New laptop as a "Desktop Replacement"

[talvey]

Hi Brian,

I am looking for a new laptop as my "Desktop replacement".  I'm embarrassed to spec out my current laptop that has treated me well for close to 10 years (yes, 10 years!) for both photo and video editing (Adobe).  My brother and I spec'd it out (2013) and had it built by Origin, known for building custom gaming laptops and desktops.  Last year it was hard to get "parts" and prices were pretty crazy, but I think things are better now.  I haven't done much video editing so what I'm working with now suffices, but obviously the graphics card is holding me back on some things as I'm getting warning (I ignore and continue).  My current laptop model is the EON17-S Pro.

I originally was going to custom build a desktop (my brother was for me), but life has thrown some curve balls, so I'll have to resort back to a laptop, but more of a "Desktop replacement" (heavier and more robust).  I don't plan on bringing it anywhere for photo sessions, as the only time I need to tether would be in my home.

I've printed everything you've posted and will start checking off my wishlist, as I've read on other posts not to assume a gaming laptop would automatically be best for video.  I was wondering if you could start me in the right direction in terms of what Origin builds from their standard line - and perhaps I customize from there (if that makes sense).

https://www.originpc.com/gaming/laptops#desktop-replacement/

I don't necessarily have to go through Origin, I've just had very good experience with them, and my laptop has lasted me this long with no major issues (knock on wood).

If I could get another laptop/desktop replacement that lasts me as long as this one, I can budget for it.  I just don't want to overdo it, but definitely something that can "grow with the times".  I'm currently running Windows 10 and very nervous about having to upgrade to Windows 11.  Everything is running so smooth with no issues, I dread upgrading the OS.

Any suggestions would be so greatly appreciated.  I'll buy you a beer! 

[Brian]

Here is what I configured:

First and foremost, you want a IPS-Based Display Panel that is Non-Glossy / Matte.

RAM: 32GB but 64GB is also quite acceptable.

Main OS HD is at least 1TB. Do not buy a 500GB HD for your Main Drive. Period.

CPU: For Photoshop, a i7 is fine. If you want to spend the extra cash and get a i9, that's fine too.

Video Card: A separate and dedicated Video GPU with it's own dedicated Video Memory. I like the NVIDIA 3070 8GB models for Photoshop. When it comes to Photoshop, the extra cost for a 3080 or 3090 will not yield THAT much of a performance boost over a 3070. Maybe something like a 3-5% performance boost; certainly not work an extra $400. I'd rather have you get a i9 CPU or more RAM. 

Windows: I did the above configuration with Windows 11 Home. But you could spend the extra $40 and get Windows 11 Pro. The difference between the "Pro" and "Home" editions is one is meant for more corporate/business environments, BUT it also stays out of your way when you go to fix things. With the "Home" Versions, there are Wizards after Wizards for you to run when you need to fiddle things. I can tell you how to fix something in a few steps with the Pro Version of Windows, or tell you to follow the stupid Wizard that the Home Versions make you do. I also have things like the ability to access "Local Group Policies" that I can set things...like Windows 10 not upgrading to Windows 11, or forcing the "High Performance" setting in the Power Options instead of it resetting to "Eco-Friendly" settings when Windows updates. Basically, with the Pro Version, you have all the "Bells & Whistles" with all tweak-able settings instead of the dumbed-down version.  Keep in mind, when Sept 2025 comes around, Windows 10 in all incarnations will be taken behind the Proverbial Barn and shot dead. Just like Windows 7 and and Operating Systems before that. Windows 11 is coming, like it or not.

So far the price looks like this:

There is never "Enough." Speed is Relative. What is "Overkill" today will be the new normal in the next few years. Photoshop is getting more-and-more bloated and requiring A LOT more from the hardware, so if you are looking at a 7-8 year time-frame, it's going to cost you. Or you could go with a lower price-point and be in the market 4-5 years from now. Either way you are going to spend more money as the days of the $1500 Laptop are GONE. Just like the $999 Computer Bundle...those days are long gone. With the chip shortage that we are still dealing with, plus Import Tariffs along with new restrictions that the current White House Administration is implementing, prices are going to remain where they are. Of course, you can find deals here-and-there and I hope you do. It just sucks to be in the Market for a new computer right now.

[talvey]

Thanks, Brian!  I need to read through the "Adobe Premiere requirements" before I make the plunge... and yeah, unfortunately even though this isn't the ideal time to purchase a new computer, I have no choice.  My backups won't cut it...

Is the VENMO you have listed still good?  I promised you I'd buy you a beer for your help! 

 

[Brian]

Buy Brian a Beer!!

[talvey]

Thanks for replying to my post on another post (can't remember which it was).  Unfortunately, I did not "jump on" your suggestions to me back in Nov 2022 (ugh), so I'm back to re-spec'ing it out again, primarily I just want to make sure it's robust enough for Premiere as well.  I started on that last night.  I'm also trying to decide if I get a laptop (my current Origin has lasted me 10+ yrs, or desktop (preferred), but we are moving and moving my desktop scares me.  Thanks for all your help!  All your posts are appreciated!