Currently, the importance of programming in the world has been increasing and now, with the apogee of the digital age and the metaverse, it is increasingly necessary for programmers to provide us with software, video games and applications, for all our devices. But what would a programmer be without a good laptop to help him improve his performance, write code faster and even reduce eye strain due to the long hours of work required when programming.
I have a good friend who has been programming for more than 10 years and I took on the task of asking him what he expects from a laptop for programming, to which he answered a series of important criteria before choosing and together we selected the ten best laptops for programmers with an excellent quality-price ratio, which if you are already dedicated to this beautiful profession or are starting out as a programming student, it would be worth considering some of them.
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Index: 1. Laptops for programming 2. Tips for choosing the best laptop for programming Processor RAM Storage Display Graphic card Ports Wi-Fi Long lasting battery Camera and microphone 3. Best laptops for programming 10. Acer Swift X 9. Lenovo Legion Y540 8. Acer Nitro 5 7. MSI Katana GF76 6. Asus TUF Dash 5. MSI GF65 4. MSI Stealth 3. MSI Creator 2. MSI GL66 1. MacBook Pro M1 Max 4. Comparison of the best computers for programming 5. Conclusions: What laptop to buy for programming? |
Tips for choosing the best laptop for programming
Below we briefly highlight the features of a laptop for programming, in order of priority:
- Processor
The most suitable processors for programming tasks are the Intel Core i7 and AMD Ryzen 7, since they have a greater number of cores and threads, which are the ones that give you greater speed. Time to work on your laptop.
- RAM
Normally, programmers leave their software open for a long time and this causes the RAM to wear out and, therefore, slows down the computer. To avoid this, it is required as minimum 16GB of RAM and optimal 32GB of RAM. Plus, it's always nice to have the option to upgrade in the future.
- Storage
A minimum of 256GB SSD storage is recommended, in addition, solid disks have a higher writing speed, which will speed up the performance of your computer for programming and will not take you as long to save everything. the applications you work on.
- Display
The bigger the screen, the better. This is to facilitate programming by having a larger work area and avoiding visual fatigue. That's why I recommend laptops with 15.6" to 17.3" inch screens.
- Graphic card
Although it is not essential for the creation of some applications or programs, it is true that if you dedicate yourself to video game development, you will need a dedicated graphics card. If this is your case, a minimum 4GB dedicated graphics card is recommended. For the rest, an integrated GPU will work well, making your laptop for programming cheaper.
- Ports
Programmers need a large number of ports to connect all their devices. MicroSD, SD, USB 2.0, USB 3.2, Thunderbolt, HDMI are the most essential for this profession and it is important that you verify that you have the ones you require.
- Wi-Fi
The faster the Wi-Fi is, the better. Currently, the new standard is Wi-Fi 6 o IEEE 802.11ax that goes up to 1300 Mbps, The previous standard is 802.11n and only goes up to 450 Mbps. A big difference when it comes to taking advantage of time when programming and downloading files faster.
- Long battery life
It is also important that you consider a minimum long-lasting battery of 6 hours, programmers need to work on mobility, since it is a profession that requires traveling and you cannot run out of battery mid-coding .
- Camera and microphone
Finally, for a programmer an integrated camera and microphone is essential, this to carry out virtual meetings with colleagues or clients from other countries and boy is it true, because my friend has quite a few of them. them.
Best laptops for programming
What is the best laptop for programming? Now that you know what the main criteria are to take into account when choosing your ideal laptop, below we recommend the best laptops for programming, where you will surely find a model that adapts to your programming needs:
10. Acer Swift X
Best lightweight laptop for programmers
These are the most notable technical specifications of the Acer Swift X:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5800U (2.4 to 5.0GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
- Display: IPS 1920x1080 14"
- Hard Drive: 512GB SSD
- Battery: 12 hours
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Ports: 2 USB 3.2, USB 2.0 type C, HDMI 2.0
- Weight: 3.3 pounds
The Acer Swift X stands out for its Portable and lightweight design (only 3.3 pounds), ideal for those programmers who want to take their equipment everywhere and recommended for mobile work. I like the silver-colored casing, since it looks very elegant, and the materials seem to be of good quality and resistant, considering the use you will give it, it is an important feature to take into account.
With a discreet processor, but just enough to start programming, it has the appropriate configuration for a programming student (AMD Ryzen 7, 16GB of RAM, 4GB NVIDIA and 512SSD of storage) with a range of low price, compared to a laptop for programming with a processor Intel Core i7. To highlight the 12 hours of battery they promise, perfect so that you don't stay halfway through coding and it also offers you a dedicated graphics card in case you are also interested in creating software for video games.
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+ Full HD screen + Ideal for multitasking + Good autonomy + Value for money - RAM memory is not expandable |
9. Lenovo Legion Y540
Cheap laptop for programming
These are the most notable technical specifications of the Lenovo Y540:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 9750H (2.6 to 4.5GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti
- Display: LED 1920x1080 15.6" (144Hz)
- Hard Drive: 256GB SSD
- Battery: 8 hours
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Ports: 3 USB 3.1, USB Type C, Mini DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0
- Weight: 5.07 pounds
If you are looking for a notebook to program good performance and with a Accesible price, maybe the Lenovo Legion Y540 be your ideal team. Obviously, with a 9th generation Intel Core i7 processor with 6 cores, you will have no problems developing your applications and in combination with 16GB of RAM you will have the fluidity you are looking for to run your programming software.
Its design catches my attention. In my opinion, a little rough and robust, in exchange for resistant and all-terrain equipment, to take it on your work trips without worry, yes, you will have to carry 5.07 pounds. It also has 256GB SSD storage, just what a laptop for programmers requires.
In addition, it offers a 6GB dedicated graphics card, which together with its 15.6" Full HD screen you can create software for video games. Noteworthy is its white backlit keyboard, excellent for working in environments with low light and I would have loved a longer battery life, but considering everything it offers, it could be overlooked.
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+ Intel Core i7 processor + Good performance with fluency + Good quality graphics card + Good price - Weight can be improved - Storage can improve |
8. Acer Nitro 5
Laptop for programming students
These are the most notable technical specifications of the Acer Nitro 5 Laptop:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 11800H (4.6GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
- Display: IPS 1920x1080 17.3" (144Hz)
- Hard Drive: 1TB SSD
- Battery: 8 hours
- Operating System: Windows 11
- Ports: 3 USB 3.2, USB 3.2 type C, HDMI 2.1
- Weight: 5.51 pounds
The first thing that catches your attention about the Acer Nitro 5, it is its 17.3" FullHD screen, which allows you to program comfortably, in a larger work area, but above all, it helps not to strain your eyes. Its design is modern and elegant, but with that robustness and resistance that is required for a team to develop software, without having to worry when maneuvering it.
With a suitable configuration for programming, its eleventh generation Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB of RAM stand out, showing fluid performance when coding and improving the experience, an illuminated keyboard for continue work at night. I would have liked it to be a little lighter, for portability reasons, but in exchange it offers you 1TB SSD of storage to store all your applications and optimize performance with faster writing speed.
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+ Big screen + Good value for money + 11th generation i7 processor + Illuminated keyboard + Upgradable RAM memory - Weight to improve |
7. MSI Katana GF76
The best computer for programming at university
These are the most notable technical specifications of the MSI Katana GF76:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 12700H (4.7GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
- Display: FHD 1920x1080 17.3" (144Hz)
- Hard Drive: 512GB SSD
- Battery: 7 hours
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Ports: USB 2.0, USB 3.2 Type C, 2 USB 3.2, HDMI
- Weight: 5.07 pounds
The first impression I got when I saw the MSI Katana GF76, It was a pleasant surprise. I didn't expect to see a 17-inch laptop with a thin and elegant design, In addition to the fact that it looks thin despite its 5.07 pounds and its excellent configuration for programming (Intel Core i7, 16GB of RAM, 6GB NVIDIA and 512GB SSD storage), I suppose there is a reason why MSI has become the favorite brand of programmers and I recommend you read my article best MSI laptops to expand your panorama.
With a 12th generation processor you will have fluid performance, and you will also always be able to update the RAM, to have a device that is at the forefront over time. It offers you a dedicated NVIDIA card that favors video game programming and a red backlit keyboard, giving it a very striking appearance while you code at night. Not everything is perfect, because with intensive use the battery life drops considerably, and when touching the exterior materials, they get dirty easily.
| + Slim design + 12th generation processor + Powerful graphics card + RAM memory upgradable up to 64GB - The casing will have to be cleaned |
6. Asus TUF Dash
Best laptop for software development
These are the most notable technical specifications of the Asus TUF Dash 15:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 12650H (4.7GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB (4800MHz)
- Graphics Card: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
- Display: IPS 1920x1080 15.6" (144Hz)
- Hard Drive: 512GB SSD
- Battery: 12 hours
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Ports: 2 USB 3.2, USB 3.2 Type C, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.0b
- Weight: 4.40 pounds
The Asus TUF Dash presents excellent value for money , considering its good performance and portable characteristics, taking into account that programming laptops are somewhat more robust, due to the specifications they require. A light and thin design of only 4.40 pounds that will help you work in mobility with greater comfort.
Another of its notable points is its 10-core processor, ideal for having several programs open at the same time and coding with good fluency, adding a 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, for the creation of apps for video games and 512GB SSD of storage, just enough to save all the code quickly and silently.
Its 15.6" FHD screen has optimal clarity and is just the right size so as not to tire your eyes. It also has a wide variety of ports, very useful for connecting all your devices and if you have I have to put a, but, it would be in the price and in my If so, I would hope to buy it on sale to give more value to my money.
| + Light and portable + Good power + It doesn't make much noise + Good autonomy - Price can be improved |
5. MSI GF65
Laptop good for programming
These are the most notable technical specifications of the MSI GF65:
- Processor: Intel Core i5 10500H (4.5GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
- Display: FHD 1920x1080 15.6" (144Hz)
- Hard Drive: 512GB SSD
- Battery: 6 hours
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Ports: 2 USB 3.2, 2 USB 3.2 Type C, Ethernet, HDMI
- Weight: 4.07 pounds
Right from the start the MSI GF65 gives me a feeling of character, the black metal chassis with vertical lines make it look very elegant and futuristic. Probably with a more stable cooling system than previous MSI models, since with continuous use, it does not overheat to worry. If I had to define this equipment in three words it would be: modern, light and powerful.
To make the design more pleasant, the soft red lights of its illuminated keyboard combine perfectly, and they also help to reduce the strain on your eyes a little while you work. It should be noted that with its light weight of 4.07 pounds, it is a compact and portable laptop, quite attractive if you intend to travel or be working constantly on the move. As for the specifications (Intel Core i5, 16GB of RAM, 6GB NVIDIA and 512GB SSD of storage) you will have no problems creating applications, software and even video games, if that is your theme.
In addition to the price, one of the aspects to improve The thing is that with normal use, the battery only promises up to 6 hours and you will have to be careful if you don't want it to turn off mid-trip and perhaps I needed a MicroSD or SD port.
| + Minimalist design + Good power + Keyboard illuminated in red + Ultra-fast Wi-Fi - Battery life can be improved - Price can improve |
4. MSI Stealth
Best laptop for web development
These are the most notable technical specifications of the MSI Stealth:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 11375H (5.0GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
- Display: IPS 1920x1080 15.6 (144Hz)"
- Hard Drive: 512GB SSD
- Battery: 7 hours
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Ports: Thunderbolt 4, 2 USB 3.2, USB 3.2 Type C, MicroSD, HDMI
- Weight: 3.72 pounds
Undoubtedly, the MSI Stealth has all the essential features that a programmer is looking for, combines a minimalist design with great power for software creation. In addition, it features a compact and lightweight gray casing of good quality. Another point to highlight is its RGB illuminated keyboard, where you can choose the color with which you feel most comfortable to program, in addition to taking care of your eyesight.
To highlight its versatility of ports to connect all your devices, since unlike other MSI models, this one includes a MicroSD port and another Thunderbolt 4 port, increasing the transfer speed and saving you a little more time, which is always welcome when it comes to coding. To improve the price and battery life, but in In general, it is a balanced device in both hardware and software.
Finally, it presents a sound that is worth mentioning, and if you are one of those programmers who cannot work without a good musical track.
| + Compact and lightweight design + Excellent processor speed + Fast charging + RGB backlit keyboard + Surround sound - Price can be improved |
3. MSI Creator
Laptop ideal for programmer
These are the most notable technical specifications of the MSI Creator model A13VE-083US:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 13620H (4.9GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 6GB NVIDIA Geforce RTX 4050
- Display: IPS 2880x1800 14" (60Hz)
- Hard Drive: 1TB SSD
- Battery: 6 hours
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Ports: 2 USB 3.2 type A, USB 3.2 type C, HDMI 2.1
- Weight: 3.52 pounds
The name MSI Creator It already tells us about a laptop for developers of all types of software, and it is no wonder, since we have found some features that attract attention. The first thing I would like to highlight is its somewhat atypical 14-inch screen, with a 2880x1800 pixel resolution, Furthermore, its good sharpness and brightness allow you to work comfortably, without straining your eyes.
In terms of power and performance (Intel Core i7, 16GB of RAM, 6GB NVIDIA and 1TB SSD of storage) you can multitask while programming, just as you can always upgrade both the RAM and the hard drive. On the outside, it follows the line of the brand, but this one, a little more robust and heavier, also adds a white backlit keyboard, that combines perfectly with the overall design.
Maybe with 6 hours of battery life It is a little short to carry it everywhere and in any case you always have to carry its charger and lastly, it has a good ventilation system that helps cool the equipment and increase its lifespan.
| + QHD screen + Excellent performance + RAM and SSD can be upgraded + Durable equipment - Autonomy can improve |
2. MSI GL66
The best laptop for video game development
These are the most notable technical specifications of the MSI GL66 model 11UCK-1249:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 11800H (4.6GHz)
- RAM memory: 16GB
- Graphics Card: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050
- Display: IPS 1920x1080 15.6" (144Hz)
- Hard Drive: 1TB SSD
- Battery: 6 hours
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Ports: 2 USB 3.2, USB 3.2 type C, HDMI
- Weight: 4.62 pounds
In my opinion, the MSI GL66 is the team most balanced of this brand. On the outside, it presents a futuristic design in black and with a pattern of lines on the chassis that is quite pleasing to the eye. In addition, it is perceived as a solid and resistant piece of equipment, to be easily transported without worrying about the quality of its manufacturing materials and with an optimal weight to be considered light. Add a red backlit keyboard that helps you continue programming during your evenings.
To highlight its 11th generation Intel Core i7 processor, which together with its 16GB of RAM (upgradeable to 64GB), present fluid performance for any coding task. It should be noted that it incorporates a powerful graphics card. With the 4GB of the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 and its 15.6" FHD screen, it makes it an ideal laptop for developing video games.
Likewise, it presents balanced connectivity in terms of ports and Wi-Fi 6, making data transfer faster and the only cons you could find would be in the battery life and in your price. Finally, it offers customizable keys, very useful when it comes to creating shortcuts for programming.
| + Modern and resistant design + Powerful processor + 4GB dedicated graphics card + You can make upgrades + Cooling system - Battery life to improve |
1. MacBook Pro M1 Max
The best laptop for programming in the world
These are the most notable technical specifications of the MacBook Pro 16:
- Processor: Apple M1 Max Chip (3.1GHz)
- RAM memory: 32GB
- Graphics Card: 32 core GPU
- Display: Liquid Retina XDR 3456x2234 16.2"
- Hard Drive: 1TB SSD
- Battery: 17 hours
- Operating System: Mac OS
- Ports: 3 Thunderbolt 4, SDXC, HDMI, MagSafe 3
- Weight: 4.73 pounds
Undoubtedly the jewel in the crown, in terms of programming laptops and perhaps every programmer's dream. My experience with a MacBook Pro allows me to speak with authority and if If I had to recommend a model with my eyes closed, it would be a Mac, since mine still seems indestructible.
To start, its lightweight and compact design allows you to take your device everywhere and with its promise of 17 hours of battery life, you can program on the go without worrying about it turning off. In addition, the 16.2" Liquid Retina
In terms of power and performance, you won't have any problems either. The M1 Max Chip has been thoroughly tested and has proven to have powerful performance, even for the most demanding programs, and with 32GB of RAM and 1TB SSD you can multitask with fluid performance. As for ports, you may have to buy adapters to connect your devices and if you decide on this laptop, be prepared to spend a good sum of money.
| + Light and powerful + Durability + Retina display + Excellent battery life - Overpriced |
Comparative of the best laptops for programming
Which laptop is best for programming? Below you can easily compare the most relevant features of the top 10 of the best laptops recommended for programming:
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Conclusions: What laptop to buy for programming?
In this guide we analyze the 10 best laptops for programming that present an excellent quality-price ratio, where in terms of specifications the Intel Core i7 processors, 16GB of RAM, the dedicated NVIDIA graphics cards and 512GB SSD storage.
Among these models you can find cheap laptops for programmers that fit perfectly for a programming student and premium MSI laptops for professional programmers and veterans in the field, who know what they want and they need. Finally, you will find the MacBook Pro as the ideal for every programmer.
We hope that this article has made it easier for you to choose your next good laptop for programming and that you can continue developing in a more comfortable and optimal way: applications, video games, programs and software, which entertain us and make our lives easier.
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