9 Best Laptops for Remote Work and Distributed Teams in 2022
As more companies take advantage of a globally talented workforce and offer remote working to their current employees, they have to make sure their workforce has the best laptops for remote work.
This means ensuring employees have a laptop that is easily transportable and can handle multiple programs like amazon virtual onboarding program and tabs at the same time. So, how do you find the right laptop to equip your new remote hire, and how do you get it to them?
This guide will help you choose the best technology for your remote workforce. With the right laptop, you can easily manage a remote team efficiently.
Things to consider before buying a laptop for remote work in 2022
So you might have just found a unicorn employee who is both skilled in paid digital marketing and is an SEO wizard. You want to send them a new Macbook, but they are based in Colombia and the shipping costs are through the roof.
Maybe you are onboarding a C++ developer from Nigeria and want to offer them a stipend for a new laptop but don't know how much to give. These issues will become increasingly more common as over a third of the global workforce adopts remote work.
Companies will also have to reconsider what they offer as part of their remote onboarding plan to attract top international talent. The problem is distribution bottlenecks. The best laptops for remote work have substantial price differences depending on where you live or work from.
Most are readily available in the USA and Europe. While countries in Latin America and Africa have to spend large amounts of money on the same products.
On top of all that, some remote employees are interested in changing their locations or want to work and travel. Depending on the job function, whether they are a developer or a marketer, their laptop requirements will be different.
When looking for the right laptop for remote work, consider these categories:
a) Weight and size
Of course, a laptop's weight and size are considerations for digital nomads and those who want to clock-in while on vacation in the Caribbean. You want to have a lightweight laptop and not too bulky travel laptop so that it can fit in any carry-on luggage.
However, these are also factors that should be taken into account when ordering and sending laptops to locations worldwide. The weight and size will impact how much you pay for shipping and the taxes at the border.
A good-sized screen that won't make you squint but also is portable is around 13 inches. This makes it easy to transport and also won't require extensive packaging material when shipping.
Anything above 1.5 kilograms or around 3 pounds will start to get a bit heavy for carrying around large distances. This also fits in the lower weight categories for most shipping services and taxes for going through customs.
b) Battery capacity
Another critical factor in remote working is how long your laptop can last on one charge. Think if you have to send an email in a bus station or airport without any available outlets. If you want to work several hours outside enjoying the fresh air, you will also need a high battery capacity.
Most laptops offer between 6-12 hours of battery life. The problem is that it is rare batteries actually maintain that capacity for more than the first several months of use. Battery life degrades over time depending on how often and how long you charge.
Battery capacity also varies depending on your settings and what programs you are running. It is good to get a laptop that advertises 10 hours of battery life, and that way, you are left with 6-8 hours for years to come.
c) Processor
Your processor is what renders everything you see on your screen. This is often a tricky subject for those not familiar with the difference between dual, core processors or I5 processor and I7 processor.
The question you have to ask yourself is, what does the team member's or your job require? If they are working with multiple programs and have to save various files to their hard drive, they would probably do better with an I5 and up.
If they do basic data entry and surf the web, then I3 or a dual-processor should be enough to get the job done.
d) Functionality
Laptops these days don't make it easy for the consumer. New generation Macs require you to buy separate adapters for anything that isn't an apple product. Think USBs and HDMI cords.
Other computer manufacturers follow suit with many new laptops only having one or two USB outlets and HDMI ports.
Consider how much you are willing to spend on a new reliable laptop for yourself or for prevent remote employee burnout and always include 50-100 USD for adapters and cords. You may also want to think about whether a touch screen and tablet functionality are essential.
Some people prefer the compactness of tablets like an Ipad pro or a surface laptop with the ability to add a keyboard and mouse. These are great for remote working but are limited to what they can do.
e) Price
Whether you are equipping your remote team or looking to upgrade, budget plays the most crucial role. Be careful with selecting the lowest priced option as this is a device someone will be using day-in and day-out.
Don't sacrifice functionality or power for a low price point. You may be investing in a device that will only last a year when for a couple of hundred dollars more, it could last five. Think about the longevity of your equipment.
There is always the option for resale, or if a remote worker leaves, they can send back the computer, and you can offer it to someone else. The point is you are paying for productivity and getting the job done. A budget laptop prevents that.
You will have to also factor in shipping costs. The best option is to choose a standard model that all new employees receive and then adjust your budget accordingly depending on their location. Luckily some services handle the selection and distribution of laptops all from one platform.
How much RAM do you need for working from home?
If we compile all this information, we are still left with how much RAM and storage is necessary to work from home. Your processor is important, but these components are what make up the power and performance of your operating system.
Part-time remote work or standard administration: Ram 4GB, Storage 60GB-120GB
Full-time remote work: Ram 8GB, Storage 250GB-500GB
Complex Job Tasks (Design or programming): Ram 16GB, Storage 500GB-1TB
What is the best laptop for remote work in 2022?
Full disclosure: We love Apple. There are just too many positives in regards to processing power, portability, and design. There is also the fact that with GroWrk, you can get these laptops shipped to over 150+ countries and pay back the costs in monthly installments.
We still included several options we offer like the Dell XPS 13 or Lenovo Thinkpad x1 carbon for the Windows lovers out there.
Since we didn't want to limit this list to just the type of portable computer that you can purchase on our platform, we also added the Microsoft Surface Pro 7, HP Envy, Acer Aspire, and the Asus Zenbooks which can also be great choices. Plus, if you need help sending these devices to your distributed team, we got you covered!
Want these options shipped to your address immediately? We offer PC Options and distribution services for your current inventory.
1. Apple MacBook Pro -16"
The premium laptop for remote work is the 2020 Apple MacBook Pro. This laptop is perfect for designers. It comes equipped with a super-fast Intel Core i9 processor and 32 GB of memory to ensure optimum application responsiveness.
You will never need an external hard drive with 1 TB of onboard storage capacity. The 16-inch Retina display is perfect for an immersive viewing experience. The AMD Radeon Pro graphics card accelerates any type of design task.
Features:
Includes AppleCare+
Screen Size: 16"
Processor: Intel Core i9 (2.4GHz)
32GB RAM
Hard Drive: 1TB SSD
Weight: 1.83kg
2. Apple MacBook Pro - 13"
The new Apple M1 chip operating system gives the 13-inch MacBook Pro up to 2.8x CPU performance. Up to 5x the graphics speed. The advanced Neural Engine for up to 11x faster machine learning. And up to 20 hours of battery life.
Features:
Includes AppleCare+
Screen Size: 13.3"
Processor: M1 8-core GPU
8 GB RAM
Hard Drive: 512 GB SSD
Weight: 1.37kg
3. Apple MacBook Air 13"
This thin, light powerful laptop is standard among many remote workers across the globe. The Apple M1 chip has completely transformed it with CPU speeds up to 3.5x faster, and GPU speeds up to 5x faster. Pair it with a magic keyboard or magic mouse to make it even better
Features:
Includes AppleCare+
Screen Size: 13"
Processor: M1 8-core GPU
8 GB RAM
Hard Drive: 512 GB SSD
Weight: 1kg
4. Lenovo Thinkpad x1 Carbon
If we only listed Macs on this list, we might as well be working for Apple. The bias, of course, for most remote teams is that they should select a brand and model to stick with when purchasing a business laptop. Lenovo features a wide variety of durable and powerful laptops.
From the Lenovo Ideapad to the Thinkpad that we offer below. Apple is the more well-known brand, but this windows laptop has almost all the same power as a Mac book.
Features:
Screen size: 14"
Processor: Up to Intel® Core™ vPro™ i7-7600U processor
RAM: 4GB-16GB
Hard Drive: 128 GB - 1TB SSD
Weight: 1.2 kg
5. Dell XPS 13
This ideal computing device is powered with an gen Intel Core i7-10750H (10th Gen) with 2.6 GHz clock speed that lets you multitask without any lags or interruptions. It could also be a great gaming laptop.
You can work for extended working hours with the utmost convenience on this laptop as it comes with a sturdy, full-length, and ergonomically designed English International Non-Keyboard. Also, there are zero chances of battery overheating or battery swelling.
Features:
Screen size: 15.6"
Processor: Intel Core i7-10750H (10th Gen)
32 GB RAM
Battery: Li-Ion
Hard Drive: 1 TB SSD
Weight: 1.83 Kg
Performance: NVIDIA Geforce GTX 1650 Ti
6. ASUS Zenbook 14
The common misconception is that an ASUS are bulky and slow. But the new Zenbook is compact and has enough processing power to run most remote work software. It is a much better option than 2020's Asus Zenbook 13. We would also recommend it over a Samsung Galaxy Book Pro for its functionality.
It is light enough to carry around in a backpack without feeling any strain and is at a relatively low price point for those frugal distributed companies or digital nomads. Plus it is durable and can withstand most adventures (kayaking not recommended) with a long lasting battery life.
Just be careful because the memory can fill up fast.
Source:
Features:
Screen size: Touch screen 14.0 inches at 1920x1080 resolution
Processor: 3.9GHz Intel Core I5-8265U
8 GB RAM
Hard Drive: 256 GB SSD
Weight: 1.26 kg
Price: $850
7. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
At the office, at home or en route, new Surface Pro 7 adapts to the way you work — and delivers more power than ever, with a laptop-class Intel Core processor, all-day battery, instant startup, graphics, and more multitasking connections.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is basically a Microsoft surface laptop, tablet and portable studio-all in one. You can pair it with a colorful surface cover (included) and surface pen to match your style of working remotely.
Features:
Screen size: 12.3" 2736 x 1824 PixelSense Touchscreen
Processor: 1.1 GHz Intel Core i5-1035G4
8GB LPDDR4x RAM
Hard Drive: 256GB SSD
Weight: 2.31 Kg
Price: $900
8. HP Envy x360
The sturdy and ergonomically designed island-style keyboard with a cool numeric keypad will let you work remotely with comfort for a longer periods of time. Furthermore, the HP Envy x360 m6-aq105dx (W2K44UA) laptop has a high-quality Lithium Ion battery that does not overheat for pulling all-nighters, unlike the HP Spectre.
The HP Envy is a bit heavier than the others on this list for its deep hardware so it might not be ideal to carry around on long treks. However, it is still perfect for bringing to the beach or a cool co-working spot.
Features:
Screen size: 15.6" (39.62 cm) display, 1920 x 1080 px
Processor: Intel Core i7 (7th Gen) Processor
16 GB DDR4 RAM
Hard Drive: 1 TB HDD
Weight: 2.29 Kg
Price: $1000
9. Acer Aspire 5
The Aspire 5 packs a lot of power into the chassis with a choice of either Intel® or AMD processors, and either NVIDIA® or AMD graphics1. With up to 24GB memory, users have all the power to suit anything from Adobe Photoshop to Final Cut Pro.
Thanks to the narrow border and an 81.61%1 screen-to-body ratio, you can enjoy color-rich Full HD IPS. To further enhance visual appearance and protect the your eyes, it includes Acer Color Intelligence™1. Also, users get easy updates to the latest information with a full range of connectivity options.
It is pretty heavy for digital nomads but worth carrying around if you work remotely in video or photo.
Features:
Screen size: 15.6" Full HD In-plane Switching (IPS) Technology
Resolution: 1920 x 1080
Processor: AMD Quad-Core Ryzen 5 Processor
8 GB DDR4 RAM
Hard Drive: 512 GB SSD
Weight: 2.2 Kg
Price: $750
Wrapping things up
Once you have figured out the easiest way to equip your distributed team with laptops, don't stop there.
Ask your employees about their current home office setup in an equipment survey and fill in the gaps with GroWrk's wide variety of device options.
You can then use GroWrk's end-to-end inventory management system to keep track of your entire IT inventory for the remote work era.
Grow remote with GroWrk. We provide and manage laptops, devices, other equipment and services to remote teams in over 150 countries
Schedule a call now
9 Best Business Laptops in 2022 [For Students & Small Businesses]
Laptop251 is supported by readers like you. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Learn more.
Whether you are a small business owner who needs a laptop for business and personal use or you are a student who wants a machine to take it to your college, if you’re looking for a laptop that is practical for business activities such as accounting, finance analytics, stock trading, creating invoices using Excel, etc., then you are at the right place.
Unlike a gamer, data scientist, ML enthusiast, or 3D modeler, a business student should not aim for high-end specs like Intel Core i9, 32GB RAM, high-end RTX-series GPU, etc. However, the laptop should include some of the additional features that are highly suitable for business-related work.
Who Needs a Business Laptop & Why?
A business student : you’ll be tossing these machines from bag to desk to presentation rooms which means they have to be sturdy without being ugly and bulky.
: you’ll be tossing these machines from bag to desk to presentation rooms which means they have to be sturdy without being ugly and bulky. A small/medium business owner: You’ll need a laptop to create invoices, print receipts, using QuickBooks, managing online websites, analyzing business activities, maintaining stock etc.
You’ll need a laptop to create invoices, print receipts, using QuickBooks, managing online websites, analyzing business activities, maintaining stock etc. A home-based business owner: Do you run a business based out of home? You don’t just need a laptop for business purposes, but you’ll also need to rely on it to get customers (unless you have a solid name in the offline market.)
Do you run a business based out of home? You don’t just need a laptop for business purposes, but you’ll also need to rely on it to get customers (unless you have a solid name in the offline market.) An eBay & Amazon Business Owner: Do you run a store on eBay? Do you want to know the number of items that were ordered and want to ship them accordingly? You can do these tasks on any laptop or even a smartphone but why just settle with any random laptop, when you can get the one that’s recommended by top eBay store owners.
We interviewed 83 students from 31 colleges of MBA studies and other business study programs. We asked them for things that mattered the most in their laptops so that they don’t have to go through the issues or problems they ran into.
Minimum & Recommended System Requirements
Minimum System Requirements Recommended System Requirements CPU 8th Gen Intel Core i5 9th Gen Intel Core i7 RAM 4GB 16GB Storage 256GB SSD 512GB SSD Display 13.3-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU Integrated Intel HD Graphics Integrated Intel UHD / Iris Plus Graphics Battery Up to 5 hours Up to 8 hours
Trust us with the requirements? Jump to the list!
We also discussed the opinions with 15 business execs who are part of successful small & medium businesses. On combining the results from students and execs, we began researching for the laptops that matched all the criteria mentioned and came across 36 different laptops that matched them well.
We then found out a few top-rated eBay stores with huge sales, we contacted 17 of them, and luckily 12 of them responded, and after interviewing them, we found out that they need a laptop.
We browsed the internet to determine if the machines had overheating problems or other problems that could affect the performance. After checking out 70+ forums and 120+ videos, we removed the models that weren’t up to the mark so that you don’t see an inferior product on this list.
9 Best Business Laptops in 2022
The specifications of a laptop for a business student might match with a mid-tier laptop. However, it does has to have certain qualities to qualify as a business laptop.
Everyone has a different budget for a laptop. That’s why we’ve divided this list into 3 parts, the machines that are ranked between 1-5 are high-value (high performance), the ones between 6-7 are mid-tier performance (budget choices), 8-9 are cheap machines that could do the business tasks.
ASUS ZenBook 14 CPU: 2.8GHz Intel Core i7-1165G7
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
GPU: 2GB NVIDIA GeForce MX450
Battery: Up to 16 hours
ASUS Zenbook 14 is a classy, slim, reliable business laptop | Laptop251
Asus puts ZenBook 14 as a combination that takes care of your productivity and entertainment. It fits the requirements of students and small businesses by merging processing power and storage. The SSD’s offer a blend of fast data accessibility and abundance of storage.
The 11th Gen processor (Intel Core i7-1165G7) comes with a higher base speed of 2.8GHz and a maximum clocking speed of 4.7GHz. The NVIDIA GeForce MX450 GPU and the i7 processor make this a solid processing unit. It can handle graphics-intensive photo/video editing applications, mid-level games, and management software.
One highlight of this ZenBook series laptop is the storage solution of 512GB SSD gives sufficient space without compromising the data access speeds. The 16GB RAM offers ample system memory to keep the operations smooth. The Windows 10 Home comes pre-installed in this edition, but a pro-edition would have been a valuable addition for small businesses.
The 14-inch screen can deliver visuals at a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The FHD screen is driven by IPS technology and gives brilliant visuals with an 84% screen-to-body ratio and 178 wide-view display. The display falls under the control of integrated graphics, giving limited control over graphics settings.
Asus packs a full-sized backlit keyboard without a dedicated numeric keypad but with an adjustable backlight. The panel accommodates a standard size touchpad. The panel has a plastic body that leaves a feeling of fragility.
Weighing 4.72 lbs, the laptop leans to the heavier side. The star-black design gives a classic look. The ZenBook 14 comes with a 2x USB 3.0 port, a 1x USB Type C port, an ethernet port, an HDMI 2.0 port, an SD media card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. The laptop has Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth in terms of wireless connectivity.
ASUS comes with a phenomenal battery that offers a backup of 16 hours. The ZenBook 14 synthesizes processing power and a mix of SSD and fast CPU speed, making it a viable option for managing small businesses.
Pros Wide-view display
SSD storage
Adjustable back-light
Extensive connectivity
Battery life is amazing Cons Fingerprint/Dust magnet
Heating issues
Whether you need a laptop that you can take to your college or want a machine for your small/medium business management purpose. It has everything that a business student or an owner would be looking for in their machine!
Lenovo X1 Carbon 6th Gen CPU: 1.8GHz Intel Core-i7 8550U
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 14-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
GPU: Integrated Intel UHD 620
Battery: Up to 6 hours
Lenovo X series of laptops are known as high-performance devices with the impeccable build quality, and the Lenovo X1 Carbon 6th Gen fits right into the series. The laptop offers a superior build quality that looks classy, and any business student and owner will appreciate the fit and finish of the product.
The Lenovo X1 Carbon 6th Gen features a typical 14-inch IPS display with 1920 x 1080p resolution. On paper, the display on the laptop might look simple, however, the company is using a high-quality LCD panel on this laptop with a higher amount of brightness and accurate color reproductions, which are some of the factors a business student might appreciate while editing photos or videos.
It is powered by the 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8550U 4-core CPU with Intel UHD 620 GPU. It offers a peak CPU clock speed of 1.8GHz and can even handle some high-fidelity apps that a business owner or student like you would want to use. Thanks to 256GB SSD, the device boots up in no time, and 16GB RAM makes sure that a business student can open multiple apps at the same time without any issue.
On a single charge, the Lenovo X1 Carbon 6th Generation Ultrabook can last up to 6 hours and it also supports fast charging. Most high-performance laptops weigh more and this laptop weighs just 2.6 pounds, which makes it lighter than the Apple MacBook Pro.
Pros Pros Amazing Design
Super Lightweight
High-Performance CPU Cons Cons Less battery life
Old Bluetooth version
Acer Aspire 5 CPU: 2.4GHz Intel Core i5-1135G7
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256GB SSD
Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1200)
GPU: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
Battery: Up to 8.5 hours
The Acer Aspire 5, as the name suggests is a thin laptop that still manages all the ports that a business student might require. The laptop has a 15.6-inch IPS display with 1080p resolution and the thin bezels across the screen do reduce the overall footprint of the laptop.
The laptop is powered by the 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, which is a 4-core processor with eight threads with an Integrated Intel Iris Xe that can handle graphic designing, music editing, podcasting, and more.
By default, the laptop offers 8GB RAM, which should be good enough for normal usage. However, it does have an additional RAM slot, which can be used to upgrade double the amount of RAM. Similarly, the laptop has 256GB M.2 SSD that is quick and consumes less power compared to a hard disk that comes with most of the laptops. Users can either upgrade this SSD or can use a pen drive or an external hard disk via the USB port to get study materials from another device and it also has a full-sized HDMI port.
The Acer Aspire 5 also comes with a big battery, which can last up to 8.5 hours on a single charge. Even in terms of connectivity, the laptop includes a super-fast WiFi card with support for both 2.4GHz and 5GHz WiFi networks, offering gigabit-class download speeds. Finally, the laptop weighs 3.63 lbs and is slightly on the heavier side.
Pros Pros Thin and portable design
Affordable pricing
Discrete graphics support
Adequate storage space
11th Gen processor
Enough ports for connectivity
WiFi 6 support Cons Cons No fingerprint reader
Low base clock speed
Apple MacBook Pro 13 CPU: Apple M2 8-Core
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256GB SSD
Display: 13.3-inch FHD Retina (2560 x 1600)
Graphics: Integrated 10-Core
Battery: Up to 20 hours
Apple Macbooks have their fan base at college campuses and business students will love the new 13-inch MacBook Pro, which is now thin and powerful and costs almost the same compared to its predecessor. But it’s not just limited to students alone, a lot of known businesses consider using Apple machines as they are highly reliable and powerful.
Besides, the Apple MacBook Machines set a benchmark on how a laptop should look, and the device is filled with plenty of user-friendly features such as trackpad gestures, screenshot options, spotlight to make searching files faster, etc.
The new Apple MacBook Pro comes with a retina display with a native resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a pixel density of 227ppi, making it one of the best 13-inch laptops. Having a display with a higher pixel count will improve the multi-media user experience, for any user including law students, journalists, doctors, will accept it.
This model comes with a touch bar instead of physical function keys and also includes a fingerprint sensor for biometric authentication to help small/medium business owners secure important files and data.
The MacBook is powered by the latest 8-core M2 processor with a high base clock speed. This machine offers 8GB of RAM, which is aplenty in the macOS ecosystem and not to mention the superfast built-in SSD. However, neither the storage nor the RAM on this laptop is user upgradable.
According to Apple, the new MacBook Pro can last up to 20 hours on a single charge and it comes with two Thunderbolt / USB 4 ports. Anyone of the port can be used to charge the laptop using the 67W charging adapter that comes in the retail package.
Lastly, the laptop is 3 lbs, and even every commuter student who attends business school can easily carry this machine without considering it as a burden.
Pros Pros Amazing Display
Touch ID
Fast SSD storage
Fluid macOS Cons Cons Only 2 USB ports
Dell XPS 9360 CPU: 1.8GHz Intel Core-i5 8250U
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 128GB SSD
Display: 13.3-inch FHD Touch (1920 x 1080)
GPU: Integrated Intel UHD 620
Battery: Up to 11 hours
Dell XPS was one of the first bezel-less laptops in the world, and the company has been improvising the same over the years. The Dell XPS 9360 is the latest laptop from the XPS series, and it looks like it was designed for business students.
A business student prefers a compact laptop, and this XPS has a 13-inch display with 1920 x 1080p resolution and the company is using an IGZO2 panel, which offers a wide viewing angle of 170 degrees. Thanks to very minimal bezel-less, it is much compact compared to a typical 13-inch laptop and almost feels like a 12-inch laptop. A business student will enjoy this almost no-compromise design, especially for its display and form factor.
The laptop is based on an 8th Gen Intel Core-i5 8250U CPU with an integrated Intel UHD 620 GPU. The CPU can crank up to 3.4GHz if required and 8GB of RAM ensures that the laptop can keep most of the apps in memory. As it uses 256GB SSD-based storage, the laptop can turn on in under 10 seconds and loads the app in seconds.
The laptop can offer a staggering 11 hours of battery life on a single charge and the battery can be refilled quickly, thanks to fast charging support. Though it just weighs 2.7 lbs, it still manages to include a dual full-sized USB port and an SD card slot, which makes it easy for business students to transfer files locally.
Pros Pros Minimal Bezel Design
Battery Life
Build Quality Cons Cons No HDMI Port
DDR3 RAM
Lenovo Flex 14 CPU: 2.1GHz AMD Ryzen 5 3500U
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256GB SSD
Display: 14-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
GPU: Integrated Radeon Vega 8
Battery: Up to 8 hours
The Lenovo Flex 14 Convertible laptop is quite different, as this machine is based on an AMD Ryzen chipset. The laptop is powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 3500U 4-core CPU with a maximum clock speed of 2.1GHz and is capable of running Microsoft Office and all the other software a business student might use.
The chipset comes with a built-in Radeon Vega 8 GPU, which is capable of handling graphics-intensive tasks. The laptop has a 14-inch display, offering 1920 X 1080p resolution in a thin and compact form factor. It also supports touch input and pen input. Unlike a few offerings, Lenovo includes the pen in the retail package, which further sweetens the deal.
The laptop runs on Windows 10 OS and supports all sorts of software from Microsoft office suites to other professional packages that a business student might use. The screen is 360 degrees rotatable, which makes it easy to use in a tablet form-factor if required and it is also light in weight with just 3.52 lbs, making it easy to carry, always.
Most of the laptops with touch screen skimp on ports and the Lenovo Flex 14 2-in-1 Convertible laptop is an except as it has a full-sized USB-A port, HDMI port, a USB Type-C port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. As per the RAM and storage, the laptop offers 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD-based storage and this combination of RAM and storage will make this machine powerful and the device cold boots within seconds.
Overall, the Lenovo Flex 14 2-in-1 Convertible laptop has everything that a business student might look for. A powerful and premium-looking machine while giving presentations, and a youthful laptop with 8 hours of battery life that can easily last an entire college day and support for fast charging is just a bonus.
Pros Pros Compact Design
Touch Display with thin bezels
Free Touch Pen Cons Cons Slightly Lower Clocked CPU
Subpar trackpad
Microsoft Surface Pro 8 CPU: 2.4GHz Intel Core i5-1135G7
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 256GB SSD
Display: 13-inch QHD Touch (2880 x 1920)
GPU: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
Battery: Up to 10.5 hours
Microsoft Surface Pro 8: Stylish, practical, versatile laptop for business | Laptop251
The Surface Pro 8 is the latest 2-in-1 from Microsoft, and it’s one of the best business laptops you can buy. It’s got power, portability, and style all in one package.
This device boasts an 11th-generation Intel Core i5 CPU with 4.2 GHz and 8GB RAM with a 256GB SSD. So, you can expect this device to perform better than any of its predecessors in handling light-duty tasks or Microsoft apps.
The detachable keyboard makes it simple to transform your Surface Pro 8 into a tablet or laptop. The disadvantage is you have to purchase the keyboard separately.
The laptop is pretty lightweight at 1.96 lbs, making it perfect for commuters. If you like to do a little work in public transport, a nifty and sturdy built-in kickstand props up the laptop for a more natural position.
You also get Windows 11 Home installed, so you can just jump into working on your documents and emails as usual. You can also use business software like Excel or Photoshop without any problems.
I’m fond of using a biometric finger scanner to log in rather than a password, and the Pro 8 has failed on this one. Still, the Windows Hello Face Recognition on this 13-inch device works like a charm. This feature means I don’t have to type in a password whenever I want to log in.
Most people would agree that packing an excellent battery into such a sleek and thin design is challenging. But with this laptop, Microsoft has surprised many with the 10.5 hours of battery life. The device is a lifesaver during business trips since you won’t need to worry about charging it often.
The 5MP camera, dual speakers, and clear microphone system work well for business video calls. If you are in the market for the best 2-in-1 laptop with great features, I recommend the Surface Pro 8 as your go-to device.
Pros Pros Good Battery Life
Premium Build Quality
Beautiful display
Lightweight
Windows Hello Face Recognition Cons Cons Expensive Accessories
Tough to repair
Only 2 USB ports
A bit pricey
Samsung Chromebook Plus V2 CPU: 1.5GHz Intel Celeron
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB SSD
Display: 12.2-inch FHD (1900 x 1200)
GPU: Integrated Intel HD 615
Battery: Up to 10 hours
Samsung is one of the few brands that has been launching Chromebooks for a long time. The company’s latest offering – the Chromebook Plus V2 from Samsung is such a device that brings in all the goodness from Samsung smartphones to a laptop. The Chromebook Plus V2 has a 13MP camera and an S-Pen, that can be used to accurately sketch or draw.
The laptop has a 12.2-inch display with an almost FHD (1900 x 1200) resolution display, protected by tempered glass. This is a touch display and the laptop also offers a large trackpad, for those who like to use this laptop in an old-school way. This is a great laptop for Business students, as they can easily take notes using the S-Pen and can save everything on the cloud.
Though the device just has 64GB storage, it does come with a microSD card slot that can be used to store local files. 4GB RAM should be sufficient, as all the tasks on this laptop will be done via the web browser. The Intel Celeron, which is an entry-level processor with 1.5GHz clock speed with Intel HD 615 GPU can handle most of the tasks, where users can also download Android apps directly from the Google Play Store as well.
On a single charge, the laptop can last up to 10 hours and a business student can complete a day roaming around the campus, without worrying about the battery life or feeling it heavy, as it is well under 3 lbs (2.98lbs).
Pros Pros 13MP Camera
S-Pen
Design Cons Cons Limited Storage
Asus Chromebook Flip CPU: 2.2GHz Intel Core M3
RAM: 4GB
Storage: 64GB SSD
Display: 12.5-inch FHD Touch (1920 x 1080)
GPU: Integrated Intel HD 515
Battery: Up to 10 hours
The Asus Chromebook Flip is not an ordinary laptop, as it is powered by ChromeOS and a tailormade device for business students. It is one of the lightest laptops, which makes it easy to carry for students wherever they go.
Being a Chromebook does have its advantage, compared to a Windows OS powered computer, a Chromebook, in this case, Asus Chromebook Flip does offer better battery life and it can last up to 10 hours on a single charge.
As the name suggests, it is a Flip-style laptop with a 12.5-inch touch display and 1920 x 1080 max pixel resolution. And the device can be used as a laptop or a tablet as it comes with a 360-degree hinge. Though it doesn’t have thin bezels, it still looks premium with a flushed-in type LCD panel, which is color accurate.
The Intel Core m3 is a power-efficient 2-core processor, made for ultrabooks. Though it is not that powerful compared to an Intel Core i-series chipset, it is designed for laptops and notebooks with a fanless design with the built-in Intel HD 515 GPU that runs at 850MHz.
Coming to I/O, the laptop has a multi-purpose USB Type-C port, that can accept all sorts of USB Type-C based peripherals. It also has an embedded display port, with a proper dongle (VGA or HDMI) you can project your Business presentation to your class without much of a fuss. One of the fascinating facts about this machine is its weight, with just 2.65lbs weight, it is easy to carry on a backpack or a sling bag.
The laptop can easily play two to three movies on the go, which is a great feature for exchange program business students, who travel a lot. Thanks to the 64GB SSD, this machine will be quick to boot and load apps in no time, and it also has a microSD card slot for additional storage expansion.
The Asus Chromebook Flip combines the power of a great keyboard with 1.4mm travel, an accurate trackpad, and a touch display in a single device, making it easy to create presentations on services like Google Slides.
Pros Pros Compact Touch Display
360-degree Hinge
Amazing Battery Life
Light in Weight
Good Looking Cons Cons Limited amount of storage
Lack of ports
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best-rated laptop for business students? All the ten models that we have mentioned in the list are the best possible laptops that a business student can buy. Business students with budget constraints can opt for models like the Samsung Chromebook. Similarly, those who want the best can get an Apple Mac Pro. Which is the best Lenovo laptop for business students? The Lenovo X1 Carbon is the best laptop for business students, as it is light, which makes it easy to carry, and is packed with a high-end Intel processor with 16GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage. How much RAM does a business student need? The Laptop should have a minimum of 4GB RAM, and going for a model with 8GB RAM will further improve the overall user experience. Similarly, one can also get high-end laptops with 16GB RAM, especially for using apps like photoshop. What makes a business-oriented laptop fast? To begin with, the hardware should have a 4-core CPU and SSD-based storage that helps the device to boot quickly and load apps quickly. What are the specifications of a good business laptop? A Good Business student laptop should have a good display, possibly with touch input, at least 4GB RAM, SSD-based storage, and it should be thin and light, which makes it easy to carry from classes to conference halls.
Verdict
These are some of the best laptops available in the market that will suit a business student. These laptops are in such a way that they offer almost everything a business student might require. On top of that, these laptops are not that expensive and do not become a burden on business students.
As one can see, most of the models that we have suggested come with a touch screen, at least 4GB of RAM, and the storage is based on an SSD. A business student can easily use a laptop based on Windows OS, ChromeOS, or macOS.
As stated before, a business student laptop should look good and should be light in weight. Similarly, it should not compromise when it comes to performance, as business students tend to use a lot of software for preparing presentations and wiring essays. If you are a business student and planning to buy a new laptop, then either one of the models from the list should fulfill all the requirements.
10 Best Business Laptops 2022
Top 10 best business laptops 2022 (best laptop for office use) based on our reviews.
The contemporary business landscape is rapidly evolving. With it, so is the need for computing devices that understand modern professional requirements.
Traditionally, businesses have relied on desktops that are easier to configure for the entire crew and come with inherent data security.
However, many workspaces now lean toward laptops, mindful of the constant travel needs and easy accessibility options – core to new-age business. Leading manufacturers like Apple, HP, MSI, Acer, ASUS and Lenovo now produce professional laptops for different budgets.
Our Picks: The 10 Best Business Laptops 2022
From conventional clamshell laptops to tablets, from MacBooks to ThinkPads, businesses now have plenty to choose from when it comes to computing devices.
Choosing the right laptop for business is a grave decision since it affects productivity, performance, and the amount of downtime you may have to tackle.
The list below includes sensible choices for modern-day businesses, encompassing performance, security, connectivity, sustainability, and superior audio-visuals.
They also span across budgets, starting at less than $1000, so that you can pick according to the costs you have in mind for the fleet.
1. ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 Business Laptop
With a price tag of around $1500, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 business laptop is an excellent choice for the workplace.
Available on Lenovo
It runs on a speedy and efficient Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, supported by up to 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD. The battery lasts for an incredible 16.7 hours, which means you need not be interrupted during an important meeting.
Display-wise, too, this device is winsome with its anti-glare FHD+ monitor (optional UHD+) that comes with Dolby Vision, reduced blue-light emissions, and a brightness of 400 nits.
Despite its power-packed performance, this ThinkPad is light and sleek at 2.49lbs and 0.59”. It provides rear ventilation and a military-grade chassis so that you can travel with it effortlessly, working for several hours when required.
From a security standpoint – an imperative for modern-day business – this device delivers splendidly. You can enjoy a veritable combination of a fingerprint reader, human-presence detection and a privacy display.
Voice/video calling is a pleasure due to Dolby Voice and a high-definition camera. Smooth internet connectivity is a given, thanks to Wi-Fi 6 and optional 4G/5G WWAN.
2. HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 Office Laptop
Combining HP’s security and knack for remaining contemporary is the HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 laptop – a terrific choice for business people.
Available on HP
It runs on an Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, 16GB RAM, a 256GB SSD, and a provision for hassle-free recovery.
It is a powerful machine ideal for demanding business tasks like working on multiple spreadsheets and running CPU-intensive applications.
This 2.2lbs laptop, infused with excellent support for internet connectivity with 4G LTE and Wi-Fi 6, is highly portable. Like many HP notebooks, this one also powers up very quickly (50% in only 30 minutes), letting you work uninterrupted.
Best Laptop Buying Guide by Processor
The EliteBook x360 comes with excellent display and sound: Bang and Olufsen, specialized noise reduction, and an IPS screen with 1000 nits brightness. You can also opt for a rechargeable active pen to enhance the flexibility of use.
Security is an intrinsic feature of this device, and this works out perfectly for present-day professionals. For instance, the integrated privacy screen lets you work privately in a shared working space.
3. Dell Latitude 14 7420 2-in-1 Business Laptop
Dell has long been a reliable brand for work devices, and the $1,589.00 Dell Latitude 14 7420 2-in-1 business laptop is no exception.
Available on Amazon
This 14″ device has inbuilt AI (Dell Optimizer) and seamless connectivity for all your devices.
The built-in intelligence enables you to target your bandwidth to critical applications, log in instantly with the proximity sensor, and, on the whole, ramp up your productivity at work.
On the processing front, you get an eleventh-gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB SSD. Dell also offers an FHD (or 4K) monitor with anti-glare and low blue-light emission.
Fine-tuning your calling experience are the enhanced speakers and background noise reduction. You can configure this 2.7-3.23lbs laptop as a 2-in-1 convertible with Corning Gorilla Glass, which is ideal for those with a travel-intensive lifestyle. You will also benefit from the fast-charging battery; it fires up to 35% in just 20 minutes.
4. MSI Summit E13 Flip EVO Professional Laptop
Stylish and powerful, the 13” MSI Summit E13 Flip EVO professional laptop is an excellent choice if you are looking for a flexible business companion.
Available on Amazon
Best Laptop Buying Guide by GPU
It is a touch-based device with a smooth MSI Pen and a 180-degree hinge to allow you to share ideas/content with colleagues.
This $1,861.99 laptop is driven by an Intel core i7-1185G7 processor based on the new Intel Evo platform to let you experience faster performance.
The storage and memory are to the tune of 32GB RAM and a 1TB SSD – adequate for your professional endeavors, including file transfer and wireless streaming.
Plenty of connections is a significant plus of this 2.98lbs device and come in handy in the contemporary work environment.
For instance, you have Thunderbolt 4 ports to plug into your devices/peripherals and Wi-Fi 6E for speedy internet connectivity. Thanks to the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) technology, security is not a problem even amidst intense collaboration.
5. ASUS ExpertBook B9 Thin Light Office Laptop
ASUS has some exciting offerings in the business devices space, including the 14” ASUS ExpertBook B9 thin light business laptop, priced at $1699.99.
Available on Amazon
Among the highlights of this product is an inbuilt light bar compatible with Alexa. The battery backup is spectacular: 23 hours.
It is a lightweight but durable computer at 2.2lbs, with a magnesium alloy chassis adhering to military-grade durability (MIL-STD 810G).
The strength radiates inwards; this laptop runs on an efficient Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, a 512GB SSD, and 16GB RAM.
Convenient design and comfortable user experience are second nature to this business laptop, evident from the 180-degree hinge, privacy shield, and noise-cancellation with Harman Kardon speakers.
The display follows a narrow-bezel design, while the backlit keyboard comes with a numeric keypad to simplify data entry and number crunching tasks in business.
6. Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch
Synonymous with the creative business for a long time, Apple lives up to its reputation with the Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch that delivers a mighty punch for its relatively affordable $1399 price tag.
Check on Amazon
This device smartly uses a unification of the M1 chip and macOS Big Sur to provide a seamless work environment. You can access iPhone or iPad applications directly, uplifting the overall productivity in the workspace.
This laptop has 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD (up to 2TB). One of the hallmark features of this 3lbs MacBook is its superb battery backup of up to 20 hours – almost unprecedented for Apple. The magic keyboard with Touch ID facilitates a secure, quiet, and faster typing experience.
Display-wise, things are as gorgeous as you would expect in a MacBook. The Retina display with True Tone technology and 500 nits of brightness offers perfect white balance and P3 wide color.
The three-mic array delivers studio-quality audio, while the two USB Thunderbolt 4 ports permit you to enjoy rapid data transfer and connect up to a 6K external display.
7. HP EliteBook 855 G8 Laptop
The 15.6” HP EliteBook 855 G8 laptop is a fast and efficient business laptop that harnesses the power of AMD Ryzen 5 PRO processors.
Check on HP
Infused with 16GB memory, a 256GB SSD, and rapid charging of 50% in half an hour, this device is perfect for business people who need to collaborate and be on the go.
This EliteBook is a stylish laptop, offering a bright display with a screen-to-body ratio of 85%.
You can opt for a 1000-nit screen that bundles up with touch and a 170-degree recline for ergonomic usage. The intrinsic AI-based audio accentuates your work experience while facilitating productivity.
HP has ensured MIL-STD 810 testing for this laptop. It weighs just 3.75lbs and has a profile thickness of 0.75”, making it straightforward to carry it along on business travels. For more security, you may choose to get the HP privacy camera with a physical shutter for data protection.
8. Dell Latitude 5520 Office Laptop
Another powerhouse from the Dell family is the 15.6″ Dell Latitude 5520 laptop – a magnificent pick for business with inbuilt AI for optimization, exceptional battery capacity, and smooth scalability.
Check on Amazon
While it comes with an eleventh-gen Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 128GB SSD, it is straightforward to scale up to 64GB memory, 2TB SSD (dual), and a UHD monitor, based upon your requirement.
This device starts at a price bracket of $1,159.00 and offers two battery setups: a 42WHr one for lighter overall weight and a 63Whr battery for more uninterrupted working time.
It is a stylishly built laptop, weighing only 3.5lbs and employing bioplastics from trees. Connectivity, an imperative for present businesses, is a cakewalk with this device, thanks to its 450 Mbps LTE, Wi-Fi 6E, and several ports.
The two Type-C Thunderbolt ports can connect two 4K displays or even an 8K display. From a security standpoint, you will be well-placed with the fingerprint reader and the facial login.
9. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 2 in 1 Business Laptop
Trust Lenovo to know their stuff in business, as is evident from the 14” Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 2 in 1 business laptop.
Check on Lenovo
Based on the new Intel Evo vPro platform, this computer comes with an Intel Core i7-1185G7 CPU, up to 32GB RAM, and up to 1TB SSD to facilitate demanding tasks like teleconferencing during your workday. It is possible to pick a UHD+ panel with Dolby Vision for tremendous visual clarity.
Lightweight at 3lbs and easily molded into different modes with a 360-degree hinge – tablet, tent and stand – this ThinkPad is easy to use.
This 2-in-1 convertible, starting at $1493, is reasonably affordable and offers pro-business features like Dolby Atmos speakers for clear sound and an inbuilt garaged pen for taking notes.
Lenovo has a particular focus on security, which is a blessing for business people. It provides a fingerprint reader and optional human-presence detection to keep your data safe from prying eyes. You can also choose the privacy guard panel for additional security.
10. Acer Swift 3 Cheap Business Laptop
Available at just $749.99, the 14″ Acer Swift 3 cheap business laptop is a lucrative pick for budget-watching business people.
View at Amazon
Inside, it has an AMD Ryzen 7 5700U CPU, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. It comes with an FHD monitor with IPS support and 100% sRGB color, thereby ensuring vivid colors.
An engaging screen-to-body ratio of 85.73% lets you immerse yourself in the task at hand.
This 2.65lbs laptop also throws in a backlit keyboard to let you work in dimly lit surroundings and crystal-clear audio with the Acer Purified Voice technology.
Upping the overall convenience of use is Amazon Alexa that allows you to fire commands on the go, especially when pressed for time.
With Wi-Fi 6 and a long battery backup of 12.5 hours, you will stay connected wherever you go. Security, always essential in a modern computing device, is ensured with a biometric fingerprint reader and secure sign-in with Windows Hello.
Selecting the Right Business Laptop: Essential Features
When you go about making a purchase decision for your workspace, be prepared to be inundated with products.
From expensive desktop-like laptops that come in at over $1500 to flexible and inexpensive convertibles – professional computing has taken monumental leaps over time.
Today, business devices are not restricted to clamshell laptops anymore.
Tablets are becoming more popular and have even started becoming available with detachable keyboards and other full-purpose features. So, what should you look for when picking the right computer for your business?
Security: Data confidentiality and a secure work environment are imperatives for business devices. Look for top-end security solutions like facial recognition and fingerprint readers . They make it convenient to work in collaborative environments without fretting about a data breach. If you are an IT-based buyer looking to purchase a fleet of laptops, you might require additional security such as support for Trusted Platform Module (TPM).
Data confidentiality and a secure work environment are imperatives for business devices. Look for top-end security solutions like . They make it convenient to work in collaborative environments without fretting about a data breach. If you are an IT-based buyer looking to purchase a fleet of laptops, you might require additional security such as support for Trusted Platform Module (TPM). Performance: High-performance processing compartments are essential, ideally with minimal bloatware. You will also require plenty of storage and memory for demanding tasks in and outside the office. An Intel Core i3 CPU and above will allow you to complete everyday tasks in the workspace like working on spreadsheets, making calls, etc. It is a good idea to aim for a minimum of 4GB of RAM; 8GB/16GB is preferable. Getting an SSD (256GB and above) works out well in the long run, although you may opt for a 1TB hard drive.
High-performance processing compartments are essential, ideally with minimal bloatware. You will also require plenty of storage and memory for demanding tasks in and outside the office. An Intel Core i3 CPU and above will allow you to complete everyday tasks in the workspace like working on spreadsheets, making calls, etc. It is a good idea to aim for a minimum of 4GB of RAM; 8GB/16GB is preferable. Getting an SSD (256GB and above) works out well in the long run, although you may opt for a 1TB hard drive. Display and sound: Superior audio-visuals feature dominantly among the provisions of work laptops since spectacular image clarity is crucial for those in multimedia-based businesses. However, if this is not a priority for you, picking integrated graphics over a dedicated GPU and an FHD instead of a UHD panel makes more monetary sense.
Superior audio-visuals feature dominantly among the provisions of work laptops since spectacular image clarity is crucial for those in multimedia-based businesses. However, if this is not a priority for you, picking integrated graphics over a dedicated GPU and an FHD instead of a UHD panel makes more monetary sense. Connections: As a businessperson, you will typically need to plug into devices such as external displays, additional storage, keyboards, mice, etc. Seek out a laptop that offers several USB ports, HDMI, and card readers. The latest Thunderbolt USB 4 ports will let you charge quickly and transfer data without losing precious time. Add to that connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6 and 4G/5G WWAN , and you have a full-purpose workstation that lets you interact with colleagues from anywhere.
As a businessperson, you will typically need to plug into devices such as external displays, additional storage, keyboards, mice, etc. Seek out a laptop that offers several USB ports, HDMI, and card readers. The latest Thunderbolt USB 4 ports will let you charge quickly and transfer data without losing precious time. Add to that connectivity options like , and you have a full-purpose workstation that lets you interact with colleagues from anywhere. Battery backup: A long-lasting battery lets you toil on uninterrupted, but it does add some bulk to your device. While you should target at least 10-12 hours, you can consider external battery packs and quick-charging capacity to work un-tethered for longer.
Closing Note
In light of the challenging business environment of today, professional laptops have risen to the occasion. Not only do they encompass performance and security, but also provide features like new-age audio for improved calling and wireless streaming.
For instance, the HP EliteBook x360 1040 G8 comprises Bang and Olufsen speakers; the ASUS ExpertBook B9 provides Harman Kardon speakers. Expect to find the newest processing technology, from multi-core CPUs of the eleventh generation to neural engines and artificial intelligence.
Business laptops like the MSI Summit E13 Flip EVO are powered on the new Intel Evo platform to give you a performance edge, while the Acer Swift 3 uses AMD to realize a more budget-friendly product.
Most business computers have robust but lightweight build; you can find many options in the 2-3lbs range. That said, features to boost overall accessibility and portability are also prominent in this space.
The Dell Latitude 5520, for example, lets you choose a higher battery capacity if you are willing to take on the extra weight. If your business takes you on extensive travels, it is possible to look for military-standard construction that can sustain extreme working environments.
Business laptops may look similar to those intended for everyday use, but what matters is what is within. Choosing the right one ranks high among the business decisions that have lasting repercussions.
