Best Laptops for Hacking: Top Picks for 2023‍

The best laptops for hacking are:

1. Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook
2. Acer Predator Helios 16 Gaming Laptop
3. CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1'' Laptop
4. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
5. Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Gen 2
6. Dell Latitude 5580 HD 15.6 Inch Business Laptop
7. Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop
8. Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro
9. Dell Inspiron 16 Plus 7000 7620
10. Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 (2022)

Hacking, whether ethical or otherwise, has become an integral part of the digital world. As technology evolves, so does the need for powerful and versatile laptops to aid hackers in their work.

A good hacking laptop should have both excellent computing power and portability, allowing individuals to work securely and efficiently regardless of their location.

Laptops for hacking need to be fast and reliable with a strong emphasis on processing power and connectivity.

High-quality hardware, ample RAM, and efficient cooling systems are essential to provide the necessary support to run multiple applications and virtual machines concurrently. Additionally, a solid battery life and a comfortable keyboard improve the overall user experience.

When considering the best laptop for hacking, pay close attention to the processor, GPU, RAM, and storage options. Better hardware ensures smooth multitasking and running of resource-intensive processes.

Moreover, prioritize laptops with good network adapters and the ability to run Linux-based operating systems, as most hacking tools require this environment.

In the pursuit of identifying the ideal hacking laptop, I have researched and reviewed various models that cater to the specific requirements of modern hackers while delivering outstanding performance. Let's dive into the top picks and find the perfect match for your hacking endeavors.

Best Laptops for Hacking

I've gathered a list of the best laptops for hacking that'll take your skills to the next level. Check them out below!

Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook

This Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook is an excellent choice for those seeking a powerful laptop for hacking, with a balance of performance and portability.

Pros

• Impressive Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor

• Crisp 14.1" fully laminated LCD IPS display

• Built-in fingerprint scanner for security

Cons

• Limited storage capacity at 256GB

• Potential audio quality issues

• Confusion surrounding Windows 11 Pro

Buy Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook, and I can confidently say it's an impressive machine for hacking activities.

The 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor ensures the laptop runs smoothly even when I'm multitasking or working on resource-intensive tasks, significantly boosting my overall performance.

The 14.1" fully laminated LCD IPS display is a treat for the eyes, providing crystal clear visuals whether I'm going through lines of code or taking a break to stream my favorite shows.

The precision touchpad also increases my work efficiency, responding accurately to my gestures and inputs.

The built-in fingerprint scanner is a fantastic addition to cyber security on this laptop, essential for those concerned with security. It streamlines the process of accessing my laptop while keeping it secure.

However, the Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook isn't without its flaws. The storage capacity of 256GB (128GB + 128GB) may not be sufficient for those who need more space for various hacking tools or projects. You might need to consider external storage solutions if you're planning to store extensive data on this laptop. If you are looking for a laptop with good data capacities, check out this list of the best laptops for data science.

Some users have reported issues with the audio quality, specifically with the speakers being low and scratchy. While this may not directly impact hacking, it could be frustrating if you rely on the laptop for entertainment or video calls.

Lastly, there's confusion surrounding the inclusion of Windows 11 Pro. Some users reported that their device did not come with the Pro version as promised, resulting in additional costs to upgrade the operating system.

Overall, the Gateway Ultra Slim Notebook offers an excellent balance of performance and portability for hacking. However, potential buyers should be wary of the storage limitations and possible audio issues.

Acer Predator Helios 16 Gaming Laptop

I'd recommend the Acer Predator Helios 16 for anyone in need of a powerful laptop capable of handling intensive gaming and multitasking.

Pros

• Exceptional performance with the 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU

• Stunning 16" WQXGA LED display with a fast 165Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time

• Fully customizable per-key RGB keyboard and convenient PredatorSense app

Cons

• Expensive, but worth the investment for high-performance users

• Some users may experience minor glitches with certain games

• Windows 11 operating system might require some adjustment for new users

Buy Acer Predator Helios 16 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

As a gaming and content creation enthusiast, I was impressed by the Acer Predator Helios 16. The 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700HX processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 laptop GPU provided an incredibly smooth gaming experience. I could easily handle high FPS games while streaming and multitasking without any hitches.

The 16" WQXGA LED panel with a 165Hz refresh rate and 3ms Overdrive response time made for a breathtaking visual experience.

The NVIDIA G-SYNC and NVIDIA Advanced Optimus features added to the laptop's overall performance. I appreciated the adjustable per-key RGB keyboard with Mini LED backlights, which I customized through the PredatorSense app for a personalized feel.

While this laptop may be on the pricier side, I believe it's worth the investment for those seeking high-performance in gaming laptops and multitasking.

A minor downside I experienced was a few small glitches running RDR2, but this did not significantly impact my overall satisfaction. Windows 11's operating system did take some time for me to get used to but did not detract from my enjoyment of the laptop.

In conclusion, I highly recommend the Acer Predator Helios 16 for gamers, content creators, and power users seeking top-of-the-line performance, an outstanding display, and customizable features. For high end gaming laptops, check out these lists of the best gaming laptops for Warzone as well as the best gaming laptops under $1200.

CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1'' Laptop

The CHUWI HeroBook Pro is a budget-friendly choice for those looking to efficiently tackle hacking tasks on a sleek, lightweight device.

Pros

• Powerful Intel Gemini Lake N4020 processor

• Significant storage with expansion options

• Antiglare IPS screen for comfortable use

Cons

• Limited battery life

• No touchscreen functionality

• Slow performance for heavy tasks

Buy CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1'' Laptop on Amazon

I recently used the CHUWI HeroBook Pro, and I could immediately appreciate its powerful Intel Gemini Lake N4020 processor. It allowed me to run multiple applications smoothly, making it perfect for hacking activities.

The laptop also comes with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage, which can be expanded up to 1TB using the M.2 SSD slot, providing plenty of space for my tools and files.

The antiglare IPS screen provided a great visual experience, making it comfortable for me to use for an extended period. The 14.1-inch screen had a 1920x1080 resolution, lending a wider field of vision with a crisp display.

However, I noticed the battery life was not as long as I had hoped. I only managed to use it for around 9 hours before needing a recharge, which may not be enough for more extended hacking sessions.

One aspect of the CHUWI HeroBook Pro that disappointed me was the lack of touchscreen functionality. I initially assumed that it had a touchscreen based on the design, but it turned out not to be the case.

While the laptop performed well for my hacking activities, I found it a bit slow when running heavier tasks or multiple applications at the same time.

Overall, the CHUWI HeroBook Pro is a good option for those looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle hacking tasks.

Its sleek design, powerful processor, and expandable storage make it a solid choice, but limited battery life and slow performance in heavy tasks may be an issue for more demanding users. The lack of touchscreen functionality is a minor drawback in comparison to its other positive attributes.

Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop

The Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop is an excellent choice for those looking for an affordable, reliable, and functional laptop for hacking.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 3 dual-core processor

• Full HD IPS display

• Backlit keyboard

Cons

• Limited storage capacity (128GB SSD)

• Only 4GB of DDR4 RAM

• Windows 10 in S mode (restricts app installations)

Buy Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop on Amazon

As someone with hands-on experience using the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, I can vouch for its impressive performance. The AMD Ryzen 3 dual-core processor provides just the right amount of power for running multiple applications simultaneously, and the 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display ensures clear and sharp visuals.

However, I did find the storage and memory to be a bit lacking, especially for more resource-intensive tasks. The 128GB SSD is decent but may require external storage solutions for larger files and projects. Additionally, the 4GB of DDR4 RAM may result in sluggish performance when running demanding programs or multitasking. However, how much RAM you require also depends on the software you're using.

The backlit keyboard is a delightful touch, making it easy to work in darker environments. Another aspect worth noting is the Windows 10 in S mode, which restricts the installation of apps outside the Microsoft Store.

For hacking purposes, you may need to switch to Windows 10 Home or Pro for a broader range of software options.

In conclusion, the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop delivers solid performance and functionality at an affordable price. However, you might want to consider upgrading the RAM and storage to enhance your hacking experience better.

Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Gen 2

This laptop is a solid choice for anyone looking to dive into the world of ethical hacking with powerful performance and expandability options.

Pros

• Powerful Intel Octa-Core i7-11800H processor

• NVIDIA RTX A2000 graphics for smooth performance

• Expandable to 4 monitors for multitasking

Cons

• 17.3" screen size might be too big for portability

• No optical drive

• Heavier than most laptops at 7.86 pounds

Buy Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Gen 2 on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Gen 2, and I have to say, it's been a game changer for my hacking endeavors.

Previously, I had to constantly upgrade my laptops to keep up with the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity, but this beast keeps me ahead of the curve.

The laptop's performance is impressive, and I never experienced any lag or slowdowns. The Intel Octa-Core i7 processor and NVIDIA RTX A2000 dedicated graphics are perfect for running multiple hacking applications. Since hacking often involves managing many windows, the ability to expand to four monitors is a godsend.

The one downside to this powerhouse is its size. A 17.3-inch screen and nearly 8-pound weight give it reduced portability.

If you're constantly on the move, this might be a concern. Additionally, I noticed it lacks an optical drive, which might be a minor annoyance to some.

In conclusion, the Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Gen 2 is an outstanding option for budding and experienced hackers alike.

It offers powerful performance, expandability options, and is built to handle the demanding world of hacking. Just be prepared for some extra bulk when you're on the go.

Dell Latitude 5580 HD 15.6 Inch Business Laptop

This refurbished Dell Latitude 5580 is a great option for hacking with decent performance and an affordable price.

Pros

• Powerful Intel Core i5-7440HQ Processor

• 8GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD Storage

• Built-in Webcam, HDMI, and USB Type C Port

Cons

• Refurbished, may have some cosmetic wear

• Limited warranty of 90 days

• 1366 x 768 Display Resolution

Buy Dell Latitude 5580 HD 15.6 Inch Business Laptop on Amazon

Recently, I got my hands on the Dell Latitude 5580 HD 15.6 Inch Business Laptop for hacking purposes. What I noticed right off the bat was its powerful Intel Core i5-7440HQ Processor, which proved efficient during my work sessions.

Coupled with 8GB DDR4 RAM and a 256GB SSD Storage, the laptop delivered fast performance with quick boot times and smooth multitasking.

Additionally, the laptop comes with a built-in webcam, an HDMI port, and even a USB Type C port, which came in handy for versatility and connectivity during hacking exercises. The backlit keyboard with a numeric pad also added to the overall usability of the laptop.

However, it's essential to note that this is a refurbished product, meaning I did notice some signs of cosmetic wear on my unit. Although it did not affect the overall function, it might be a concern for those who prefer a brand-new look.

Another caveat is the limited 90-day warranty. While I did not experience any issues so far, it offers less protection than a typical new laptop warranty.

Moreover, the display resolution sits at 1366 x 768 pixels, which might not be ideal for those looking for a higher resolution screen.

Overall, the Dell Latitude 5580 HD 15.6 Inch Business Laptop served its purpose well during my hacking activities.

While the refurbished condition and limited warranty might be a downside to some, its performance, connectivity features, and affordable price make it a viable option for those looking to purchase a laptop for hacking on a budget. Dell also makes some of the best laptops for trading forex and best laptops for Python programming. Check them out in the provided links.

Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop

This Dell XPS 13 9310 is a top choice for hacking enthusiasts, with an impressive OLED display and powerful performance.

Pros

• Stunning 3.5K OLED touchscreen display

• High-performance Intel Core i7 processor

• Lightweight and sleek design

Cons

• Can run hot during heavy use

• No standard USB port

• Subpar battery life

Buy Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Dell XPS 13 9310 laptop, and I must say, it's been an enjoyable experience.

The 13.4-inch OLED display with 3.5K resolution is simply stunning – the sharpness and colors truly stand out, and the anti-reflective coating reduces glare when working in brightly lit environments.

The performance is impressive too. Powered by an 11th Generation Intel Core i7 processor, this machine is a real workhorse, easily handling multiple tasks, and running demanding applications.

The 16GB LPDDR4x RAM and 512GB SSD make things run smoothly, offering quick access to files and snappy multitasking.

As a hacker, I appreciate the sleek and lightweight design of the XPS 13. It's both stylish and easy to carry around – perfect for those long sessions at a coffee shop or co-working space.

Sadly, I did notice the laptop getting quite warm during heavy use, which might be a concern for some users. Additionally, the battery life isn't the best, so having a power source nearby is essential.

One drawback is the lack of traditional USB ports, which can be limiting for connecting to external devices, hard drives or peripherals. However, this can be solved with an adapter or a USB-C hub.

Despite some limitations, the Dell XPS 13 9310 is a strong contender for the ultimate hacking laptop. Its top-notch display and high-performance capabilities make it a worthy investment for serious professionals.

Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro

The Apple 2023 MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip is a powerful and reliable choice that excels in hacking tasks.

Pros

• Supercharged performance with M2 Pro chip

• Extended battery life of up to 18 hours

• Beautiful 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display

Cons

• Pricey compared to other laptops

• Limited upgradeability due to unified memory

• Heavy reliance on dongles for connectivity

Buy Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro on Amazon

As a hacker, I have always been on the hunt for a laptop that not just meets, but exceeds my expectations. The Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop with M2 Pro chip does just that.

The M2 Pro chip's 12 CPU cores and 19 GPU cores make light work of demanding applications, allowing me to run multiple instances and test various exploits efficiently.

One feature I cannot stress enough is the battery life. With up to 18 hours, this laptop truly frees me from the constraints of constantly searching for a power outlet.

I can work virtually anywhere, from coffee shops to public libraries, without having to worry about running out of juice.

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is an absolute pleasure to work on. It boasts over 1000 nits of brightness, providing a stunning and clear visual experience, especially when working with code or conducting extensive research.

However, there are a few downsides to consider as well. The MacBook Pro is pricey compared to other laptops on the market, which might make it a hard sell for some.

Additionally, the unified memory means upgrading components down the line isn't as straightforward as it is with other laptops.

Another issue I've encountered is the need for dongles to connect various peripherals. While the MacBook Pro does have several ports—including Thunderbolt 4 ports, an SDXC card slot, and an HDMI port—I still find myself fumbling with adapters more often than I'd like.

Despite some of the cons, the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop with M2 Pro chip has proven to be a powerful tool in my hacking endeavors.

It truly stands out in terms of performance, display quality, and battery life, making it a beast of a laptop for those who demand the absolute best.

Dell Inspiron 16 Plus 7000 7620

I'd highly recommend this laptop for hackers or anyone looking for exceptional multitasking, impeccable graphics, and advanced collaboration tools.

Pros

• Powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H processor

• 40GB DDR5 RAM and 2TB NVMe PCIe M.2 SSD for seamless multitasking

• Visual fidelity with 16" QHD+ (3072x1920) Touch ComfortView Plus IPS Display

Cons

• Quite hefty at 4.51 lbs

• Price might be steep for some budgets

• Limited number of reviews

Buy Dell Inspiron 16 Plus 7000 7620 on Amazon

I recently used the Dell Inspiron 16 Plus 7000 7620, and it left me impressed by the workload it could handle.

The 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H processor and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti discrete graphics card gave a serious boost to my hacking and content creation activities. I appreciate the dedicated hardware acceleration, ray tracing, and AI features that contributed to an efficient workflow.

In addition to its stellar performance, the 16" QHD+ touch display boasts a bright 300-nit screen with a 100% sRGB color gamut. Whether I was inside or catching some sun outdoors, the vibrant colors remained unfazed.

The laptop also comes with a backlit keyboard and stereo speakers featuring Waves MaxxAudio Pro and Dolby Atmos for an immersive audio experience.

Though the Dell Inspiron 16 Plus 7000 7620 has it all, I must admit its 4.51 lbs weight could be an issue for on-the-go users. Also, the price might be a bit too steep for some budgets.

Despite these factors, I am confident that investing in this laptop will result in an incredible experience for hackers or professionals seeking a top-tier, reliable machine for their daily tasks.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 (2022)

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is a solid choice for hacking enthusiasts with its powerful processor and sleek design.

Pros

• Sleek, lightweight design with a comfortable keyboard

• Vibrant 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen

• All-day battery life and Thunderbolt 4 connectivity

Cons

• Pricey compared to other laptops with similar specs

• Potential issues with display and trackpad based on user reviews

• Mediocre battery life for some users

Buy Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 (2022) on Amazon

When I first unboxed my new Microsoft Surface Laptop 5, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and ultra-lightweight feel. The beautifully crafted metal body gives it a stylish and professional look, which sets it apart from other laptops in the market.

The first thing I noticed when I powered it on was the vibrant 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen, which provided an immersive experience and made it easier to navigate through windows and applications.

The 12th Gen Intel Core processor with Thunderbolt 4 connectivity ensured I didn't experience any lag while multitasking and working on various hacking projects.

However, I couldn't help but compare it to other laptops with similar specs, and I have to admit that the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is definitely on the pricier side.

Also, based on a few user reviews, some people have faced issues with the display and trackpad, so that might be something to keep in mind.

One thing I didn't expect was the mediocre battery life, which I noticed right away as I used the laptop for a few hours straight.

I hoped it would be better considering the price and brand reputation. Nonetheless, it's important to note that this might not be the same for everyone, as many users have reported fantastic battery life.

Overall, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 offers a great balance of power, design, and functionality. Despite its few shortcomings, it would still make an excellent option for those looking for a high-quality laptop for hacking and various other tasks.

Buying Guide

When I'm looking for the best laptop for hacking, there are a few key features to look out for. Let me walk you through some of the important aspects to consider when making your decision.

Firstly, it's all about the processor. A powerful CPU is essential for running multiple virtual machines, password cracking tools, and other tasks that hackers regularly perform. Look for a laptop with an Intel Core i5 or i7 (or equivalent) processor for optimal performance.

RAM is another crucial component. Hacking tasks often require multiple applications and tools running simultaneously, so I recommend at least 8GB of RAM, but you can't go wrong with more – 16GB or even 32GB, if possible.

Storage is another consideration. While some hacking tasks may not take up much space, others might involve working with large datasets or storing numerous tools and files.

I suggest going with an SSD for faster read/write speeds, and it's worth considering a laptop with at least 256GB of storage – more if you can afford it.

Connectivity is key. As a hacker, you'll need to access various networks and devices. Ensure your laptop includes support for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet for maximum compatibility.

Battery life may not seem essential for hacking tasks, but trust me, it's useful when you're working on the go or don't have access to a power outlet.

Look for laptops that offer at least 6-8 hours of battery life, so you don't have to worry about running out of juice mid-hack.

Don't forget about the screen. A clear, high-resolution display is helpful when deciphering complex code and data.

I prefer laptops with at least a 1080p resolution, and if you're working with multiple windows open or running tools that require a lot of screen real estate, consider a larger screen size.

Finally, don't overlook the importance of a comfortable keyboard and trackpad. Hacking often involves long sessions at your computer, so having a laptop with a well-designed keyboard and trackpad can make your work much more pleasant and efficient.

So, there you have it - my top tips for finding the best laptop for hacking. Keep these features in mind when shopping around, and you'll be well-equipped to tackle your next hacking project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the minimum specs needed for a hacking laptop?

In my opinion, the minimum specs for a hacking laptop are:

• A fast processor, with a minimum of Intel Core i5 or equivalent

• At least 8 GB RAM for smooth multitasking

• A minimum of 256 GB SSD for fast data access and boot times

These specs ensure that you have enough power to run multiple tools, virtual machines, and maintain fast response times.

Which affordable laptops are suitable for hacking?

Some affordable laptops I found suitable for hacking include:

• Acer Aspire 5

• Lenovo IdeaPad 3

• HP 14 Laptop

These laptops offer a balance of performance and value, making them excellent choices for aspiring hackers on a budget.

How have the top hacking laptops changed since 2020?

Since 2020, top hacking laptops have seen improvements mainly in:

• Processing power: Newer CPU generations offer better performance.

• GPU advancements: Useful for GPU-based password cracking.

• Battery life: Longer runtimes allow for extended hacking sessions.

Keeping up with technology advancements makes hacking tasks faster and more efficient, keeping ethical hackers ahead of malicious hackers.

Which laptops under $400 are good for hacking?

Some decent laptops under $400 that I found for hacking are:

• Acer Aspire 1

• ASUS VivoBook 15

• Lenovo IdeaPad 1

These laptops have the essential specs to get started with hacking, but may lack in processing power and storage for heavy workloads.

How does Dell G5 15 perform as a hacking laptop?

The Dell G5 15 is a reliable hacking laptop, thanks to:

• Powerful Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GTX GPU for intensive tasks

• 16 GB RAM suitable for multitasking and running multiple virtual machines

• 512 GB SSD for fast boot times and quick data access

I'd say it's an excellent option for both beginners and experienced hackers.

Do hackers prefer using Mac or Windows laptops?

It's hard to generalize, but I have seen hackers using both Mac and Windows laptops. Choice may depend on personal preferences or specific use cases:

• Mac laptops are praised for their build quality, smooth user experience, and integration with other Apple devices.

• Windows laptops offer a wider variety of configurations and price points, often with better hardware customization options.

Ultimately, it's crucial to pick a laptop that fits your needs and preferences for hacking tasks.