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When buying laptops for your team, you will want the best business laptops. Focus on finding durable, secure, powerful, and easy-to-use laptops.

However, you’ll be faced with many choices when it comes to purchasing the best laptop for business use.

Options range from lightweight notebooks to powerful laptops that can handle the duties of a typical computer. When making a selection, there are several factors you should keep in mind.

So, what is the best laptop for business use?

Below is a comprehensive guide on how to buy the best laptop for business use.

Set a Tech Budget

When buying a business laptop, your budget will dictate the options you have. To calculate your budget, ensure you determine how much value the laptops will bring to your company.

If the laptops will help improve productivity, it’s okay to set aside tens of thousands of dollars. This should be enough to purchase durable and powerful laptops.

On the other hand, if you only require a computer for basic tasks, opt for a cheaper model. However, ensure it will satisfy your obligations.

When entrepreneurs fail to set a budget, when shopping for technology, they end up overspending. Not every business demand a fleet of top-of-line laptops.

The best laptop for small business owners should match their bottom line.

Consider the Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Whenever shopping for business laptops, make sure you pay close attention to the CPU. The CPU greatly determines the performance and usability of a laptop.

There are three types of CPU units; low-end CPUs, Midrange CPUs and High-end CPUs. Don’t overspend on high-end CPUs as you don’t need them.

Intel Core i3 and i5 processors are ideal for most business operations. Individuals who multitask by having 7 tabs open on their browser while filling various spreadsheets in Excel should opt for a Core i5. The latest technology is the Intel Evo suitable for those looking for more powerful gadgets.

On the other hand, if you only require a laptop to send emails, create documents and save records, Core i3 will suit your needs.

Consider Memory and Storage

How you intend to use your laptop determines how much memory and storage you need. For example, if you require laptops for website designing, you’ll need powerful graphics and plenty of RAM.

Avoid laptops with less than 4GB Ram, as they can be annoying to work on. Aim for laptops with at least 8 GB Ram for the best performance.

Also, if you will be using specific business software, ensure you consider the recommended RAM before buying any laptop.

Storage capacity shouldn’t be a concern unless you are into video editing. A combined storage capacity of 500GB and cloud storage should be enough for your business documents.

Decide on the Operating System

It’s no doubt your laptop’s operating is a key attribute you should consider when buying business laptops. Unless you are willing to spend close to $1500 per laptop, there is a high chance you will be choosing between windows and chrome operating systems.

However, these are not the only options when it comes to an operating system. You can opt for Apple OS X. This one comes with a hefty price tag and is only preferred by die-hard Apple fans willing to pay a higher amount.

Professionals prefer apple laptops for their ability to run multiple programs at a go and for their high screen quality. Business owners should only opt for these types of laptops if they require software that can only run on Apple OS.

Typical business owners should choose to go with Windows OS. This is the standard operating system for most business laptops.

Windows 11, the latest operating system, has a handful of features to help boost productivity. Microsoft assistance, Task View, and Cortana will help you perform tasks like scheduling appointments and setting up virtual desktops.

Moreover, it’s unlikely that your employees are not familiar with Windows OS. Before buying new business laptops, speak to your IT experts on software compatibility issues and their preferred operating system.

Decide Between Traditional and Hybrid Laptops

When selecting a laptop design, have in mind how you and your teamwork. Based on this, you have to make up your mind between traditional and hybrid laptops. Traditional laptops open on a hinge, while hybrid laptops are the 2-in-1s that double to stand-alone tablets.

If most of your employees travel a lot and require switching between a tablet and laptop from time to time, hybrid designs may be the best match for you.

However, the 2-in-1 hybrid designs are more expensive to obtain than normal hinge laptops.

Consider the Keyboard

As you are busy checking on laptops designs and specifications, it’s easy to forget about basic features like the keyboard. Keyboard comfort is vital for productivity.

Bear in mind the size of the keyboard also matters. Typing on a mini keyboard might take hours and is quite tiresome. Where possible, test out different keyboards to settle for what you like.

However, if you settle for a laptop with a miniature keyboard, ensure you invest in external keyboards- for long-term typing sessions.

Portability

Portability should always be a concern when buying business laptops. If your employees travel a lot and work while on the move, it would be worth obtaining light computers.

Make sure you check the weight and dimensions of the laptops before buying. Bear in mind laptop screens are measured corner to corner (Diagonally), and any laptop weighing less than 3 pounds is ideal for business travels.

However, before you settle for those ultraportable laptops, confirm the devices have the required ports and battery life you can survive with.

Are Stylus Support and Touch Screen Necessary?

Business laptops with touchscreen and stylus support features are luxurious. However, they come with a huge price tag attached and should only be preferred if you use these features a lot.

Laptops with touchscreens also use more battery power and tend to be heavier than normal laptops. Don’t buy business laptops with the stylus support feature because it seems cool; you might end up disappointed in the long run.

Consider the Durability of the Laptop

If you or your employees travel a lot, make sure you choose a durable laptop. Go for laptops with lids made of carbon or magnesium alloy and metal hinges.

Also, if you work in remote conditions, rugged laptops might be the best solution for you. Rugged laptops are ultra-resilient, water and drop-proof, and best for construction companies and delivery agencies.

However, rugged laptops are large compared to business and personal laptops. Most companies don’t require rugged laptops, but if yours does, don’t waste money on standard laptops.

Battery life

Another major thing you need to consider when buying a laptop is battery life. This is a non-issue for a few business owners, but to some, it is.

Always check the battery life of any laptop before purchasing. Base your decision on how long and often you will be working on the laptop without accessing power. A good business laptop should provide a runtime of at least 8 or 10 hours in the low budget range.

Also, consider whether the desired laptop design features an add-on battery. Add-on batteries massively extend the battery life and idea for businessmen who are always on the move.

Range of Ports Available

For maximum flexibility, go for business laptops with a mixture of new and old ports. Go for laptops with a USB-C, USB-A, an HDMI port, an Ethernet jack, and an SD reader. Additional display outputs like VGA are optional.

Fingerprint Readers

Technology advancements have made it easier to log into your laptop by scanning your fingerprints. A considerable number of business laptops come with a fingerprint reader. The feature also offers added security as only the owner can access the laptop.

Upgrade and Repair Options

The final thing you should consider when buying business laptops is serviceability. Only settle for laptops that are easy to open and repair. The laptop should let you access the RAM slot or SSD bay when you require upgrading.

The Bottom Line to Buying the Best Laptop for Business Use

In the light of the Covid-19 pandemic, business laptops have been a lifesaver. Not only do they help increase productivity, but they also feature new-age connectivity to keep your team together.

Finding the best laptop for business and personal use may seem challenging, but it doesn’t have to be. With the above information on how to buy the best laptop for business use, it should be easy to make a purchasing decision that’ll better your business.

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