8 Best Computers for Pro Tools in 2024

By Robin Owens 17 days ago, Hardware

Computers for Pro Tools with powerful processors and enough RAM.

top 3 computers for pro tools

As a beginner in music production, investing in a computer for Pro Tools is crucial. It'll give you the power and performance you need to create amazing sounds.

You need a computer that can handle heavy workloads, like running multiple plugins and loading large files without breaking a sweat. Many professional users prefer Macs for their seamless performance with Pro Tools. However, you can still find desktop computers with Windows OS that offer decent software integration with this program.

Top 8 Computers for Pro Tools

  1. Apple iMac - Our choice
  2. HP OMEN 25L - For Windows users
  3. HP ENVY Desktop - Dual display support
  4. iBUYPOWER Gaming - Multitasking hardware
  5. HP Pavillion - HP Quickdrop tech
  6. Skytech Archangel - For gaming
  7. Apple Mac Mini M2 Pro - Well optimized processor
  8. ROG Strix - Flow Tech Ventilation feature

When it comes to choosing the best computer for Pro Tools, I recommend to look for a tower PC with a sleek design and plenty of ports. You want a computer for music production with enough space to save all your projects, so a large hard drive or a 512GB SSD would be ideal.

Pro Tools relies heavily on RAM, which stores frequently used programs and data. Having adequate RAM reduces the need to access the slower hard drive, resulting in a smoother experience. Also, it's essential to opt for a computer with a high-performance CPU that can handle the workload without any hiccups.

1. Apple iMac

Our choice
apple imac computer for pro tools

CPU: M1 8-core | GPU: Integrated, 8-core | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB SSD

  • ✚ Powerful processor
  • ✚ High-quality display
  • ✚ Support complex workloads
  • ✚ Good SSD transfer speeds
  • May need to upgrade RAM as needed
Rating

The Apple iMac is a powerful machine with a robust processor, ample RAM, and enough storage space. These features make it an excellent choice for running Pro Tools, especially for professional musicians and audio engineers.

The built-in microphone and optical drive also make it convenient for recording and editing music. Plus, it comes in various configurations to suit your needs.

computer for pro tools apple imac

The iMac is powered by Apple's M1 chip, which delivers exceptional performance for all your tasks. It's also worth mentioning that the design of this all-in-one computer is sleek and comes in seven vibrant colors. And don't forget, this PC for Pro Tool is compatible with popular apps like Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, and Affinity Photo.

2. HP OMEN 25L

For Windows users
hp omen 25l computer for pro tools

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600G | GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super | RAM: 8GB DDR4 | Storage: 512GB

  • ✚ Good upgradability
  • ✚ Comes with the Omen Command Center software
  • ✚ Relatively cheap
  • ✚ Exceptional graphics performance
  • It can be a bit noisy
  • The average durability of the components
Rating

The HP Omen 25L has great upgradability, so you can customize it to fit your specific needs. It comes equipped with a processor that is a solid choice for handling heavy workloads and multitasking. The graphics card provides excellent performance for gaming and video improving.

computer for pro tools hp omen 25l

In terms of storage, this computer for animation offers a large SSD and HDD combination, giving you ample space to store your files. This is definitely a plus for those who work with large audio projects and need plenty of storage.

3. HP ENVY Desktop

Dual display support
music production pc build

CPU: 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700 | GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 770 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB

  • ✚ Powerful processor for handling music production projects
  • ✚ Great for dynamic multitasking
  • ✚ Multiple ports
  • ✚ Sustainable materials
  • Not as much storage capacity as some other options
  • Weak graphics card for gaming
Rating

With its i7 processor, the HP ENVY Desktop can handle even the largest music production projects with ease. And with enough RAM and SSD, you won't have to worry about running out of storage or dealing with slow loading times.

computer for pro tools hp envy desktop

Another great feature is the multiple ports for connecting external hardware. This desktop computer under $1000 has USB-C and Thunderbolt ports, which are perfect for audio interfaces. Plus, this Pro Tools PC has built-in Wi-Fi, making it super convenient for streaming audio from your mobile device.

4. iBUYPOWER Gaming

Multitasking hardware
computer for pro tools

CPU: Intel Core i7 12700F | GPU: RTX 4060Ti | RAM: 32GB | Storage: 1TB

  • ✚ Custom-configured desktops available
  • ✚ Reliable components and quality control process
  • ✚ Good graphics performance
  • ✚ Aesthetic sleek geometric chassis
  • Limited overclocking potential
  • Some occasional issues with startup
Rating

iBUYPOWER Gaming computer offers powerful performance at a reasonable price, with good single-threaded performance and the ability to handle plugins without sacrificing speed. It also has excellent graphics performance, making it suitable for beginners and advanced users alike.

computer for pro tools ibuypower gaming

This computer for Pro Tools supports hyperthreading, allowing it to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. While it may have limited overclocking potential due to a locked multiplier, it's still a powerful option for Pro Tools users.

It can handle processing effects and load plugins quickly, as well as achieve high frame rates in most modern games and can be using as a computer for 3D modeling.

5. HP Pavillion

HP Quickdrop tech
hp pavillion computer for pro tools

CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700G | GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB

  • ✚ Hard disk suitable for storing multimedia files
  • ✚ Compact size
  • ✚ Suitable for music production, gaming, streaming, VR
  • ✚ Cheaper compared to Apple computers
  • Limited number of connection ports
  • Not the most powerful option
Rating

If you're into music production or gaming, the HP Pavillion could be a great option for you. This gaming PC under $1000 offers good performance at a reasonable price, and it's highly upgradeable.

computer for pro tools hp pavillion

It has a powerful CPU and the latest graphics card, which means fast operation and smooth performance. The Pavillion also comes with a high-speed SSD, and it can support HD+ and 4K displays, making it ideal for streaming, VR, and video enhancement.

Plus, its compact size is a bonus if you're limited on space in your home or studio.

6. Skytech Archangel

For gaming
skytech archangel computer for pro tools

CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3600 | GPU: GeForce GTX 1660 Super 6GB GDDR6 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 500GB

  • ✚ High-performance desktop to handle resource-consuming software
  • ✚ Compatible with Nvidia RTX ray tracing
  • ✚ Easy to upgrade
  • ✚ Can handle 4K movie editing and gaming
  • Not specifically designed for audio production
  • Not the best CPU
Rating

The Skytech Archangel comes with a fast SSD and a high-end graphics card that will give you the power you need to work on any project. This PC for Pro Tools does support MIDI hardware, so you can connect and control all your MIDI devices through the computer.

With such a great processor and graphics card, you can even handle 4K video enhancing. It’s a powerful computer for small businesses and for individual music creators that can handle complex audio projects with ease.

7. Apple Mac Mini M2 Pro

Well optimized processor
apple mac mini m2 pro computer for pro tools

CPU: M2 Pro, 12-core | GPU: 19-core | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 8TB

  • ✚ Powerful performance
  • ✚ Excellent memory management
  • ✚ Compact and lightweight design
  • ✚ Multiple Thunderbolt ports
  • Expensive
  • Not geared toward gamers
Rating

The Apple Mac Mini M2 Pro is perfect for musicians and music producers, especially when paired with music production software. With ample RAM and fast SSD storage, it can handle all the latest Pro Tools plugins without breaking a sweat.

computer for pro tools apple mac mini m2 pro

It's a small and powerful computer for Pro Tools, weighing only 2.8 pounds, making it super portable and easy to set up in your home studio. The Mac Mini M2 Pro packs four Thunderbolt 4 ports, a USB-A port, HDMI 2.1, and a headphone jack.

That's plenty of options for connecting your peripherals and audio gear. Plus, this Mac for video editing can support up to two external monitors with impressive resolutions of up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 240Hz.

8. ROG Strix

Flow Tech Ventilation feature
pro tools pc

CPU: Intel Core i7-12700F | GPU: GeForce RTX 3060 | RAM: 16GB DDR4 | Storage: 1TB

  • ✚ High memory capacity
  • ✚ Built-in HDD for storage and SSD for faster performance
  • ✚ Suitable for gaming
  • ✚ Fast processor for professional use
  • You may need to add additional components
  • It's loud
Rating

The ROG Strix has a powerful processor and high memory capacity. These are crucial for running Pro Tools smoothly and without any hiccups. You'll be able to handle any editing or recording project with ease.

computer for pro tools rog strix

The PC for Pro Tools also boasts plenty of ports for connecting devices like a monitor or additional peripherals. It even has both a built-in HDD for storage and an SSD for faster performance.

IMAGE NAME FEATURES
apple imac for pro tools
Apple iMac
OUR CHOICE
  • CPU: M1 8-core
  • GPU: Integrated, 8-core
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
CHECK PRICE
hp omen 25l for pro tools
HP OMEN 25L
FOR WINDOWS
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super
  • RAM: 8GB DDR4
  • Storage: 512GB
CHECK PRICE
music production pc build
HP ENVY Desktop
DUAL DISPLAY
  • CPU: 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700
  • GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 770
  • RAM: 16GB
  • Storage: 512GB
CHECK PRICE

How to Choose the Best Pro Tools PC?

The official developer specifies the following Pro Tools computer requirements. Your device must be powered by an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor with speedy single-core performance. These minimum specifications allow applying multiple processing effects, load plug-ins without speed drops.

how to choose the best pro tools pc

Memory capacity. Pro Tools relies heavily on RAM to store frequently used programs and data. You must have 16GB of RAM or more for a smoother workflow and faster loads of large files.

Processor. Look for a ProTools PC with a high-performance processor that can handle multiple processing effects and load plugins without any hiccups. You want to go for an Intel processor to ensure you have enough processing power to handle all your music production needs.

pro tools pc how to choose

Storage. Pro Tools projects can take up a lot of space, so it's a good idea to choose a computer with a large storage capacity. Consider getting a computer with a 512GB SSD (that's a solid-state drive) for faster access to your files.

FAQ

  • • What kind of computer do I need for Pro Tools?

The best computer for Pro Tools is one that can handle the CPU-intensive workload of recording, mixing, and mastering music. Look for a PC with Intel processors, as they offer better single core performance. Aim for at least 16GB of RAM for a smooth workflow and faster load times.

  • • Should I go for a Mac or a Windows machine for Pro Tools?

Many people prefer Macs for audio-related projects, but Windows machines can also perform well. With Microsoft's improved stability and features, now is a great time to invest in a PC for gaming. Look for a powerful processor and plenty of RAM to handle the demands of Pro Tools.

  • • Should I have more than 16GB RAM for Pro Tools?

The manufacturer specifies a minimum of 8GB of RAM, but you should have a PC with 16GB RAM and more for better performance.

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