Blackmagic Forum

Hi everyone,

I'm currently looking for a laptop (or potentially a desktop) that can handle 4K video editing, RAW footage, and advanced color grading in DaVinci Resolve. My budget is around $4100. I know that might not get me a “perfect” setup, but I’m aiming for something solid and reliable that I can also take on the go.

I work primarily as a camera operator but want to level up my skills in professional color grading. I don’t do 3D or heavy VFX, but I’d like to have smooth performance for editing and color work, as well as using AI tools like Topaz, and some browser-based tools like Runway, Kling, Midjourney, etc.

Right now, I'm considering:

MacBook Pro M4 Max 14" (36GB RAM, 32-core GPU)

Asus Zephyrus G16 (2025 model)

Mac Studio M4 (I know it's not mobile, but still on my radar — though portability is important to me)


Mobility matters to me (ideally under 2kg), along with reliable performance for grading, 4K timelines, and working with external displays when needed.

If anyone has experience with these machines — especially for color grading workflows — I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Thanks in advance!

Just go with mac, it has very good media engine to decode most footage, and also have pretty much full performance even when using on battery. The color management is also better on mac. For PC, you pretty much have to use a desktop, because you need hardware calibrated display or actual monitor connected via decklink or ultrastudio to get correct color, and high performance PC laptop can get very hot as well. M4 max has plenty enough performance for editing and grading, PC is better if you need a lot of GPU effects.