Best Note Taking Laptop: Top Picks for Students & Professionals 2023‍

The best note-taking laptops are:

1. ASUS ZenBook Duo 14 UX482
2. Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook 17.3" FHD IPS Touchscreen
3. Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 14" Laptop
4. Gateway Newest 11.6” HD 2-in-1 Convertible Touchscreen Student Laptop
5. HP Spectre x360 14T
6. Acer Spin 5 Intel Evo Convertible Laptop
7. ASUS 2023 Newest Vivobook 14 Laptop
8. Microsoft Surface Pro 9
9. Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1
10. HP Envy 15T x360 2022
11. SAMSUNG Galaxy Book Pro 15.6" Laptop

As someone who takes notes frequently, I understand the importance of having a reliable laptop to keep up with my thoughts and ideas. Whether it's for school, work, or personal projects, a laptop that excels in note-taking can make all the difference in staying organized and efficient, and isn't like traditional laptops. With countless options on the market, finding the perfect laptop for note-taking can seem daunting.

The world of laptops offers a variety of features that can enhance the note-taking experience. From lightweight designs and decent battery life to touchscreens and stylus compatibility, the right laptop should cater to your specific requirements. However, it's essential to assess key factors like processing power, storage, and display quality to ensure your device can handle your note-taking needs without any setbacks.

When searching for the best note-taking laptop, pay particular attention to elements like keyboard comfort, portability, and battery life. A comfortable keyboard will make typing for extended periods more manageable, and an easily portable design will allow you to take your laptop anywhere you need.

Additionally, long battery life ensures you won't need to scramble to find a power outlet while you're in the zone, jotting down crucial information.

Having tested and compared numerous laptops, I've compiled a list of the top contenders that excel in the realm of note-taking. Join me as we dive into the specifics of what makes these laptops the top choices for students, professionals, and everyone in between.

Best Note-Taking Laptops

I've gathered a list of the best note-taking laptops for you. Check out these top picks to find the perfect companion for your note-taking needs.

ASUS ZenBook Duo 14 UX482

The ASUS ZenBook Duo 14 UX482 is a solid choice if you're looking for a powerful laptop with an innovative dual-screen design, perfect for multitasking.

Pros

• Exceptional dual-screen design for multitasking

• Great performance with 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor

• Comes with a stylus and other accessories

Cons

• Keyboard may take some time getting used to

• Durability of the screen might be a concern

• Memory is not upgradable

Buy ASUS ZenBook Duo 14 UX482 on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the ASUS ZenBook Duo 14 UX482, and I must say, it's an incredibly innovative laptop. The dual-screen design has significantly improved my workflow, allowing me to use both screens for different tasks, creating a seamless multitasking experience.

Aside from the dual-screen, the performance of this laptop is impressive. The 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor ensures power and productivity, while the Intel Iris Xe graphics deliver vibrant colors. I found it handled tasks such as photo/video editing and 3D rendering with ease.

One downside I've experienced is the keyboard layout. While it did take some time for me to adjust and adapt, the feel of the keyboard and the inclusion of a trackpad on the right side has become quite comfortable. However, I could see it being a slight inconvenience for those who don't adapt quickly.

Additionally, the screen durability might be a concern, as some users have experienced issues with the display cracking. That said, investing in a protective case or sleeve is probably a good idea.

Lastly, it's worth mentioning that the memory is not upgradable. While it hasn't been an issue for me, this may be a drawback for users who need more RAM in the future.

Overall, the ASUS ZenBook Duo 14 UX482 is an excellent choice for those in search of a powerful, innovative laptop to boost their productivity. The dual-screen design will enhance multitasking, yet the keyboard and screen durability are aspects to take into consideration before making your purchase.

Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook 17.3" FHD IPS Touchscreen

This laptop is an excellent choice for those seeking a large touchscreen laptop specifically for note-taking and productivity.

Pros

• Large, 17.3" FHD IPS touchscreen

• Responsive Intel Pentium N6000 processor

• Impressive battery life (up to 10 hours)

Cons

• Only 64GB of storage

• No Ethernet port

• Slightly heavier than expected (4.85 lbs)

Buy Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook on Amazon

I recently had the opportunity to use the Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook, and I must say, it helped take my note-taking game to a whole new level. The 17.3" FHD IPS touchscreen is not only large but also has an anti-glare coating and narrow bezels, which made it comfortable to use in various lighting conditions. Plus, the touchscreen added an extra level of convenience for quick and easy note-taking.

The Intel Pentium N6000 processor (with up to 3.3GHz) was responsive and handled multiple applications and browser tabs with ease. The 8GB of RAM provided adequate multitasking capabilities without compromising on performance. I could quickly go through my notes on the note taking app while researching or working on multiple documents, making work more efficient.

Aside from its wonderful note-taking advantages, I also enjoyed the laptop's 10-hour battery life. I could go through my day without needing to carry my charger around, knowing that the battery would last me well into the evening.

However, there are a few drawbacks that some might want to consider. The laptop only has 64GB of eMMC storage, which may be limiting for those needing extra storage for more extensive files or applications. Additionally, the laptop lacks an Ethernet port, so I was totally reliant on Wi-Fi connectivity for internet access. Finally, I found the laptop to be heavier than I initially expected, weighing nearly 5 lbs. This could be a concern for those expecting to carry the laptop around daily.

Nonetheless, I believe the impressive touchscreen, responsive processor, and excellent battery life outweigh any drawbacks. I'd highly recommend the Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook for anyone looking to enhance their note-taking experience.

Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 14" Laptop

This Lenovo Yoga 7i is a great choice for note-taking with its versatile design and impressive features.

Pros

• Responsive 2.2K touchscreen display

• 360° flip-and-fold design

• Smooth performance with Intel Core i5-1335U processor

Cons

• No included stylus pen

• A bit on the heavier side

• Limited number of USB ports

Buy Lenovo Yoga 7i Laptop on Amazon

I recently started using the Lenovo Yoga 7i, a 2-in-1 laptop with a stunning 14" 2.2K touchscreen display that's perfect for note-taking. The high-resolution screen is not only visually appealing but also highly responsive, making it easier to jot down notes using my fingers.

One of the standout features of this laptop is its 360° flip-and-fold design, which allows me to use it in various modes such as laptop, tablet, tent, and stand. This versatility has proven to be quite useful during meetings and lectures, as I can easily adjust the laptop's position to take notes without any hassle.

The Intel Core i5-1335U processor has been doing a great job at keeping up with my multitasking needs. With 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB SSD, I've had no issues juggling multiple applications during my note-taking sessions.

While the Yoga 7i has quite a lot going for it, there are some drawbacks to consider. The package doesn't include a stylus pen, which would have been a great addition for note-taking. Despite its slim design, the laptop is a tad heavy at 3.41 pounds, making it slightly cumbersome for carrying around. Additionally, the limited number of USB ports might become an issue for those needing to connect multiple peripherals.

Overall, I've found the Lenovo Yoga 7i to be a highly capable laptop for note-taking. Its flexible design, responsive touchscreen, and solid performance make it an excellent option for users in the market for a reliable device to assist with organizing their thoughts and notes. If you're looking for a high-end study laptop, check out this list of the best laptops for MBA students, too.

Gateway Newest 11.6” HD 2-in-1 Convertible Touchscreen Student Laptop

This laptop is a great choice for students who need a reliable, versatile device for note taking and everyday use.

Pros

• 2-in-1 touchscreen display for versatile interaction

• Compact design for easy portability

• THX Audio for crystal-clear audio quality

Cons

• Limited storage capacity with 64GB SSD

• Only 4GB RAM might cause slowdowns with heavy multitasking

• No full-size HDMI port; mini HDMI instead

Buy Gateway Newest 11.6” HD 2-in-1 Convertible Touchscreen Student Laptop on Amazon

I recently used this Gateway laptop for a few days while attending online classes and taking notes, and I must say, its 2-in-1 touchscreen display truly stands out. The 11.6" HD screen has a 1366x768 resolution, which provided me with crisp visuals during my lectures and while working on various projects. It was quite convenient to switch between laptop and tablet modes depending on my needs at the time.

In my experience, the Intel Celeron N4020 processor did a commendable job of handling basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and streaming content. The 4GB RAM, however, might not be sufficient for heavy multitasking or resource-demanding applications. But for general note taking and everyday use, it performed just fine.

One of the features that impressed me was the THX Audio tuned by experts. I enjoyed clear and rich sound quality when watching videos or listening to music, which made my learning experience a lot more immersive and enjoyable.

The laptop's compact design, at only 0.70" thin and weighing 2.7 pounds, made it incredibly easy for me to carry it around and fit in my backpack. The only downside I noticed was the limited storage space with its 64GB SSD. I had to rely on external storage devices to store my larger files.

It also comes with a 1-year subscription to Microsoft 365 Office Suite, which helped boost my productivity during those study sessions. However, the lack of a full-size HDMI port caused some inconveniences when I tried to connect it to a larger screen, as it only has a mini HDMI port.

Overall, the Gateway 11.6" HD 2-in-1 Convertible Touchscreen Student Laptop is a fitting choice for students who need a reliable device for note taking and everyday tasks. The touchscreen display and compact design make it very user-friendly, and the THX Audio enhances the multimedia experience. Just be prepared to manage the limited storage space and RAM if you choose to go with this best laptop for note taking. If you liked this device, check out this list of the best laptops for homeschooling, too.

HP Spectre x360 14T

The HP Spectre x360 14T is a top contender for note-taking enthusiasts with its powerful performance and luxurious design.

Pros

• Stellar performance with the latest Intel processor

• Amazing 13.5” WUXGA+ touchscreen display

• Impressive Bang & Olufsen audio quality

Cons

• Premium price point may not be suitable for all budgets

• No optical drive included

• Limited USB ports available

Buy HP Spectre x360 14T on Amazon

As a proud owner of the HP Spectre x360 14T, I can confidently say that it's an excellent laptop for note-taking, and it doesn't compromise on looks or performance. The first thing that truly impressed me was the 13.5-inch WUXGA+ touchscreen, perfect for taking notes and even sketching diagrams with the included HP Zenvo Tilt pen.

A feature I find incredibly useful during meetings is the dedicated mute mic button and privacy camera shutter. These options provide peace of mind when joining video conferences or working in public spaces. While using the HP Spectre x360 14T, I feel cautious knowing that my information is secured through these privacy features.

The computing power of the HP Spectre x360 14T is exceptional, thanks to the Intel Core i7-1255U processor paired with 16GB RAM and 2TB NVMe SSD. I never experience lag or slowdowns while multitasking or running memory-intensive programs. Even the sound quality amazes me, with Bang & Olufsen speakers delivering crisp and clear audio that enhances my entertainment experience.

One potential drawback of the HP Spectre x360 14T is its price point. With such premium features, the laptop can be quite an investment for some users. Additionally, if you still rely on physical media, the lack of an optical drive may be a negative point. Lastly, with only two Thunderbolt 4 and one USB Type-A ports available, you may find yourself in need of extra connectivity options.

In conclusion, the HP Spectre x360 14T is a great laptop for note-taking enthusiasts who want top-tier performance without compromising on looks and functionality. Despite a few minor drawbacks, I find it to be a worthwhile investment for those who require a boost in productivity and seamless note-taking capabilities.

Acer Spin 5 Intel Evo Convertible Laptop

A stylish and versatile choice for note-takers in need of a powerful and portable laptop.

Pros

• Lightweight and sleek design

• Vivid touchscreen display with stylus support

• Impressive battery life

Cons

• May be too small for some users

• Slightly audible fan noise

• No support for downgrading to Windows 10

Buy Acer Spin 5 Intel Evo Convertible Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Acer Spin 5 Intel Evo Convertible Laptop, and I must say, it's quite the versatile and powerful machine. The sleek magnesium-aluminum alloy design not only looks great but also makes it incredibly lightweight at just 2.87 lbs. This makes it perfect to carry around for my note-taking needs.

One of the standout features of this laptop is its crisp and sharp 2560 x 1600 IPS touch display. With the included Acer Active Stylus, I could quickly jot down notes, sketch ideas, and effortlessly navigate through apps. The 360° Dual-Torque Hinge also allows me to switch easily between different modes like laptop, display, tent, and tablet, depending on my needs at the moment.

I was equally impressed by the good battery life of the Spin 5. It easily lasted me a full day of work and play, which is crucial for someone always on the go. The 12th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor offers smooth performance, making multitasking a breeze. Although the fans can sometimes be heard when putting the laptop through its paces, it's not a dealbreaker for me.

However, the 14" screen size might feel a bit small for some users, especially those who prefer larger displays for their work. Also, it's worth noting that the Spin 5 does not support downgrading to Windows 10, which could be an issue for users tied to the older operating system.

Overall, the Acer Spin 5 is an excellent choice for those seeking a portable and powerful note-taking laptop. Its stylish design, vivid display, and long-lasting battery make it a solid option for those who need a reliable and responsive machine for their everyday needs.

ASUS 2023 Newest Vivobook 14 Laptop

The ASUS Vivobook 14 is an excellent notebook for students and professionals who need a fast, sleek, and portable laptop for note-taking and general productivity tasks.

Pros

• Fast and efficient performance

• 12GB RAM and 512GB PCIe SSD

• Lightweight and portable design

Cons

• Screen resolution could be higher

• No backlit keyboard

• Not great for gaming

Buy ASUS 2023 Newest Vivobook 14 Laptop on Amazon

I recently picked up the ASUS Vivobook 14 for my college courses and was delighted with its responsiveness and portability. The AMD Ryzen 3 3250U Processor, combined with the 12GB of RAM and 512GB PCIe SSD, made multitasking a breeze. I could have several apps running at once like Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and multiple browser tabs without any lag.

The slim design of the ASUS Vivobook 14 made it easy to slip into my backpack and carry around all day without feeling weighed down. The 14" HD display was comfortable to view for extended periods, although I wished the screen resolution was higher for better image quality. I also enjoyed working on it in various lighting conditions, thanks to the anti-glare feature.

On the downside, gamers might want to look elsewhere as this laptop isn't ideal for running graphics-intensive games. Also, I found myself wishing the keyboard had a backlight feature for late-night study sessions.

In conclusion, the ASUS Vivobook 14 Laptop is perfect for students and professionals who need a reliable note-taking laptop with ample storage and speedy performance. It might not have the best screen resolution or gaming capabilities, but its strengths lie in its lightweight design and efficient processing power. For a high performing laptop, also check out this list of the best laptops for tuning cars, too.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

I highly recommend the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 for those seeking a powerful and versatile note-taking laptop.

Pros

• Excellent touchscreen display

• Strong performance with the 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor

• Lightweight and portable

Cons

• Battery life could be better

• Stylus pen not always included

• Pricey compared to some alternatives

Buy Microsoft Surface Pro 9 on Amazon

I recently had the chance to use the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 and was impressed by its performance and features. Sporting a 13-inch PixelSense Flow touchscreen display, note-taking was a breeze, especially with the 10-point multi-touch support and 2880 x 1920 resolution. The laptop-level performance delivered by the 12th Gen Intel Core i5-1235U processor provided a smooth experience, even for heavy multitasking.

The portability of this 2-in-1 tablet is impressive, weighing just under 2 pounds and measuring 0.37 inches thin. However, the battery life leaves something to be desired, as it only lasts up to 15.5 hours despite its lightweight frame. This can be a bit of a letdown when you're using it extensively for note-taking throughout a busy day.

There was a minor issue with the stylus pen not being included in my package, but I was offered a refund. Regardless, the pen would have been a useful addition for comprehensive note-taking. The Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 connectivity options provided seamless internet access and easy connections to peripherals.

In conclusion, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is a fantastic choice for students and professionals alike seeking a powerful and versatile note-taking laptop. While it does come with a higher price tag, the excellent display, top-notch performance, and portability make it a worthy investment. Just be prepared to address the potential pen issue and manage your battery life throughout the day.

Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1

The Lenovo Yoga 7i is a top choice for note-taking enthusiasts seeking a versatile and powerful laptop experience.

Pros

• Impressive 12th Generation Intel Core i5 processor

• Sharp 16-inch 2.5K touchscreen display

• Fingerprint reader and backlit keyboard

Cons

• Potential issues with screen calibration

• Stylus pen not always included

• Limited storage with 256GB SSD

Buy Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 on Amazon

My experience with the Lenovo Yoga 7i has been quite satisfying, providing me an efficient, sleek and fast notebook for taking notes and more. The 12th Generation Intel Core i5 processor ensures that the laptop is capable of handling multi-tasking and heavy applications without breaking a sweat.

I especially appreciate the 16-inch 2.5K touchscreen display which delivers crisp and clear visuals. The addition of Intel Iris Xe graphics adds to the overall experience, making it suitable for creative work as well. One thing I noticed was that the screen calibration might be slightly off at times, but it wasn't a significant issue for me.

One major advantage of the Yoga 7i is the fingerprint reader and the backlit keyboard, both contributing to an enhanced user experience. The fingerprint reader adds an extra layer of security, while the backlit keyboard allows me to work in low light environments with ease.

Despite these great features, the Lenovo Yoga 7i does have some downsides. The packaging did not include the stylus pen, which was a disappointment. Additionally, the limited storage provided by the 256GB SSD might be a constraint for users needing more space for large files and applications.

Overall, I've enjoyed using the Lenovo Yoga 7i for my note-taking purposes and other tasks. Though not perfect, it excels in performance, display and security features, making it a solid choice for those seeking a competent and user-friendly laptop.

HP Envy 15T x360 2022

The HP Envy 15T x360 2022 is a great choice for those seeking a fast and stylish laptop for note-taking and multitasking.

Pros

• Powerful 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor

• Expansive 15.6" FHD touchscreen display

• Portable and sleek design

Cons

• No dedicated numeric keypad

• Power button placement on the keyboard

• Some users have reported fan noise issues

Buy HP Envy 15T x360 2022 on Amazon

I recently had the pleasure of using the HP Envy 15T x360 2022, and I must say that it is indeed a powerful and efficient laptop for note-taking. The 11th Generation Intel Core i7 processor allowed me to breeze through multiple tasks and applications seamlessly. The 16 GB RAM and 1 TB NVMe SSD also contributed to the laptop's speedy performance.

The 15.6" FHD touchscreen display was truly a sight to behold. It offered sharp visuals and a responsive touch experience, making note-taking a breeze. The edge-to-edge glass design provides an impressive 88.7% screen-to-body ratio, which adds to the overall appeal.

However, one downside I noticed was the lack of a dedicated numeric keypad. As someone who frequently enters numbers, its absence was quite a disappointment. Another design issue is the power button's placement on the keyboard, which makes it prone to accidental presses.

Some users have reported fan noise, although I did not experience any during my use. Nonetheless, it is worth noting for those who prefer a silent work environment.

In conclusion, the HP Envy 15T x360 2022 is an excellent laptop for note-taking and multitasking, despite a few minor design flaws. Its powerful processor, high-resolution display, and sleek design make it a top contender for anyone seeking a premium yet practical laptop.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Book Pro 15.6" Laptop

I found this laptop lightweight and impressive for taking notes, but with few compromises.

Pros

• Impressive AMOLED screen

• Extremely portable and lightweight

• Efficient performance

Cons

• Battery life could be improved

• Limited port selection

• US charger for non-US buyers

Buy SAMSUNG Galaxy Book Pro on Amazon

Once I started using the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro, I immediately appreciated its portability and sleek design. It felt like carrying a notebook instead of a standard laptop, which made note-taking on the go smooth and convenient. The vibrant AMOLED screen quality made every task visually appealing, inside or in direct sunlight.

As I worked on the Galaxy Book Pro, I realized the Intel 11th Gen Core i5 processor provided fast and efficient performance. Having 512GB of storage also ensured I had plenty of room for my files and applications. However, it's worth noting that the battery life might not be as long-lasting as advertised, with me getting about 8 hours of regular use.

The array of ports on this laptop is a bit limited, so having a USB hub or adapter might be necessary for some users. Additionally, the laptop came with a US charger, which may not be suitable for all buyers. However, I quickly resolved this issue by purchasing an adapter.

In conclusion, I believe the SAMSUNG Galaxy Book Pro is a fantastic option for those seeking a lightweight, ultra-portable device with excellent screen quality for note-taking and productivity. Keep in mind the possible need for adapters or hubs, and you'll be satisfied with this purchase.

Buying Guide

When I'm looking for the best note-taking laptop, there are several factors that I consider to make sure I find the perfect device for my needs. Let me share some of those with you.

Performance: A laptop with a good processor and enough RAM is essential for smooth note-taking. I recommend at least an Intel i5 processor (or equivalent) and 8 GB of RAM for multitasking, especially when using multiple note-taking apps at once.

Display: A crisp and clear display is important to make my notes easily readable. I look for laptops with at least a Full HD (1920x1080) resolution. A larger screen size might be helpful to view multiple windows or apps at once, but it could also add weight and reduce portability.

Battery life: Long battery life is a must on the best laptops for note taking if I'm planning to take notes all day without having to worry about finding an outlet. I aim for laptops that offer at least 8 hours of battery life on regular usage.

Portability: Since I'll likely be carrying my laptop around campus or between meetings, weight and size become important factors. I look for laptops that weigh around 3 pounds or less and have a slim profile.

Keyboard: A comfortable and responsive keyboard makes a huge difference in my note-taking experience. I give importance to laptops with well-spaced, backlit keys and adequate key travel for a pleasant typing experience.

Touchscreen and stylus support: Some people, including me, prefer handwritten notes or drawing diagrams, in that case, a laptop with touchscreen and stylus support is a great option. It's worth considering models with an active stylus for more precise input and better palm rejection.

Here's a summary of the features I consider while choosing a laptop for note-taking:

FeatureRecommendationProcessorIntel i5 or equivalentRAM8 GB or higherDisplay ResolutionFull HD (1920x1080) or higherBattery LifeAt least 8 hoursWeightAround 3 pounds or lessKeyboardComfortable, backlit, and responsiveTouchscreen/StylusOptional but recommended for handwritten notes

Taking these factors into account, I'm confident that I can find the perfect laptop for my note-taking needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features are important in a laptop for note-taking?

In my opinion, the key features for a good note-taking laptop include a comfortable keyboard, long battery life, good display, and if you prefer pen input, then solid pen support. The keyboard should offer a pleasant typing experience, and the laptop should be lightweight for easy portability.

Which laptops have the best pen support?

Some laptops that offer excellent pen support include Microsoft Surface devices, HP Spectre series, and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga. These laptops provide a responsive and natural writing experience with just the attached keyboard too, which is essential for note-taking.

Are 2-in-1 devices better for note-taking?

2-in-1 devices can be more versatile for note-taking, as they allow you to switch between typing and writing with a digital pen. They're great for those who prefer a tablet-style experience for handwritten notes or sketching. However, if you only need a laptop for typing notes, a traditional laptop would work just fine.

What are some top laptops for online classes?

Top laptops for online classes would include options like the Dell XPS 13, MacBook Air, and Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5. These laptops offer excellent webcams, microphones, and performance suitable for virtual lessons and multitasking with course materials.

What laptops are suitable for art students?

For art students, I would recommend laptops with a good display, color accuracy, and strong performance. Some suitable options include the Dell XPS 15, MacBook Pro, and Microsoft Surface Book, as they provide great pen input and touch displays for digital art and design work.

How can I use a laptop for efficient note-taking?

To use a laptop efficiently for note-taking, I suggest using note-taking apps like OneNote, Evernote, or Google Keep. These apps allow you to quickly jot down, categorize, and sync your notes across devices. Additionally, using keyboard shortcuts and customizing your app settings to suit your preferences can help improve your note-taking experience.