When I check my inbox, one of the questions I get most often is ‘what is the best laptop to DJ with?’ Actually this is a good question because not all laptops are created equally and choosing the wrong one can affect your ability as a DJ.
There are certain features you will want to look for in a DJ laptop because spending the money on it now can save you money later as you begin looking into soundcards and DJ controllers. There are many other factors however you must consider, so keep reading to find out how to choose the best DJ laptop for you.
Work With What You’ve Got
This may seem like obvious advice, but if you’ve already got a laptop you may as well see if it has everything you need to DJ on it. The first thing that you must do is make sure your current laptop is capable of (and has room for) the DJ software you use or are considering using. This is especially true if you are a DJ newbie; you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on a laptop that you don’t yet need.
Even if you aren’t a newbie, if the DJ software you want to purchase can run on your current laptop then you needn’t worry about purchasing a new laptop until you need a new one.
Check the specifications of your DJ software and your laptop and make sure that your laptop can handle it. If it can, then all you need to do next is make sure that you have enough memory for the software and your music library. You will need at least 2 GB, but 4 GB is better.
Mac or PC
Ahhh this seems to be the debate that rages on and on…and on. Should you get a PC or a Mac laptop? Truthfully you should get the laptop with which you are most comfortable. If you’ve always been a Mac person then go for a Mac, but get a PC if that’s what you’re comfortable with.
We no longer have to worry about software that isn’t Mac compatible so my best advice is to go with what you know.
For the most part there is really no difference, unless you have a bias towards or against one brand or another. There are a few differences and if you’re not aware of them, you should be.
PCs tend to be more budget friendly than Mac laptops, as such there are many (many) more options from which you can choose to find the right laptop. Using a PC is probably easier for most people, which means you don’t have to spend additional time learning how to use it.
Mac’s however are built better and are far more reliable, even though you don’t have an overwhelming amount of options. Mac laptops also have a very good reputation in terms of stability, so it is far less likely to crash.
Body
When choosing a laptop, make sure your current laptop or the one you want to get is a sturdy thing that can withstand a few bumps and bruises because as a DJ your laptop will sustain a certain amount of abuse. Whether you are a touring DJ, a party DJ or an at home DJ you will undoubtedly drop or bang your laptop against one thing or another.
A flimsy laptop that isn’t built solidly will start to show cracks in its foundation which can mean a damaged screen, slow performance and even the occasional crash.
Money
Of course every DJ equipment decision comes down to money; what you can or cannot afford to buy. If you already have a laptop that is capable of DJing, then you should save up and get a MacBook. It’s a little pricey and many of you will have to learn a new operating system, but it is well worth the cost.
If you are currently in need of a DJ laptop and a Mac is out of your price range, then make sure you get a laptop that you can afford but can also meet all of your software & DJ needs. With a PC however it is crucial that you keep your anti-virus up to date and in fact, you should choose one beyond what comes with your laptop.
Final Thoughts
There are some things that all DJs must keep in mind, regardless of the operating system they choose. First, make sure that you choose a laptop that can perform multiple DJ functions. As a side note, you should make sure that you quit all other computer applications prior to using your software.
Although nearly all DJs prefer to use a Mac for their DJ needs, there are still plenty of DJs who use a PC. Don’t worry about what everyone is using, just focus on what you need and can afford and get it. Besides, if you’re a good and competent DJ no one will know (or care) what type of laptop you’re using.
What type of laptop do you use to DJ? Mac? PC? Tell us what you prefer and why, being a good DJ is all about having information so share!
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Just getting started and doing this as a hobby. I could use all the help I can get. Please advise