Best Laptop for Finance: Top Choices in 2023
Written by: Hrishikesh Pardeshi, Founder at Flexiple, buildd & Remote Tools.
Last updated: Sep 03, 2024
The best laptops for finance are listed below.
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 Ultrabook
- Lenovo 2023 Thinkbook 15 Gen 4 Laptop
- HP Envy 2019, 17.3" Full HD Touch Laptop
- Dell XPS 13 9360 Laptop
- Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R74Z Slim Laptop
- Apple 2022 MacBook Pro Laptop with M2 chip
- Acer Aspire 5 A515-44-R41B
- Dell G15 15.6 Inch FHD 120Hz LED Gaming Laptop
- ASUS VivoBook K571
- SAMSUNG 16” Galaxy Book3 Pro
As a finance professional, I know that having the right tools at my disposal can make all the difference in my day-to-day tasks. In today's digital world, a reliable and high-performing laptop is crucial for managing spreadsheets, running financial software, and staying connected with clients and colleagues.
When it comes to choosing the best laptop for finance, there are certain features that should be given top priority: performance, display quality, battery life, and portability. A finance laptop needs to be powerful enough to handle resource-intensive applications, have a clear and crisp display for accurate data analysis, last through long work hours without constantly recharging, and be lightweight for easy transportation between meetings or even during business trips, making financial management a breeze.
In the endless sea of laptop options, I understand that finding the perfect laptop for finance can be overwhelming. This is why I've dedicated my time to researching and testing several laptops, all with the goal of uncovering the models that best meet the needs of finance professionals like myself.
So, join me as I dive into the world of laptops to uncover the top contenders that will make your financial tasks more efficient and seamless. Trust me; your productivity and success are just a few clicks away.
Table of Contents
- Best Laptops for Finance
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 Ultrabook
- Lenovo 2023 Thinkbook 15 Gen 4 Laptop
- HP Envy 2019, 17.3" Full HD Touch Laptop
- Dell XPS 13 9360 Laptop
- Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R74Z Slim Laptop
- Apple 2022 MacBook Pro Laptop with M2 chip
- Acer Aspire 5 A515-44-R41B
- Dell G15 15.6 Inch FHD 120Hz LED Gaming Laptop
- ASUS VivoBook K571
- SAMSUNG 16” Galaxy Book3 Pro
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best Laptops for Finance
I've researched and compiled a list of the best laptops for finance professionals and students. Check out the fantastic options below to find the perfect fit for you.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 Ultrabook
This laptop is an excellent choice for finance professionals looking for a reliable and feature-packed option, something that few Windows laptops offer.
Pros
- Powerful 11th gen Intel Core i7 processor
- Ample 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD storage
- Solid build quality and comfortable keyboard
Cons
- No dedicated graphics card
- Non-touchscreen display
- Some users reported charging issues
As someone who often works with financial data and analysis tools, I just tried the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 Ultrabook and was quite impressed. Its powerful 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1185G7 Processor combined with 32GB memory and 1TB SSD ensures that all my applications and files load quickly without any hiccups.
I appreciate the 14.0" FHD+ (1920 x 1200) IPS, anti-glare display as it reduces eye strain during long work hours. While the 400 nits brightness isn't the most impressive on the market, the screen is still clear and sharp, making it perfect for viewing detailed financial data. However, I must mention that this model isn't touchscreen, which can be a drawback for those who value that feature.
The keyboard on the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 is backlit and comfortable to use, making typing a breeze even in low-light conditions. I also like the fingerprint reader, which provides an extra layer of security, ensuring that my financial data remains protected.
Though this laptop works remarkably well for financial tasks, it's essential to note that it's not equipped with a dedicated graphics card. If you require one for financial modeling software or enjoy gaming, this may not be the ideal choice for you. Additionally, a few users have mentioned issues with the laptop's charging, although fortunately, I haven't experienced this problem.
In summary, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 9 Ultrabook is a powerful laptop for finance professionals, with a solid build and noteworthy features. However, you may want to consider alternative options if touchscreen compatibility or dedicated graphics are essential to you. Check out this list of the best laptops for MBA students, too.
Lenovo 2023 Thinkbook 15 Gen 4 Laptop
This Lenovo laptop is perfect for finance professionals looking for powerful performance and great features in a sleek design.
Pros
- Impressive 10-core Intel i7 processor
- Large storage with 1TB SSD
- Durable and stylish mineral gray design
Cons
- No optical drive
- Might be heavy for some users
- Limited to 300 nits brightness
After using the Lenovo 2023 Thinkbook 15 Gen 4 Laptop for my finance-related tasks, I'm confident in recommending it to others. The powerful Intel Core i7-1255U processor together with the 16GB RAM made multitasking a breeze, even when running demanding software such as Excel spreadsheets and financial analysis tools.
The 15.6-inch FHD IPS display made viewing my work easier on the eyes, and with a 1TB NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive, I had ample storage for all my files and documents. Though it may not be the lightest laptop out there, the 3.75 lbs weight was still manageable for carrying it with me between meetings and travelling for work.
The Lenovo Thinkbook 15 also comes with a fingerprint sensor, adding an extra layer of security when accessing my sensitive financial data. The backlit full-size keyboard made typing and data entry comfortable during late-night work sessions.
I did feel the lack of an optical drive while using this laptop. However, with most software and data available online, I rarely felt the need for one. The display's 300 nits brightness could be limiting for outdoor use, but it works just fine for most office environments.
Lastly, the connectivity options were great, featuring Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, USB Type-C, and Thunderbolt 4 support. The laptop even came with a useful 32GB USB drive as a bonus.
Overall, if you're a finance professional looking for a high-performance laptop with great features, the Lenovo 2023 Thinkbook 15 Gen 4 is an excellent option to consider. With a powerful processor, ample storage, and robust security features, it's sure to help you manage your financial tasks effectively.
HP Envy 2019, 17.3" Full HD Touch Laptop
The HP Envy 2019 is an excellent choice for finance professionals looking for power and reliability in a stylish package.
Pros
- Outstanding performance with Intel i7-10510U and NVIDIA MX250
- Generous storage with 1TB SSD
- Full HD touchscreen with immersive audio
Cons
- Might be on the heavier side for some users
- Scope for better battery life
- No DVD drive included
The HP Envy 2019 laptop is a true performance powerhouse that offers everything a finance professional could need in a portable machine, making it a great investment for your daily work tasks. I recently tried out this laptop, and I was blown away by the sheer power of the 10th generation Intel Core i7-10510U processor, coupled with the 16GB DDR4 RAM and the NVIDIA GeForce MX250 graphics card, which made multitasking a breeze.
The 17.3" full HD touchscreen display is not only crisp and clear but also has edge-to-edge glass with touch functionality, making it a delight to use in various applications. The audio quality of this laptop adds to the immersive experience, thanks to the custom-tuned Bang & Olufsen quad speakers and HP audio boost.
In terms of design, the HP Envy 2019 sports a premium aluminum and Gorilla glass body, giving it a sleek and polished look that is sure to turn heads during your meetings and presentations. Ergonomically, it features a full-size island-style backlit keyboard with an integrated numeric keypad, and a lifted hinge for comfortable typing during long work hours.
One potential drawback to consider is its weight, at 6.14 pounds, the laptop may be slightly heavy for those constantly on the move. Additionally, while the battery claims to last up to 10 hours, real-world use might be shorter depending on usage and settings.
Ultimately, the HP Envy 2019 is a versatile, powerful, and elegant laptop perfectly suited for finance professionals. Despite a couple of minor shortcomings, I truly enjoyed my experience using this laptop and would highly recommend it to those in the finance industry for both its performance and stylish design.
Dell XPS 13 9360 Laptop
A suitable choice for finance enthusiasts, offering decent performance and portability.
Pros
- Smooth performance with 8th Gen i5 processor
- Compact and lightweight design
- Backlit keyboard for easy typing
Cons
- Limited storage of 128GB SSD
- Integrated graphics may limit heavy graphical tasks
- Battery life could be better
I recently got my hands on the Dell XPS 13 9360 laptop, and I must say, it's a pretty great device for handling finance-related tasks. The 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor combined with 8GB of RAM ensures that I can work on multiple spreadsheets and documents without any hiccups.
One of the most noticeable features of this laptop is its compact design. Measuring just 11.98 x 7.88 x 0.6 inches and weighing only 3 pounds, this collection of thin and light laptops it's extremely portable and easy to carry around. This is quite important for me, as I often need to work on the go or during commutes.
The backlit keyboard is another feature that I appreciate. Working in dimly lit environments is now easy, as the keys are clearly visible. The 13.3-inch InfinityEdge touchscreen FHD display offers crisp visuals, making it perfect for analyzing charts and graphs.
However, the 128GB M.2 SSD storage is a limitation, especially for someone working in finance who may need to store large amounts of data. If storage is a priority, upgrading to a higher capacity SSD might be necessary. Additionally, the integrated Intel HD Graphics 620 won't support heavy-duty graphical tasks. Lastly, I do wish the battery lasted longer, as I often need to work on this Windows laptop for long hours and worry about having to charge it frequently.
Overall, the Dell XPS 13 9360 is a solid choice for anyone seeking a laptop for finance purposes. If you can compromise on storage capacity and don't require heavy graphical performance, this could be the right pick for you. Dell Precision mobile workstations are also a great choice for finance professionals.
Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R74Z Slim Laptop
The Acer Aspire 5 is an affordable and versatile choice for finance professionals in need of reliability and efficiency.
Pros
- Great performance with AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Hexa-Core Mobile Processor
- Good display quality with 15.6" Full HD IPS screen
- Wi-Fi 6 and backlit keyboard for extra convenience
Cons
- Only 256GB of storage, might require an upgrade
- Heavier than some other laptops at 3.88 pounds
- Comes with only 8GB installed RAM, may need upgrading for heavy multitasking
I recently started using the Acer Aspire 5 A515-45-R74Z as my workhorse for finance tasks and have found it to be an excellent choice. The AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Hexa-Core Mobile Processor keeps everything running smoothly and quickly, even when juggling multiple applications and tasks.
The 15.6" Full HD IPS display is crisp, making it easy to analyze numbers and graphs. The laptop's Wi-Fi 6 connectivity ensures high-speed internet access, and the backlit keyboard helps with late-night work sessions.
However, the 256GB of NVMe SSD storage is on the smaller side, especially for those who need to store large financial datasets or install multiple applications. If you're a heavy data user, you may need to consider upgrading the storage. Additionally, the laptop weighs 3.88 pounds, which is a bit heavier than some competitors, but for those who are not too concerned about portability, it won't be a significant drawback.
With 8GB of DDR4 RAM, the Acer Aspire 5 handles multitasking fairly well, but finance professionals who require heavy multitasking may need to upgrade to a larger RAM capacity. Despite these drawbacks, I still think this laptop is a great value-for-money option, especially for those in the finance industry who need a reliable, cost-effective device.
Apple 2022 MacBook Pro Laptop with M2 chip
This laptop is an excellent choice for finance professionals seeking power and performance.
Pros
- Impressive performance with M2 chip
- Long battery life (up to 20 hours)
- Stunning Retina display
Cons
- Limited connectivity with only two Thunderbolt ports
- Costlier than competitors
- Only 8GB of RAM
As a finance professional, I recently upgraded to the Apple 2022 MacBook Pro Laptop with M2 chip, and it has been a game changer for me. The M2 chip provides much-needed power to multitask and run demanding applications smoothly. From working with spreadsheets to video conferences, this laptop never disappoints.
One of my favorite aspects of this laptop is the impressive battery life. On a busy workday, there's no need for me to search for a charger every few hours. With up to 20 hours of battery life, I can focus on productivity instead of power outlets. Additionally, the 13.3-inch Retina display has made working with numbers a treat, as the vibrant colors and sharp details help reduce eye strain during long hours of work.
However, there are a few drawbacks. First, the limited connectivity is frustrating, as there are only two Thunderbolt ports. This often means I need several dongles or a dock to connect all my peripherals. Furthermore, the price may be higher than some competitors, potentially making it a less accessible option. Lastly, the 8GB of RAM might limit some heavy multitaskers, although for most finance tasks, it has proven sufficient for me.
Overall, the Apple 2022 MacBook Pro Laptop with M2 chip is an excellent choice for finance professionals who prioritize power and performance. While it may be pricier and have limited connectivity, the benefits of the M2 chip, long battery life, and beautiful display make it well worth the investment.
Acer Aspire 5 A515-44-R41B
The Acer Aspire 5 is perfect for finance professionals needing a reliable laptop with solid performance.
Pros
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 4500U processor
- Comfortable backlit keyboard
- Impressive battery life
Cons
- Limited storage capacity
- Not the lightest option
- No dedicated graphics
I recently purchased the Acer Aspire 5, and I must say, it is an impressive laptop. The AMD Ryzen 5 4500U processor provides excellent performance for all my finance tasks, and the 8GB of DDR4 memory ensures a smooth multitasking experience. The 15.6" Full HD display offers crisp visuals, making it easy for me to work on spreadsheets and financial reports.
The backlit keyboard is a significant advantage, especially during those late-night work sessions. The keys feel comfortable to type on, allowing me to get more work done without any discomfort. The Acer ComfyView Widescreen LED-backlit IPS display is enjoyable to use, reducing eye strain during extended work hours.
The battery life on this laptop is remarkable, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge. It enables me to work for long periods without constantly worrying about finding a power outlet. However, the storage capacity is limited, with only a 256GB NVMe SSD. It might be a downside for users who need a lot of storage space but can be easily remedied by using external storage devices.
One drawback of the Acer Aspire 5 is its weight. It isn't the lightest laptop on the market, weighing 4.19 pounds, but I find it manageable for carrying around. The absence of dedicated graphics may not appeal to users who require intense graphic performance, but it hasn't been an issue for me as a finance professional.
Overall, the Acer Aspire 5 A515-44-R41B is an impressive laptop for anyone in the finance industry. It is powerful, has a comfortable keyboard, and offers an excellent battery life. Its cons can be manageable, making this laptop a solid choice for finance professionals.
Dell G15 15.6 Inch FHD 120Hz LED Gaming Laptop
The Dell G15 is a solid choice for finance professionals who want top-notch performance, impressive graphics, and a comfortable keyboard.
Pros
- High-speed RAM and large storage capacity
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor
- Vibrant 15.6-inch Full HD display
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Might be slightly heavy for some users
- Limited USB ports
I recently got my hands on the Dell G15 Gaming Laptop and let me tell you, it surpassed my expectations. The 32GB RAM combined with the 1TB SSD storage allows me to effortlessly run several applications simultaneously, which is particularly helpful when working with complex financial models and large datasets.
The AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor handles multitasking like a champ, and I couldn't help but be impressed by the laptop's NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics. I find myself easily immersed in financial visualizations, thanks to the crystal-clear 15.6-inch Full HD display.
However, this laptop isn't without its drawbacks. The battery life has left me wanting more, especially when I need to power through long work sessions away from the charger. Besides, weighing at 5.84 pounds, it's not the lightest laptop on the market, but it's still manageable for short commutes. Lastly, I wish there were more USB ports for added versatility.
Overall, I have thoroughly enjoyed using the Dell G15 as my go-to laptop for finance tasks. The powerful performance, remarkable graphics, and comfortable backlit keyboard make it worth considering. Just be prepared to have your charger handy for extended work sessions.
ASUS VivoBook K571
The ASUS VivoBook K571 laptop is a great choice for finance professionals seeking power and versatility without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Impressive performance with Intel Core i7-9750H processor
- Smooth graphics delivered by NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU
- Generous storage with 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD + 1TB HDD
Cons
- Battery life could be better
- Fans can get loud when under heavy load
- Can become quite hot during extensive use
When I first started using the ASUS VivoBook K571, I immediately noticed the smooth performance thanks to its powerful Intel Core i7-9750H processor. Handling multiple financial applications and data at once was a breeze, without any noticeable lag. The Full HD display also added a professional touch to presentations and made it a joy to work on spreadsheets.
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU provided great graphics, making it not just a powerful finance laptop, but suitable for some light gaming as well. And with a 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD and 1TB HDD, there's ample storage for all my documents and applications.
However, it's not all perfect. During long hours of use or while running demanding applications, the fans can get quite loud, and the laptop can become quite hot, which can be a bit of an annoyance. Additionally, the battery life isn't the best, so I found myself recharging more often than I would like.
Overall, the ASUS VivoBook K571 laptop strikes a great balance between price, performance, and features for finance users. Its powerful processor, great graphics, and ample storage make it a fantastic choice, but be prepared for some noise and warmth when working on intensive tasks.
SAMSUNG 16” Galaxy Book3 Pro
I would recommend the SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3 Pro for finance professionals looking for a lightweight, powerful, and secure laptop with a stunning display.
Pros
- 3K AMOLED display for excellent visuals
- Powerful 13th gen Intel Core i7 processor
- Advanced security features, including fingerprint reader
Cons
- May have compatibility issues with some USB hubs
- Keyboard feels compressed
- No dedicated graphics card for gaming
The first thing I noticed when I started using the SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3 Pro was the incredible 3K AMOLED display. The screen is available in both 14-inch and 16-inch options, and the colors and clarity are just jaw-dropping. The 16:10 aspect ratio is also a nice touch, making this display ideal for multitasking or working on detailed spreadsheets.
Performance-wise, this laptop left me impressed too. The 13th gen Intel Core i7 processor provides more than enough processing power to handle multiple financial applications with ease. I also appreciate the built-in advanced security features, such as the fingerprint reader, when dealing with sensitive financial data.
One drawback I encountered while using this laptop was compatibility issues with my Logitech C930e camera and a USB hub. However, the problem seemed to resolve when the camera was disconnected. Additionally, the keyboard feels a bit compressed on this laptop, which may take some time to get used to for some users. And, if you're also into gaming, this might not be the best choice for you as it doesn't come with a dedicated graphics card.
For those focused primarily on finance tasks, though, the pros of the Galaxy Book3 Pro far outweigh the cons. Its sleek design, powerful processor, superb display, and security features make it an excellent choice for finance professionals on the go.
Buying Guide
Hey there! I'm here to guide you through the process of choosing the best laptop for your finance-related tasks. Let me share a few key features and factors to consider while making your best business laptop decision.
Processor
First up, make sure to pick a laptop with a powerful processor. Faster processing speeds help in handling complex calculations and running finance-related software with ease. Aim for Intel Core i5 or i7, or their equivalent AMD processors, for optimal performance.
RAM and Storage
Having enough RAM and storage is essential for multitasking and storing all those crucial financial documents and data files. I'd recommend a minimum of 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD for a smooth experience.
Battery Life
As a finance professional, you might be working long hours, and it's imperative to have a laptop with excellent battery life. A reliable battery with at least 8-10 hours of runtime ensures you won't need to worry about charging it during important meetings or presentations.
Display
When working on spreadsheets and financial graphs, having a high-quality display makes a whole lot of difference. Look for a laptop with a minimum Full HD (1920x1080) resolution and consider opting for IPS panels to ensure accurate color reproduction and wider viewing angles.
Portability
If you're someone who's constantly on the go, portability should be on your priority list. Lighter laptops with a thinner profile can be incredibly convenient to carry during your daily commute or business trips. Aim for a laptop that weighs 3-4 pounds and is 14-15 inches in size for the best balance between portability and productivity.
Budget
Lastly, determine your budget before diving into the purchasing process. High-quality business laptops, that cater to finance professionals can be pricey, but knowing your budget helps you prioritize the essential features and eliminates any unnecessary extras.
Good luck with your search for the perfect laptop and operating system to support your finance career!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top laptops for finance students?
In my experience, the top laptops for finance students should be portable, reliable, and have good battery life. Some popular options include the Dell XPS 13, MacBook Air, and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon. These laptops have excellent performance, crisp displays, and can handle the multitasking that comes with finance coursework.
Which laptop is ideal for accounting professionals?
As an accounting professional, I would recommend a laptop with a solid processor, ample RAM, and a good quality display. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 and HP Spectre x360 are great choices. These laptops not only have excellent specs but also come with comfortable keyboards, which are vital for data entry tasks in accounting.
What laptop do investment bankers prefer?
Investment bankers often prefer laptops that can handle multiple applications simultaneously and have long-lasting battery life. Based on my research, the Lenovo ThinkPad T14s and MacBook Pro are popular choices for investment bankers. These laptops offer powerful performance, sleek design, and robust security features, providing an ideal on-the-go work environment.
What's the best computer for financial analysts?
For a financial analyst like myself, a laptop with a powerful processor, adequate RAM, and reliable graphics is essential. The Dell XPS 15 and ASUS ZenBook 14 tick all these boxes. They have fantastic performance, crisp visuals, and enough battery life to get through a full workday without needing to recharge.
Which laptop suits loan officers best?
In my view, loan officers need a laptop that is portable, has a long battery life, and offers reliable performance. The HP EliteBook 840 G7 and MacBook Air are perfect choices for them. These laptops are lightweight, have excellent battery life, and provide the performance needed for running loan applications and managing customer data.
Which laptops are great for quantitative finance?
As someone who dabbles in quantitative finance, I can attest that laptops with powerful processors, ample RAM, and dedicated graphics are essential. The Acer Predator Triton 500 and ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 are excellent options. These laptops offer top-notch performance, a high refresh rate display, and a strong graphics card, which makes running complex financial models and simulations a breeze.