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9 Best Laptop for Programming | Top Coding & Web Design Picks

Top Picks

2 Reviewers

30 Hours of Research

20 Options Considered

Let’s say, a programmer with the best laptop is similar to a knight wielding the excalibur. Using code to develop computer programs, getting more insights into the customer’s needs, solving technical problems- computer programmers can do them all, but of course, with a good laptop!

Having an appropriate laptop is of paramount importance if you are into programming. So what are the Best Laptops for Programming Students, coders, programmers, and engineers? They are all here, check our article and you will know the answer.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s begin!

3 Top Laptops For Programming Students

The laptop has premium features, including the 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 that enables it to run multiple applications and browser tabs simultaneously and lets me program without lag.

  • Large space for uninterrupted programming.
  • Powerful processor for a boosted performance.
  • Accurate color reproduction

The laptop has a display screen size of 15.6 Inches, offering the spacious room I need for programming. It has a powerful rechargeable Lithium Polymer battery with an average life of 12 hours relieving me from the hustle of recharging the laptop frequently.

  • It has a fast processing speed
  • It is light for portability
  • It has high storage spaces

3. [Best For The Long Battery Duration]

Dell Latitude 5414 Rugged FHD Laptop PC

4.8/5

The laptop has an Intel 6th Generation core i5-6300U, with a processing speed of 2.64 GHz for boosted performance. It operates on a Windows 10 pro-Operating System free of bloatware. It also has 256 GB M.2 SSD storage.

  • High processing speed for enhanced programming

  • Powerful battery with extended battery life
  • Four output ports

Top 5 Laptops For Programming Students

Lenovo IdeaPad 15.6" FHD Touchscreen is a stylish, convenient touchscreen Laptop that appealed to me. I felt fortunate to purchase it at a much more affordable price. The laptop has premium features, including the 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 that enables it to run multiple applications and browser tabs simultaneously and lets me program without lag.

Features

Lenovo IdeaPad 15.6" FHD Touchscreen Laptop has the following features:

  • The laptop has 15.6 inches screen, offering me enough room for programming.

  • It features a touch screen interface that is easy to operate.

  • It has the 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 with high processing speed ensuring I game smoothly without lag.

  • It has a high-bandwidth RAM of up to 20GB for smooth multitasking. It also has 1TB SSD storage to store my files.

  • The laptop measures 14.1 x 9.3 x 0.8 inches and has an average weight of ‎3.64 pounds.

  • It has a Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels for excellent image display.

  • It also features an IPS panel with accurate color reproduction and excellent viewing angles improving my gaming experience.

  • It has a 300nits peak brightness.

  • It supports Windows 11 Home OS, 64-bit, which gives me access to the latest gaming features.

  • Supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5 combo connectivity technologies.

  • It has a Backlit Full-Size Keyboard 

  • It has a Built-in HD Webcam: 720p with Privacy Shutter and Integrated Dual Array Digital Microphones, which allows me to host virtual meetings.

  • The laptop has five ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 1, USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, USB 2.0, and HDMI 1.4b for my multiple device connectivity.

Pros

  • Has accurate color reproduction, which is ideal for my programming needs.
  • High memory capacity to eliminate lag when I run commands.
  • Large space for uninterrupted programming.
  • Powerful processor for a boosted performance.

Cons

  • The low relative contrast ratio discouraged me.

MSI Katana GF66 15.6" 144Hz 3ms FHD Gaming Laptop is the actual definition of value for money when considering a laptop for programming. After reviewing and using this laptop, I felt it had all the features I needed for my programming tasks. Thanks to the wide range of features it possesses, I was also able to use this laptop to carry out other applications.

Features 

MSI Katana GF66 15.6" 144Hz 3ms FHD Gaming Laptop has the following features:

  • The laptop has a display screen size of 15.6 Inches, offering the spacious room I need for programming.

  • It has a 512 GB hard disk size and 8GB RAM for a fast response to commands and file storage.

  • The CPU model of the laptop is Core i5; the CPU's speed is 4.5 GHz, and it has a memory speed of 2.7 GHz, which enables fast processing and transfer of data to my other devices.

  • The laptop's operating system is Windows 10, which allows me access to high-end features.

  • It is a Full HD laptop with 1920 x 1080 Pixel screen resolution that ensures a vibrant display for programming.

  • It supports several ports, including one USB 2.0 Port and 2 USB 3.0 Ports.

  • The laptop measures 20.7 x 13.0 x 4.0 inches and has an average weight of ‎7.9 pounds.

  • It has a powerful rechargeable Lithium Polymer battery with an average life of 12 hours relieving me from the hustle of recharging the laptop frequently.

Pros

  • The laptop has a fast processing speed for my smooth programming experience.
  • It is light for portability and has a rechargeable battery that lasts 12 hours.
  • It has high storage spaces that can store my multiple files and other documents.
  • The user can transfer data and charge a device with USB output ports.

Cons

  • The laptop supports Windows 10 Operating System, locking out the advanced features available on Windows 11.

[Best For The Long Battery Duration]

4.8/5

A refurbished laptop can be as good as a new one. In fact, I enjoyed the benefits that come with it. For instance, affordability because I spent a much lower amount buying it compared to what I would have paid if I had bought a brand new one. Dell Latitude 5414 Rugged FHD Laptop PC is a refurbished and fully-functional laptop. Qualified Amazon vendors and other experts have inspected the laptop for functionality and quality. Herefore, it is a certified high-quality laptop that seamlessly and efficiently enabled me to navigate my programming tasks. Here are the laptop features I found most impressive:

Features

Dell Latitude 5414 Rugged FHD Laptop PC has the following features:

  • It has a screen display size of 14 inches, giving me enough space for programming.

  • It has a 1920 x 1080 Pixel screen resolution for more precise and sharper images.

  • It measures ‎9.8 x 2.1 x 14.0 inches and weighs ‎5.6 pounds.

  • The laptop has an Intel 6th Generation core i5-6300U, with a processing speed of 2.64 GHz for boosted performance.

  • The laptop's memory capacity is 8 GB DDR4 SDRAM, ensuring lag-free operations. It also has 256 GB M.2 SSD storage to store my files. 

  • It operates on a Windows 10 pro-Operating System free of bloatware.

  • It is compatible with dual-band wireless-Ac 7260 Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity technologies.

  • Has four output ports: one USB 3.0, one VGA Connector, one HDMI port, and one headphone jack, ensuring I connect to my other devices.

  • Has an AC-powered power supply and a powerful battery with extended battery life.

Pros

  • High screen resolution for a vibrant display, enhancing my programming experience.
  • Has enough space for uninterrupted programming.
  • Has enough memory and storage to ensure a lag-free programming process.
  • High processing speed for enhanced programming, boosting my productivity.

Cons

  • The laptop is non-touchscreen.

Finding an affordable, light, portable, and fast laptop at an affordable price is difficult. However, the Samsung Galaxy Book Pro NP930XDB-KF4US Windows 11 Intel Evo Platform Laptop Computer is a laptop that integrates all these features and greatly enhanced my programming experience. In addition, the laptop has a powerful CPU that delivers fast processing speed to help boost performance.  

Features

  • The display screen size of ‎13.3 Inches, offering me enough space for programming.

  • It has an AMOLED screen in a Galaxy Book, giving it a brilliant view.

  • It also has anti-glare properties that reduce strain on my eyes. 

  • The laptop has a 1920 x 1080 Pixels screen resolution to give me a more precise and sharper image.

  • It measures ‎11.9 x 7.87 x 0.44 inches and weighs ‎1.92 lbs‎.

  • The laptop has an 11th Gen Core processor that's Intel Evo certified, with a frequency of 2.4 GHz for boosted performance, improving my experience.

  • It has a storage of ‎8 GB LPDDR4 RAM for lag-free operation and a 256 GB SSD hard drive for storing my files.

  • It operates on Windows‎ 11 Home Operating System, with an integrated card description providing me with the best and latest features. 

  • It has 802.11 ax Bluetooth that allows wireless connection to audio devices and Wi-Fi 6E, up to 3x faster than regular Wi-Fi.

  • It's powered by a lithium-ion battery with an average life of 10 hours, allowing me to program for extended periods. 

Pros

  • High storage space. The 512 GB of storage provides enough space for storing my files.
  • Its sleek design attracts me. The ultrathin design also makes it portable.
  • This laptop reduces eye strain, thanks to the anti-glare screen panel.
  • Windows 11 has features that boost my programming experience.

Cons

  • The laptop does not have an option to upgrade the hatred disk storage, limiting me to 8GB RAM and 256 GB storage.

We bet everyone has once heard of the well-liked Macbook of Apple. The MacBook Air 2017 is covered by the iconic aluminum chassis with a weight of just around 2 pounds and 1.7cm thick.

MacBook Air consists of 2 USB 3.0 ports on both sides, with a MagSafe 2 charging connector. As you can see, there is a headphone jack to the left and SDXC memory reader as well as Thunderbolt 2.0 port on the other side.

Apple McBook Air

The laptop’s Intel core i5 and 8GB ram allow you to proceed to multitask smoothly and speedily. This is particularly perfect for those programming students who usually handle numerous tabs all at once without lagging. Don’t worry guys, those gloomy days have gone!

In fact, you will be probably blown away by the pleasant experience while surfing your fingers across the keyboard. With the keyspace is 1.4mm and 72gr of force, The MacBook Air has never disappointed us when offering the comfort that satisfies every customer’s need not only programmers.

This is personally what I use, and I actually switched from Windows because I liked Macs so much. Sure, a lot of the benefits you get from a Mac are also found in Linux laptops, but I like the functionality of Linux + form of the Mac in one.

Pros

  • Comfortable keyboard
  • Expedient power port
  • Long battery duration
  • Excellent productivity

Cons

  • Poor eye-sighted screen adjustment

We really appreciate this laptop as it is truly a strong beast. If you need to handle numerous tabs all at once and want to rule out the lagging prospect, then this one will be perfect.

Moving to the next most-used laptop for programmers, here is the premium Asus Chromebook Flip C302. This laptop is considered as the best Chromebook in the marketplace due to its versatile functionality and excellent performance.

Well, have you considered the portable and lightweight companion with the 2-in-1 design of the Chromebook with 12.5 inches and 2.6pounds?

 ASUS Chromebook Flip

We believe that this laptop type is extremely beneficial for those who have a high chance of working while traveling.

In addition to the large screen of 12.5 inches and a 1920x1080 resolution, we cannot miss out on the comfortable keyboard of this year’s Flip, which distinguishes Flipbook from the tablet mode as well as creates a familiar yet traditional vibe for users.

That the space between keys offers 1.4mm to travel has provided a missing piece in the ultra-thin laptop industry. We cannot leave out the amazing trackpad which has successfully done its job with a high sense of accuracy and you can even trust this with security testing.

However, even the perfect business laptop is something that needs constant improvement. You are likely to have trouble in the switch into Chrome OS beta channel for app downloads since the Asus Chromebook flip didn’t get direct access to the Play store from the start. This problem has been fixed by Asus already but the customers still suffer from slack sometimes.

Pros

  • Tactile keyboard and trackpad
  • Vivid display
  • Elegant design
  • Robust performance

Cons

  • Little application  of android compatibility

For an under $500 laptop, the Asus Chromebook flip can adapt any programmers’ expectations that they ask for. If you are afraid of a laptop with low battery life, consider the others on the list!

How we could ignore the incredible Microsoft Surface Pro 6 for programming students! Apart from the exquisite new dark shade that is dazzling to witness, there is not much diverse change about the Surface Pro structure in comparison with the 2017 model.

Microsoft  Surface Pro 6

The tablet quantifies just 0.33 inches and weighs simply 1.7 pounds – once again, this stays immaculate from other former versions. The Surface Pro 6 is the detachable Windows 10 PC which is very worth buying.

It’s cheaper, extra powerful, portable and smooth to carry laptop compared to last year’s version.  We highly recommend you buy its additional Type Cover keyboard. Though the Surface Pen is also good but programmers prefer using a keyboard for the feel of tapping.

Sadly, in terms of the port and connectivity front, the Surface Pro 6 takes the back seat compared to other similarly priced laptops on the market.

Pros

  • Long battery duration
  • Brilliant color choices
  • Four-core processing

Cons

  • No USB-C

We believe that you will take to the appearance of this laptop at first sight. If you desire a laptop with a long battery duration, buy this Microsoft Surface Pro 6.

We’ve come to the final laptop on the list! Save the best for last, they said. The HP Spectre x360 lives up to expectations in almost every area. The 2-in-1 has successfully lured us in with its appealing laptop cover and extraordinary battery life, a world-class keyboard, and effective speakers

 HP - Spectre x360

Solid performance is offered by the Spectre x360. Besides, the13.3-inch, 1080p touch display screen is sharp and bright enough to satisfy your experiences.

The Specter x360 will suit your arduous web-surfing propensities gracefully thanks to its  Intel Core i7-8565U CPU and 8GB of RAM.

Also, the Specter x360 doesn't have numerous ports; however, those ports are extremely useful and futureproof.

Pros

  • High-class design
  • Powerful battery life
  • Deluxe keyboard
  • Strong speakers

Cons

  • Dim display

Overall, HP - Spectre x360 2-in-1 is out of the box.  It's a compelling 2-in-1 and undoubtedly considered as one of the most excellent laptops available for programmers.

Here goes another laptop from Microsoft. The Surface Pro series needs no presentation. Microsoft's premium lineup has become prestigious in its class that the words "Windows tablet" are basically equivalent to Surface.

Microsoft has supplanted the mini DisplayPort with the more adaptable USB Type-C port. Programmers will be able to connect to extra screens or charge the tablet utilizing USB Type-C.

 Microsoft Surface Pro 7

The separable Type Cover keyboard and clickpad (~10.2 x 5.3 cm) are back without any progressions from the last models apart from new color choices.

We see key criticism as milder than most Ultrabooks particularly since the base flexes all the more effectively while composing, however, this isn't unprecedented on separable consoles. Like any brand new laptop, it'll take a couple of days to get used to the strange vibe of the keyboard and small clickpad.

On paper, Intel designed Ice Lake-U to offer significantly faster-incorporated GPU performance than the aging UHD Graphics 620.

Pros

  • Significantly improved performance
  • USB-C application
  • Wifi 6 access

Cons

  • Thick screen bezels

Overall, Microsoft Surface Pro 7 does not gain enough progression over Pro 6; hence, this laptop is not suitably recommended for upgraders or beginners who are just taking interest in Microsoft’s tablet.

Best Laptops For Programming Students Buying Guide

Let’s admit that no laptop on earth can adapt to every requirement. If you’re a passionate programmer and are looking for the appropriate laptop, these guides might do you good. Please read and learn!

RAM

Well, isn’t it too obvious? The quantity of RAM is one of the most crucial matters to take into account. Running heavy IDEs and virtual machines is a must when you are a programmer.

These packages are large and take up a variety of memory. So make sure that your laptop will contain an adequate amount of RAM.

Processor

hands coding on a laptop


The processor is significant for any PC for any reason. Once more, the interest changes contingent upon the sort of work you do. A quicker processor is significant for dealing with various tasks and graphical applications.

Just simply remember these necessities, an Intel Core i5 or a comparative type of processor is suggested. It'll guarantee that you won't have to throw away your laptop at any point soon.

Who is the perfect processor for programmers? The answer is Intel Core i7. Eventually, a quicker processor will do a favor, particularly when you're assembling code. Then again, in case you're working with web planning instruments, you don't have to tie to a high-quality processor.

A PC with an Intel Core i3 or an AMD A8/A10 processor will get jobs done well.

Keyboard

So, how about the physical part? Besides the inner hardware, the keyboard of the computer places an emphasis on the comfort yet effective of the work for programmers. They tend to spend perpetual hours in front of the laptop, coding.

The first-class and durability of the keys is crucial since you’re going to be using it for a long period. Look on the keyboard format as well. Some laptops may additionally have keyboards with odd layouts, so spare some time to be used to.

Screen

Programming includes investing a lot of energy along with your laptop. The screen quality should be taken care of with wise decisions because it can greatly improve our using experience. That’s why we suggest getting a PC with a 15-inch screen only for sheer comfort. A 13-inch laptop or a the one witha 14-inch screen is not a bad choice for convenience-oriented users.

Cartooned laptop codie


FAQs

If you are still at a loss of how to choose the most suitable laptop for programming students, we are here to help you troubleshoot the problems.

Which Operating System Is The Best One?

When it comes to the operating systems, Windows and Apple are certainly the two most suggested; however, Windows will definitely win the case.

Why do we come to such a conclusion? Well, Windows is acknowledged as the most flexible operating system and can reinforce almost every program you will ever utilize such as GitHub, Source Tree, etc.

Furthermore, Windows tend to cost less than a laptop running iOS so that novices are highly recommended to select these cheaper computers.

But what if you are concentrating on learning iOS-driven languages? Of course Macbook, in this case, is a better approach. Programmers who are financially stable can consider this choice due to the X-Code requirement.

What Is The Ideal Display Size?

Indeed, for any software engineer, a 15-inch Full-HD laptop should work well for you and give you magnificent experience during those breaks.

The average size of moderately priced laptops usually accounts for 1366 x 768 pixels which are quite acceptable.

It’s best to aim for HD quality to preserve battery life and save more money.

All in all, regardless of what goals you purchase, make sure that the presentation can be seen from multidimensional edges and a 180-degree hinge would be a special reward.

How Much Is The Required Power For A Processor?

Do you know that the processor of a laptop is similar to the brain of our body? That’s right. That is where every action starts and therefore, proceeding with the proper CPU plays a crucial role in your PC’s functions.

Generally, the i5 Processor has sufficient capacity to satisfy most needs. Still, when you are fond of programming for very high-quality games, at that point you would need to go for an i7 processor.

Hexa-core would act as the cherry on the cake only if it accommodates your spending plan.

Another viewpoint to remember is processor speed. ‘The more the better’ will be applied to match your experience. Just search for a processor that can turbo lift to approximately 3GHz-4GHz.

Girl coding on a laptop


Our Final Verdict

There are a vast number of factors that you ought to take into account in advance when shopping for an outstanding laptop for programming. If your laptop doesn’t satisfy your comfort, then you may throw yourself into hot water. Choose one that matches your expectations and makes you feel comfortable experiencing the journey.

We hope that our listing of the Best Laptops for Programming Students has given you some idea of the choices which might be obtainable for you to select from. Thank you for your time.

About Dusan Stanar

I'm the founder of VSS Monitoring. I have been both writing and working in technology in a number of roles for dozens of years and wanted to bring my experience online to make it publicly available. Visit https://www.vssmonitoring.com/about-us/ to read more about myself and the rest of the team.