Whether you’re a professional DJ or a beginner, you won’t get the best without the right laptop for Serato DJ software. Choosing the best laptop for Serato helps you to render, compile, and produce music in a matter of clicks. Just like in any other profession, you’ll need a device that’s not only powerful but also portable.
In the fast-changing computer industry, there are highly capable systems with top-notch features that don’t leave a hole in your wallet. Finding the best laptop will enhance your production process so that you can focus more on creating mixes, not on your laptop every time.
A good laptop for Serato should feature the latest technology that doesn’t cause any delay while you’re rocking your music. Considering all the crucial things, here are some of the best laptops for Serato DJ and a few need-to-knows that will land you the machine of your dreams.
Contents
What is Serato DJ Software?
Serato DJ software is a world-known Digital Music Mixing Software that works well in Windows OS and Mac OS. It comes in two versions: the Serato DJ Lite version and the Serato DJ Pro. The Serato DJ Lite version is available for free and great for beginners, while the Serato DJ Pro offers everything you’d expect from DJ software.
Minimum and Recommended System Requirements
| Minimum System Requirements | Recommended System Requirements | |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB |
| CPU | Intel Core i5 | Intel Core i7 |
| Display | 12-inch HD | 15-inch FHD(with a touchscreen) |
| OS | macOS X Mojave/Windows 8 | macOS Mojave/ Windows 10 |
| Battery | At least 5 hours | Up to 8 hours |
| GPU | Integrated Graphics | Dedicated GP with at least 2 GB VRAM |
| Storage | 500GB HDD/128GB SSD | 512GB SSD or higher |
FAQs
What Laptops Do Professional DJs Use?
Most experienced DJs use a machine that either operates on macOS or Windows OS. It should come with a good processor, a good screen, and an audio out port that’s capable of loading and rendering music quickly.
How Much RAM Should a Laptop for Serato Have?
A good laptop for Serato should have at least 8GB / 16GB RAM. However, a machine with 16GB RAM will work flawlessly.
How Much Storage Should a DJ’s Laptop Have?
If a DJ is using single software, 128GB of storage is sufficient. However, a professional DJ should look for a laptop with at least 512GB of storage.
Do You Need a Laptop for Djing?
Absolutely! The right combination of a laptop and good headphones are the best companions for a DJ. Ensure you go for one that has several ports and offers high-quality sound output.
Do You Need a MacBook Laptop for DJ?
Most of the DJing software like Pro DJ and Virtual DJ is available on macOS and Windows OS. Therefore, any laptop can work without any issue.
Why Do DJs Use Mac Laptops?
Most experienced DJs use Mac laptops since they have good sound output and great battery life. Compared to Windows laptops, Mac machines crash less often, which gives you peace of mind as a DJ when performing in a live show.
Are Gaming Laptops Good for DJing?
Absolutely! Most gaming laptops have the same specifications all DJ wants.
Best Laptop for Serato DJ Software Buying Guide
Choosing the best laptop for Serato DJ software isn’t a tall order. All you’ve got to do is look out for a device that suits all your DJing needs. If you identify all the crucial factors to look for in a laptop, then you’ll be able to select your dream laptop. Depending on your needs and budget, here are some features you should base your search on:
Budget
Budget is the first thing you should consider when looking for a budget laptop for Serato. First, ask yourself how much you’re willing to spend and explore various products that fall under your budget. If you’re a professional DJ, you should spend more than a beginner.
Lightweight and Thin
As a DJ, you need a laptop that’s easy to handle and carry to different places. Always invest in a laptop that’s highly portable but doesn’t compromise performance.
Processor
Processors are crucial in terms of laptop performance. Serato DJ needs at least an Intel Core i5 CPU. This ensures that the application runs without any performance hitches.
RAM
If you’re looking for fast loading times, you need a machine with either 8GB or 16GB of RAM. However, if you’re operating on a budget, 4GB of RAM will be sufficient. But, this should be a short-term solution, especially when dealing with massive databases or mixing videos.
Display
A large display works well with the Serato DJ software. However, if you fancy portability, big laptops may be bulky and a bother when on the go. If you’re looking for a machine with a perfect balance between portability and screen size, a 15-inch laptop is a good choice.
Hard Drive
This is dependent on your needs. An external hard drive is a necessity. Therefore, you should buy one with 250 GB SSD or more.
Best Laptop for Serato DJ Software Reviews
Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop PC
If you’re looking for a powerful machine that packs great specs at a budget price, this is a good choice. Although it’s slightly bigger than other laptops in the same category, it does not compromise its performance. This budget Serato laptop comes with impressive specs that help you run Serato DJ and other programs flawlessly.
The Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop comes with an 8th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU that is devastatingly powerful. It comes with a 144Hz refresh rate and a rapid refresh rate. This 15.6″ FHD laptop comes with an sRGB color gamut that allows you to view your music with consistent and brilliant colors from any angle.
With this laptop, you can conveniently listen to voices and special effects with improved Acer TrueHarmony and Dolby Audio Premium. Additionally, it comes with a backlit keyboard that illuminates the keys, ensuring you’re always striking the right key when DJing.
Features
- Backlit keyboard
- 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8750H
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics
- 15.6” FHD display
- 16GB DDR4
- Metal chassis
Pros
- Powerful processor
- Super-fast loading speeds
- Immersive sound
- Up to 7 hours of battery life
Cons
- Slightly big
- Small SSD
ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Gaming Laptop
The ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Gaming Laptop is a slim and high-quality laptop that runs using the latest 7th Gen Intel Core i7 processor. It comes with a 1080p FHD display with 100% sRGB color gamut and the latest fast-charge and cooling technologies. With this laptop, you can enjoy the high processing power need in Serato software thanks to its 16GB DDR4 RAM. It also has super-fast connectivity and features a dual-band 802.11ac Wi-FI for outstanding speeds.
This laptop comes with a powerful graphics card that offers flawless visuals and is perfect for creating high-quality videos or gaming when on the go. What’s more, the ASUS VivoBook Thin and Light Gaming Laptop comes with a strong and sleek aluminum cover that makes it portable enough for traveling.
Features
- 0.8” ultra-thin chassis
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 4GB graphics
- 802.11ac Wi-Fi
- 16GB DDR4 RAM
- Lithium polymer battery
- Backlit keyboard
Pros
- Perfect for low-light settings
- Effortless and quick connectivity
- Powerful processor
- Highly portable
- Durable and stylish
Cons
- It runs quite hot
ASUS ROG Zephyrus Thin & Light Gaming Laptop
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus Thin & Light Gaming Laptop is an ultra-thin laptop designed with the latest innovations in mind. Despite having a slim body, this laptop maintains its powerful cooling capabilities thanks to its new Active Aerodynamic System. It comes with an RGB keyboard that helps you identify keys when playing music in a poorly lit environment.
This laptop runs on an Intel 7th Gen Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 graphics ideal for Serato DJ software. It also has wide viewing angles that help you control the machine regardless of where you’re sitting.
Features
- 120Hz refresh rate
- 16GB DDR4
- 802.11ac 2×2 Wi-Fi
- 7th Gen Intel Core i7-7700HQ
- 2.8 GHz
Pros
- Strong processor
- Ultrathin and ultra-light
- Quiet and cool machine
- Fast SSD and RAM
- High refresh rate
Cons
- Limited storage
MSI GS65 Stealth THIN-053 144Hz 7ms Ultra Thin Gaming Laptop i7-8750H
The MSI GS65 Stealth THIN is a powerful and reasonably priced laptop that allows you to run Serato DJ and other programs without fear of stability issues and crashes. This laptop comes with a tremendous graphics card and other specs that allow multitasking. It’s also a powerful machine that runs most computing tasks and intense Serato DJ software with ease.
Features
- 15.6” FHD display
- RGB Backlit keyboard
- Windows 10 Home OS
- Ultra-thin bezel
- Thunderbolt port
Pros
- Great CPU performance
- Per-key RGB
- Ultra-thin laptop
Cons
- Lacks automated drivers update
Apple MacBook (Early 2016) 12″ Laptop
The Apple MacBook (Early 2016) 12″ Laptop is extremely portable and is made of strong aluminum. It has a perfect balance of performance and battery life without compromising its slim and light premium body. It comes with a highly responsive display and trackpad. What’s more, it has Bluetooth 4.0 technology for connecting with peripherals like mobile phones, mice, and keyboards.
Features
- Intel HD Graphics 515 processor
- 12-inch LED-backlit display
- 2304×1440 resolution
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Mac OS
Pros
- Built-in Facetime camera
- Powerful processor
- Easy connectivity
- Backlit display
Cons
- Short on ports
- No touchscreen
Conclusion
DJing is a very decent profession, where you can earn a lot of money and respect.
If you’re looking for the best laptop for Serato DJ software, go for one that has a perfect balance between DJing-related tasks and regular tasks.
However, for the best experience, prioritize the features discussed above.