4K Video Editing — Recommended Laptops

This is your deciding factor - Why the GPU Matters

A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is a specialised chip designed to handle video and image work much faster than the main processor (CPU) alone. For everyday tasks like browsing or documents, an integrated GPU is enough. But for 4K video editing — especially with high-quality DJI footage — the GPU is what makes the difference between smooth playback and a laggy, frustrating experience.

Dedicated GPUs (like NVIDIA’s RTX series) cost more, but they unlock hardware acceleration: real-time previews, faster exports, colour grading, and effects that would otherwise crawl. That’s why laptops with a dedicated GPU carry a higher price tag — you’re paying for the power needed to handle demanding 4K editing properly.

These three options represent a clear path:

Entry Level (Vivobook) — basic, light edits only;
Recommended (MSI Cyborg) — best balance under £1k;
Upgrade (MSI Pulse 16 AI) — more storage, sharper screen, and newer CPU for heavier 4K editing.