Best Windows Laptop for Creatives Over MacBook Pro
▼ Summary
– The Asus ProArt P16 is a high-end laptop for creatives, starting at $1,900, featuring powerful hardware like an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and Nvidia RTX 4060 GPU.
– It offers a 16-inch AMOLED touchscreen display with 500-nit brightness and 3840 x 2400 resolution, though its 60Hz refresh rate limits gaming performance.
– The laptop includes unique features like the Asus DialPad for customizable shortcuts and a responsive stylus, but requires setup and optimization for peak performance.
– Battery life is robust, lasting over 10 hours with normal use and around 7 hours under intensive creative workloads.
– While the ProArt P16 excels with customization, it demands user engagement, making it ideal for advanced creators but less suitable for those preferring out-of-the-box readiness like Apple’s M3/M4 MacBook Pro.
For creative professionals seeking a Windows alternative to the MacBook Pro, the Asus ProArt P16 delivers impressive performance with specialized features tailored for demanding workflows. Starting at $1,900, this powerhouse combines robust hardware with extensive customization options, though it requires some setup to unlock its full potential.
The AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and 32GB of RAM provide ample muscle for intensive tasks like 4K video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking across creative applications. Paired with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU, the laptop handles ray tracing and AI-enhanced workflows with ease. However, its 60Hz refresh rate may disappoint gamers, though Asus prioritizes color accuracy and brightness for creators.
A standout feature is the 16-inch AMOLED touchscreen, boasting 3840 x 2400 resolution and 500 nits of brightness, making it ideal for detailed design work. The included stylus offers precision and responsiveness, while the glossy display, though prone to glare, feels like a natural canvas for digital artists. Unlike convertible laptops, the ProArt P16’s rigid hinge keeps the screen stable during pen use, eliminating wobble.
Asus’ proprietary DialPad elevates the experience, allowing quick adjustments in creative software like Photoshop or Premiere. Though initially tricky to enable, its customizable shortcuts streamline workflows once configured. The oversized trackpad and silent keyboard enhance usability, though cold environments may temporarily affect touchpad sensitivity.
Performance optimization is key, updating drivers and tweaking power settings significantly improved speed and battery life during testing. In benchmarks, the P16 outperformed the M3 MacBook Pro but trailed Apple’s M4 chip, striking a balance between raw power and affordability.
Battery life impresses for a high-performance machine, lasting over 10 hours with moderate use and around 7 hours under heavy workloads. While not as plug-and-play as a MacBook, the ProArt P16 rewards users willing to tailor its features to their needs.
For creators who value customization and Windows flexibility, the Asus ProArt P16 is a compelling choice. Those preferring seamless out-of-the-box performance may still lean toward Apple’s offerings, but Asus delivers a uniquely adaptable tool for hands-on professionals.
Originally published December 6, 2024; updated June 26, 2025.
(Source: zdnet)
