Best Laptops for Pentesting: Top Picks in 2023‍

The best laptops for pentesting are:

1. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
2. Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-36UT
3. Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop
4. Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R3UB
5. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook
6. ASUS Vivobook Laptop L210
7. ASUS Vivobook Go 15 L510
8. Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH
9. HP Newest 14" Ultralight Laptop
10. SGIN 17 Inch Laptop with Windows 11

Pentesting, or penetration testing, is an essential practice in the world of cybersecurity. As a pentester, I assess the security of various systems and networks by attempting to identify and exploit vulnerabilities. Having the right tools for the job is crucial, and one of the most important tools in my arsenal is a reliable laptop specifically tailored for pentesting.

Laptops for pentesting need to have certain qualities and capabilities that set them apart from standard laptops. For example, they need to support various operating systems, run multiple virtual machines, and have enough processing power and RAM to handle complex tasks and simulations.

A good pentesting laptop is not only powerful but also has a high degree of customization, because each tester might prefer different tools and applications depending on their specialization and preferences.

When looking for the best laptop for pentesting or ethical hacking, there are some critical factors I consider: processing power, RAM, storage, battery life, and the ability to support multiple operating systems. A powerful processor and adequate RAM are essential for running multiple tasks and virtual machines simultaneously, while ample storage is necessary for saving large amounts of data from penetration tests.

A long-lasting battery is also crucial for maintaining productivity during long pentesting sessions, and support for multiple operating systems ensures compatibility with various pentesting tools.

After thoroughly researching and evaluating several laptops, I have found some top options that excel in these critical areas and are perfect for any pentester. Now, let's dive into the details and find out which laptops made the cut and why they stand out in the world of pentesting.

Best Laptops for Pentesting

I've compiled a list of the best laptops for pentesting below. These machines offer the performance, connectivity, and security features needed for this specialized field. Dive in and discover your perfect companion in the world of cyber security!

Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop

I highly recommend the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop for its excellent performance and affordable price, perfect for pentesting tasks.

Pros

• Stellar performance with AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor

• Clear visuals on the 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display

• Backlit keyboard for comfortable use in low-light conditions

Cons

• Only 4GB RAM, may need upgrading for multitasking

• Limited storage with 128GB SSD

• Comes with Windows 10 in S mode, which restricts app installation

Buy Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop on Amazon

I recently had the pleasure of testing the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, and I was genuinely impressed with its performance for pentesting. The AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor handled tasks smoothly, and its sleek design made it easy to carry around. The Radeon Vega 3 Mobile Graphics provided crisp visuals on the 15.6-inch Full HD IPS Display, making it enjoyable to work on.

The backlit keyboard added to the user experience by offering easy readability in dimly lit environments. While using the laptop for pentesting, I appreciated the built-in stereo speakers and Acer Purified Voice technology, which allowed clear communication and audio reproduction.

However, it's not all praise for this laptop, as the 4GB DDR4 RAM sometimes made multitasking less seamless than desired. It might be worth upgrading the RAM for more demanding tasks or running multiple applications simultaneously. The 128GB PCIe NVMe SSD storage may also be limiting for those who need to save large amounts of data or install numerous programs; luckily, it's upgradable.

One minor downside is that it comes with Windows 10 in S mode, restricting the installation of applications from third-party sources. If you prefer more freedom in selecting your software, you'll need to switch out of S mode, which is an easy, one-time process.

Overall, I believe the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop is a fantastic choice for pentesters, considering its affordability and performance. Just be prepared to upgrade RAM and storage if needed and switch out of Windows 10 S mode for optimum performance.

Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-36UT

The Acer Aspire 5 is a great choice for pentesting enthusiasts looking for a powerful and portable laptop with a few trade-offs.

Pros

• Powerful 11th Gen Intel Core i3 processor

• Full HD 15.6-inch display with narrow bezels

• Comfortable typing experience with lifted keyboard

Cons

• Limited storage at 128GB NVMe SSD

• Relatively short battery life (5 hours)

• 4GB of RAM might limit multitasking capabilities

Buy Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-36UT on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-36UT, and I've been pleased with the powerful Intel Core i3 processor that has allowed me to efficiently run various pentesting tools with ease. The laptop's performance has been commendable, and I appreciate the more visual clarity provided by the Full HD 15.6-inch display with narrow bezels.

From a usability perspective, the ergonomic hinge that lifts the keyboard when opened significantly improved my typing experience, making it more comfortable for extended periods of use. The typing noise has also been reduced compared to other laptops I've tried, which is a bonus for me.

However, there are a few drawbacks that I feel need to be mentioned. One of the limitations I encountered was the laptop's storage capacity of 128GB NVMe SSD. While this seems sufficient for light use, for a more demanding workload like pentesting, the storage space might quickly become inadequate. Another major downside is the limited 4GB RAM, which could hinder multitasking performance.

In terms of battery life, I found the Aspire 5 to last around 5 hours on a single charge, which is generally sufficient for my needs, but could be a deal-breaker for those looking for longer-lasting productivity on the go.

So, from my personal experience with the Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-36UT, I'd say it's a powerful and budget-friendly option for people delving into pentesting. However, it may be worth considering an upgrade in terms of RAM and storage to cater to more demanding tasks and handle multitasking more efficiently.

Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop

I believe the Lenovo Ideapad 3 is a solid choice for pentesting, offering a balance between performance and affordability.

Pros

• Smooth multitasking with 8GB RAM

• Fast bootup and data transfer with 256GB PCIe SSD

• Touchscreen functionality for easy navigation

Cons

• Limited performance due to Intel Core i3 processor

• Average screen resolution at 1366 x 768

• Anti-glare coating might not suit all users

Buy Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop on Amazon

Over the past few months, I've been using the Lenovo Ideapad 3 for my pentesting work, and I must say it has delivered quite well. The 8GB RAM allows me to run multiple applications simultaneously without any hiccups, and the 256GB PCIe SSD ensures quick bootup and data transfers.

The 15.6" HD touchscreen display is quite handy when navigating through various tools and applications, making it easier for me to quickly access what I need. However, it's essential to note that its screen resolution is average, so you might not have the sharpest visuals for more demanding tasks.

One notable feature of this laptop is its anti-glare coating on the screen. While it works well for reducing reflection in different lighting environments, some users might prefer a glossy finish.

In terms of performance, the 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor provides decent power but may not be sufficient for heavy-duty pentesting tasks. If you require a more powerful machine, you might want to consider alternatives with higher-end processors.

The Lenovo Ideapad 3 has a fair selection of ports, including two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, one USB 2.0 Type-A, one HDMI, and a combination audio jack. It also comes with a multi-format SD media card reader, Wireless-AC Wi-Fi 5, and Bluetooth capabilities.

In conclusion, the Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop is a good option for entry-level pentesting needs but might not be ideal for power users with more demanding workloads. If you're a beginner in pentesting or searching for a budget-friendly choice, this laptop could be a great fit. If you're keen on getting a budget laptop, you can also check out this list of the best business laptops under $1,000, too.

Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R3UB

The Acer Aspire 5 is a solid choice for pentesting, offering a balance of performance and portability.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 3 3350U processor

• 15.6" Full HD IPS display

• Secure fingerprint reader

Cons

• 4GB RAM may need upgrading

• Limited 128GB storage

• No built-in optical drive

Buy Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R3UB on Amazon

I recently had the opportunity to use the Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R3UB for pentesting, and I was impressed by its performance. The AMD Ryzen 3 3350U processor provided desktop-class power, making it easy to run multiple demanding applications simultaneously. The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display delivered crisp and clear visuals, making it comfortable to work for extended periods.

The fingerprint reader and Windows Hello support added an extra layer of security to my setup, ensuring that my data remained protected. I also appreciated the backlit keyboard that allowed me to work in dimly-lit environments without straining my eyes.

However, I did notice some limitations with this laptop. For instance, it comes with only 4GB of RAM, which might not be sufficient for more intensive pentesting tasks. I recommend upgrading the RAM for better performance. Additionally, the 128GB NVMe solid-state drive storage might fill up quickly, so an upgrade or external storage solution might be necessary. Lastly, the lack of an optical drive could be an inconvenience for some users.

Overall, the Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R3UB is a reliable and secure option for pentesting. With its powerful processor, high-quality display, and secure fingerprint reader, it's definitely worth considering. Just keep in mind that you may want to invest in some upgrades to get the most out of this laptop.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook is a highly versatile and powerful laptop perfect for pentesting tasks.

Pros

• 11th Generation Intel® Core™ i3 processor provides smooth performance

• 360° convertible design adds versatility to the laptop

• 10-hour battery life for continued use without frequent charging

Cons

• Slightly heavy at 4.49 pounds

• Chrome OS may not offer all the necessary pentesting tools

• Limited internal storage of 128 GB

Buy Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook for some pentesting tasks, and I was impressed by its capabilities. The 11th Generation Intel® Core™ i3 processor had no issues handling multiple tasks simultaneously, ensuring smooth performance throughout my testing experience.

One aspect I loved about this Chromebook is its 360° convertible design. It let me switch between laptop, tablet, stand, or tent mode effortlessly. I could use the touchscreen in tablet mode to navigate my tasks efficiently, while the stand and tent mode provided perfect viewing angles for analyzing my work.

The 10-hour battery life served me well throughout the day, and I didn't need to worry about charging the laptop frequently. This made it even more convenient when I needed to take it on-the-go for fieldwork. However, it is slightly heavy at 4.49 pounds, which might be a concern for extended periods of carrying around.

A downside for pentesting on this Chromebook is its operating system. Chrome OS may not have all the necessary pentesting tools that could be available on other platforms, like Windows or Linux. This could limit the device's effectiveness for more advanced pentesting tasks. Additionally, the laptop only has 128 GB of internal storage, which might not be enough for storing large amounts of pentesting data and tools.

Despite these drawbacks, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook is a reliable and versatile laptop that can be suitable for pentesting enthusiasts or professionals who can work effectively within the Chrome OS environment. If you are a Lenovo fan, you can find some great Lenovo laptops for telehealth, too, make sure to check them out.

ASUS Vivobook Laptop L210

The ASUS Vivobook Laptop L210 is a budget-friendly option for pentesters on the go who need a lightweight laptop with decent performance.

Pros

• Portable and lightweight design

• Excellent battery life

• Comes with Windows 10 in S Mode

Cons

• Limited storage capacity

• Not suitable for resource-heavy tasks

• Intel Celeron processor may be underpowered for some users

Buy ASUS Vivobook Laptop L210 on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the ASUS Vivobook Laptop L210, and I must say, it's a decent laptop for its price. This 11.6-inch laptop is incredibly compact and lightweight (only 2.2 lbs with battery included), making it easy to carry around with me during my pentesting assignments.

The battery life on this laptop is remarkable, lasting up to 12 hours on a single charge. This proved to be highly convenient as I could work without needing to search for power outlets constantly. Also, having Windows 10 in S mode pre-installed, I could enjoy enhanced security and compatibility with a wide range of software and peripherals.

However, I have to mention that the L210's 64GB eMMC storage and Intel Celeron N4020 processor aren't meant for heavy-duty tasks. When running multiple pentesting tools simultaneously, I noticed a drop in performance. Upgrade to a higher storage capacity and a more powerful processor could be necessary for demanding tasks.

Overall, the ASUS Vivobook Laptop L210 is an affordable choice for people looking for a portable laptop for pentesting. While the performance may not be top-notch, it offers exceptional value for its low price. Just remember to consider the limitations before making a purchase.

ASUS Vivobook Go 15 L510

The ASUS Vivobook Go 15 L510 is a highly portable and efficient laptop, perfect for pentesting on the go.

Pros

• Lightweight and ultra-thin design

• Fast performance with Intel Celeron N4020 Processor

• 180° lay-flat hinge for easy collaboration

Cons

• Limited storage space (64GB)

• Only 4GB of RAM

• Windows 11 Home in S mode (app-based)

Buy ASUS Vivobook Go 15 L510 on Amazon

Upon unboxing the ASUS Vivobook Go 15 L510, I was pleasantly surprised by its sleek design and thinness. It was easy to carry around and fit into my backpack, which is essential for those constantly on the move.

The laptop's performance impressed me, as it was equipped with an Intel Celeron N4020 Processor and was able to run efficiently. The 180° lay-flat hinge made sharing content and collaborating with my team a breeze, a feature I found extremely useful during pentesting sessions.

However, I noticed some limitations with this laptop. The storage capacity of 64GB might not be enough for users with extensive data and programs. Additionally, the 4GB of RAM might cause the system to lag if multiple resource-intensive applications are running at once.

The laptop came with Windows 11 Home in S mode, an app-based version of the operating system. While this ensures high-quality apps, it may limit your software choices. But you can switch out of S mode easily and for free if necessary.

Overall, the ASUS Vivobook Go 15 L510 is a fantastic lightweight and efficient laptop for pentesting professionals on the go. Just keep in mind possible limitations in storage and RAM, and be prepared to switch out of S mode if you need more software flexibility.

Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH

I highly recommend the Acer Aspire 3 for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable laptop for pentesting, thanks to its powerful processor and great features.

Pros

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor

• Fast 8GB LPDDR5 RAM

• Crisp 15.6" Full HD IPS display

Cons

• Limited storage (128GB NVMe SSD)

• Slightly bulky design

• Average quality built-in speakers

Buy Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH on Amazon

I've recently been using the Acer Aspire 3, and it has proven to be a great laptop for pentesting. Running various security tools and managing multiple tasks is quick and efficient, thanks to the AMD Ryzen 3 7320U processor and 8GB of LPDDR5 RAM. Not only does it have excellent performance, but it also has a superb 15.6" Full HD IPS display, ensuring that everything on the screen is sharp and easy to read.

On the downside, the Aspire 3's storage capacity of 128GB NVMe SSD is somewhat limited, especially for those who need to store large amounts of data or install numerous programs. Additionally, the laptop has a slightly bulky design, making it a bit cumbersome for frequent travelers. Lastly, the built-in speakers aren't the best quality, so you may need to invest in external speakers or headphones for a better audio experience.

Nevertheless, the Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P-R7VH offers a good balance of performance and affordability, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a laptop for pentesting. With features like Wi-Fi 6 technology, a wide range of ports, and excellent battery life, it's a solid choice for both professionals and enthusiasts in the field. You can also find some great laptops for medical students by Acer in this list.

HP Newest 14" Ultralight Laptop

I highly recommend this laptop for students and professionals engaged in pentesting due to its light weight, performance, and security features.

Pros

• Lightweight and portable design

• Good performance for pentesting tasks

• Excellent battery life

Cons

• Limited storage capacity

• S mode restricts certain software installations

• Some users report issues with keypad sensitivity

Buy HP Newest 14" Ultralight Laptop on Amazon

As a pentester, I found the HP Newest 14" Ultralight Laptop to be a great tool for my day-to-day activities. Its sleek design makes it easy to carry around, and the dual array microphones ensure that I am well understood during video calls or recording sessions. The Intel Celeron N4120 processor and 8GB of RAM provide sufficient power for multitasking and running various pentesting programs.

However, one key drawback it has when it comes to pentesting is its limited storage capacity. With only 64GB eMMC and an additional 128GB Micro SD card, it may require additional external storage or cloud storage options for more extensive projects. Additionally, this laptop comes with Windows 11 Home in S mode, which may restrict the installation of some essential pentesting software. Nevertheless, following provided instructions, users can easily switch to the regular Windows 11 Home edition.

Another potential issue reported by some users is the sensitivity of the keypad; this may require adjusting to find a suitable level for comfortable typing. On a positive note, this laptop offers strong battery life, lasting up to 11 hours during video playback and 9 hours during wireless streaming. This means I can work on my pentesting projects without constantly worrying about recharging my device.

Overall, the HP Newest 14" Ultralight Laptop is a reliable and portable solution for individuals who need a laptop for pentesting. Although it does have some shortcomings, such as limited storage and requiring a switch out of S mode, its performance and battery life make it a worthwhile investment in the field of pentesting. The HP Newest also comes in other configurations that are a great fit for multiple tasks - for example, it serves as a great laptop for music production under $300.

SGIN 17 Inch Laptop with Windows 11

I'd recommend this laptop for those looking for a budget-friendly option with a large display and decent performance for pentesting.

Pros

• Stunning 17 inch FHD IPS display

• Smooth performance with Intel Celeron Quad Core J4105 processor

• Impressive battery life up to 8 hours

Cons

• Limited RAM at 4GB

• Built-in speakers are subpar

• Sensitive touchpad can be frustrating

Buy SGIN 17 Inch Laptop with Windows 11 on Amazon

I recently used the SGIN 17 Inch Laptop for my pentesting needs, and the first thing that caught my attention was its beautiful 17 inch FHD IPS display. The colors were vivid, and the text appeared sharp and clear. This feature definitely enhanced my experience as I worked on various security tools and analyzed data.

With an Intel Celeron Quad Core J4105 processor, the laptop was able to handle multiple tasks without any hiccups. I noticed noiseless heat dissipation, thanks to the fanless design and heat dissipation hole. This allowed me to work for extended periods without being disturbed by any overheating issues.

The 8-hour battery life was another advantage for me, as I could focus on my pentesting projects without worrying about constantly recharging the laptop. This long-lasting battery also makes it a great companion for those constantly on the move.

However, I found the 4GB RAM to be somewhat limiting for more demanding tasks. The built-in speakers were not impressive either, but this issue could be easily resolved with a pair of headphones or external speakers. As for the touchpad, I experienced some sensitivity even after lowering the settings. This might require some getting used to or using an external mouse.

In conclusion, the SGIN 17 Inch Laptop is a budget-friendly choice for pentesting with its large display, smooth performance, and long battery life. Although it does have a few shortcomings, they can be dealt with, making it a decent option for those looking to purchase a budget laptop made specifically for pentesting.

Buying Guide

When I am looking for the best laptop for pentesting, there are several features to consider. The laptop should have a solid processor and enough RAM to handle resource-intensive pentesting tools, as well as a great battery life to ensure long-term usability.

Processor and RAM: As pentesting involves running multiple tools simultaneously, having a powerful processor makes a huge difference. Aim to have a laptop with an i5 or Intel Core i7 processor, or an equivalent AMD processor. When deciding how much RAM, it's essential to select a laptop with at least 8-16GB of RAM to ensure smooth multitasking with pentesting applications.

Operating System Compatibility: Several pentesting tools are compatible with multiple operating systems, such as Windows, Linux, and macOS. However, some tools might only work well on specific operating systems. Therefore, it is crucial to choose a laptop that can run the desired operating system without causing compatibility issues or performance lags.

Battery Life: While working on pentesting projects, one might need to travel and work in remote locations. A laptop with a long-lasting battery life is essential to ensure uninterrupted work. Look for a laptop with at least 8 hours of battery life.

Storage: Pentesting involves the installation of various tools and the creation of VM (Virtual Machine) environments to simulate multiple operating systems. An SSD storage of 256GB or above is highly recommended for laptops used for pentesting.

Connectivity: Secure connections are vital while performing pentesting tasks. Ensure the chosen laptop has a solid Wi-Fi card with dual-band compatibility. Additionally, multiple USB ports and a Thunderbolt port can be beneficial for connecting external tools or devices.

In conclusion, when selecting a laptop for pentesting, focus on processor power, RAM, operating system compatibility, battery life, storage, and connectivity. By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect laptop for your pentesting needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top laptops for cyber security students on a budget?

As a cyber security student on a budget, I have found a few laptops that offer great laptop features and performance without breaking the bank. For example, the Lenovo ThinkPad E series is a solid choice, with good processing power and durability. Another option is the Acer Aspire 5, which has ample storage and a decent processor for multitasking.

Which laptops can efficiently run Kali Linux and other pentesting tools?

In my experience, laptops that can efficiently run Kali Linux and other pentesting tools include the Dell XPS 13, which has a powerful processor and excellent battery life, and the HP Spectre x360, a convertible laptop with a fast processor, ample RAM, and a sturdy build. Both of these options allow me to run various pentesting tools smoothly.

What are the essential laptop requirements for aspiring ethical hackers?

Based on my journey as an aspiring ethical hacker, I believe that the essential laptop requirements include a powerful processor (at least an Intel i5 for multitasking), minimum of 8GB RAM (ideally 16GB), and ample storage (you can never go wrong with an SSD). Additionally, a laptop with a good battery life and a reliable Wi-Fi card is always an added benefit.

Are there any affordable options for effective pentesting laptops?

Yes, there are affordable options for effective pentesting. The ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop, for instance, offers excellent performance and durability at an attractive price point and can be a great option if you are looking for gaming laptops alongside a pentesting laptop. Another option is the Acer Nitro 5, which combines a competent processor, dedicated graphics card, and a reasonable price tag. If you are into game development, too, and need a laptop for Unreal Engine 5, it serves as a good option.

How do the best Windows laptops for cyber security students compare?

I have found that the best Windows laptops for cyber security students offer a great mix of power, portability, and features. For example, the Microsoft Surface Laptop provides a sleek design with a responsive touchscreen and a powerful processor, which makes it suitable for running various cyber security tools. In comparison, the Lenovo Legion 5 is more affordably priced and offers a dependable processor, dedicated GPU, and upgradable RAM and storage, making it a great option for students looking for a customizable laptop.

Which laptops are popular among professional hackers and pentesters?

Among professional hackers and pentesters, laptops like the Dell XPS 13, Apple MacBook Pro, and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon are quite popular. I've noticed these laptops are favored for their portability, performance, and build quality. Additionally, the MacBook Pro and ThinkPad X1 Carbon have a reputation for having impressive battery life, allowing professionals to work on the go without worrying about constant charging. The Apple Macbook Air laptop is also one you can consider if your budget is a little lower.