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You don’t need a laptop to start your podcast, but it’s guaranteed to make the recording process easier. Whether buying your first laptop or replacing outdated equipment, you need to know what’s out there to make an informed decision.
This guide outlines the best types of laptops for podcasting — along with their pros, cons, and features — so you can familiarize yourself with your options. We also compare and contrast the six top models so you can decide which equipment makes sense for your needs.
The six best laptops for podcasting are:
- Lenovo IdeaPad 3: Best budget-friendly podcasting laptop for travel
- Acer Aspire 5: Best budget-friendly podcasting laptop for live streaming
- Apple MacBook Pro: Best high-performance podcasting laptop for built-in equipment
- Dell XPS 17: Best high-performance podcasting laptop for post-production
- Microsoft Surface Pro 9: Best remote podcasting laptop for field interviews
- HP Spectre x360: Best remote podcasting laptop for virtual interviews
Not sure if a podcast laptop is right for you? We outline three alternative options based on your setup and recording style later in the article.
- Key features to look for in a podcasting laptop
- Comparing the top laptops for podcasting
- Alternatives to podcasting laptops
- Questions to ask while choosing the best laptop
- The bottom line on podcast laptops
Key features to look for in a podcasting laptop
Not all podcasting laptops are built alike.
That’s why you should look for these basic features:
Up-to-date laptop hardware
Podcasting laptops require higher-performing hardware than laptops used for working or browsing. Check the laptop’s specs and parameters to ensure they meet your technical expectations.
Here are a few hardware specs to get you started:
- Memory: At least 8GB of RAM
- Processor: At least a multi-core processor
- Internal storage: Solid state drive (if possible) or hybrid HDD with built-in SSD
We cover more of these specs throughout this guide.
Compatibility with podcasting software
A few examples of podcasting software include:
- Adobe Enhance
- AI podcasting tools
- Digital audio workstations (DAWs)
First, you should check the system requirements of the specific software you want to run. Adobe Audition, for example, requires 4GB of RAM, 4GB of hard disk space, and a multicore processor with 64-bit support.
You also want to check the processor chip — the higher the number, the more processing power it has. Most experts recommend Intel Core i5 or higher for optimal performance with podcasting software.
You should know remote podcasting tools like Riverside don’t require fancy internal hardware to run — as long as you have a solid internet connection, you can record audio and video from your browser. For more tips on optimizing your podcast’s reach and engagement, check out our comprehensive guide on podcast metrics.
Compatibility with podcasting hardware
Podcasting hardware refers to any necessary equipment to create your show.
This includes mission-critical tools like:
- Podcast mixers
- Podcast mics
- Podcast headphones
- Podcast accessories
- Podcast cameras
Check the laptop’s port and connection types to see if it’s compatible with your existing equipment. Don’t forget to check its compatibility with specific port adapters (like Saramonic audio adapters) in case there might be a workaround.
Battery life and portability
One of the biggest benefits of owning a laptop as a podcaster is its portability and battery life. You can easily make podcast recordings in the field and transport your equipment from location to location.
The best podcasting laptops offer a battery life of 14.5 hours and a weight of three to seven pounds. But remember: your battery life will drop by 2.5 hours in 12 months, so be careful to select a model that can comfortably lose efficiency over time.
Of course, battery life and portability aren’t the end-all-be-all for podcast laptops. If you don’t plan on recording your podcast remotely or mind carrying extra weight, these considerations may not matter as much.
Screen size
A comfortably sized laptop display makes it easy to see what you’re recording, editing, or publishing.
For editing, having plenty of screen real estate ensures you can tweak your audio with fewer frustrations. It can also help with toggling between screens if multitasking with multiple tools.
For recording, a decently sized screen can help you monitor output from greater distances. You can also keep tabs on plosives, clipping, and feedback to ensure higher-quality audio for your podcast,
Don’t forget to consider other screen specs like display resolution or touchscreen capabilities. Neither of these is required for podcasting, but they could enhance your podcast editing workflow.
Operating system
An operating system (also called OS) controls how your device runs. There are hundreds of operating systems on the market today, but the most common ones include varieties of Windows and MacOS.
Your laptop’s OS will affect the types of podcast software you can run. For example:
- Logic Pro and Garageband require MacOS
- Luxea Pro and Clipchamp require Windows
- DaVinci Resolve and Adobe Premiere Pro run on Windows and MacOS
Before committing to a specific operating system, be sure to consider the podcast editing software you want to use.
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Comparing the top laptops for podcasting
Here’s how the best podcasting laptops stack up:
Processing power | Internal storage | Port types | Battery life | Screen size | Price | |
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 | 2GHz – 4.5GHz | 512GB | 2 USB-A; 1 USB-C; 1 HDMI 1.4; 1 headphone/mic combo; | 13.5 hours | 15.6″ | $479.99 USD |
Acer Aspire 5 | 2GHz | 512GB | 1 HDMI; 1 USB-C | 8 hours | 15.6″ | $499.99 USD |
Apple MacBook Pro | Up to 4.1GHz | 512GB | 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports; 1 HDMI port; 1 SDXC card slot; 1 headphone jack; 1 MagSafe 3 port | 22 hours | 16” | $2,499 USD |
Dell XPS 17 | Up to 5.4GHz | 512GB to 8TB | 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports; 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack; USB-C to USB-A v3.0 and HDMI v2.0 adapter included in the box | 14 hours | 17″ | $1,649 USD |
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 | 1.8GHz | 8GB to 512GB | 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports; 1 Surface Connect port; 1 Surface Type Cover port | 15.5 – 19 hours | 13” | $799 USD |
HP Spectre x360 | Up to 5GHz | 2TB | 1 USB Type-A; 2 Thunderbolt4 ports; 1 HDMI 2.1; 1 AC smart pin; 1 headphone/microphone combo jack | 10.5 hours (+fast charge) | 16” | $2,129.99 USD |
Keep reading to get a full breakdown of each laptop and its features:
Budget-friendly podcasting laptops
Working with a budget under $500 USD? One of these laptops may be a fit.
Lenovo IdeaPad 3: Best budget-friendly podcasting laptop for travel
![Why the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is one of the best podcast laptops.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Flenovo_ideaPad_3_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
- OS: Windows 10
- Audio: Dual array microphone; Dolby Audio speakers
- Video: 720p (HD) webcam
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 was officially released on May 19, 2020. Since then, it’s become a favorite of remote podcasters who don’t necessarily have official recording studios to host their podcast.
There’s a lot to recommend about this affordable laptop: for the price, you get 13.5 hours of battery life and a 15.6-inch screen. The processing power is also fairly strong, starting at 2GHz (with the ability to boost up to 4.5GHz).
Like any budget laptop, however, you may not get all the functionality you need. The built-in webcam leaves much to be desired, and some reviewers say the microphone sounds quiet and ‘staticky.’
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 podcast features
- Midrange battery life suitable for longer remote podcast recordings
- Plenty of port options for connecting mixers, mics, and other accessories
- Built-in touchscreen makes editing easier
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 pros and cons
Pros
- The IdeaPad 3 is relatively lightweight (3.57 pounds) for easy transportation.
- Rapid Charging provides two hours of power in just 15 minutes of charging.
- A full one-year warranty protects your laptop against early damage.
Cons
- The laptop’s 720p webcam may not be enough for quality video podcasting.
- Paying to boost your processing power may be expensive. Some estimates suggest a range between $100 and $500.
- This equipment doesn’t include built-in apps — you must download your DAWs and audio software separately.
Acer Aspire 5: Best budget-friendly podcasting laptop for live streaming
![Why the Acer Aspire 5 is one of the best podcast laptops.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Facer_aspire_5_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
- OS: Windows 11
- Audio: 1 built-in microphone; 2 speakers
- Video: 720p webcam
The Acer Aspire 5 debuted in April 2019 as a low-cost alternative to its more expensive competitors. It’s highly-regarded as a well-rounded laptop for light podcast recording and live streaming purposes.
This budget laptop packs a punch for the price. You get everything needed to begin your podcast — a built-in microphone, webcam, and 512GB of storage — for far less money than the average laptop.
Just keep in mind you get what you pay for. There are few external ports to use with outside equipment, and the battery life may not last for field recordings.
Acer Aspire 5 podcast features
- Built-in microphone, speakers, and webcam
- Lightweight frame and easy to transport (3.8 pounds)
- Matte screen display allows you to record even in bright environments
Acer Aspire 5 pros and cons
Pros
- The cost-effective price point is more accessible to the average podcaster.
- This laptop comes with a Solid State Drive, which means faster performance and better load times for your podcast software.
- You don’t need to purchase additional equipment — there’s a built-in microphone and webcam (although it may not offer the quality you’d prefer).
Cons
- The 720p webcam is not enough for most video podcasts. If you don’t already have a podcast camera, you’ll need one that works with this laptop.
- You only get two ports with the Acer Aspire 5: one HDMI, and one USB-C. This limits your ability to connect certain external hardware and may require additional adapters to connect your laptop to a podcast mixer.
- This podcast laptop has the least amount of processing power on this list — if you’re not concerned about lightning-fast speeds, this may be less of an issue.
High-performance podcasting laptops
If money is no object for a podcast laptop, you can start with one of these high-performance models:
Apple MacBook Pro: Best high-performance podcasting laptop for built-in equipment
![Why the Apple MacBook Pro is one of the best podcast laptops.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Fapple_macbook_pro_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
- OS: macOS Ventura
- Audio: 3 ‘studio-quality’ microphones
- Video: 1080p FaceTime HD camera
The Apple MacBook Pro needs no introduction — it’s one of the most popular laptops for podcasting and video editing. It’s also one of the most highly rated laptops of all time, scoring a 4.9/5 with thousands of reviews.
It’s easy to see why the MacBook Pro is so popular. You get 22 hours of battery life, 4.1GHz of processing power, and built-in mics to record your podcast on the go.
Just keep in mind you get what you pay for. The Apple MacBook Pro starts at $2,499 USD.
Apple MacBook Pro features
- The MacBook Pro was designed to run complex recording software such as Logic Pro and Pro Tools. That’s why it’s often the laptop of choice for professional podcast editors.
- The built-in, studio-quality audio and video tools mean you don’t necessarily need to purchase secondary software. The microphones rely on directional beamforming so you can record better-sounding audio than on lesser laptops even without an external mic.
- If you don’t want to use external headphones, you can use the MacBook’s six-speaker sound system. Since it also supports spatial audio with Dolby Atmos, you can still make out subtle details while reviewing audio.
Apple MacBook Pro pros and cons
Pros
- The MacBook Pro offers the longest battery life on this list, clocking in at 22 hours. You can also rely on fast charging functionality to reach 50% charge in just 30 minutes.
- You have plenty of ports to attach external devices. Each laptop has three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, an SDXC card slot, a headphone jack, and one MagSafe 3 port.
- macOS Ventura is compatible with advanced podcast editing tools. Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe Audition are some of the most popular.
Cons
- The Apple MacBook Pro is one of the most expensive laptops on this list. If you don’t want to meet the above-average price point, you may want to consider a midrange option.
- macOS Ventura can’t run Windows apps. This means Windows-specific software is a no-go with these laptops.
- You’ll need to buy adapters for certain external hardware. Be sure to research your options to know what you will need in advance.
Dell XPS 17: Best high-performance podcasting laptop for post-production
![Why the Dell XPS 17 is one of the best podcast laptops.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Fdell_xps_17_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
- OS: Windows 11
- Audio: Digital-array microphones
- Video: 720p HD (30 fps) (IR camera)
If you’re looking for a laptop to store podcast video files, the Dell XPS 17 may be a perfect fit. This best-in-class laptop was designed for content creation purposes, including video editing, 3D rendering, and graphic design.
The Dell XPS 17 offers up to 8TB of storage space and 5.4GHz processing power — the highest number on this list. You can easily store footage or run editing software without a noticeable slowdown in your laptop’s functionality.
But as with the Apple MacBook Pro, you should expect a higher price tag. The Dell XPS 17 starts at $1,649 USD — three times the price of a budget laptop.
Dell XPS 17 podcast features
- You can use the Dell Performance app to control laptop-related noise. Setting it to ‘Cool mode’ reduces fan noise so you can record your audio with fewer background distractions.
- It’s easy to upgrade the Dell XPS 17. This laptop supports up to i9 processors, which allows you to achieve the highest possible performance.
- This laptop comes with NVIDIA® Studio, which unlocks additional podcasting power. You can use OBS Studio while live-streaming your podcast and get up to 55% more FPS.
Dell XPS 17 pros and cons
Pros
- You get up to 8TB of storage with the Dell XPS 17. This allows you to store hundreds of video or audio files all in the same place.
- This laptop offers the highest processing power on our list. You can guarantee performance and speed no matter what podcasting project you’re working on.
- The Dell XPS 17 has a 17-inch display, which is also a record for this list. It’s easy to rifle through multiple tabs and multitask on projects with ease.
Cons
- The Dell XPS 17 is heavier than most. The base model starts at 5.10 pounds, while the 4K-enabled model weighs 5.37 pounds.
- The Dell XPS 17 comes with a 720p webcam. You’ll need to purchase a separate podcast camera if you want the highest-quality video.
- This laptop is expensive and may not fit every budget. If you can’t justify the premium price point, a remote podcasting laptop may be a better fit.
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Best laptops for remote podcasting
There are two different meanings of ‘remote podcasting’: recording with remote guests and recording in places outside of your studio.
The following laptops address both of these scenarios.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9: Best remote podcasting laptop for recording in the field
![Why the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is one of the best podcast laptops.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Fmicrosoft_surface_pro_9_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
- OS: Windows 11
- Audio: Studio dual mics
- Video: 1080p full HD video
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a 2-in-1 laptop, which means it also functions as a tablet. This is ideal for on-the-go situations where you may be moving from place to place.
The possibilities are limitless with a 2-in-1 device. First, you can switch to laptop mode to record your show with limited clutter and equipment. Then, you can use the device’s tablet mode to scribble notes, perform edits, and publish your show.
Remember that the video quality isn’t perfect — some reviewers mention problems rendering deep blacks. You also have to worry about below-average processing, which could make video editing difficult.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 features
- The Surface Pro 9’s webcam offers a front-facing and rear-facing camera. The front-facing offers 1080p quality, while the rear-facing has an auto-focus feature and 4k video capabilities.
- The high-quality display makes editing easy. Each laptop comes with a 2880×1920p screen.
- The far-field studio microphones can capture audio even at a distance. This is ideal for field recording scenarios where you are capturing audio from a distance.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 pros and cons
Pros
- This is one of the only podcast laptops offering a 1080p full HD webcam; this is an excellent option if you don’t want to purchase a separate camera.
- The two-in-one functionality is handy while on the go. Not all tablet/laptop combos offer this much storage and battery life.
- The Surface Pro 9 comes with a surprisingly long battery life. With up to 19 hours of usable time, it easily surpasses other competitors.
Cons
- The Windows operating system means you can’t run specific software. If you’re a fan of DAWs like GarageBand and LogicPro, you may want to reconsider your options.
- At just 1.80GHz, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 doesn’t offer much processing power. Don’t expect to complete any heavy editing work on this laptop — you should use another device or work with remote recording specialists.
- The Surface Pro 9 has a smaller screen size — making editing audio and video more difficult if you plan on using it for primarily post-production, you may want a full-size laptop with a larger screen surface.
HP Spectre x360: Best remote podcasting laptop for virtual interviews
![Why the HP Spectre x360 is one of the best podcast laptops.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Fhp_spectre_x360_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
- OS: Windows 11
- Audio: Dual array digital microphones
- Video: HP True Vision 5MP IR camera (4K resolution)
If you’re planning on podcasting with multiple remote guests, the HP Spectre x360 offers the performance you need. This 2-in-1 device has dual-array microphones and a 4K webcam for direct recording.
Compared with other 2-in-1 systems, the HP Spectre offers surprising storage and processing power. Each laptop provides 5GHz of power and more than 2TB of internal storage.
The drawback here? Low battery life. You only get 10.5 hours at best — although fast charging capabilities can help you regain functionality quickly.
HP Spectre x360 podcast features
- The integrated camera comes with a camera shutter and temporal noise reduction. This can help you record quality video and audio even without additional equipment.
- All HP Spectre x360 laptops are touchpad capable.
- The laptop comes with Bang and Olufsen luxury speakers so you know you’re getting the highest-quality output when headphones aren’t available or practical.
HP Spectre x360 pros and cons
Pros
- The 16-inch screen can help speed up the editing process. Plus, since the Surface Pro 9 is a 2-in-1 model, you can take edits with you to any location.
- There’s an option to pay extra for 5G support. This means you can access the internet from anywhere, even without a wired or WiFi connection.
- You can use two Thunderbolt 4 ports to connect a variety of mics and mixers. Purchasing an adapter opens up even more possibilities.
Cons
- You don’t get much battery power with the HP Spectre x360. If you’re not near a power source while recording, you may drain the battery quickly.
- The price point of the HP Spectre x360 is close to the MacBook Pro. If you don’t want to spend more than $2,000 on a tablet/laptop combo, you may want to consider a dedicated laptop model.
- Some users complain of low-quality speakers, which sometimes vibrate the entire laptop frame and create distracting noises during podcasts.
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Choosing the right laptop for your podcast
Now that you know the best laptops for podcasting, let’s compare and contrast them so you can make the best decision.
Best budget-friendly podcasting laptops
Processing power | Internal storage | Port types | Battery life | Screen size | Price | |
Lenovo IdeaPad 3 | 2GHz – 4.5GHz | 512GB | 2 USB-A; 1 USB-C; 1 HDMI 1.4; 1 headphone/mic combo; | 13.5 hours | 15.6″ | $479.99 USD |
Acer Aspire | 2GHz | 512GB | 1 HDMI; 1 USB-C | 8 hours | 15.6″ | $499.99 USD |
Both the IdeaPad 3 and Aspire 5 are well-suited for audio-only podcasting. They may not offer the processing power of their competitors, but they get the job done at a more accessible price.
But which one is right for you?
There are a few specific differences worth mentioning here:
- The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 has more ports than the Acer Aspire 5. This could make it more compatible with different audio mixers and microphones.
- You can easily upgrade the Lenovo IdeaPad to provide more processing power. You can’t do this as well with the Acer Aspire 5.
- The Acer Aspire 5 offers eight hours of battery life. The Lenovo IdeaPad offers nearly twice the power for $20 less.
You may want to use the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 if you plan to record in the field. It’s lightweight, low-cost, and has an impressive battery life for the price.
In contrast, the Acer Aspire 5 would be a better fit if you’re looking for a laptop (not a 2-in-1). It may not offer the same battery life as the Lenovo, but its screen size, internal storage, and processing power are well-suited for live streaming.
Best high-performance podcasting laptops
Processing power | Internal storage | Port types | Battery life | Screen size | Price | |
Apple MacBook Pro | Up to 4.1GHz | 512GB | 3 Thunderbolt 4 ports; 1 HDMI port; 1 SDXC card slot; 1 headphone jack; 1 MagSafe 3 port | 22 hours | 16” | $2,499 USD |
Dell XPS 17 | Up to 5.40GHz | 512GB to 8TB | 4 Thunderbolt 4 ports; 3.5mm headphone/microphone combo jack; USB-C to USB-A v3.0 and HDMI v2.0 adapter included in the box | 14 hours | 17″ | $1,649 USD |
Both the Apple MacBook Pro and Dell XPS 17 are perfect for video podcast production. However, each is designed for different use cases depending on where or how you record.
If you need a longer battery life, you may want to consider the Apple MacBook Pro. It also comes with built-in software like GarageBand and Apple Podcasts.
If you’re more interested in processing power and storage, the Dell XPS 17 may be a better fit. With 8TB of storage and 5.4GHz of processing power, it’s likely to run (and store) everything you need to record and produce your podcast.
Best laptops for remote podcasting
Processing power | Internal storage | Port types | Battery life | Screen size | Price | |
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 | 1.8GHz | 8GB to 512GB | 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports; 1 Surface Connect port; 1 Surface Type Cover port | 15.5 – 19 hours | 13” | $799 USD |
HP Spectre x360 | Up to 5GHz | 2TB | 1 USB Type-A; 2 Thunderbolt4 ports; 1 HDMI 2.1; 1 AC smart pin; 1 headphone/microphone combo jack | 10.5 hours (+fast charge) | 16” | $2,129.99 USD |
Whether you’re recording remotely via Riverside or Zoom or making field recordings, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 and HP Spectre x360 are some of the best laptops you can get.
Each laptop has a different screen size, storage amount, and price tag. They also offer different features to complement different podcasting styles.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a great option for recording in the field. The long battery life and accessible price point are a fair trade for lower processing power.
On the other hand, you may want to use the HP Spectre x360 to record remote guests from your studio. This will provide better storage and processing power and plenty of ports for external equipment.
Alternatives to podcasting laptops
Laptops aren’t a great fit for every podcaster.
If you’re looking for a different device to record your show, one of these tools may be an option:
Desktop computers
![You can use a desktop in place of a laptop for podcasting.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Fdestop_computers_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
Desktop computers typically offer more processing power and storage than laptop computers — and at a more accessible price. These larger computers can easily handle complex DAWs, live streaming, and more.
But desktop computers weren’t designed for portability, so they’re best reserved for studio environments and places they can live long-term. They also take up far more space than the average laptop, which may be problematic if you don’t have a large podcast recording space.
Keep in mind that most desktop computers don’t come with built-in accessories like many laptops. You should be prepared to purchase mics and video equipment separately (unless you want to purchase a podcast equipment bundle).
Desktop pros
- Easier to upgrade over time
- No battery requirements
- Typically costs less than a laptop (for equivalent features)
Desktop cons
- Less portable than laptops
- Requires more physical space in a permanent location
- May not come with any built-ins (such as microphones or webcams)
Our picks
- Dell OptiPlex Micro Form Factor – $649 USD
- Lenovo IdeaCentre AIO 5i – $1,049.99 USD
- Apple iMac – $1,299 USD
Tablets
![You can use a tablet in place of a laptop for podcasting.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Ftablets_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
If you don’t want to buy a 2-in-1 laptop, you can opt for a tablet to record your podcast. These can sometimes be more cost-effective since they offer built-in tools (think audio software, microphones, and webcams).
But traditional tablets don’t always save you money. You may need additional accessories to make them podcast-compatible, such as a tablet stand or a better webcam.
Don’t forget to consider the size of your screen. If you want a bigger display for post-production, desktops or laptops are better options.
Tablet pros
- Typically cheaper than podcasting laptops
- Sometimes have built-in podcasting packages (Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, Octane X, etc)
- Easier to transport and perform remote interviews
Tablet cons
- Less processing power than high-performance laptops
- May require additional (costly) accessories
- Smaller display sizes (between 9.5 and 10 inches on average)
Our top picks for tablets
- Amazon Fire Max 11 – $179.99 USD
- OnePlus Pad – $479.99 USD
- iPad Pro – $799 USD
Phones
![You can use your phone in place of a laptop for podcasting.](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Famazing-breakfast.flywheelsites.com%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2Fphones_the_podcast_consultant.jpg&w=1920&q=75)
High-performance cell phones offer enough processing power to perform many basic podcasting tasks. They can record audio and video, stream podcasts to hosting platforms, and even run podcast editing software (to a certain extent).
However, not everyone owns a high-performance mobile phone. Budget phones or older models don’t have the power to run certain software. They also don’t have an extended battery life — the average mobile phone lasts 10 hours or less.
Storage capacity is also a major consideration. If you want more room for video storage, a laptop or desktop may be a better option.
Phone pros
- You likely already own a phone, which means you don’t have to buy additional equipment for your podcast
- Run light editing software directly from your phone
- Use 3.5mm podcast microphones without a mixer
Phone cons
- Not always compatible with audio interfaces or mixers
- Limited battery life compared to podcast laptops
- Low storage capacity (between 95.7GB for Android and 140.9GB for iOS devices)
Our top picks for phones
- The Samsung Galaxy S24 – $1,299.99 USD
- iPhone 15 Pro Max – $1,199 USD
- Google Pixel 8 Pro – $999 USD
Questions to ask while choosing the best laptop
Having trouble narrowing down your laptop shortlist?
You can use the following questions to whittle down your options:
- What features do I need? You need to know what your non-negotiables are. Any models that don’t meet the bare minimum shouldn’t have a place on your shortlist.
- What is my specific use case for the laptop? Are you recording video, or just capturing audio? Video podcasts and live streams require a lot more processing power. If you simply want to record audio for your podcast, a budget laptop may suffice.
- Where will I be recording most? If you tend to record your podcast on the go, you’ll want a more portable laptop. If you’re planning to record in a soundproof studio, something bulkier may be acceptable.
- What podcast equipment do I already own? Choose a laptop with high-quality built-ins If you don’t want to spend money on a podcast equipment bundle. You don’t need to worry about the laptop’s internal specs if you already have a microphone and camera.
- How will the laptop last long-term? A budget laptop may work fine for a few years, but will eventually slow down and get less effective with age. Higher-end laptops won’t last forever either, but they may be easier to upgrade and repair (think wear and tear components like hard drives and batteries).
The bottom line on podcast laptops
Laptops are a critical piece of the podcast equipment puzzle. Picking the right one will simplify your podcast recording process, streamline post-production needs, and help you live-stream your show.
As you acquire new equipment to bring your podcast to life, remember that The Podcast Consultant is available for support and assistance. We’re proud to offer audio and video services to facilitate new shows and enhance existing podcasts.
See why dozens of podcasters have found success with TPC. Book a no-obligation discovery call to chat candidly about your needs.