Programming is a complex and creative process that requires not only knowledge and experience, but also a quality tool to realise its tasks. The right choice of a laptop can be the key to successful work and comfort in the process of creating programme code.
What is the difference between a programming laptop and a regular laptop?
- Performance: Programming is all about speed and power. Laptops for programmers usually have powerful processors, large amounts of RAM, and fast SSD drives.
- Ergonomics: The high-quality keyboard is comfortable for typing code. The high-resolution screen allows you to see details and work with multiple windows.
- Battery life: For programmers who work in different locations, the battery life of a laptop is important.
- Screen quality: You need a screen with good resolution and colour reproduction to work long hours without eye fatigue.
- Expandability: The ability to increase storage capacity or replace the drive may be useful in the future.
What to look out for when buying?
- Processor: Minimum of 4 cores and high frequency of operation. Intel i5/i7 or AMD Ryzen 5/7 latest generations are recommended.
- RAM: Minimum 8GB for basic tasks, but 16GB or more is better.
- Storage: SSD with at least 256 GB of storage. This speeds up system and programme loading.
- Graphics: For most tasks, the built-in graphics are fine, but for graphic design or 3D work, you’ll need a discrete graphics card.
- Ports and Connections: Availability of USB-C, HDMI, and the ability to connect to external monitors.
Rating of laptops for programmers
1. Apple MacBook Pro 16″
This laptop stands out thanks to its Apple M1 Pro/Max processor, which can handle complex tasks effortlessly. The RAM ranges from 16GB to 64GB, allowing you to run resource-intensive programmes without lags. SSD storage, with options ranging from 512GB to 8TB, ensures fast task completion and instant application loading. Graphics are based on Apple’s M1 integrated graphics.
The 16-inch Retina display with True Tone delivers crisp and rich images. The Touch Bar keyboard adds to the user experience.
The laptop’s battery provides up to 21 hours of video playback and fast USB-C charging.
2. Dell XPS 15
This model catches the eye with a powerful last generation Intel Core processor and RAM ranging from 8GB to 64GB. SSD storage starts at 256GB and goes up to 2TB for excellent performance and speed. NVIDIA GeForce GTX based graphics ensures high performance in graphics tasks.
The 15.6-inch OLED display with 4K resolution provides excellent image quality. The keyboard is backlit for comfortable work in dark environments.
The battery can provide up to 14 hours of use and the fast charging system allows you to charge your device in no time.
3. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (9th Gen)
This laptop is powered by Intel Core i5 or i7 processors and comes with 8GB to 32GB of RAM. SSD storage is available from 256GB to 2TB. The graphics are based on Intel’s inbuilt graphics system.
The 14-inch display with up to 4K resolution and IPS technology makes images bright and clear. The keyboard, known for its reliability, is also backlit.
The battery provides up to 15 hours of battery life, and Rapid Charge technology gives you the ability to charge your device very quickly.
4. HP Spectre x360
This model is equipped with the latest generation Intel Core processors and has between 8GB and 32GB of RAM. SSD storage is available from 256GB to 2TB. Intel Iris Xe-based graphics guarantee good performance in graphics tasks.
The 13.3 or 15.6-inch OLED display offers excellent image quality with high resolution. The backlit keyboard makes typing comfortable even in low light.
The battery offers up to 17 hours of battery life and the fast charging feature ensures minimal downtime.
5. ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14
This gamer laptop is highlighted by AMD Ryzen processor and has 8GB to 32GB of RAM. SSD storage is available from 512GB to 1TB. NVIDIA GeForce RTX-based graphics provide excellent performance in gaming and graphics programming.
The 14-inch display with Full HD or WQHD resolution and 120Hz refresh rate makes for a vibrant and smooth image. The keyboard is backlit and has responsive keys.
The battery provides up to 10 hours of battery life and the fast charging technology allows you to charge your device in a short time.
Top budget laptops for programming
1. Acer Aspire 5
This notebook is characterised by an excellent combination of price and quality. At the heart of the device are Intel Core i3/i5 or AMD Ryzen 3/5 processors that handle basic programming tasks with ease. With 8GB of RAM, you can multitask efficiently, while an SSD of up to 512GB ensures quick access to data.
The 15.6-inch Full HD screen offers a bright and clear image. The keyboard is backlit, making it easy to work in the dark.
The laptop’s battery provides up to 8 hours of battery life, and fast charging allows for quick battery recovery.
2. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
IdeaPad 3 offers a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5 processor combined with 8GB of RAM, making it capable of handling a variety of programming tasks. A 256GB SSD drive ensures fast system and application performance.
The 15.6-inch Full HD display is ideal for long working hours. The keyboard has comfortable key travel and backlighting.
Thanks to the 45W*h battery, the laptop can run for up to 7 hours without recharging. Fast charging is also present.
3. HP Pavilion 15
This range from HP offers Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors, 8GB of RAM and 256GB or 512GB SSD.
The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides excellent picture quality. The backlit keyboard adds a comfortable working experience.
A 41W*h battery provides up to 6.5 hours of use. Fast charging technology is also included.
4. Asus VivoBook 15
The VivoBook 15 from Asus is attractive with its stylish design and specs: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processors, 8GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD.
The 15.6-inch Full HD screen with thin bezels makes images vibrant and rich. The backlit keyboard helps in low-light conditions.
The lithium polymer battery provides up to 7 hours of battery life, and fast charging helps save time.
5. Microsoft Surface Laptop Go
This compact laptop from Microsoft features a 10th-generation Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 128GB or 256GB SSD.
The 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen display offers a bright and clear image. Keyboard with excellent key travel and comfortable backlighting.
The battery guarantees up to 13 hours of battery life, perfect for long work sessions.
Pros/cons table for the proposed models
| Laptop | Pros | Minuses |
| Apple MacBook Pro 16″ | – Apple’s high-performance processor – Great Retina display- Long operating time | – High price- You can’t modernise |
| Dell XPS 15 | – Powerful Intel processor- OLED display- High-quality graphics | – It can be expensive- Heavy |
| Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (9th Gen) | – Robust keyboard- Lightweight and portable- Long operating time | – High price in the top configurations |
| HP Spectre x360 | – 2-in-1 flexibility- Quality display- Powerful components | – Shorter operating time |
| ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 | – Great graphics- Powerful processor- Portable | – Can be noisy under load |
| Acer Aspire 5 | – Excellent value for money- Good display- Long operating time | – Average build quality |
| Lenovo IdeaPad 3 | – Affordable price- Robust keyboard- Suitable for basic tasks | – Not the best display |
| HP Pavilion 15 | – Balance between performance and price- Comfortable keyboard- Adequate operating time | – Average quality of materials |
| Asus VivoBook 15 | – Stylish design- Portability- Good display | – Lower graphics performance |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop Go | – Lightweight and compact- Touch screen display- Long operating time | – Less storage capacity in the base model |
Choosing a laptop for programming depends on individual needs and budget. While high-end models such as the Apple MacBook Pro offer outstanding performance and quality, budget options such as the Acer Aspire 5 or Lenovo IdeaPad 3 can be a great choice for aspiring programmers or those looking for a combination of cost and quality.
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