15 Best Laptops for Software Development in 2024 | Specs

If you’re starting with software development, you need an efficient laptop to work with. You can begin with laptops that have a good OS.

However, a wide range of laptops is available that is suitable for almost every software development. Deciding on which to pick will definitely depend on some specific factors which we will highlight in this article.

So, if you’re searching for the best laptops for software development in 2024, this article is a full review you need to decide.

Here we’ve also provided a full “Buying Guide” and some significant FAQs for the best software development laptops, helping you to choose the correct one by browsing through our list.

The ultimate decision totally depends on your particular preferences and, of course, the amount of money you have available.

Let’s take a roll.

How to Choose the Best Laptops for Software Development in 2024

Before purchasing a software development laptop, there are numerous factors to consider. While we can relate many of these to the CPU, the amount of RAM, storage, or even the price, your comfort level should be the most important consideration.

If you’re uncomfortable using your laptop for programming, it can affect your productivity. It is critical to select one that meets your requirements and makes you feel at ease with it.

Hence, when you need a little more comfort or need to perform some extremely tough computations, the factors we’ve described below should be what to consider.

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#1. CPU

The processor is the most crucial aspect to consider when purchasing a programming laptop. This is because the CPU handles all the duties associated with programming.

As a result, selecting a strong CPU, such as the Intel Core i5, Intel Core i7, Apple M1, or Apple M1 Pro, is critical.

Because it is an ARM-based processor, the Apple M1 Pro will outperform the others in all tasks.

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#2. RAM & Storage

Aside from the CPU of your laptop for software development, RAM and storage can also significantly impact the programming experience.

Whether you are writing, compiling, or running code, all of its data and the entire code are kept in RAM. As a result, having enough RAM for the same is critical.

While entry-level programming laptops may only have 8 GB of RAM, higher-end alternatives will have 16 GB or 32 GB memory, which is significantly better for heavier programming jobs.

For laptop storage for software development, all modern options include high-speed SSD drives rather than hard drives.

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#3. GPU

Unlike your laptop’s CPU, RAM, and storage, the GPU is not as heavily employed for software development tasks. However, a powerful GPU is essential if your computer code requires the rendering of many graphical elements for its GUI.

Fortunately, most current laptops have powerful enough built-in GPUs to handle the task. Both an Apple M1 iGPU and an Intel Iris GPU will suffice for your software development requirements.

Meanwhile, particular software development laptops may contain external GPUs such as the Nvidia GTX 1650 Ti, allowing you to use your laptop for purposes other than programming.

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#4. Battery Life

Even if a programming laptop is attractive, it will not be helpful for portable and on-the-go use if it does not have a long battery life.

Apple laptops will perform significantly better in this area because of their highly efficient ARM-based processors. Fortunately, many Intel-based laptops have relatively long battery life.

You can choose from up to 8 hours, up to 12 hours, up to 16 hours, and even more excellent battery life ratings. Going with a larger battery life rating is always the best option for portable solutions, as one would assume.

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#5. Display

Having a magnificent display on your laptop for software development is essential whether you need to design the GUI for your program or not.

A stunning display guarantees that all the text is easy to read and that you can use your laptop’s display for several hours at a time.

You should look at the monitor’s resolution if you want something similar. Although an FHD 1080p display is enough for most tasks, high-end laptops feature 4K UHD 2160p displays that provide significantly more excellent text sharpness.

Similarly, larger display sizes, such as 15.6 or 16 inches, outperform smaller 13.3 or 14-inch monitors.

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What are the Best Laptops for Software Development in 2024?

Yes, software development appears to be nothing more than typing lines of code in order for a software or application to function properly.

While that is true, having a low-quality laptop will not help you get your work done, and having a beast under the case can quickly elevate you from a beginner to a professional.

The laptops on our list are fantastic examples of those with a lot under the hood to assist you in code without getting into the troubles that many other laptops can have.

Here is a list of the best laptops for software development that you can purchase in 2024:

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#1. Apple MacBook Air

Specifications

• Display: 13.3-inch (diagonal) 2,560 x 1,600 LED-backlit display with IPS technology
• CPU: Apple M1
• GPU: Integrated 7-core /8-core GPU
• Battery and Power: 18 hours of battery life
• Memory: 8GB – 64GB
• Storage: 256GB – 2TB SSD
• Size and Weight: 2.8 pounds

The MacBook Air is not only the best laptop Apple has ever developed but also the best notebook you can buy if you work in programming and coding as a software developer.

The MacBook Air is a tiny, lightweight notebook that offers exceptional performance for coding and other creative work in 4K and over 11 hours of battery life on a single charge, thanks to a groundbreaking ARM-based M1 CPU from Apple.

While many Apple goods are outside the reach of most consumers’ budgets, the MacBook Air’s price is reasonable compared to many other options on our list.

However, the ability to use not only Mac software but also iOS apps for iPhone and iPad makes this laptop a significant change.

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#2. Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch 2024

Specifications

• Display: 16-inch Retina display with True Tone
• CPU: 9th-generation Intel Core i7 – i9 
• GPU: AMD Radeon Pro 5300M – Radeon Pro 5500M
• Battery and Power: battery life of up to 21 hours
• Memory: 16GB – 64GB
• Storage: 512GB – 8TB SSD
• Keyboard: Touch Bar and Touch ID
• Wireless: Features WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5 for wireless connectivity

The Apple MacBook Pro is the company’s most recent addition to its lineup and comes with some incredible features.

First, consider the appearance. It has a beautiful appearance and a sturdy build quality. The display is a massive 16-inch Retina Display with True Tone technology. The display is large, with a vibrant color palette and a resolution of 30721920.

Furthermore, the MacBook features a 2.6GHz 6-core Intel Core i7 processor with Turbo Boost up to 4.5GHz. It also contains an AMD Radeon Pro 5300M GPU for gaming. It also has macOS 11.0 Big Sur, Apple’s most recent operating system.

From our review, if MacBook Air is expensive for you, Apple MacBook Pro 16-Inch 2024 is another laptop you can try out for software development.

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#3. Dell Inspiron 5000 14-Inch FHD Laptop

Specifications

• Display: 14 inch 1920 x 1080 2 in 1 touchscreen display
• CPU: Intel Core i7 1165G7 CPU
• GPU: Intel Xe Graphics GPU
• Battery and Power: 5-hour long battery life
• Memory: 32 GB RAM
• Storage: 1 TB SSD storage
• Wireless: WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5 for wireless connectivity

Dell also has far fewer and more economical options in its Inspiron portfolio for individuals looking for powerful and innovative laptops that perform well for software development.

The Dell Inspiron 5000 laptop for software development is one of the greatest value-for-money selections on this list because it not only works well but also has unique features. To begin with, the Intel Core i7 1165G7 CPU powers this Dell laptop.

However, the biggest feature of this laptop is that it comes with 32 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD drive, which is more than most high-end alternatives. The Core i7 of this laptop, like most other 11th Gen CPUs, incorporates the Intel Xe Graphics GPU.

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#4. Microsoft Surface 13.5-Inch Laptop 4 Touch

Specifications:

• Display: 13.5 inches
• CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 – 7
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
• Battery and Power: Decent battery 
• Memory: 8 GB
• Storage: 256GB – 1TB SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10

As a programmer working on Windows 10 apps, the Surface Laptop 4 might be the greatest laptop for software development.

Because Microsoft manufactures the Surface Laptop 4 as an excellent representation of Windows 10, and you can be confident that your Windows programs will work flawlessly with Windows 10 operating systems.

Furthermore, with Windows 11 now available, upgrading is free, and, as one would expect from a Microsoft device, the current operating system operates brilliantly on it.

The most recent model includes the option of eleventh-generation Intel Core processors or AMD’s top mobile CPUs, and up to 32GB of storage, and the fastest SSD, making it an ideal laptop for the most demanding programming tasks.

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#5. HP Spectre x360 13T Laptop 2024

Specifications:

• Display: 13.3″ FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS BrightView micro-edge WLED-backlit multitouch
• CPU: 11th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processor
• GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
• Battery and Power: 11 hours
• Memory: 8GB – 16GB
• Storage: 256GB – 2TB SSD
• Size and Weight: 2.8 Pounds
• Operating System: Windows 11

My first priority for programming is the processor, and the 11th generation Quad-core does not disappoint. The Intel i7 is now one of the greatest laptop CPUs on the market, and it shows.

Combine that with 16 gigabytes of RAM and 2 terabytes of solid-state drive space, and you have a hardworking computer.

You’d expect a good processor, but this laptop has a lot more going for it. The beveled chassis and deep-set keys make typing a pleasure.

Interesting, the multi-touch screen is useful for swiftly isolating lines of code or changing text. Just remember to use a stylus!

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#6. LG Gram 17Z90P 17-Inch Laptop

Specifications:

• Display: 17-inch 1600p (2,560 x 1,600)
• CPU: Intel Core i7-1065G7
• GPU: Intel Iris Plus
• Battery and Power: 9.5 hours
• Memory: 16GB
• Storage: 2 x 512GB SSD
• Size and Weight: 2.9 lbs

This LG Gram 17 laptop is an excellent choice for software development and the best if you need a lightweight solution for working on the go. The partitioned SSD is extremely fast.

Basically, this laptop boots almost instantly and runs without lag by storing your files on one drive and functioning from the other.

It is only.7 inches thick, which is remarkable for a laptop. The remarkable portability has some drawbacks.

The Intel Iris GPU is enough for encoding and compilation, but you won’t be able to play any AAA games on this machine. However, the 9-hour battery life is outstanding for such a compact gadget. And the fan is quite quiet.

This is one of the best laptops for software development from the satellite office if you travel a lot for work or school and require a portable choice.

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#7. Google Pixelbook – Best Andriod Development

Specifications:

• Display:
• CPU: Dual-core Intel Core i5- i7
• GPU: Intel HD Graphics 615
• Battery and Power:
• Memory: 8 – 16GB
• Storage: 128 – 512GB SSD
• Size and Weight: 2.42lbs
• Operating System: Chrome OS

When Google first announced the Chromebook, the goal was to provide users with a low-cost, dependable laptop that was comparable to others on the market.

While there are Chromebook variants that are excellent for programming, the Pixelbook was created to compete with Apple in the laptop industry.

Chrome OS, which supports Google’s Android Studio development tools, is on par with any normal Windows laptop. It is also undergoing a beta phase for Linux support.

The Pixelbook has the features you want when programming, with 8 or 16GB of RAM, up to 512GB SSD, and a dual-core Intel Core I7.

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#8. MSI Prestige 14 Evo Professional Laptop

Specifications:

• Display: 14 inch 1920 x 1080 display
• CPU: Intel i5 1135G7 CPU
• GPU: Intel Xe Graphics GPU
• Battery and Power: 12-hour long battery life
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Storage: 512 GB SSD storage
• Wireless: WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 for wireless connectivity

MSI’s Prestige 14 Evo laptop is the lowest option if you want a Windows and Intel-based machine. The Intel Core i5 1135G7 CPU is used in this entry-level Intel-based software development laptop.

Despite the decreased price, you still receive 16 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD storage drive with this laptop. This laptop also includes the Intel Xe Graphics GPU for your graphics demands.

Looking at the display of this software development laptop, it also has a 14-inch 1920 x 1080 display, which provides an excellent combination of portability and screen space.

In terms of connectivity, this laptop has a reasonable number of options for the price, including 1 x USB type A 3.1, 2 x USB Type C Thunderbolt 4, 1 x micro SD card reader, and 1 x combination audio jack.

Despite its low price, you can use this laptop with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5 devices if you like. While not the finest, the offered battery life rating of up to 12 hours is enough for most users.

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#9. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop

Specifications:

• Display: 15.6″ Full HD widescreen LED-backlit IPS display
• CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 3700U Processor
• GPU: AMD Radeon RX Vega 10 GPU
• Battery and Power: 7.5 hours
• Memory: 8GB DDR 4 RAM
• Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home 64-bit

The new Acer Aspire 5 laptop has remarkable characteristics. First, the design is sleek and stylish. The processor, which is an AMD Ryzen 7 3700U, comes next. Windows 10 Home 64-bit was used as the operating system. It also boasts an AMD Radeon RX Vega 10 GPU for improved gaming.

Also, it boasts a large 15.6′′ Full HD widescreen LED-backlit IPS display for an excellent display. It contains 8GB DDR4 memory and a 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD for storage.

It features a large battery life of 7.5 hours that keeps you going for longer periods of time. The laptop weighs 3.96 pounds, making it light and easy to transport.

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#10. ASUS F512DA-EB51 Vivobook 15

Specifications:

• Display: 15.6 inch FHD 4 way NanoEdge bezel display
• CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3500U Quad-Core processor
• GPU: AMD Radeon Vega 8 discrete GPU
• Battery and Power: NA
• Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM
• Storage: 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home

ASUS VivoBook 15, the company’s newest model, has some incredible features. Starting with the appearance, it is simple and sleek, with a sturdy build quality. It has a massive 15.6-inch FHD 4-way NanoEdge bezel display for a fantastic viewing experience.

Also, it contains an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U Quad-Core processor with a clock speed of 2 GHz. It boasts a discrete AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics card for a fantastic gaming and video viewing experience.

It has 8GB DDR4 RAM for performance and 256GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD for storage. They designed this laptop for users who value speed, adequate storage space, and an enormous screen.

This is the best for software developers looking for a low-cost laptop with respectable specs.

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#11. ASUS ZenBook 13 Ultra-Slim Laptop

Specifications:

• Display: 13.3 inch Full HD Wide View 4-way NanoEdge bezel display
• CPU: 11th generation Intel Core i7
• GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics card
• Battery and Power:
• Memory: 16GB LPDDR4X RAM
• Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home

The ASUS ZenBook 13 Ultra-Slim Laptop appearance is appealing, with a fantastic design and a sleek body. It has a 13.3-inch Full HD Wide View 4-way NanoEdge bezel display. The 1920 x 1080 resolution enhances your viewing experience.

Second, for performance, it has the latest 11th generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 Quad-Core Processor with a clock speed of up to 4.70 GHz. It also contains an Intel Iris Xe Graphics card for excellent gaming. It also has Windows 10 Home installed.

Finally, for storage, it contains a 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD and 16GB LPDDR4X RAM to improve the laptop’s performance.

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#12. Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming Laptop

Specifications:

• Display: 15.6-inch full HD IPS Display
• CPU: 9th-generation Intel Core i5 processors
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card
• Battery and Power: 9 Hours
• Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM
• Storage: 512 GB SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10

Lenovo IdeaPad L340 has a stylish design with a 15.6-inch full HD IPS display. With a resolution of 1920 x 1080, the colors are vibrant and brilliant. It has a 9th-generation Intel Core i5 processor.

Furthermore, it includes the most recent NVIDIA GeForce Graphics card to optimize your gaming and video experience. Along with this, it has Windows 10 installed as an operating system.

It also offers 512GB NVMe SSD storage and 8GB DDR4 RAM for storage and memory.

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#13. Dell XPS 17 9700 Laptops

Specifications:

• Display: 17.0″ UHD InfinityEdge Touch Anti-Reflective Display
• CPU: 10th Generation Intel Core i9-10885H
• GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2060 Graphic
• Battery and Power: N/A
• Memory: 32GB DDR4
• Storage: 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDKeyboard:
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home

In terms of appearance, it is basic and beautiful, with vivid colors. The screen is enormous, with a 17.0′′ UHD+ InfinityEdge Touch Anti-Reflective 500-Nit Display and a resolution of 3840 x 2400 that improves the viewing experience. The colors are vibrant and vibrant.

In terms of hardware, it has a 10th Generation Intel Core i9-10885H processor combined with an NVIDIA RTX 2060 Graphics card to double the user experience. This improves performance and gaming experience. It has Windows 10 Home installed as an operating system.

It contains 32GB DDR4 RAM and a large storage capacity of 1TB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD to improve software performance.

Developers should embrace this laptop as it’s one of the best laptops for software development.

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#14. HP 17.3” HD+ Flagship

Specifications:

• Display: 7.3″ HD+ SVA BrightView WLED-backlit Display
• CPU: 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8265U Quad-Core Processor
• GPU: Intel UHD Graphics 620
• Battery and Power: N/A
• Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home

The new HP 17.3′′ HD+ Flagship Home & Business Laptop is pure black with a widescreen. The appearance is basic and elegant. It sports a large 17.3′′ HD+ SVA BrightView WLED-backlit display.

It also contains an 8th Gen Intel Core i5-8265U Quad-Core Processor with a clock speed of 1.60 GHz for performance enhancement. The graphics card has an Intel Graphics 620 card. It has Windows 10 Home installed as the operating system.

Finally, it has 256GB SSD storage and 8GB DDR4 RAM to improve speed.

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#15. Razer Blade Stealth 13 Ultrabook Laptop

Specifications:

• Display: 13-inch Full HD matte display
• CPU: quad-core Intel Core i7 processor
• GPU: NVIDIA GeForce MX150 GPU
• Battery and Power: 13 hours
• Memory: 16GB RAM
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Operating System: Windows 10 Home

The first thing that draws attention is the sleek body with a sturdy structure and a luxurious feel. It sports a 13-inch Full HD matte display with a bright and vivid color palette for improved viewing and gaming.

In terms of performance, it has a quad-core Intel Core i7 processor combined with an NVIDIA GeForce MX150 graphics card.

Also, the combination of GPU and Processor improves the performance of the laptop. And the operating system is Windows 10 Home.

Also, it boasts a large 256GB SSD for storage and 16GB RAM for memory, which improves speed. It has a battery that lasts for 13 hours.

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Frequently Asked Questions:

Conclusion

There are numerous laptop models available on the market. From everyday use to commercial use, gaming to software development, there is something for everyone. The laptops listed above are the finest for software development.

However, if you are searching for a programming laptop, you will need something that is not only strong enough for your programming needs but also allows you to do so while on the road.

In this regard, we have previously highlighted a few of the best software development laptops in this article.

References

• electronicshub.org – 10 Best Laptop for Programming For Software Developers in 2024
• softwaretestinghelp.com – 10 Best Laptops For Programming For Software Developers
• justcreative.com – 10+ Best Laptops for Coding, Programming & Development (Sept 2024)
• costofincome.com – Best Laptop For Programming and Software Development, 2024

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