8 Best Laptops for Clip Studio Paint in 2023

As a digital artist and laptop enthusiast, I understand the importance of finding the best laptop for Clip Studio Paint. This powerful illustration and animation software has become the go-to choice for many creators, from comic artists to concept designers. In order to achieve peak performance and bring your artistic visions to life, it's essential to have a laptop that can handle the demands of this versatile software.

When searching for the best laptop for Clip Studio Paint, there are certain key aspects to consider. The most important factors include a high-quality display for accurate color reproduction, a powerful processor for seamless multitasking, and a dedicated GPU for smooth brush strokes and rendering. I've spent countless hours poring over an extensive laptop spreadsheet, comparing specs, and analyzing both professional and user-generated reviews to identify the top laptops for this specific purpose, taking into account different requirements and price ranges.

As someone who frequents the Clip Studio Paint subreddit and follows industry influencers, I can attest to the importance of a laptop that can handle high-resolution canvases, complex layering, and real-time brush performance. A well-suited laptop will not only enable you to create stunning artwork but also optimize your workflow, making the creative process more enjoyable and efficient. Join me in this tailored guide as we explore the best laptop options for Clip Studio Paint and find the perfect machine to unleash your artistic potential.

Optimal Processors

When it comes to getting a laptop for Clip Studio Paint (formerly Manga Studio), you want to be sure to get the right processor. The processor you choose will determine how well your laptop runs your drawing/painting application.

In the past few years, there have been some big changes to the laptop processor market. Apple has released their own ARM-based M1, M1 Pro, M1 Max and M2 system-on-chip modules; they offer exceptional single-core performance and battery life. AMD has managed to take 20% of the CPU market, and has released the 6th generation Ryzen processors. Meanwhile, Intel's 13th-gen processors are yet to reach laptops, while their 12th generation is their latest. Both Intel and Apple have adopted a hybrid performance/efficiency core design (based on big.LITTLE). Depending on your needs, you might want to consider AMD Ryzen models if you need a good battery life in a PC laptop.

For Windows laptops, there are no MacBooks with integrated graphics, so you can disregard them. The only question then is whether you want a MacBook Air or a MacBook Pro.

When it comes to finding the best processor for your workflow and drawing/painting needs, it depends on how much you want to spend. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, go for an AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel i5 processor. However, if you use other applications in your daily workflow, consider getting a laptop with an H-series processor since these are more power-efficient than the regular U-series processors.

I use Cinebench R23 to compare CPUs since it's a popular benchmark that's easy to find and correlates well with real-world performance (even though it's not perfect). If you're on a budget, don't expect to get a high-end CPU; instead, look for an i5/Ryzen 5 or even an i3 if you're OK with sacrificing some performance (though I wouldn't recommend it).

Recommended Processors for Clip Studio Paint

Here's a breakdown of recommended processors for Clip Studio Paint, and their expected average prices:

Processor	Average Price (USD)
AMD Ryzen 3 3200U	$200
Intel i3-10110U	$250
Intel i5-10210U	$300

Graphics Cards

The laptop GPU market is dominated by Nvidia, who have recently released a few RTX 40 series cards; however, these are not yet available on laptops (expected in 2023). Currently, the highest-end cards on the market are the RTX 30 series (such as the RTX 3070 Ti).

Desktop GPUs are now a lot more power-hungry than laptop ones, which has widened the gap between desktop and laptop graphics performance in the past few years. To make matters worse, Nvidia has discontinued the Max-Q label for its RTX graphics cards. That means laptop manufacturers (OEMs) are now responsible for determining the exact GPU wattage of their laptops, resulting in wide variance in graphics performance even when multiple laptops have the same GPU chipset.

If you're looking for a MacBook – you can ignore this section, as there's no need to compare different graphics cards. A dedicated GPU is not required, but it will help if you're working with complex scenes with many layers, effects, and filters. Nvidia has recently released the new RTX series of graphics cards, which offer impressive performance gains but come at a hefty price premium. The RTX 2060 is a good option for those who want a mid-range GPU without breaking the bank.

To compare GPUs, we can use industry-standard benchmarks like 3DMark – but keep in mind that this doesn't accurately measure real-world performance when working with complex scenes in Clip Studio Paint. For more accurate results, we should use Cinebench R23 or R24 (or any other more recent version). Finally, if you're looking for a gaming notebook – look for one with a high refresh rate panel and a powerful CPU/GPU combo; gaming notebooks are not ideal for drawing due to their limited display panels and short battery life.

Below is a table of recommended GPUs and their expected laptop prices:

Recommended GPUs	Expected laptop price
Iris Xe Graphics G7	$500 – $1000
Quadro T500	$1000 – $1500
GeForce MX550	$1500+

RAM: Memory Matters

Clip Studio Paint is a powerful and versatile digital art tool, and it requires a lot of memory. But don't worry – there are plenty of RAM options to choose from that fit any budget.

How much memory is needed for CS Paint?

Most modern laptops come with 8 GB or 16 GB of RAM, and those should be more than enough for the average artist. If you're working with large files or complex scenes, then you might want to consider getting a laptop with 32 GB or more. Keep in mind, however, that RAM speed isn't an issue for CS Paint, so you don't need to worry about getting the highest-end RAM.

DDR4 vs DDR5

DDR4 and DDR5 are the two main types of RAM currently used in laptops. DDR4 is still the more affordable option, but DDR5 offers slightly better performance. It's also worth noting that DDR5 is still fairly new and has yet to fully mature as a technology. If you're on a budget, it's probably not worth worrying about – but if you're looking for an upgrade, DDR5 might be the way to go.

What to look for in a high-end gaming laptop

High-end gaming laptops are great for running Clip Studio Paint. They usually come with 16 GB or more of DDR4 RAM, and they have powerful GPUs that can handle heavy workloads. But unless you're doing 3D modeling or animation, you don't need to splurge on a gaming laptop – it's just not necessary.

Table of what to expect at each price point

Price Point	RAM
Budget	8 GB
Mid-Range	16 GB
High-end	16-32 GB (DDR4/5)

In summary, when it comes to laptop RAM for Clip Studio Paint, 8 GB should be enough for most users, 16 GB is recommended for average artists, and high-end gamers might want to consider 32 GB or more. While DDR5 does offer slightly better performance than DDR4, it's still fairly new and isn't necessary for most people. No matter what budget you're on, there's a RAM option that's perfect for your needs.

Clip Studio FAQs

Q: What laptop is best for Clip Studio Paint?

When it comes to choosing a laptop for Clip Studio Paint, it largely depends on your requirements and budget. However, some popular options that are highly recommended include the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9, Dell G15, Lenovo Legion 5 Pro, and Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16.

What are the recommended laptop specs for Clip Studio Paint?

The recommended laptop specs for Clip Studio Paint include a minimum of 8 GB of memory, an AMD Ryzen 3 3200U or higher processor, and Iris Xe Graphics G7 or better. For a medium-level experience, consider 16 GB of memory, an i3-10110U or higher processor, and Quadro T500 or similar graphics. If you want a maximum performance, aim for 16 GB of memory, an i5-10210U or higher processor, and GeForce MX550 or equivalent graphics.

Can Clip Studio Paint run on a budget laptop?

Yes, Clip Studio Paint can run on a budget laptop as long as it meets the minimum system requirements. You may experience some performance limitations, but it should still be usable. However, for a smoother experience and better performance, it's recommended to invest in a laptop with higher specifications.

How much RAM is needed to run Clip Studio Paint smoothly on a laptop?

To run Clip Studio Paint smoothly on a laptop, a minimum of 8 GB of RAM is needed. However, if you work with complex artwork or use other resource-intensive applications simultaneously, it's advisable to have at least 16 GB of RAM to ensure a smoother and more responsive experience.

Can I use Clip Studio Paint on a touchscreen laptop?

Yes, Clip Studio Paint can be used on a touchscreen laptop. In fact, having a touchscreen can enhance your digital art experience, allowing you to directly interact with your work. This is especially useful for tasks like drawing and navigating the software. However, it's worth noting that a touchscreen is not mandatory and you can still use Clip Studio Paint effectively with a regular laptop.

What are the minimum system requirements for Clip Studio Paint on a laptop?

The minimum system requirements for Clip Studio Paint on a laptop are as follows:

8 GB of memory
AMD Ryzen 3 3200U or higher processor
Iris Xe Graphics G7 or better

Is a dedicated graphics card necessary for using Clip Studio Paint on a laptop?

A dedicated graphics card is not necessary for using Clip Studio Paint on a laptop. The software primarily relies on the CPU and RAM for its performance. However, having a dedicated graphics card, such as Quadro T500 or GeForce MX550, can provide additional benefits like smoother rendering and faster graphic processing, which can be beneficial for complex and high-resolution artwork.

What is the best laptop screen size for using Clip Studio Paint?

The best laptop screen size for using Clip Studio Paint largely depends on personal preference and workflow. However, a larger screen size, such as 15 inches or above, can provide more canvas space for your artwork and allow for more precise stylus input. It's recommended to choose a screen size that provides a comfortable working area without compromising portability.

How to choose a laptop for digital art and Clip Studio Paint?

When choosing a laptop for digital art and Clip Studio Paint, consider the following factors:

Performance: Look for a laptop with sufficient memory (8 GB minimum, 16 GB recommended), a powerful processor (AMD Ryzen 3 3200U or higher, i3-10110U or higher, or i5-10210U or higher), and capable graphics (Iris Xe Graphics G7 or better, Quadro T500, or GeForce MX550).
Screen quality: Opt for a laptop with a high-resolution display and accurate color reproduction to ensure your artwork looks vibrant and true-to-life.
Stylus support: Ensure that the laptop supports a stylus or pen input for precise and natural drawing experience. Look for laptops with good palm rejection technology to avoid accidental touch inputs.
Storage: Consider a laptop with ample storage space, preferably SSD for faster file access and better overall performance.
Portability: Choose a laptop that balances power and portability to suit your needs, whether you require a lightweight device for on-the-go work or a more powerful workstation for heavy artwork and multitasking.

Are there any specific laptop brands or models recommended for using Clip Studio Paint?

Yes, there are specific laptop brands and models that are highly recommended for using Clip Studio Paint. Some popular choices include the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9, Dell G15, Lenovo Legion 5 Pro, and Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16. These laptops