Best Laptop for Lawyers: Top Choices in 2023
The best laptops for lawyers are:
- Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Business Laptop
- ASUS ZenBook 14 Ultra-Slim Laptop
- New Microsoft Surface Book 3
- Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 9th Gen
- LG gram (2022) Laptop 16Z90Q 16" Display
- Apple 2021 MacBook Pro 16-inch
- HP EliteBook Newest 16" IPS Notebook
- HP Pavilion x360 14" Laptop
- Apple 2022 MacBook Air M2
As a lawyer, I rely on my laptop daily to handle client cases, research, and draft documents. In our fast-paced world, having a reliable and efficient laptop is essential in the legal profession.
There are many laptops available, but not all are suitable for the needs of a busy attorney. It's crucial to find a laptop that offers a balance of performance, decent battery life and, and durability.
Laptops for lawyers should have powerful processors to handle large documents, research databases, and multitasking.
They should also provide a high-resolution display for comfortable viewing and portability to tote around to courtrooms and meetings.
In addition, security features are vital to protect sensitive client information and maintain confidentiality.
One critical aspect to consider when purchasing a laptop for a lawyer is its build quality. Depending on your work environment, you may need a laptop that is spill-resistant, drop-tested, or simply feels sturdy in your hands.
Prioritizing features like security, battery life, and processing power will help you navigate the various options available in the market.
With these factors in mind, I spent considerable time researching and testing a range of laptops, aiming to find the best laptop for lawyers that meets all the necessary criteria.
The result is a curated list of top laptops that can help make a lawyer's life easier and more productive.
Table of Contents
- Best Laptops for Lawyers
- Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Business Laptop
- ASUS ZenBook 14 Ultra-Slim Laptop
- New Microsoft Surface Book 3
- Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 9th Gen
- LG gram (2022) Laptop 16Z90Q 16" Display
- Apple 2021 MacBook Pro 16-inch
- HP EliteBook Newest 16" IPS Notebook
- HP Pavilion x360 14" Laptop
- Apple 2022 MacBook Air M2
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best Laptops for Lawyers
I've compiled a list of the best laptops for lawyers to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Check out the options below and discover your new favorite tech companion.
Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Business Laptop
As a lawyer, I found this Windows PC, the Lenovo ThinkPad E15 to be a reliable choice with a mix of premium features and solid performance.
Pros
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Speedy performance with 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor
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Impressive 15.6" FHD touchscreen display
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Convenient backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader
Cons
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Battery life limited to 7.5 hours
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Some common issues with charging reported
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Slightly heavier at 4.3 lbs
The 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor ensured smooth multitasking even with numerous tabs and documents open, which is essential for my day-to-day work as a lawyer.
What caught my attention was the stunning 15.6" FHD IPS touchscreen display. I found the screen size comfortable to use, and the anti-glare feature made it easy on my eyes.
The backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader provided a nice touch of convenience to my daily workflow.
Although this laptop offers many positives, it's essential to highlight a few cons. The 7.5-hour battery life may not be sufficient for long workdays away from a power source.
Additionally, while browsing user reviews, some people experienced issues with charging, which could be motherboard-related.
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 is slightly heavier than other laptops in its category, weighing 4.3 lbs. This might not be ideal for those who need a lighter device for traveling or commuting.
Nonetheless, this laptop is still an excellent choice for lawyers seeking a blend of premium features and solid performance.
ASUS ZenBook 14 Ultra-Slim Laptop
I highly recommend the ASUS ZenBook 14 for lawyers seeking a powerful, portable, and versatile laptop.
Pros
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Compact design with versatile connectivity options
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Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 5800H Processor
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Large 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD storage and 16GB RAM
Cons
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Webcam resolution could be improved
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Comes with Windows 11 and McAfee preinstalled
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Older WiFi card (AC8265) may cause connection issues
The inclusion of HDMI port, USB C port, USB Type-A, and MicroSD card reader on this portable device allows me to connect various devices effortlessly, perfect for a lawyer's on-the-go lifestyle.
Performance-wise, the ZenBook 14 didn't disappoint. The AMD Ryzen 7 5800H Processor with Radeon Vega 7 Graphics allowed me to multitask efficiently, running multiple browser tabs, programs, and documents simultaneously without any lag.
The generous 1TB PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive storage and 16GB LPDDR4X RAM further enhance the device's overall speed and responsiveness.
However, the laptop does have a few minor drawbacks. I noticed that the webcam resolution could be better, which became an issue during video conferences with clients. If video conferencing is an important aspect to you, check out these lists of the laptops with best webcams as well as best laptops for Zoom meetings.
Additionally, the laptop came preinstalled with Windows 11 and McAfee antivirus software, which some users may find unnecessary.
Lastly, I experienced occasional WiFi disconnections, likely due to the older WiFi card (AC8265) used in this model.
Despite these shortcomings, the ASUS ZenBook 14 remains my top choice for a laptop suitable for lawyers. Its powerful performance, compact design, and versatile connectivity options make it a reliable companion for any legal professional.
New Microsoft Surface Book 3
I believe the New Microsoft Surface Book 3 is a perfect fit for lawyers, given its performance, versatility, and battery life.
Pros
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Powerful performance with 10th Gen Intel Core processors
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Versatile design for use as a laptop, tablet, or portable studio
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Impressive battery life of up to 15.5 hours
Cons
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Slightly heavy at 3.38 pounds
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High-resolution PixelSense display may drain battery quickly
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Limited storage with only 256GB SSD
The versatile design of the Surface Book 3 allows me to switch between using it as a traditional laptop or as a tablet, depending on my needs. This is particularly handy when I have meetings or when I'm working away from my desk.
However, there are some drawbacks. The Surface Book 3 is a bit heavy, which can make it less portable than desired for an on-the-go professional. If you prefer heavier laptops, though, check out this list of the best laptops for military use.
Additionally, while the gorgeous display is a delight to use, it can contribute to faster battery drain.
Lastly, the 256GB SSD storage may not be enough for some, making it necessary to invest in cloud storage or external drives.
Despite these shortcomings, the New Microsoft Surface Book 3 offers a great balance of performance and versatility, making it a worthwhile option for lawyers in search of a reliable, powerful laptop.
Dell XPS 13 9310 Laptop
Go for the Dell XPS 13 9310 if you're a lawyer seeking a powerful and sleek laptop with an incredible display.
Pros
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Brilliant 13.4-inch OLED 3.5K touchscreen display
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Powerful performance with Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor
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Compact and elegant design
Cons
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Runs hot during extended use
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Limited ports, relies on adapters
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Average battery life
It's perfect for drafting documents, researching case law, or even having video meetings with clients.
The anti-reflective, 400-Nit display also minimizes glare, ensuring greater comfort during long work sessions.
Performance-wise, the laptop packs a punch with its 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor. Handling multiple tasks, such as browsing the web, editing documents, and running productivity software, was smooth and glitch-free.
The 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD ensure quick access to files and programs, making it an ideal choice for busy lawyers who need to get things done quickly.
The design of the XPS 13 9310 is another selling point – it's slim, lightweight, and stylish with a frost-white finish. Carrying this laptop to meetings or court appearances is a breeze without compromising on professionalism.
However, there are a couple of caveats to consider. The laptop may run hot during extended use, and the battery life is not the best.
In addition, the limited availability of ports means you might need to use adapters for certain peripherals and external devices.
Despite these minor drawbacks, I firmly believe the Dell XPS 13 9310 laptop is a fantastic choice for lawyers who prioritize performance, an incredible display, and sleek design.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 9th Gen
As a lawyer, I'd highly recommend the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 9th Gen for its performance, portability, and security features.
Pros
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Lightweight and portable
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Excellent performance with Intel Core i7
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Robust security features
Cons
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Limited upgradeability due to soldered RAM
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Preloaded applications affect battery life
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No LTE sim card slot
The ultrathin and lightweight design allows me to easily carry it around, whether I'm in the office or at the courthouse.
It really stood out with its Intel Core i7 processor, which delivers exceptional performance, making multitasking and running demanding software a breeze.
One significant concern for me as a lawyer is data security, and I appreciate the suite of built-in ThinkShield security solutions that the ThinkPad X1 Carbon offers.
Features like the fingerprint reader integrated with the power button, camera privacy shutter, and discrete TPM 2.0 ensure my clients' confidential data remains safe.
A downside I've noticed is the soldered 16GB RAM, which means upgrading the memory in the future isn't possible. However, the laptop's current performance should be more than sufficient for most tasks.
Additionally, while the preloaded applications may have an impact on the battery life, it can still give me up to 16.7 hours of usage on a single charge, which is quite impressive.
Despite these minor setbacks, I'm pleased with the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon 9th Gen. Its performance, portability, and security features make it a reliable companion for legal professionals like myself.
LG gram (2022) Laptop 16Z90Q 16" Display
The LG gram (2022) is a solid choice for lawyers seeking a lightweight laptop with powerful performance and security features.
Pros
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Ultra-lightweight design
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Impressive performance powered by 12th Gen Intel i7 CPU and Iris Xe Graphics
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Long-lasting 80Wh battery
Cons
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Limited storage capacity at 256GB NVMe SSD
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No optical drive
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May not be suitable for gaming or heavy multimedia tasks
It's so thin and light that I barely felt it added any weight to my briefcase - perfect for long days in the courtroom.
One of the standout features for me was the performance. Powered by a 12th Generation Intel Core i7 CPU, the LG gram handled all my documents and applications without breaking a sweat.
The long-lasting 80Wh battery kept me going through marathon days without searching for an outlet, which was a massive bonus.
However, I noticed that the storage capacity might be an issue for some, as it only has 256GB NVMe SSD. While it's fast, it may not be enough for heavy multimedia users.
Another minor downside is the lack of an optical drive, but for me, it wasn't a deal-breaker. I rarely need to use physical media these days, anyway.
As for the screen, the non-reflective IPS display with DCI-P3 99% (Typ.) color gamut made it a pleasure to work on, even in brightly lit environments.
The Full HD IR Webcam and built-in AI sound technology were great for teleconferencing, filtering out unwanted background noise during sensitive legal discussions.
The presence detection feature, which locks the screen when you walk away, and the smart display that blurs your screen to prevent passersby from viewing sensitive documents were amazing additions for a privacy-conscious legal professional like myself.
Overall, I'd recommend the LG gram (2022) to any lawyer looking for a lightweight, powerful laptop for their day-to-day work.
While it may not be suitable for gaming or more demanding multimedia tasks, it certainly gets the job done when it comes to essential legal work and teleconferencing. If you are in need of a good gaming laptop, check out these lists of the best gaming laptops for Warzone as well as best gaming laptops under $1200.
Apple 2021 MacBook Pro 16-inch
This Apple MacBook Pro is a game-changer for lawyers seeking high-performance computing and incredible battery life.
Pros
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Exceptional performance with M1 Pro/Max chip
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Gorgeous 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
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Long-lasting battery life (up to 21 hours)
Cons
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Expensive price tag
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No touchscreen capability
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Limited ports (no USB-A)
It's faster and more efficient than any previous MacBook I've owned, making multitasking feel like a walk in the park.
The 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display on this laptop is truly remarkable. It provides excellent resolution, vivid colors, and crisp visuals that make working for long hours enjoyable.
Plus, the 1080p FaceTime HD camera ensures my video conferencing calls are sharp, making virtual meetings feel more professional and engaging.
However, the outstanding performance of this MacBook Pro comes with a hefty price tag. Some lawyers might find the cost to be unjustifiable, especially if they don't need all the advanced features.
The lack of a touchscreen and limited ports (no USB-A) could also be deal-breakers for some users.
The up to 21 hours of battery life on the MacBook Pro keeps me going throughout the day without needing to charge at inconvenient times.
Its portability and good battery life make it ideal for working on the go, ensuring I am productive and efficient wherever I am working.
In conclusion, the Apple 2021 MacBook Pro (16-inch) is a great investment for lawyers who require top-notch performance, a stunning display, and impressive battery life.
If you can overlook the high price and limited ports, this laptop will deliver an outstanding experience for your professional needs.
HP EliteBook Newest 16" IPS Notebook
I found this HP EliteBook perfect for lawyers who need a reliable and secure laptop with a sleek design.
Pros
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Outstanding security features with HP Sure Sense and HP Wolf Pro Security Edition
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16 GB DDR5 5800MHz RAM for efficient multitasking
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1 TB SSD for ample storage and ultra-fast performance
Cons
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WUXGA display limited to 250 nits brightness
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Limited color coverage at 45% NTSC
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Slightly on the heavier side with a weight of 3.9 lbs
The 16 GB DDR5 5800MHz RAM allows smooth multitasking, especially when working on a Windows laptop with multiple windows and programs simultaneously.
In terms of storage, the 1 TB SSD provides ample space for storing essential documents and files. Additionally, the NVMe SSD ensures fast transfer speeds, which contribute to overall work efficiency.
With a 16" WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS anti-glare display, the laptop offers decent readability even under different lighting conditions.
However, I found the brightness and color coverage to be a bit limiting compared to other high-end laptop displays.
The HP EliteBook features a range of connectivity options, including 2 Thunderbolt 4 ports, 2 USB 3.2 (Gen 1 Type-A) ports, and an HDMI 2.0 port.
These options allow you to connect various peripherals and devices effortlessly. Furthermore, the laptop is equipped with WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for stable wireless connectivity.
While the laptop is slightly heavier at 3.9 lbs, the sleek design and silver finish make it an attractive option for professionals. Overall, this HP EliteBook is a solid choice for lawyers who value security, performance, and reliability.
HP Pavilion x360 14" Laptop
I recommend this laptop for lawyers who want a versatile device with great performance and sleek design.
Pros
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360-degree rotating hinge
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High-quality audio by Bang & Olufsen
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Environmentally friendly materials
Cons
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No stylus pen included
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Potential overheating issues
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Chrome browser runs slow
The audio quality is impressive, as it comes with dual speakers custom-tuned by experts at Bang & Olufsen. This makes for a fantastic listening experience, whether I'm taking a break with some music or having an important video call.
Also, I feel good knowing that this laptop is better for the environment since it was designed using sustainable materials like ocean-bound plastic and post-consumer recycled plastic.
However, I would have appreciated if the laptop included a stylus pen for easier note-taking. Additionally, I've experienced some overheating issues, leading to a noisy fan. Chrome browser also seems to operate slower on this device, which was a bit disappointing.
Even with these minor drawbacks, I believe the HP Pavilion x360 14" Laptop is an excellent purchase for lawyers, providing flexibility and performance at an affordable price point. It has become an essential tool for efficiently managing my work and keeping me connected on the go.
Apple 2022 MacBook Air M2, 16GB RAM, 256GB Storage - Space Gray
The Apple 2022 MacBook Air M2 is a top choice for lawyers seeking a powerful, lightweight laptop with excellent battery life.
Pros
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High-performance 8-core CPU and GPU
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Remarkable 18-hour battery life
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Sleek, thin design in a stylish Space Gray color
Cons
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Price is on the higher side
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Limited storage with 256GB SSD
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No dedicated graphics card
As a lawyer who's always on the move, the laptop's battery life is essential, and the 18-hour battery life has been a game changer. No more worrying about hunting for power outlets during those long work sessions.
Additionally, the aluminum enclosure and thin design make it quite stylish, which is a plus for any professional.
The 256GB storage capacity could be a drawback if you have a large collection of important files, so you might need to use cloud storage or external drives.
Also, if you often work with designs and visuals that require dedicated graphics, the integrated GPU may not fully meet your needs.
In conclusion, the Apple 2022 MacBook Air M2 is perfect for lawyers who demand performance, portability, and excellent battery life.
While it's a bit pricier and may not suit those with extensive storage space needs, its benefits outweigh its trade-offs for most professionals.
Buying Guide
When I'm looking for the best laptop for lawyers, there are several factors I need to consider. These features often impact the productivity and efficiency of doing my job.
Here, I've compiled a list of essential aspects to focus on.
Portable and Lightweight: As a lawyer, my work involves frequent travel and carrying my laptop to different locations.
I need to find a laptop that's lightweight and easy to transport. To make it hassle-free, I prefer laptops that are 13 to 14 inches in size and weigh under 4 pounds.
Performance: I encounter various tasks daily, ranging from document editing to research and video conferencing.
It's crucial to select a laptop with a powerful processor, preferably the latest generation Intel Core i5 or i7 CPU or equivalent AMD processor. Additionally, 8-16GB of RAM should help with multitasking and ensure smooth operations.
Display Quality and Resolution: I can't compromise on display quality since I spend long hours reading and analyzing documents.
A bright, sharp, and high-resolution screen is essential. I usually go for screens with a Full HD (1920x1080) resolution or higher to ensure clear text and images.
Battery Life: My work requires long hours without access to constant power supply, so I need a laptop that has a long battery life.
I recommend aiming for models that offer at least 8 hours of battery life. This ensures that I can continue working effectively without interruptions.
Connectivity Options: A good laptop for a lawyer needs to have multiple connectivity options. This includes:
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USB ports for connecting external devices
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HDMI / DisplayPort for connecting a monitor or projector
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SD card slot (optional)
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Ethernet port (optional)
In a nutshell, choosing the best laptop for lawyers requires a well-planned decision, considering factors such as portability, performance, display quality, battery life, and connectivity options.
Ensuring that my laptop meets these criteria will help me remain productive and efficient in my job.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's a good laptop for law students?
In my opinion, a good laptop for law students should be lightweight, have a long battery life, and possess excellent performance.
A few laptops that I think fit these criteria are the Dell XPS 13, MacBook Air, and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon. Each one offers a unique combination of features that will help a law student succeed in their studies.
Which Microsoft Surface is suitable for attorneys?
As an attorney, I'd recommend the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 or the Surface Book 3. Both devices are powerful, versatile, and have a sleek design.
The Surface Pro 7 is more of a tablet-laptop hybrid, offering portability and flexibility, while the Surface Book 3 provides a more traditional laptop experience with a detachable screen.
Best desktop computers for small law offices?
For small law offices, I find that all-in-one desktop computers, like the Apple iMac and Dell Optiplex 7780, are great choices.
They offer an elegant design and take up less space on your desk. Additionally, their performance will more than meet the needs of most small law firms.
Top tablets for legal professionals?
Tablets can be a great addition to a legal professional's tech arsenal. I'm a fan of the iPad Pro and Samsung Galaxy Tab S7.
The iPad Pro offers seamless integration with other Apple products, while the Galaxy Tab S7 is an excellent choice for those who prefer Android devices.
What are the recommended laptops for law clerks?
As a law clerk, you may need a reliable laptop with an excellent keyboard for typing and robust performance for multitasking.
In that case, I'd suggest looking into the Lenovo ThinkPad T490 or HP Spectre x360. Both laptops have durable builds and offer a comfortable typing experience.
What laptops do lawyers typically prefer?
The laptops that lawyers typically prefer tend to be sleek, powerful, and reliable. Some popular choices among lawyers I've worked with include the MacBook Pro, Dell XPS 15, and Surface Laptop 4.
At the end of the day, it's important to find a laptop that meets your specific requirements as a legal professional.