Best Laptops for 2024
As a former computer science student and now a developer, I know firsthand how crucial finding the best laptops for success can be. I vividly remember doing a timed lab on an old hand-me-down laptop that froze and shut down in the middle of the session. Flustered and realizing I would fail the lab due to a poor laptop, I became acutely aware of the importance of having a reliable computer. A powerful and dependable laptop can significantly enhance productivity and efficiency when coding, debugging, and running resource-intensive applications.
Here’s a curated list of the Best Laptops for 2024, ranging from budget-friendly options to premium machines, each offering robust performance and features tailored to meet the demands of programming and software development.
What Computer Developers Look for in a Laptop:
- Performance: Fast processors (like Intel Core i5/i7/i9 or AMD Ryzen equivalents) and ample RAM (typically 8GB or more) are essential for compiling code quickly and running multiple applications simultaneously without slowdowns. Personally, I need 16GB at least in order to develop with ease.
- Storage: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are preferred over traditional HDDs for faster boot times and quicker file access, especially when dealing with large datasets and software installations.
- Display Quality: High-resolution displays (Full HD or higher) with good color accuracy and ample screen real estate (14 inches and above) are beneficial for coding and multitasking.
- Battery Life: Long battery life ensures uninterrupted work sessions, especially when working remotely or in environments without easy access to power outlets.
- Build Quality and Portability: A durable build, lightweight design, and compact form factor make it easier to carry the laptop around while ensuring durability for long-term use.
- Operating System: While personal preference varies, laptops that support both Windows and macOS offer flexibility depending on the developer’s needs and software preferences.
- Keyboard and Trackpad: Comfortable, responsive keyboards with good key travel and accurate trackpads are essential for extended typing sessions and precise cursor control.
Choosing the right laptop involves balancing these factors based on individual needs and preferences, ensuring that it meets the demands of both daily coding tasks and future software development projects.
Computer prices can vary based on promotions, sales, and availability… After poking around a bit I’ve put together a list of the top developer laptops for students and developers, ranked from cheapest to most expensive, along with fellow developer/customer reviews:
Acer Aspire 5
The Acer Aspire 5 is a versatile and affordable laptop designed for a range of users, from students to professionals. This is the first one on our list for the best laptops for 2024.
| Brand | acer |
| Model Name | Aspire 5 |
| Screen Size | 15.6 Inches |
| Hard Disk Size | 1 TB |
| CPU Model | Ryzen 3 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 20 GB |
Customer Reviews: Highly praised for its performance and design, though some users note that it can be loud under heavy load.
Product: Buy on Amazon for $498.54
Lenovo Ideapad 3
The Lenovo Ideapad 3 is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable and reliable laptop for everyday use. It is well-suited for students, professionals, and home users who need a dependable device for web browsing, document editing, media consumption, and light multitasking. With its variety of configurations and features, the Ideapad 3 offers good value for its price. Hence why adding this one to the best laptops for 2024.
| Brand | Lenovo |
| Model Name | Ideapad 3 |
| Screen Size | 15.6 Inches |
| Color | Gray |
| Hard Disk Size | 512 GB |
| CPU Model | Core i3 |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 12 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Graphics Card Description | Integrated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel UHD Graphics |
Customer Reviews: Praised for its excellent performance and battery life at a budget price. Some users find the keyboard layout slightly cramped.
Product: Buy on Amazon for $372.88 (Currently on sale)
HP Pavilion 15
The HP Pavilion 15 is a popular choice among users due to its balance of performance, features, and price. Yet another great laptop.
| Brand | HP |
| Model Name | hp eg2000 |
| Screen Size | 15.6 Inches |
| Hard Disk Size | 1 TB |
| CPU Model | Core i7 Family |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 32 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 11 |
| Special Feature | Fingerprint Reader, Backlit Keyboard, Wi-Fi |
| Graphics Card Description | Integrated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel Iris |
Customer Reviews: Well-received for its performance and display quality. A few users mention that it can get warm under heavy use.
Product: Buy on Amazon for $817.00
Dell Inspiron 5440
| Brand | Dell |
| Model Name | Dell Inspiron 14 5440 Laptop |
| Screen Size | 14 Inches |
| Color | Carbon Black |
| CPU Model | Core i7 Family |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 16 GB |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Special Feature | Anti Glare Coating |
| Graphics Card Description | Integrated |
| Graphics Coprocessor | Intel® Integrated Graphics |
Customer Reviews: Users appreciate its strong performance. Some note that the battery life could be better.
Product: Buy on Amazon for $749.99
Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020)
Final on our list for best laptops for 2024 is the Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020) which is widely regarded as an excellent laptop due to several key factors that set it apart from its competitors. Performance, battery life and robust build makes this laptop a doozy and would be nearly any students dream.
| Brand | Apple |
| Model Name | MacBook Air |
| Screen Size | 13.6 Inches |
| Color | Midnight |
| Hard Disk Size | 256 GB |
| CPU Model | Unknown |
| Ram Memory Installed Size | 8 GB |
| Operating System | Mac OS |
| Special Feature | Backlit Keyboard |
| Graphics Card Description | Integrated |
Customer Reviews: Highly praised for its exceptional battery life, performance, and build quality. Some users feel the storage capacity is limited. One can purchase the laptop with greater hard disk space to account for this.
Product: Buy on Amazon for $849.00
Hopefully you found this helpful. Consider poking around for more interesting topics; such as an overview of the Cyber Security concerns in 2024
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