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10 Best Affordable Laptops for Photoshop in 2026 Under $1000
In 2026, graphic designers, photographers, and digital artists are constantly on the lookout for the best affordable laptops for Photoshop. Whether you’re using Adobe Photoshop for photo editing, graphic design, or digital painting, having the right machine is crucial. Fortunately, the market is filled with options that balance performance and affordability. Below is a curated list of the top 10 laptops available on Amazon that offer excellent value for those who need to run Photoshop effectively without breaking the bank.
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1. Acer Aspire 5 (2022 Model)
Acer Aspire 5, 15.6″ FHD IPS Display
The Acer Aspire 5 is a bang-for-your-buck machine with a host of features ideal for Photoshop users. It comes equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, and a dedicated AMD Radeon graphics card, making it capable of handling demanding tasks in Photoshop with ease. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display offers vibrant colors and sharp images, perfect for editing photos.
Additionally, it has 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD, providing ample space and speed for your projects. The laptop’s full-sized backlit keyboard and 8-hour battery life further enhance its usability.
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Good performance for Photoshop
- Decent battery life
Cons:
- Bulkier than some models
- Not as lightweight for travel
- Do What You Do With Exceptional Performance: The Intel Core i7-1355U processor goes beyond performance to let your PC do even more at once. And with 16GB onboard LPDDR5 memory and 512GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage—the Aspire 5 is made to do it all.
- Clear and Comfortable Viewing: Experience crisp, lifelike colors and sharp details on the 15.6” FHD IPS touch display. You have more space to work thanks to narrow bezels. Equipped with Acer’s suite of visual technologies for dynamic color optimization and viewing comfort.
- The Design: The slim 0.70" body and aluminum top cover give the Aspire 5 a premium feel and appearance. An ergonomic hinge design lifts the body of Aspire 5 and tilts the backlit keyboard for comfortable typing, improved cooling and a better sound experience.
- Smooth Operator: Make light work of your daily tasks, with a full line-up of features to elevate your day-to-day—like a 1080p webcam, an air inlet keyboard, and Steel Gray aluminum cover.
- Internal Specifications: 16GB LPDDR5 memory; 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD to store your files and media; Windows 11 Home
2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (2021 Model)
Lenovo IdeaPad 3, 14″ FHD Laptop
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a portable option that packs a punch. With its Intel Core i5 processor and integrated Intel UHD Graphics, this laptop can run Photoshop efficiently. The 14-inch Full HD display offers great viewing angles and is lightweight, making it suitable for graphic designers on the go. It also boasts 12GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD to manage larger files easily.
Its privacy shutter for the webcam is an added bonus for security-conscious users, while the keyboard is designed for comfortable and long typing sessions.
Pros:
- Lightweight and portable
- Good battery performance
- Secure webcam feature
Cons:
- Limited storage space for heavy users
- Integrated graphics may limit some advanced features in Photoshop
- 【Memory & Storage】Memory is 12GB high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once. Hard Drive is 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive which allows to fast bootup and data transfer
- 【Processor】 Intel Core i3-1115G4 3.00 GHz 2 Cores Processor (6MB Cache, up to 4.10 GHz), Intel UHD Graphics
- 【Screen】15.6" HD TouchScreen (1366 x 768) Display
- 【Ports】2 x SuperSpeed USB Type-A 3.2, 1 x SuperSpeed USB Type-A, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone/Microphone Combo, 1 x SD Card Reader, Wireless-AC (Wi-Fi 5) and Bluetooth Combo
- 【Operating System】Windows 11 Home, 64 bit
3. Dell Inspiron 15 (2022 Model)
Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series Laptop
The Dell Inspiron 15 series offers a reliable performance with an Intel Core i5 processor and solid-state drive options. With up to 16GB of RAM, this laptop can handle multitasking effortlessly. The 15.6-inch FHD display is bright and ideal for viewing high-resolution images. This model also includes Dell’s Active Pen support, making it perfect for artists who require precision in their work.
It also features a battery life of approximately 7 hours, which is decent for an affordable laptop, allowing you to work on the go without worrying about recharging. The laptop’s construction feels robust and durable.
Pros:
- Robust build quality
- Good performance for multitasking
- Pen support for enhanced creativity
Cons:
- Heavier than competitors
- Battery life could be better
- 【Processor】Intel Quad-Core i5-1155G7 (4 cores, 8 threads, Max Boost Clock Up to 4.5GHz, 8 MB Cache). Your always-ready experience starts as soon as you open your device. Turn it on, boot up, and log in quickly.
- 【Display】15.6" Full HD (1920x1080), IPS, 220 nits, Narrow-Bezel, Anti-Glare, Touch Display; Integrated Intel UHD Graphics; supports external digital monitors via HDMI; the external digital monitor resolution is 1920x1080.
- 【Tech Specs】2 x USB 3.2 Type-A, 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A port, HDMI 1.4 port, headphone/microphone combo jack, SD Card Reader; Wi-Fi 5 802.11ac + Bluetooth; 720p HD Webcam; Numeric Keypad.
- 【Operating System】Windows 11 Professional 64-bit is ideal for school education, designers, professionals, small businesses, programmers, casual gaming, streaming, online classes, remote learning, Zoom meetings, video conferences, and a one-year warranty from the manufacturer as well.
- 【Designed for the Office and Business】 It ensures a stylish and innovative look, excellent portability, and is suitable for daily work and play. It is a great choice for businesses, offices, or students.
4. HP Pavilion x360 (2022 Model)
HP Pavilion x360 14″ Convertible Laptop
The HP Pavilion x360 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop that features a touchscreen and can function as both a laptop and a tablet. It includes an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, which are adequate for running Photoshop smoothly. The 14-inch FHD display provides clarity and color accuracy, making it ideal for graphic design tasks.
This model supports HP’s Active Pen, offering additional creativity while editing images. The battery life is reasonable, lasting up to 8 hours, allowing longer hours of work without constant charging.
Pros:
- 2-in-1 design for versatility
- Touchscreen feature
- Decent battery life
Cons:
- Performance may lag with more extensive applications
- Keyboard may not be as comfortable for some users
- This refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, and may arrive in a generic box
5. ASUS VivoBook 15 (2022 Model)
ASUS VivoBook 15, 15.6” FHD Laptop
The ASUS VivoBook 15 boasts an elegant design and is an excellent choice for creatives using Photoshop. With an Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, it has the power to handle most tasks seamlessly. The full HD display offers vibrant colors and provides inspiring visuals, crucial for photo editing.
This model also features a backlit keyboard and a sufficient amount of ports, making it easy to connect external devices. The lightweight nature of this laptop makes it easy to carry around without any hassle.
Pros:
- Sleek and stylish design
- Lightweight and portable
- Good color reproduction on the display
Cons:
- May become noisy under heavy load
- Limited upgrade options
- Microsoft Copilot Make complex tasks simple. Get answers, generate images, summarize texts, and more! Unleash your creativity with the power of intelligent assistance
- Stunning 15.6-inch FHD Touch Display Indulge in stunning visuals in breathtaking 1920 x 1080 resolution (16:9) and a 250-nit sustained brightness with vivid colors and a smooth 60Hz refresh rate
- Fast Intel Core i5-1334U Processor With the latest platform technologies for everyday applications, fast connectivity and performance optimization, the Intel Core i5-1334U processor enables casual gaming, creation and productivity
- Intel Iris Xᵉ Graphics Powerful integrated graphics for all your everyday needs from day to night
- Multitask Effortlessly with 16GB Of Memory And 512GB Of Storage Experience lightning-fast performance and speedy multitasking, whether you're gaming, editing, or browsing. Save files quickly and store vast amounts of data. With extensive storage and advanced communication power, PCIe 3.0 SSDs perform well for everyday applications, multiple servers, daily backups, and more
6. Microsoft Surface Laptop Go (2022 Model)
Microsoft Surface Laptop Go, 12.4” Touchscreen
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Go is an ultra-portable device that features a 12.4-inch touchscreen display. With an Intel Core i5 and 8GB of RAM, this laptop is good for casual Photoshop users or those who need to make edits on the move. The laptop is lightweight and has a premium feel, making it a great choice for those who value aesthetics along with performance.
The battery life is commendable, lasting around 13 hours, which is significant for those working remotely. However, storage options are limited to fewer upgrades, so plan your files accordingly.
Pros:
- Excellent build quality
- Very portable
- Long battery life
Cons:
- Limited internal storage
- Smaller screen size for detailed editing
- Microsoft Surface Laptop Go | Certified Refurbished, Amazon Renewed | 12.4-inch (1536 x 1024) LCD Touchscreen Display | Windows 10 Professional
- This Certified Refurbished product is tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging. The product ships with all relevant accessories, a minimum 90-day warranty, and may arrive in a generic box.
- 256GB Solid State Drive, 16GB RAM, Intel Core i5-1035G1 CPU, Convenient security with Windows Hello sign-in, plus Fingerprint Power Button with Windows Hello and One Touch sign-in on select models., Integrated Intel UHD Graphics
- Bluetooth, Wi-Fi: 802.11ac Wireless LAN, Run your favorite apps and keep up on social media with a 10th Gen Intel Core Processor.
7. HP Envy 13 (2022 Model)
HP Envy 13, 13.3” FHD Laptop
The HP Envy 13 is a well-rounded and stylish laptop that makes a great companion for creative professionals. With its Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM, it can handle demanding applications like Photoshop without any hiccups. The 13.3-inch FHD display provides sharp details and vibrant colors, ensuring that your artwork looks its best.
The sleek aluminum design and long battery life of around 12 hours make it perfect for those who work long hours without access to a power outlet. However, the smaller screen may not suit everyone’s needs for detailed editing tasks.
Pros:
- High-performance specs
- Sleek and stylish design
- Excellent battery life
Cons:
- Smaller screen might not be adequate for everyone
- Price may be above some “affordable” definitions
- [Upgraded Memory & Storage & OS] Upgraded to 8GB DDR4 SDRAM 3200 MHz 1TB PCI-E NVMe,Solid State Drive for Storage.
- [Processor and Graphics] Intel Core i5-1135G7 4-Core Processor (Up to 4.2 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology 8 MB Intel Smart cache 4 Cores 8 Threads) Intel Iris Xe Graphics
- [13.3" FHD 60Hz Display] 13.3" FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS 60Hz 400 nits edge-to-edge glass, micro-edge, BrightView, 100% sRGB Thin Bezel LCD Display.
- [Additional] Backlit Keyboard, Fingerprint Reader 720p HD Camera 51Whr 3-Cell lithium-ion battery (up to 10 hours battery life) 12.2" x 7.66" x 0.67" inches,2.88 lbs 65W AC Adapter
- [Connection & Ports] Intel Wi-Fi 6 AX201 (2x2) Bluetooth 5,1x USB-C Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 40Gbps (Power Delivery and DisplayPort 1.4 and Power-off Charging), 1x USB (Power Delivery and 5Gbps), 1x USB (5Gbps), 1x Headphone and microphone combo jack.1 x 32GB USB Drive included.
8. Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 15 (2022 Model)
Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 15, AMOLED Display
The Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 15 is a stunning laptop that features an AMOLED display, delivering breathtaking visuals that graphic designers will love. With an Intel Core i5 or i7 option and 8GB to 16GB of RAM, it can tackle tasks ranging from Photoshop to video editing with ease. Its ultra-lightweight construction makes it portable without compromising performance.
With a battery life of around 20 hours, it’s perfect for those who work on the go or in coffee shops. The keyboard is also comfortable for extended use, which is essential for long editing sessions. However, the price may vary to approach the higher end of the affordable range.
Pros:
- Stunning AMOLED display
- Incredible battery life
- Lightweight and easy to carry
Cons:
- Higher price may push past budget limits for some
- Limited upgradeability
- AI BRINGS THE POWER. YOU BRING THE CREATIVITY: Smoothly juggle tasks with a powerful AI chipset that keeps your creativity flowing
- FAST SEARCH RESULTS, RIGHT AT YOUR FINGERTIPS: Move from “What’s that?” to “Got it” in a snap – AI Select finds answers on your screen fast
- PREMIUM. PORTABLE. PRO. Get the power you need to realize your ambitions in a sleek, lightweight body. Pick it up, pack it up and unleash greatness on the go
- POWER THROUGH WITH LESS PAUSES. Just one charge helps keep you productive with the long-lasting battery of Galaxy Book5 Pro 360, supporting up to 25 hours of battery life.¹
- USE YOUR PHONE, RIGHT FROM YOUR PC: Staying connected while you create is easy on Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 with Phone Link.²
9. MSI Modern 14 (2022 Model)
MSI Modern 14, 14” FHD Laptop
The MSI Modern 14 is designed for creatives who need powerful performance in a portable form factor. With an Intel Core i5 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX graphics, it provides an excellent experience while using Photoshop and similar applications. The 14-inch FHD display is accurate and great for viewing and editing images.
This laptop also supports MSI’s proprietary software for performance optimization, which is a nice touch for power users. The battery can last up to 10 hours, providing ample working time away from an outlet.
Pros:
- Powerful performance with dedicated graphics
- Good for gaming and graphic design
- Lightweight design
Cons:
- Battery life could be improved
- Cooling system may be noisy under load
10. Lenovo Flex 5 (2022 Model)
Lenovo Flex 5, 14″ 2-in-1 Laptop
The Lenovo Flex 5 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop that offers great adaptability and performance. Sporting an AMD Ryzen 5 processor and 16GB of RAM, it’s perfect for multitasking and handling heavy software like Photoshop. The 14-inch FHD touchscreen display is flexible for productivity and creative tasks alike, making it an excellent choice for artists.
Its robust build and long-lasting battery makes it suitable for daily use, while the included Lenovo Active Pen enhances its functionality, especially for drawing and photo editing tasks. However, like many convertible laptops, the keyboard layout and size may pose challenges to some users.
Pros:
- 2-in-1 flexibility
- Good performance and RAM capacity
- Active Pen support included
Cons:
- Keyboard layout could be improved
- Weight may not be ideal for ultra-portability
- 【Upgraded】Seal is opened for upgrade only, 1-Year warranty on Upgraded RAM/SSD from SnowBell, and original 1-Year Manufacture warranty on remaining components. 【x360 16" 2.5K IPS 400nits Touch Display】Utilizing its 360° hinge, easily switch between laptop, tent, stand, and tablet modes for different activities like work, entertainment, presentations, and reading. A 2.5K(2560x1600) 400-nit display offers crystal-clear color and ultra-sharp visuals.
- 【Intel Core i7-1255U Processor】The 10-core Intel Core i7-1255U processor fuels seamless streaming, content creation, and entertainment. Get your things done fast with high performance, instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity.
- 【16GB DDR4 RAM】With a generous 16GB of RAM, you can seamlessly switch between tasks without experiencing any lag or delays.【1TB PCIe SSD】This whopping storage ensures that you can store all your important data without having to worry about running out of space anytime soon.
- 【Backlight Keyboard】Comfortable and accurate typing is a sure thing. 【Touch Style Fingerprint Reader】 Known for its high accuracy, speed, and reliability, it presents a convenient, secure, and reliable way to authenticate user identity. 【Integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics】It delivers transformational GPU and integrated graphics to support fluid designing for creators and rich gaming experiences.
- 【Windows 11 Pro Included】Pro refers to the professional edition. Pro adds management devices and applications to the Home version, and supports remote and mobile working. 14.09 x 9.99 x 0.74", 4.63 lbs. Ports: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 (One Always On), 1x Thunderbolt 4 / USB4 40Gbps, 1x HDMI 1.4b, 1x Card reader, 1x Headphone/microphone combo jack (3.5mm), 1x Power connector; Wi-Fi 6, 11ax 2x2 + Bluetooth 5.1; Storm Grey. Bonus 32GB SnowBell USB Card.
Buying Guide: Best Affordable Laptops for Photoshop
When selecting a laptop for Photoshop, it’s essential to balance performance, display quality, and budget. Here’s a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best affordable laptops for Photoshop.
Key Considerations
-
Processor (CPU)
- Recommendation: Look for laptops with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5. These processors offer a good performance level for multitasking and handling heavy applications like Photoshop.
- Higher Performance: If your budget allows, Intel Core i7 or Ryzen 7 will provide even better performance for large files and multitasking.
-
Memory (RAM)
- Recommendation: A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is essential for running Photoshop smoothly. If you handle large files or multiple applications, consider 16 GB.
- Upgradeability: Some laptops allow RAM upgrades. This can be a cost-effective way to boost performance later.
-
Graphics (GPU)
- Integrated vs. Dedicated: Integrated graphics (like Intel UHD or Iris Xe) are often sufficient for basic editing. However, a dedicated GPU (like NVIDIA GTX or RTX) is better for advanced editing and 3D work.
- Recommendation: If you plan on working with large images, consider laptops with at least an entry-level dedicated GPU.
-
Storage
- SSD vs. HDD: Opt for an SSD (Solid State Drive) over an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) for faster loading times and better performance.
- Capacity: A minimum of 256 GB SSD is recommended, but 512 GB is ideal for storing projects. Look for additional storage options if you work with larger files frequently.
-
Display
- Resolution: A Full HD (1920×1080) resolution is essential for viewing detailed images. Higher resolutions like 4K are preferable but can be more expensive.
- Color Accuracy: Look for displays with good color accuracy (sRGB or Adobe RGB ratings) to ensure your edits reflect true colors.
- Screen Size: A 15-inch screen offers a good balance between portability and usability. If you prefer a larger workspace, consider a 17-inch model.
-
Portability and Battery Life
- Weight: If you travel often, consider the weight of the laptop. Aim for a model under 4 pounds for easy portability.
- Battery Life: Look for laptops that offer at least 6-8 hours of battery life to ensure productivity when on the go.
-
Build Quality and Keyboard
- Build Quality: A sturdy build will ensure your laptop lasts. Look for materials like aluminum or magnesium.
- Keyboard: A comfortable keyboard is essential for long editing sessions. Backlit keyboards are also a bonus for low-light environments.
Top Affordable Laptop Recommendations for Photoshop
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Acer Aspire 5
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5
- RAM: 8 GB (upgradable)
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
- GPU: Integrated
- Approximate Price: $550 – $700
-
Lenovo IdeaPad 3
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5
- RAM: 8 GB (upgradable)
- Storage: 256 GB SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
- GPU: Integrated
- Approximate Price: $500 – $650
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HP Pavilion 15
- Processor: Intel Core i5
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce MX450
- Approximate Price: $650 – $800
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ASUS VivoBook 15
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5
- RAM: 8 GB (upgradable)
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce MX330
- Approximate Price: $600 – $750
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Dell Inspiron 15 5000
- Processor: Intel Core i5
- RAM: 8 GB (upgradable)
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Display: 15.6-inch Full HD
- GPU: Integrated
- Approximate Price: $600 – $750
Conclusion
Choosing the right laptop for Photoshop doesn’t have to break the bank. Focus on the essential specs—CPU, RAM, storage, GPU, and display quality—to find a machine that meets your needs without overspending. Always read reviews and check for sales or student discounts to get the best deal. Happy editing!
