Best HP Laptops for Photo Editing in 2024: Top Picks for Professionals & Hobbyists

Editing photos is crucial in digital photography, and laptops have become a popular tool for this, offering flexibility for both professionals and enthusiasts. The ideal laptop for photo editing should have a high-resolution, color-accurate display and powerful processing capabilities. HP offers various laptops suited for this, each catering to different editing needs.

When selecting the best HP laptop for photo editing, consider screen quality for accurate colors and high resolution, performance for handling large images and intensive software, and ample storage, preferably SSDs, for large files.

Our selection of top HP laptops focuses on these key aspects, ensuring they meet the demands of photo editing. We’ve chosen models excelling in display, performance, and storage, ideal for photographers and graphic designers, equipped with high-powered processors, substantial RAM, and advanced graphics capabilities.

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1. HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T

With an Intel Core i7 processor, 16 GB RAM, and a WUXGA+ display, this laptop is very capable for photo editing.

Our Pick
HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T

For those in pursuit of a high-end 2-in-1 laptop for photo editing, the HP Spectre x360 exemplifies a perfect blend of performance and design.

Pros
Premium build and high-resolution touchscreen display enhance the photo editing experience
Bang & Olufsen speakers provide excellent audio for video editors and content consumers
Strong privacy features, including a physical camera shutter and a fingerprint reader, add a layer of security
Cons
Premium pricing places it on the higher end of the market
Some users may prefer a traditional laptop to a 2-in-1 design
Battery life may vary depending on usage which could affect mobility

Its high-resolution screen and significant computing power make it a strong candidate for photo editing enthusiasts and professionals alike.

On the downside, top-tier gadgets come with top-tier prices. The HP Spectre x360 is not exempt from this rule; its cost may give budget-conscious buyers a moment’s pause. However, when considering long-term use and the quality on offer, this laptop represents a valuable investment in your creative toolkit.

Balancing power and aesthetics, the HP Spectre x360 is designed to be seen. With its premium features, this laptop is attuned to the needs of users who prioritize both form and function in their devices. For those debating its value, we conclude that its advantages in editing visuals are compelling.

2. HP 17.3″ Laptop

The Intel Core i5 and 8 GB RAM might be sufficient for light to moderate photo editing, but the larger screen is a plus for detailed work.

Budget Pick
HP 17.3″ Laptop

We consider the HP 17.3-inch laptop an excellent choice for photo editing due to its large HD+ display and powerful Intel Iris Xe Graphics.

Pros
Large 17.3-inch HD+ display enhances photo detail
Solid performance with 11th Gen Intel Core i5 and Iris Xe Graphics
Backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader for added convenience
Cons
Heavier form factor may reduce portability
Glossy screen finish can cause reflections in bright light
Limited upgradability with integrated graphics and RAM

As photographers, we’re constantly on the lookout for tools that augment our creative process. The expansive 17.3-inch HD+ display delivers a robust canvas for scrutinizing the nuances of our images, ensuring edits are meticulous and true to color. The screen’s higher resolution makes it easier to pinpoint minute details, crucial for professional-grade photo editing.

Performance-wise, the synergy between the 11th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and the Intel Iris Xe Graphics allows us to handle demanding editing software with confidence. We appreciate smooth multitasking capabilities, essential when managing several tasks simultaneously. This seamless integration of processor and graphics ensures we spend less time waiting and more time creating.

While the device’s ergonomic factors, like the lift-hinge design and an enlarged click pad, offer comfort during extended editing sessions, the notable weight does mean sacrificing some mobility. Editors on the go may find this trade-off significant. Moreover, the glossy screen finish, though impeccable in rendering vibrant colors, can be challenging in well-lit environments due to reflective glare. Lastly, those of us planning future upgrades might encounter limitations, as certain components are not user-replaceable.

In conclusion, for photo editors looking for a reliable home workstation, the HP 17.3-inch laptop stands out. Its display and performance cater well to the demands of photo editing, while the added ergonomic features support productivity and security. The considerations regarding portability and screen finish are worth noting, but if your editing primarily occurs in a controlled setting, they are not deal-breakers.

3. HP Victus 15.6″ Gaming Laptop

Gaming laptops typically have good displays and powerful graphics cards. This, combined with the NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti, makes it suitable for photo editing.

Victus Powerhouse

For those in search of a laptop that masters photo editing with gaming-grade capabilities, the HP Victus is a formidable match for your creative endeavors.

Pros
Blends power and performance, ideal for intensive tasks like photo editing
State-of-the-art graphics for detailed and vibrant image quality
Thoughtful design with an intuitive keyboard and touchpad setup
Cons
May be overkill for users with modest editing needs
Gaming aesthetic not preferred by all professionals
Potentially heavier than ultraportable options

The Victus by HP bridges the gap between intense gaming machines and the finesse required for professional photo editing. We understand that a reliable laptop for photography professionals or enthusiasts needs to be brisk and responsive. This model ticks those boxes with a powerful processor and sufficient RAM to handle complex editing software with ease. Its high refresh rate display ensures that each image is rendered beautifully, a non-negotiable for photo editing precision.

Our attention then shifts to usability. The larger touchpad and strategically designed keyboard on the Victus facilitate a smooth editing workflow. These design features show that HP has put significant thought into the user experience, understanding that comfort can make the difference in long editing sessions.

However, we consider that every technology choice is about balancing capabilities with requirements. For the casual editor, the high-octane specs of this laptop might surpass their needs. Its gamer-centric design might not resonate with every professional’s taste, especially if you’re expecting a device that slips into any work environment inconspicuously. Moreover, for those who prioritize ultra-mobility, there are lighter options available.

In summary, the HP Victus is a precision tool tailored for those who demand robust performance beyond casual use. It’s crafted for creators who need their technology to keep pace with their imaginations, making it an excellent choice for photo editing and other resource-intensive tasks.

4. HP ENVY x360 Convertible 15″ Laptop

The Ryzen 7 and 8 GB RAM, along with an integrated Radeon graphics, would handle photo editing well, though more RAM could be beneficial.

HP ENVY x360

We believe the HP ENVY x360 is a versatile choice for photo editing, offering a balance of performance and portability.

Pros
Vivid FHD touchscreen display for precise photo editing
Quick charging feature minimizes downtime
Lightweight design ensures portability
Cons
RAM might feel limited for heavy multitasking
Integrated graphics may not satisfy all professional editing needs
Battery life could be a concern for prolonged use off the charger

When considering a laptop for photo editing, display quality is paramount. The HP ENVY x360 offers an edge-to-edge FHD touchscreen that makes editing images a breeze, giving you hands-on control for meticulous adjustments. The crisp, vibrant visuals can be a significant asset when assessing color accuracy and detail in photo editing tasks.

Portability is another strong suit of this model. Its slim form factor and light weight make it easy to carry around, which is ideal if you often find yourself editing on the go. Furthermore, HP Fast Charge technology allows you to get back to work quickly, boosting the battery up to 50% in just about 30 minutes.

However, while the 8 GB of RAM should suffice for many tasks, those who tend to run multiple high-demand applications simultaneously might find themselves wanting more memory. Similarly, users focused on highly complex editing might note the limitations of the integrated Radeon graphics compared to a dedicated GPU. Finally, if uninterrupted off-the-grid work sessions are typical for you, double-check if the battery endurance aligns with your needs, as some users have noted it can be short-lived.

5. HP 17.3″ Business Laptop

The presence of a FHD IPS display and Intel Core i5 makes it decent for photo editing, but professionals might seek more power and higher screen resolution.

HP 17.3″ Photo-Editing Champion

We believe this HP laptop is an excellent choice for photo editing due to its powerful Intel Core i5 processor, large high-resolution display, and ample storage.

Pros
Impressive processing power for demanding photo editing tasks.
Expansive 17.3-inch display enhances visual workspace.
Ample 1TB SSD storage accommodates large photo libraries.
Cons
The integrated graphics may not satisfy the most professional photo editing needs.
At 4.60 pounds, it’s relatively heavy if portability is a priority.
Limited color options may not appeal to all tastes.

When it comes to photo editing, a snappy processor is key. This laptop’s 10-core Intel Core i5 can handle complex editing software with ease, making workflows smoother. The sizable 17.3-inch display is a welcome feature, too; we find that a larger screen can make a huge difference in picking out fine details and enhancing the editing precision.

However, when editing on the go, the laptop’s weight might be a noticeable burden. We always recommend considering how a laptop’s weight may impact daily transportation. Also, while Intel’s Iris Xe Graphics are adept for many tasks, graphic-intensive editing may require more robust, dedicated GPU power.

In conclusion, we see this HP 17.3″ Business Laptop as a compelling tool for photo editing enthusiasts who value speed, screen real estate, and storage space. It’s well-equipped to tackle a variety of editing projects, although professional editors might want to explore options with dedicated graphics cards for the most intensive work.

6. HP 15.6″ Laptop PC

With the latest Intel Core i7 and Intel Iris Xe Graphics, plus 16 GB RAM, this laptop would be very good for photo editing.

HP 15.6″ Laptop

We recommend this HP laptop for photo editing enthusiasts seeking a balance between performance and portability.

Pros
Strong performance with an Intel Core i7 processor
Impressive battery life with HP Fast Charge technology
High-quality Full HD display enhances visual experience
Cons
Integrated graphics may limit advanced editing
Plastic build might not appeal to all users
The positioning of the power button could be more intuitive

When choosing the right laptop for photo editing, performance tops our list of must-haves. Equipped with a powerful processor, this HP model ensures quick and efficient photo processing. The solid-state drive offers speedy access to your files, so waiting around for photos to load becomes a thing of the past.

Our eyes are drawn to the brilliant visuals on the Full HD display, which make editing a vivid and precise task. Additionally, the thoughtful inclusion of a physical privacy shutter on the camera provides peace of mind in an era of digital security concerns.

A major factor for mobile professionals is battery life, and this laptop excels with its fast-charging capability. Moreover, the commitment to environmental sustainability through the use of recycled plastics reflects a move towards responsible tech. In terms of connectivity, the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6 ensures that you stay in sync with devices and cloud services.

With everything taken into account, this HP offers a solid package for photographers passionate about editing. Whether you’re tweaking photos or sharing content across devices, it does so with efficiency and ease.

7. HP ENVY x360 i5 Convertible Laptop

The Intel Core i5 and 12 GB RAM would be adequate for photo editing tasks, and the convertible nature might add versatility.

HP Envy x360

We find the HP Envy x360 to be a versatile and powerful tool for photo editing, equipped with features that cater to both professionals and hobbyists.

Pros
Vivid Full HD touchscreen for precise photo edits
Impressive performance from 12th Gen Intel Core i5
Swift charging with up to 50% battery in 30 minutes
Cons
Limited to 12 GB of RAM, which may not suffice for heavy multitasking
Battery life may fall short for extended, intensive editing sessions
Integrated GPU might underperform for highly demanding graphics tasks

Photographers looking for a reliable laptop for their editing work would appreciate the sharpness and clarity provided by the HP Envy x360’s Full HD display. The touchscreen facility adds a layer of convenience, allowing for intuitive navigation through editing software.

The processing power behind this machine ensures a lag-free experience. We appreciate its ability to handle large photo files and editing software with ease. Moreover, the laptop’s swift charging capability means less downtime and more productivity, which is invaluable when working to tight deadlines.

In terms of connectivity, we consider the Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth features to be up-to-the-minute, paving the way for seamless file transfers and peripheral connections. The laptop’s design also impresses us with its sustainable aspects, being made from recycled materials, and its commitment to energy efficiency.

On the downside, professional photo editors requiring extensive multitasking capabilities might find the 12 GB of RAM a bottleneck. Additionally, for those long editing sessions, the battery life on a single charge might not be quite enough, which could be a slight inconvenience. And while the Intel Iris Xe Graphics delivers good image quality, those working with 3D rendering or high-end video editing might need a laptop with a dedicated GPU.

We recommend the HP Envy x360 for photo editors who value a combination of portability, performance, and the flexibility of a touchscreen, all within a sustainable design.

8. HP ENVY x360 i7 Convertible Laptop

Similar to the other ENVY model but with a stronger Intel Core i7 processor and more RAM, making it a better choice for intensive photo editing.

HP Envy x360 15-inch

For photo editing enthusiasts looking for a balance of performance and portability, the HP Envy x360 is a compelling choice.

Pros
Vibrant full HD touchscreen for accurate color work
Quick charging feature saves time
Flexible 2-in-1 design enhances usability
Cons
No built-in CD drive for physical media
Integrated graphics might not satisfy all professional editing needs
Windows 11 may require updates out of the box

We understand how crucial a reliable laptop is for photo editing. With its vivid edge-to-edge full HD touchscreen, the HP Envy x360 15-inch makes editing work a pleasure. The display quality is crucial for color grading and ensures that what you see closely matches the final output.

The inclusion of HP Fast Charge technology is another boon for photographers on the go. We recognize that time is of the essence, and being able to charge your laptop from 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes can be incredibly convenient.

However, we don’t overlook the absence of a CD drive, which can be a setback if you frequently use physical media. Additionally, while the integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics handle most tasks with ease, those of us requiring more powerful graphical processing may find it a touch limiting for advanced editing tasks.

As for Windows users, updates are part of the routine maintenance—but upon initial setup, some have found the Windows 11 updates to be more time-consuming than expected. Despite this, once updated, Windows 11’s features can notably enhance the overall creative workflow.

Overall, the HP Envy x360 is a sturdy ally for creative tasks, and its pros outweigh the cons for most modern photo editing requirements. We believe it is a strong contestant in its category, offering a commendable blend of features for both amateur and semi-pro editors.

9. HP Pavilion 15 Laptop

The Intel Core i7 and 16 GB RAM make it a solid choice for photo editing, with the FHD display being decent for visual work.

HP Pavilion 15

We consider the HP Pavilion 15 a solid choice for photo editing due to its blend of processing power and vibrant display.

Pros
Impressive Intel Core i7 performance
Crisp, Full HD IPS display
Convenient fingerprint reader for enhanced security
Cons
Average battery life
No backlit keyboard
Construction could feel more premium

Photo editing requires a machine that can handle complex software while providing a sharp, color-accurate display. This HP Pavilion 15 seems well-suited for the task, incorporating a 12th Generation Intel Core i7 processor. The performance is evenly distributed, allowing us to smoothly manage multitasking and editing requirements.

The visual experience on the laptop is particularly pertinent for photo editing. The Full HD IPS display promises vibrant visuals from wide viewing angles, which is crucial when we’re tweaking color balances and examining details.

While the internals provide a smooth experience for photo editing, we also value convenience and portability. The fingerprint reader adds a nice touch of security, allowing us to quickly access our projects without compromising personal information.

However, every tool comes with its limitations. We note that the battery life is just average; it would be wise to keep a charger handy during longer editing sessions. Additionally, the lack of a backlit keyboard means working in dimly lit environments could be challenging. Lastly, a more premium build quality would enhance the overall feel of the laptop during use.

In sum, this HP Pavilion 15 is adept at handling the demands of photo editing software, and the vivid display enhances the overall experience. While it’s not without its drawbacks, its advantages make it a contender for those looking to edit photos effectively.

Summary Table

Images from Amazon
HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T,13.5' 3:2 WUXGA+ Touch, Intel Core i7-1355U, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, B&O Quad Speakers, Fingerprint, Tilt Pen, Nightfall Black, Win 10 Pro, 64GB TechWarehouse Flash Drive
HP Spectre x360 Luxury 14T
16 GB, 1 TB SSD, 13.5″ screen at 1920×1200 resolution
HP 17.3-inch Laptop, 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, Windows 11 Home (17.3-cn0026nr,Natural Silver)
HP 17.3-inch Laptop
8 GB, 512 GB SSD, 17.3″ screen at 1600×900 resolution
HP Victus 15.6' Gaming Laptop PC, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti, AMD Ryzen 7 5800H, Refined 1080p IPS Display, Compact Design, All-in-One Keyboard with Enlarged Touchpad, HD Webcam (15-fb0028nr, 2022)
HP Victus 15.6″ Gaming Laptop
8 GB, 512 GB SSD, 15.6″ screen at 1920×1080 resolution
HP ENVY x360 Convertible 15-inch Laptop, AMD Ryzen 7 5825U processor, AMD Radeon Graphics, 8 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, Windows 11 Home (15-eu1026nr, Nightfall black aluminum)
HP ENVY x360 Convertible 15-inch Laptop
8 GB, 512 GB SSD, 15.6″ screen at 1920×1080 resolution
hp 17.3' Business Laptop, IPS FHD Display, 13th Gen Intel Core i5-1335U Processor up to 4.6GHz, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Backlit Keyboard, Anti-Glare, Wi-Fi 6, HD Webcam, HDMI, Silver, Windows 11 Home
HP 17.3″ Business Laptop
16 GB, 1TB SSD, 17.3″ screen, Resolution not specified
HP 15.6 inch Laptop PC, Processor: 13th Generation Intel® Core™ i7, Graphics: Intel® Iris® Xe Graphicsc, 16 GB DDR4-3200 MHz RAM, 512GB SSD, Windows 11 Home (Silver, 15-fd0099nr)
HP 15.6 inch Laptop PC
16 GB, 512 GB SSD, 15.6″ screen at 1920×1080 resolution
HP Envy x360 Convertible, Intel® Core i5-1240P Processor, Iris X Graphics, 12 GB Memory RAM, M.2 SSD, Windows 11 Home (15-es2023nr, Natural Solver Aluminum)
HP Envy x360 Convertible
12 GB, 512 GB SSD, 15.6″ screen at 1920×1080 resolution
HP Envy x360 Convertible 15-inch Laptop, Intel Core i7-1260P Processor, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, 16 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD, Windows 11 Home (15-es2026nr, Natural Silver Aluminum)
HP Envy x360 Convertible 15-inch Laptop
16 GB, 1 TB SSD, 15.6″ screen at 1920×1080 resolution
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1255U Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, 15.6' Full HD Display, Windows 11 Pro, Fingerprint Reader, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, HD Webcam (15-eg2025nr 2022)
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop
16 GB, 512 GB SSD, 15.6″ screen at 1920×1080 resolution

Buying Guide

When we’re in the market for an HP laptop designed for photo editing, we focus on a couple of key features to ensure top performance. Here’s what to look for:

Display Quality

We prioritize high-resolution screens with excellent color accuracy. A minimum recommendation would be a Full HD (1920×1080) display. However, for more precise work, a 4K resolution could be beneficial. As for the panel type, IPS is typically favored for its wide viewing angles and superior color reproduction.

AspectSpecification
ResolutionFull HD or 4K
Panel TypeIPS
Color GamutsRGB or AdobeRGB

Performance

The CPU and GPU are the workhorses of our photo editing tasks. We suggest at least a quad-core processor for smooth operation. The more cores, the better, especially for multitasking and handling high-resolution images. A dedicated graphics card can significantly boost performance with editing software.

ComponentMinimum Requirement
CPUQuad-core or higher
GPUDedicated preferred

RAM and Storage

We know that photo editing can be RAM intensive, so we don’t compromise on this. At least 16GB of RAM is the baseline; more will allow us to handle large files more efficiently. For storage, an SSD is essential for speed, and we look for at least 512GB to keep our projects and applications.

ComponentMinimum Requirement
RAM16GB
SSD512GB

Connectivity and Portability

Given the nature of photo editing, having a good range of ports for peripherals is crucial. We look for USB 3.0, Thunderbolt, HDMI, and card readers. If we plan to work on the go, a balance between screen size and weight is important to maintain portability without sacrificing the viewing area.

By concentrating on these features, we’ll find an HP laptop that meets our photo editing needs effectively.

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About the Author
Close-up portrait of Andreas De Rosi, founder of PhotoWorkout.com

Andreas, with a background in economics and marketing, heads PhotoWorkout's editorial team in Berlin. Starting his photography with film at 14, he's developed his craft through courses and hands-on experience, focusing on travel photography. Currently using a Fuji X-S20 among other cameras, Andreas blends academic and practical insights to shed light on the latest trends in photography. Connect with him on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

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