The 3 Most Powerful Laptops for Designers
Hey there, tech-savvy designers and creative enthusiasts! Are you ready to take your design game to the next level? Well, get ready to be blown away because today, we're diving into the world of laptops that are absolute powerhouses for designers like you!
As a creative professional, you know that having the right tools can make all the difference in bringing your artistic visions to life. Whether you're a graphic designer, a video editor, or an architect, having a laptop that can keep up with your demanding tasks is non-negotiable. That's why I've compiled a list of the three most powerful laptops specifically tailored to meet the needs of modern-day designers.
But wait, before we jump into the details, let me share a staggering statistic with you: Did you know that the global design industry will be worth approximately $45 billion in 2023? That indicates the ever-increasing demand for innovative designs across various sectors, and you can be at the forefront of this creative revolution with the right laptop in your arsenal.
In this blog post, we'll explore the cream of the crop, the creme de la creme, and the laptops that boast cutting-edge technology and unparalleled performance to handle your most complex design tasks effortlessly. These laptops are built to handle graphic-intensive software like Adobe Creative Suite and AutoCAD and to multitask like a pro, allowing you to bring your creativity to life without any frustrating lag or slowdown.
So, if you're ready to supercharge your design workflow and experience newfound efficiency, keep reading as we uncover the top three laptops that will revolutionise how you work and create. Get ready to embrace the future of design technology!
Alright, folks, it's time to buckle up and discover the ultimate companions for design excellence. Let's jump right into it and find the perfect laptop that matches your creative prowess. Here we go!
Table of Contents
Performance Metrics: What Makes a Laptop Powerful?
Before diving into the specifics of the most potent laptops, let's first establish the key performance metrics that define a laptop's power. When evaluating laptops for performance, consider these crucial aspects:
Processor (CPU)
The processor is the heart and brain of any laptop. It determines how quickly the machine executes tasks and handles multiple processes simultaneously. Leading processors from Intel and AMD, such as the Intel Core i9 and AMD Ryzen 9 series, have revolutionized laptop performance, offering high clock speeds and multiple cores to tackle intensive workloads efficiently.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
A robust GPU is essential for graphic design, video editing, and gaming tasks. Modern laptops often come equipped with powerful dedicated graphics cards like NVIDIA's RTX series or AMD's Radeon GPUs, providing real-time ray tracing and AI-powered enhancements for exceptional graphics performance.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Ample RAM is vital for smooth multitasking and handling large files. Laptops with 16GB or more RAM are preferred for power users and professionals who require seamless performance while running resource-hungry applications.
Storage (SSD)
Solid State Drives (SSDs) have revolutionized data storage, significantly improving a laptop's speed and responsiveness. NVMe SSDs offer lightning-fast read and write speeds, reducing load times and increasing productivity.
Display Technology
A laptop's display is crucial in graphic design and content creation. Professionals favour high-resolution panels with colour accuracy and wide colour gamuts, while gamers seek high refresh rates and response times for an immersive experience.
The Most Powerful Laptops
1 – MacBook Pro 16-inch (2023)
The MacBook Pro has been the top choice for creative professionals seeking unmatched performance and a seamless user experience for years. In innovation, the 16-inch model stands tall, raising the bar even higher with its awe-inspiring power and many stunning features that make it an absolute dream machine for creatives.
At the heart of the MacBook Pro 16-inch lies a formidable blend of cutting-edge hardware and groundbreaking technologies. Powered by the latest generation of Intel or Apple Silicon processors, depending on the model and release date, this laptop boasts an unrivalled level of performance that effortlessly handles resource-intensive tasks, from video editing and 3D rendering to complex graphic design projects.
The large 16-inch Retina display sets new standards for visual excellence, delivering vibrant colours, sharp contrast, and astounding detail. Whether editing high-resolution images or indulging in your favourite movies, this display captivates your senses and immerses you in a world of clarity and realism.
The MacBook Pro's design is a testament to Apple's unwavering commitment to elegance and functionality. The unibody aluminium construction not only exudes a premium feel but also ensures exceptional durability, making it a reliable companion for on-the-go professionals. The keyboard is thoughtfully designed, offering a comfortable typing experience, while the spacious trackpad provides precise control, enhancing the overall workflow.
Regarding connectivity, the MacBook Pro 16-inch has various ports to accommodate multiple peripherals, including Thunderbolt 3 ports, USB-C, and an audio jack. These versatile ports enable seamless data transfer, display connectivity, and charging options, ensuring you remain effortlessly connected to your workspace and the world.
- SUPERCHARGED BY M3 PRO OR M3 MAX — The Apple M3 Pro chip, with an up to 12-core CPU and up to 18-core GPU, delivers amazing performance for demanding workflows like manipulating gigapixel panoramas or compiling millions of lines of code. M3 Max, with an up to 16-core CPU and up to 40-core GPU, drives extreme performance for the most advanced workflows like rendering intricate 3D content or developing transformer models with billions of parameters.
- UP TO 18 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Go all day thanks to the power-efficient design of Apple silicon. The MacBook Pro laptop delivers the same exceptional performance whether it’s running on battery or plugged in. (Battery life varies by use and configuration. See apple.com/batteries for more information.)
- BRILLIANT PRO DISPLAY — The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display features Extreme Dynamic Range, over 1000 nits of brightness for stunning HDR content, up to 600 nits of brightness for SDR content, and pro reference modes for doing your best work on the go. (The display has rounded corners at the top. When measured diagonally, the screen is 14.2 inches. Actual viewable area is less.)
- FULLY COMPATIBLE — All your pro apps run lightning fast — including Adobe Creative Cloud, Apple Xcode, Microsoft 365, SideFX Houdini, MathWorks MATLAB, Medivis SurgicalAR, and many of your favorite iPhone and iPad apps. And with macOS, work and play on your Mac are even more powerful. Elevate your presence on video calls. Access information in all-new ways. And discover even more ways to personalize your Mac. (Apps are available on the App Store.)
- ADVANCED CAMERA AND AUDIO — Look sharp and sound great with a 1080p FaceTime HD camera, a studio-quality three-mic array, and a six-speaker sound system with Spatial Audio.
One of the standout features of the MacBook Pro is its robust audio system. With a sophisticated arrangement of high-fidelity speakers, this laptop produces rich and immersive sound, perfect for content creators who rely on audio precision. Whether editing music, creating podcasts, or simply enjoying your favourite tunes, the MacBook Pro elevates your auditory experience to new heights.
Furthermore, the laptop's thermal management system is ingeniously designed to optimise performance while maintaining optimal temperature levels. This means you can push the MacBook Pro to its limits without worrying about overheating or throttling, ensuring you can work without interruptions during those critical, creative sessions.
The 16-inch MacBook Pro comes preloaded with a suite of software that further enhances its creative capabilities. Applications like Final Cut Pro, Logic Pro, and Adobe Creative Cloud suite run seamlessly on this powerhouse, allowing you to edit videos, compose music, and create stunning visual artwork with unparalleled ease.
To complement its formidable hardware and software prowess, the MacBook Pro also boasts impressive battery life, offering several hours of productivity on a single charge. This feature is invaluable for those constantly on the move or working in places where access to power outlets is limited.
In conclusion, the 16-inch MacBook Pro is the epitome of excellence for creative professionals. Its formidable power, stunning display, impeccable design, and cutting-edge features make it a top-tier choice for those who demand the best from their tools. Whether you're a filmmaker, photographer, musician, or designer, this laptop will elevate your creative process to new heights, inspiring you to push the boundaries of your craft. With the MacBook Pro 16-inch as your creative companion, your creative vision knows no bounds.
a. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i9-11900HK or M1 Max |
| GPU | AMD Radeon Pro 6800M (Intel model) / M1 Max (Apple Silicon model) |
| RAM | Up to 64GB DDR4 (Intel model) / Unified |
| Storage | Up to 8TB SSD |
| Display | 16-inch Retina Display, Mini-LED Backlit, 3072×1920 pixels |
| OS | macOS Monterey (Apple Silicon model) / macOS Big Sur (Intel model) |
b. Performance
The MacBook Pro 16-inch offers incredible performance, especially with the powerful M1 Max chip, Apple's most potent silicon. Its unified memory architecture and impressive optimization between hardware and software allow it to outperform many Intel-based laptops in single-core and multi-core tasks. The AMD Radeon Pro 6800M delivers outstanding results for graphics-intensive work, making it a top choice for designers and content creators.
c. Display and Design
The 16-inch Retina Display is a true marvel, providing excellent colour accuracy, high brightness, and support for the P3 wide colour gamut. With Mini-LED backlighting, this display achieves deeper blacks and improved contrast ratios, resulting in stunning visuals. The sleek aluminium unibody design and the iconic Touch Bar and Touch ID further elevate the user experience.
d. Noteworthy Features
- Advanced cooling system for sustained performance.
- Immersive audio with high-fidelity speakers.
- Thunderbolt 4 ports for versatile connectivity.
- Long-lasting battery life for all-day productivity.
The MacBook Pro 16-inch remains a powerful choice for graphic designers, video editors, and other professionals seeking a seamless and efficient workflow.
2 – Dell XPS 17 (2023)
The Dell XPS series has garnered an unwavering reputation for its exquisite blend of cutting-edge design and exceptional performance, and the 2023 edition of the XPS 17 is no exception to this illustrious legacy. Representing the pinnacle of technological innovation, this latest iteration continues to push boundaries with its powerful specifications and an awe-inspiring display that sets new standards in the world of laptops.
At the core of the XPS 17 lies a formidable powerhouse of hardware components meticulously engineered to deliver blazing-fast performance. Equipped with the latest Intel Core processors, the XPS 17 effortlessly handles the most demanding tasks, from complex multi-threaded applications to intensive creative endeavours. With its generous RAM capacity and lightning-fast SSD storage options, the laptop ensures smooth multitasking and rapid data access, allowing users to unleash their productivity without any bottlenecks.
The exceptional design language of the Dell XPS series finds its culmination in the 2023 edition of the XPS 17. Meticulously crafted with premium materials, the laptop exudes sophistication and elegance. The slim profile and refined aesthetics make it the epitome of modern minimalism. At the same time, the durable build quality ensures it can withstand the rigours of daily use, making it a reliable companion for both work and play.
As users open the lid, they are greeted by an immersive visual feast thanks to the stunning display technology employed by Dell. The XPS 17 boasts a breathtaking 17-inch InfinityEdge display that virtually eliminates bezels, maximizing the screen real estate and creating a fascinating viewing experience. Whether you are editing high-resolution images, streaming your favourite movies, or engaging in intense gaming sessions, the display's vibrant colours and sharp details draw you into the action with unparalleled clarity.
The XPS 17 also embraces the latest advancements in graphics technology, with dedicated graphics options that cater to professionals, creative enthusiasts, and gamers alike. The powerful graphics card effortlessly handles graphic-intensive tasks, ensuring smooth rendering, fluid animations, and immersive gaming experiences that bring virtual worlds to life.
Dell's commitment to user experience extends to the keyboard and touchpad, where comfort and precision come together seamlessly. The well-spaced and backlit keyboard enables comfortable typing even in dimly lit environments, while the precision touchpad ensures accurate cursor control and smooth multitouch gestures, enhancing overall productivity.
Despite the powerhouse performance and impressive display, the XPS 17 doesn't compromise portability. The laptop's intelligent thermal management system efficiently dissipates heat, allowing the computer to maintain peak performance without overheating. This ensures that the XPS 17 remains cool and quiet during intensive workloads or extended gaming sessions, making it an ideal professional travel companion.
Connectivity options are abundant, with many ports, including Thunderbolt, USB-C, and USB-A, allowing users to connect peripherals and accessories effortlessly. Furthermore, advanced Wi-Fi technology guarantees fast and stable internet connectivity, allowing users to stay connected wherever they are.
In conclusion, the 2023 edition of the Dell XPS 17 not only lives up to the stellar reputation of its predecessors but also sets new benchmarks for premium laptops. Its powerful specifications, immersive display, and elegant design make it a formidable choice for discerning users who seek a perfect balance between style and substance, reaffirming Dell's commitment to delivering top-of-the-line technology that inspires creativity and productivity.
a. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i9-12900HK |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 |
| RAM | Up to 64GB DDR4 |
| Storage | Up to 4TB NVMe SSD |
| Display | 17-inch 4K Ultra HD+ (3840×2400) InfinityEdge IPS, 500 nits, 100% Adobe RGB coverage |
| OS | Windows 11 |
b. Performance
The Dell XPS 17 packs a serious punch with the Intel Core i9-12900HK, boasting impressive clock speeds and multi-core performance. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU ensures exceptional graphics rendering and smooth gameplay. With ample RAM and high-speed SSD options, the XPS 17 easily handles resource-intensive tasks.
c. Display and Design
The 17-inch 4K Ultra HD+ InfinityEdge display is a visual treat, offering precise colour reproduction and high contrast ratios. It covers 100% of the Adobe RGB colour space, making it an excellent choice for graphic designers and content creators who demand accurate colours. The XPS 17's slim, lightweight design and durable build make it a highly portable powerhouse.
d. Noteworthy Features
- Precision touchpad and a comfortable keyboard for extended work sessions.
- Windows Hello facial recognition for quick and secure logins.
- Killer Wi-Fi 6E and Thunderbolt 4 ports for seamless connectivity.
- Immersive audio with Waves Nx 3D audio.
The Dell XPS 17 is an exceptional laptop that caters to professionals who seek top-tier performance and stunning visuals in a portable package.
3 – HP Spectre x360 15 (2023)
The HP Spectre x360 series has consistently garnered a loyal following among tech enthusiasts who prioritize flexibility and top-notch performance. In 2023, the latest edition of the Spectre x360 15 continues to captivate users with its cutting-edge features, making it a true embodiment of versatility and power.
One of the standout features of the 2023 Spectre x360 15 is its remarkable 2-in-1 form factor. This innovative design makes users switch between laptop and tablet modes effortlessly, providing unrivalled convenience and adaptability. Whether you need to tackle intensive tasks or engage in creative endeavours, the Spectre x360 15 can effortlessly transform to suit your needs, giving you the best of both worlds.
Under the hood, this sleek powerhouse boasts an array of powerful specifications that elevate its performance to new heights. Powered by the latest generation Intel or AMD processors, combined with up to 32GB of high-speed DDR4 RAM, the Spectre x360 15 can handle multitasking and demanding applications with ease. Whether running complex software, editing high-resolution media or enjoying the latest AAA games, this 2-in-1 device rises to the challenge.
Furthermore, the 2023 Spectre x360 15 features a brilliant, immersive display that captivates users. With options for 4K resolution and vibrant colours, it offers an exceptional visual experience. Whether binge-watching your favourite shows, editing photos and videos, or browsing the web, the display's clarity and sharpness make every moment enjoyable.
Security and privacy are paramount in today's digital landscape, and the Spectre x360 15 addresses these concerns with advanced features. Equipped with a secure biometric fingerprint reader and facial recognition technology, accessing your device is seamless and highly secure. Additionally, HP has integrated robust privacy options, such as a physical webcam kill switch, ensuring that you have complete control over your privacy.
- 【2 in 1 3K+(3072 x 1920) Display】: 16-inch diagonal, 3K+ (3072 x 1920), multitouch-enabled, IPS, edge-to-edge glass, micro-edge. 3072 x 1920 resolution delivers incredible details and lifelike colors. And with touch, you can control your PC right from the screen. Plus keep your eyes comfortable with adaptive color and EyeSafe Certified low blue light panels.
- 【11th Generation Intel Core i7-11390H Processor】: Intel Evo platform powered by 11th Generation Intel Core i7-11390H. Brings the perfect combination of features to make you unstoppable. Get things done fast with high performance, instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity.
- 【16GB DDR4-3200 RAM& 512GB PCIe SSD】 16GB DDR4-3200 high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once, 512GB PCIe SSD for ample storage space. Get up to 15x faster performance than a traditional hard drive. Original Seal is opened for upgrade ONLY. We do provide a 1-year standard warranty on upgraded RAM/SSD. Bundled with MOUSE PAD.
- 【Features】1. HP GlamCam: an intelligent 5MP camera that provides lighting correction, auto frame and beauty mode, you can keep your focus on what you’re saying, not what you look like.2. HP Fast Charge: Go from 0 to 50% charge in approximately 45 minutes. 3. Wi-Fi 6E : Enjoy faster speeds, improved performance. 4. It also helps protect your privacy with walk away recognition, attention tracking, shoulder surfing protection, privacy camera shutter, mute mic button and built-in fingerprint reader.
- 2 Thunderbolt 4 with USB4 Type-C 40Gbps signaling rate (USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4, HP Sleep and Charge); 1 SuperSpeed USB Type-A 10Gbps signaling rate (HP Sleep and Charge); 1 HDMI 2.0b; 1 AC smart pin; 1 headphone/microphone combo
On the connectivity front, the Spectre x360 15 comes equipped with Thunderbolt 4 ports, providing blazing-fast data transfer speeds and the ability to connect to multiple peripherals simultaneously. Moreover, the device supports Wi-Fi 6E, ensuring a stable and lightning-fast wireless connection, even in crowded environments.
HP has meticulously crafted the Spectre x360 15 with premium materials, resulting in a sleek, durable design that exudes elegance and sophistication. The lightweight and slim profile of the device makes it a perfect companion for users on the go without compromising on performance or build quality.
In conclusion, the 2023 edition of the HP Spectre x360 15 embodies the perfect fusion of versatility and performance. With its 2-in-1 form factor, powerful specifications, stunning display, advanced security features, and premium design, it is a laptop that caters to the needs of a wide range of users, from professionals and creators to students and everyday users. Whether working, creating, or relaxing, the Spectre x360 15 is ready to elevate your computing experience to new heights.
a. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i7-12800H |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Max-Q |
| RAM | Up to 32GB DDR4 |
| Storage | Up to 2TB NVMe SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch 4K UHD (3840×2160) AMOLED touch display, 100% DCI-P3, HDR 400 |
| OS | Windows 11 |
b. Performance
The HP Spectre x360 15 delivers impressive performance with the Intel Core i7-12800H, making it a capable multitasker. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Max-Q GPU enhances the laptop's graphics capabilities, catering to content creators and casual gamers. It's fast SSD and generous RAM options ensure smooth performance even during intensive workloads.
c. Display and Design
The 15.6-inch 4K UHD AMOLED touch display is a standout feature, offering vibrant colours, deep blacks, and excellent contrast. With HDR 400 support and 100% DCI-P3 colour coverage, it's an ideal choice for content creators seeking accurate colour representation. The 2-in-1 design allows users to switch between laptop and tablet modes, adding versatility.
d. Noteworthy Features
- HP Tilt Pen support for precision drawing and note-taking.
- Webcam kill-switch and mic mute button for privacy.
- Bang & Olufsen speakers for immersive audio.
- Long battery life for all-day productivity.
The HP Spectre x360 15 balances performance, versatility, and design, making it a compelling option for creative professionals and on-the-go users.
Notable Entry: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 (2023)
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 is a formidable gaming laptop that perfectly balances unbridled performance and portability, making it an ideal choice for avid gamers and demanding power users. With its cutting-edge technology and sleek design, this laptop takes your computing experience to a new level.
At the heart of this powerhouse lies the latest generation of high-performance components, providing users with an unrivalled gaming experience. The laptop has a potent processor that can handle the most demanding tasks and run resource-intensive applications seamlessly. Whether playing the latest AAA titles, streaming content, or engaging in heavy-duty multitasking, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 delivers uncompromising performance without a sweat.
The laptop's graphics prowess is equally awe-inspiring. Featuring a top-of-the-line dedicated graphics card, it renders lifelike visuals and smooth frame rates, ensuring you never miss a beat during intense gaming sessions. Graphics-intensive tasks such as video editing and 3D rendering are executed with remarkable speed and precision, allowing content creators and designers to bring their visions to life effortlessly.
Despite its remarkable performance, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 remains remarkably lightweight and sleek, making it a dream come true for users who are always on the move. Its slim profile and compact form allow you to easily slip it into your bag, enabling you to take your gaming adventures or demanding work tasks wherever you go. Whether in a coffee shop, on a train, or attending a gaming event, the laptop's portability ensures you take advantage of every chance to unleash your creativity or immerse yourself in the latest gaming escapades.
The laptop's display is another standout feature that captivates users with its stunning visuals. Boasting a high refresh rate and exceptional colour accuracy, the display breathes life into your games, movies, and creative projects. The immersive experience provided by the vibrant screen elevates overall gaming and multimedia consumption to a whole new level, making every moment spent on the laptop an absolute pleasure.
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In addition to its performance and aesthetics, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 prioritizes the user's comfort and convenience. The keyboard is thoughtfully designed with precise keystrokes and customizable RGB lighting, allowing you to personalize your gaming setup. The laptop's advanced cooling system ensures that the internal components remain optimally cool even during extended gaming sessions, preventing performance throttling and ensuring long-term reliability.
Furthermore, the laptop boasts an array of connectivity options, including multiple USB ports, an HDMI output, and high-speed Wi-Fi, making it a versatile hub for all your peripheral devices and online gaming endeavours.
In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 is a powerhouse gaming laptop that seamlessly combines high-octane performance with the freedom of mobility.
Whether you're an ardent gamer seeking uninterrupted immersion or a power user demanding the best in productivity, this laptop is an all-around champion. Its blend of cutting-edge technology, sleek design, and user-centric features cements its position as one of the most sought-after gaming laptops, promising an exceptional computing experience for all enthusiasts and professionals.
a. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX |
| GPU | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 |
| RAM | Up to 32GB DDR4 |
| Storage | Up to 2TB NVMe SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch WQHD (2560×1440) 165Hz IPS-level display, 100% sRGB |
| OS | Windows 11 |
b. Performance
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 is a powerhouse with the AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX processor, known for its exceptional multi-core performance. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU ensures smooth frame rates and stunning visuals in the latest AAA games. This laptop is perfect for gamers, video editors, and 3D rendering tasks.
c. Display and Design
The 15.6-inch WQHD IPS-level display with a high refresh rate 165Hz delivers fluid gaming experiences and smooth visuals. The laptop's compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable, and the precision-engineered thermal system ensures that it stays cool even during intense gaming sessions.
d. Noteworthy Features
- ASUS AURA RGB backlit keyboard for customizable lighting effects.
- Dolby Atmos audio for immersive soundscapes.
- USB-C with Power Delivery for versatile connectivity.
- Ergonomic hinge design for comfortable typing and viewing angles.
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 strikes an excellent balance between performance and portability, catering to gamers and content creators who need a powerful laptop on the go.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the laptop market in 2023 is teeming with powerful machines, catering to various needs and preferences. The MacBook Pro 16-inch is an exceptional choice for macOS enthusiasts and creative professionals, offering top-tier performance and an impeccable display. Dell XPS 17 impresses with its powerful specifications, elegant design, and stunning 4K display, making it a formidable contender for any power user. The HP Spectre x360 15 balances versatility and performance, making it an excellent choice for creative professionals who value flexibility.
For gamers and power enthusiasts, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 steals the show with its powerful AMD processor, NVIDIA GPU, and high-refresh-rate display. Each of these laptops represents the epitome of power and functionality in the laptop world.
As technology continues to evolve, these laptops showcase manufacturers' relentless pursuit of performance and innovation. When choosing a laptop, consider your specific needs and use cases to find the perfect powerhouse that unleashes your creativity and productivity to new heights. Remember, the most powerful laptop for you is the one that best suits your unique requirements and empowers you to achieve your goals efficiently.
Last update on 2024-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
