to that, photo editing is a graphics-heavy task.
As such, only a discrete graphics card with multi-cores and dedicated VRAM will be best for such tasks.
Notwithstanding, some high-end integrated graphics cards can still function well for basic photo-editing but are not as excellent as a dedicated graphics card.
RAM/Storage
The Random Access Memory works with the CPU to execute tasks.
It stores information temporarily as you work on different tasks.
Photo editing also requires an enormous RAM to ensure lag-free operations and quick boot-up time.
To that effect, we recommend you get a laptop with at least 8 GB RAM or higher.
You’ll be working with several heavy applications and files.
So, you need ample storage of at least 256 GB.
It should also be an SSD storage if you want to enjoy swift file retrieval/transfer and boot-up time.
Operating System/Battery Life
Not all Operating Systems are compatible with photo editing software and applications.
This is why you need to be sure that whatever Mac laptop for photo editing will work fine with your different software.
Thankfully, Mac OS is compatible with most applications, but they are relatively expensive.
Overall, you won’t have issues working with your favorite applications and software on your Macbook.
Finally, opt for a laptop with a good battery life of at least 6 hours, so you don’t get cut off from your work time due to a lack of power supply.
Now, the review, proper.
Our 7 Best Mac Laptop For Photo Editing
1. 2019 Apple MacBook Pro
Regardless of your editing needs or skill, this Macbook got you covered.
This model is available in different configurations, and each one will meet your photo editing needs without struggles.
Let’s see the components fitted in it.
Design Features
This model has a sleek design.
It is decorated in a premium silver color with an Apple logo inscribed atop the lid.
Aside from its beautiful look, the rest of the MacBook Pro measures up.
Its 16-inch screen is surrounded by thin bezels, which offers enough workspace for photo editing.
More so, the display features the largest Retina display, which produces 500 nits of brightness and a P3 wide color gamut.
In addition, the display includes IPS, true tone technology, and delivers millions of colors in 4k UHD 3072 x 1920 resolution.
The port options include; 4 Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C) ports for Charging/Display/Super-fast File transfer with a transfer speed of up to 40 Gbps and USB 3.1 Gen 2 for file transfer with a transfer speed of up to 10 Gbps.
It also has Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
Furthermore, it has a magic keyboard featuring a refined scissor mechanism with a 1mm key travel distance.
One off-shoot of this premium laptop is its cramped keyboard which might not comfortable for some people, but that’s not a big challenge.
Lastly, the big screen size of this MacBook slightly affected its weight size.
As such, it weighs 4.3 pounds.
Performance
Performance-wise, Apple equipped this laptop with a 6-core Intel Core i7 processor that operates at a base frequency of 2.6 GHz, up to 4.5 GHz boost frequency, and 12MB cache memory.
With this high-end processor, you’ll enjoy stress-free operations when working on your photo editing tasks.
Furthermore, it comes in handy with AMD Radeon Pro 5300M graphics which has a dedicated 4 GB GDDR6 memory for swift graphics switching.
In addition, its 16 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD storage capacity will allow you to perform multiple tasks and save all your documents simultaneously without any delay.
Finally, it works with Mac Operating System and offers up to 11 hours of battery life on a single charge.
Pros
- Extensive connectivity.
- Six-speaker sound system.
- Impressive display.
Cons
- It has a cramped keyboard.
- Slightly heavyweight.
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2. 2020 Apple MacBook Pro
This is another Mac laptop for photo editing functions.
It has excellent features that can take your photo editing work to the next level.
Design Features
The 2020 Apple MacBook Pro laptop has a 13.3-inch Retina screen with an LED-backlit.
Also, it offers crisp and clear visuals in QHD 2560 x 1600 resolution.
The IPS feature also ensures sharp and well-saturated images that look realistic.
Furthermore, you will have no challenges connecting your peripherals, all thanks to its arrays of ports.
These ports include two 3-in1 Thunderbolts that can serve display, fast charging, and transfer purposes.
Even more, it has a USB 3.1 Gen 2, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless and audio connections.
It has a long-lasting battery life for all-day work.
Specifically, it offers up to 20 hours of battery runtime.
However, this may vary depending on individual usage and settings.
This 2020 MacBook Pro is lightweight; it is suitable for business travel.
It weighs just 3 pounds.
Performance
The laptop comes pre-loaded with an Apple M1 Chip 8-core processor to handle all tasks, including photo editing.
Likewise, the Apple 8-core GPU will deliver crisp and stunning pictorial output.
Its 8 GB RAM and 512 GB SSD will prevent lagging and allow you to save a decent amount of files.
Finally, its Mac Operating System will run photo editing applications and software without stress.
Pros
- Impressive battery life.
- It has plenty of storage.
- Decent design
Cons
- It has limited ports.
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3. Apple MacBook Air
This is another productivity laptop that will handle your photo editing tasks.
Design Feature
This Apple MacBook Air 13inch laptop features a 2556 x 1600 screen resolution that provides more color and brightness to the images that appear on the screen.
It has Wi-Fi- 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity.
Also, it has two thunderbolts and three USB-4 ports.
The Macbook Air also has a magic keyboard designed with a scissors mechanism that delivers 1mm of key travel distance.
Performance
Speaking of performance, this laptop features the 8-core Apple M1 chip CPU and 8-core GPU to handle intensive tasks.
Furthermore, it has a massive 16 GB of RAM for lag-free operations and multitasking activities.
Then, you can store several files and work applications on its 512 GB SSD storage.
Impressively, you’ll enjoy up to 18 hours of work time on this laptop.
However, this may vary depending on your tasks and the laptop’s setting.
Specifically, when all you do is video backpay, the battery can last up to 15 hours.
Then it offers up to 18 hours of wireless web browsing.
Finally, it’s equipped with a Mac Operating System.
Pros
- Whopping 16 GB RAM.
- 512 GB SSD storage capacity.
- Impressive battery life.
Cons
- Heavy at 5.25 pounds
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4. 2020 Apple MacBook Air Laptop
Fourth on the list of the best Mac laptop for photo editing is the 2020 Apple MacBook Air.
Design Features
For its design-build, the laptop is equipped with a magic backlit keyboard.
Also, the backlit keys have an ambient light sensor which allows you to type comfortably at low-light settings.
The keys are full-sized and evenly arranged to deliver a stress-free typing experience.
In addition, this MacBook Air comes top-notch with a fingerprint sensor which allows you to lock and unlock your system with your biometrics/fingerprint.
For connectivity, it has two thunderbolts and USB 4 ports to meet your versatile connectivity needs, such as charging, transfer, and video output.
Overall, it’s lightweight and portable at 2.8 pounds.
Performance
Performance-wise, Apple equipped the MacBook Air with the Apple M1 chip 8-core CPU to handle the high-intensive workload and deliver high-quality results.
Hence, “it delivers up to 3.5x faster performance than the previous generation, which uses way less power,” according to Apple.
Similarly, it has the Apple 8-core GPU to deliver stunning visual and bright pictures.
In addition, with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB SSD storage, you can perform multiple tasks simultaneously without experiencing much lag and save several files before you run out of space.
On the whole, it offers up to 18 hours of battery life.
Pros
- It delivers a good typing experience.
- It has a Touch ID.
- Solid and affordable
Cons
- The storage is not plenty enough.
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5. Apple MacBook Air
Here’s another MacBook Air that made it to the of the best Mac laptops suitable for photo editing.
Design Features
This laptop has the following features;
First, it has a 13-inch Retina display with true tone technology to deliver natural visual output for your design and editing works.
Secondly, it has a Touch ID feature with which you can unlock your device by placing your finger on the sensor.
It has a thin and slim body, yet it weighs heavier than its looks, at 5.15 pounds.
Performance
Furthermore, this Apple MacBook Air comes pre-installed with the Apple M1 Chip for swift and smooth execution of tasks.
Likewise, it has an 8-core GPU to handle graphics-intensive applications and gaming without stuttering.
On the other hand, it has 16 GB of RAM to deliver lag-free intense multitasking.
Also, it offers 256 GB SSD storage capacity for saving, accessing, and retrieving photo files.
Expectedly, this Macbook has the Mac OS pre-installed.
Finally, it offers up to 18 hours of battery life.
Pros
- It has True Tone Technology.
- Impressive performance.
- It can handle intensive multitasking.
Cons
- Heavyweight.
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6. Apple 2018 13.3in MacBook Air
We have the Apple 2018 13.3 inches MacBook Air taking the sixth spot on our list of the best Mac laptops for photo editing.
Design Features
The 13.3-inch MacBook Air display includes IPS technology, LED-backlit, and a 2560 x 1600 resolution.
These will deliver true-to-life images with quality and stunning visual output.
Furthermore, it has a built-in FaceTime HD web camera fitted at the top of the lid for video calls.
Also, it has built-in stereo speakers with 3 microphones which deliver clear and crisp audio sounds.
Performance
Away from that, the laptop is powered by an Intel Core i5-8210Y Dual-Core processor with a 3.6 GHz Turbo Boost.
For all graphics demanding tasks, it comes with Intel UHD Graphics 617.
Likewise, the 8 GB DDR4 RAM will ensure lag-free operations when working on multiple tasks simultaneously.
Finally, it has a decent storage space that can easily take up a large number of photo files.
Given so, it comes with 256 GB SSD storage.
Pros
- Built-in FaceTime HD camera
- Built-in stereo speakers
- IPS technology
Cons
- The graphics card is integrated.
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7. Apple 2018 13.3in MacBook Air
Here’s another 2018 13-inch MacBook laptop and the last to be featured in this review.
Design Features
This laptop has a sleek and compact design.
The Apple logo placed on the top cover lid indicates the brand name.
It has Wi-fi for internet connectivity and Bluetooth 4.2 for wireless transfer.
Performance
Performance-wise, it’s equipped with mid-range components for mid-level performance.
Specifically, it has an Intel Core i5-8210Y Dual-Core processor, Intel UHD Graphics 617, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, and 128 GB SSD storage.
These will fare well for basic or beginner-friendly photo-editing tasks.
It works with Mac OS, and it’s powered by 1 Lithium Polymer battery.
Pros
- It features Thunderbolt 3.
- Sleek in silver.
- Mac OS
Cons
- Heavy at 5.17 pounds.
- Mid-level performance.
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Conclusion On The Best Mac Laptop For Photo Editing
This is the end of the best Mac Laptops for Photo Editing.
It’s our utmost desire you get the best value for your money invested in a photo editing laptop.
Hence we recommend you go for the ✅2019 Apple MacBook Pro, our overall best.
Click the link above to buy it now on Amazon.
