The 15 Best Affordable Laptops for Graphic Design Under $1,000 in 2025

Best Affordable Laptops for Graphic Design Under $1,000 in 2025

Graphic design professionals and enthusiasts alike need a reliable, powerful laptop to run creative software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and other design tools. However, finding an affordable laptop that can handle these demanding tasks while staying under $1,000 can be challenging. In this blog post, we’ll highlight 15 of the best laptops for graphic design in 2025, all priced between $800 and $1,000. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, these laptops offer the perfect balance of power, performance, and affordability.

Things To Bear In Mind While Selecting A Laptop for Graphic Design

Before diving into the list, it's important to understand the key factors that make a laptop suitable for graphic design:

1. Display: A high-resolution display with accurate color reproduction is crucial. Look for a laptop with at least a Full HD (1920x1080) display, preferably with an IPS panel for better color accuracy and viewing angles.
2. Processor (CPU): A fast processor ensures that your design software runs smoothly. Intel Core i5 or i7, or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 processors are ideal.
3. Graphics Card (GPU): While integrated graphics can suffice for basic tasks, a dedicated GPU (like NVIDIA’s GTX or RTX series) will provide much better performance for 3D rendering or intensive design software.
4. RAM: A minimum of 8GB of RAM is necessary for multitasking, but 16GB is even better if you’re working with large files or multiple programs.
5. Storage: Solid-state drives (SSD) offer much faster performance than traditional hard drives (HDD). Aim for at least 256GB of SSD storage.

Now that we've covered the basics, let's dive into the list of the 15 best affordable laptops for graphic design under $1,000.

1. Acer Aspire 5 (2023)

The Acer Aspire 5 offers an affordable entry point for graphic designers who need reliable performance without breaking the bank. It features a large, color-accurate display and a decent graphics card, making it perfect for photo editing and vector design.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• RAM: 8GB DDR4
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD IPS (1920x1080)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Affordable price for the specs
• Decent display quality
• Good overall performance for basic design tasks

Cons:

• Integrated graphics limit performance for 3D rendering
• Build quality could be better

2. HP Envy x360 13 (2023)

A 2-in-1 laptop that brings flexibility to the table, the HP Envy x360 combines a solid performance with a touchscreen display, which is especially useful for artists who prefer drawing directly on the screen.

Key Specs:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 13.3-inch Full HD IPS Touchscreen (1920x1080)
• Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics

Pros:

• Convertible design with a touchscreen
• Compact and portable
• Strong battery life

Cons:

• Smaller screen size may not suit all designers
• Integrated graphics are not ideal for high-end 3D rendering

3. Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 14 (2023)

Known for its affordability and performance, the Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 14 offers a well-rounded package with a vibrant 14-inch display. It’s perfect for designers who need solid performance without the high price tag.

Key Specs:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 14-inch WQHD (2560x1600) IPS
• Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics

Pros:

• High-resolution WQHD display
• Strong processor and ample RAM for multitasking
• Sleek, premium design

Cons:

• No dedicated GPU for intensive design tasks
• Smaller screen size for some users

4. Dell Inspiron 15 5000 (2023)

The Dell Inspiron 15 offers a powerful combination of performance and display quality. It’s equipped with an Intel Core i7 processor and a large Full HD display, making it ideal for graphic designers on a budget.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) Anti-Glare
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Good value for the price
• Large screen size
• Strong performance for basic graphic design tasks

Cons:

• Lack of dedicated GPU limits advanced design work
• Battery life could be improved

5. Asus VivoBook Pro 15 (2023)

The Asus VivoBook Pro 15 is a well-balanced laptop that offers solid performance, a sharp Full HD display, and a dedicated NVIDIA GTX 1650 GPU, making it one of the better options for entry-level graphic designers.

Key Specs:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS
• Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650

Pros:

• Dedicated GPU for enhanced design performance
• Good performance for its price range
• Large screen size

Cons:

• Heavier and bulkier than other options
• Average battery life

6. Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 (13.5-inch)

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 is a sleek and ultra-portable option for graphic designers who prioritize design, portability, and performance. It features a high-resolution PixelSense touchscreen that’s perfect for creative work.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i5-1135G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 13.5-inch PixelSense Touchscreen (2256x1504)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Premium build and display
• Lightweight and portable
• Responsive touchscreen

Cons:

• No dedicated GPU for complex design tasks
• Expensive for the specs offered

7. Apple MacBook Air M1 (2023)

Though typically associated with high-end devices, the Apple MacBook Air with the M1 chip offers excellent value for money. It’s a great choice for graphic designers who prefer macOS over Windows and want a lightweight yet powerful laptop.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Apple M1 Chip
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 13.3-inch Retina Display (2560x1600)
• Graphics: Integrated Apple GPU

Pros:

• Exceptional battery life
• Fast performance due to M1 chip
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Integrated GPU limits some 3D design work
• Higher price point compared to Windows alternatives

8. HP Pavilion 15 (2023)

A solid and affordable option, the HP Pavilion 15 is great for graphic design tasks that don’t require top-tier performance. It’s powered by an Intel Core i7 and features a clear, bright Full HD display.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080) IPS
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Strong overall performance
• Large, clear display
• Good value for the price

Cons:

• Lacks dedicated GPU for intense design tasks
• Build quality feels a bit cheap

9. Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 360 (2023)

The Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 360 offers the best of both worlds with a 2-in-1 design and impressive AMOLED touchscreen display. It’s a versatile choice for creative professionals who need portability and great visuals.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 13.3-inch Full HD AMOLED Touchscreen (1920x1080)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Gorgeous AMOLED display
• 2-in-1 design for versatility
• Lightweight and portable

Cons:

• Integrated graphics limit performance for 3D work
• Smaller screen may not be ideal for all users

10. Lenovo ThinkPad L15 (2023)

The Lenovo ThinkPad L15 offers durability and solid performance for graphic designers who need a reliable workhorse. It’s slightly more affordable than the higher-end ThinkPad models but still provides excellent performance.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i5-1135G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch Full HD (1920x1080)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Sturdy build quality
• Reliable performance for daily design tasks
• Great keyboard for typing

Cons:

• No dedicated GPU
• Average battery life

11. Razer Blade Stealth 13 (2023)

If you’re looking for a more premium, ultra-portable laptop for graphic design, the Razer Blade Stealth 13 is a solid choice. It packs a dedicated NVIDIA GPU, making it suitable for 3D design and rendering tasks.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 13.3-inch Full HD (1920x1080) Touchscreen
• Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650 Ti

Pros:

• Dedicated GPU for enhanced performance
• Premium build and design
• Compact and portable

Cons:

• Expensive for the specs offered
• Small screen size

12. Gigabyte Aero 15 (2023)

The Gigabyte Aero 15 is an excellent mid-range option with strong performance, a large display, and a dedicated NVIDIA GTX 1650 Ti GPU. It’s ideal for designers who need power but don’t want to overspend.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-11800H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch 4K UHD (3840x2160) IPS
• Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650 Ti

Pros:

• Excellent 4K display
• Powerful CPU and GPU for design tasks
• Solid battery life

Cons:

• Heavier and bulkier than other options
• Expensive for some users

13. Acer Swift 3 (2023)

The Acer Swift 3 is a lightweight and affordable laptop that still offers impressive performance for graphic design. Its slim profile and decent specs make it a great choice for those on the go.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable
• Good value for the price
• Decent display and performance

Cons:

• Integrated graphics are limiting for 3D work
• Smaller screen size

14. MSI Modern 14 (2023)

MSI’s Modern 14 offers excellent value for designers who need good performance but don’t want to spend a fortune. With a strong processor, good RAM, and a decent display, this laptop is a solid choice.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i5-1135G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 14-inch Full HD (1920x1080)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Compact design
• Strong value for the price
• Decent battery life

Cons:

• No dedicated GPU
• Smaller screen size

15. HP Spectre x360 13 (2023)

For graphic designers who need a premium convertible laptop with powerful specs, the HP Spectre x360 is a great option. Its stunning 4K display and robust performance make it perfect for design work on the go.

Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 13.3-inch 4K AMOLED (3840x2160)
• Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Pros:

• Convertible 2-in-1 design
• Beautiful 4K AMOLED display
• Great build quality

Cons:

• Expensive for the specs
• Limited for high-end design tasks without a dedicated GPU

Conclusion

Choosing the right laptop for graphic design doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of affordable laptops between $800-$1,000 that offer solid performance, reliable displays, and the power needed for creative work. Whether you prefer Windows or macOS, there's a laptop on this list that will suit your design needs.

For entry-level users, laptops like the Acer Aspire 5 or Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro are great choices, while those who need more power for intensive design work may want to consider options like the Asus VivoBook Pro 15 or Gigabyte Aero 15.

Ultimately, the best laptop for graphic design will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences.