Whether you’re an auto mechanic, licensed plumber, or computer programmer, you need quality tools to get the job done right. As far as most programmers are concerned, the go-to day-to-day tool is their trusted laptop computer.
With so many people working from home, the choice of a laptop has never meant more to professional programmers. As we make our way further into 2021, those in need of an upgrade should consider doing so as soon as possible.
The following are the six best laptops for programming in 2021:
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme
A powerhouse of hardware coupled with timeless design, the Lenovo ThinkPad has been a popular laptop among programmers for decades. The X1 Extreme is the latest in a long line of similarly state-of-the-art workhorses developed by the China-based computer manufacturer ever since IBM sold the brand in 2005. The only downside is the high price tag.
LG Gram 17”
One of the best things about the LG Gram 17” is its versatility. The developer-friendly features are suitable for FRP programming, deciphering unfamiliar code, writing tests, and designing solutions. The LG Gram 17” is also reasonably priced compared to several other comparable laptops on the list. Furthermore, the large screen size doesn’t impede its portability.
MacBook Pro
The widespread popularity of Apple products has meant an increased demand for iOS-specific development and design. To get the job done right regardless of the endpoint (iPhone, iPad, or other), programmers need the power and reliability of a MacBook Pro 14” or 16”. While the price point is high, it’s one of those “get what you pay for” situations.
Microsoft Surface Pro 7
Computer science students, entry-level programmers, and others in similarly low-responsibility roles should have no problem using the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 to get the job done. That’s good news, considering it’s the cheapest option on the list, with models going for $700. The only drawbacks are lousy battery life and the barrage of prompts and solicitations that come standard with Microsoft products.
HUAWEI Matebook X Pro
Branded as a competitor to the MacBook Pro, the MateBook X Pro lives up to the hype more than most people probably assume. While HUAWEI is no Apple, their alternative is more affordable and more practical. It also packs quite a punch in terms of power, with a 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and 16 GB RAM. It also has a 3.5mm microphone jack, which is good news to anyone who hasn’t gotten on the wireless earbud train yet.
Razer Blade Pro 17
Though designed as a gaming laptop, the Razer Blade Pro 17 is also a practical option for professional programmers. Beautiful design features and state-of-the-art hardware join forces to offer everything you’ll ever need as a programmer while also providing an aesthetically pleasing workstation. Besides, who doesn’t like the idea of having a work computer that doubles as a gaming system?
These six laptops are not the only practical options available to programmers. They just happen to be the best of the bunch. Those in need of an upgrade are encouraged to do their own research and evaluations before buying a new laptop. We hope the article has helped make the search more straightforward, but the ultimate decision is yours to make. Good luck!