In today’s fast-paced business world, having the right equipment is essential for maintaining productivity. Laptops, more than any other tool, offer the flexibility and power small business owners need to keep their operations running smoothly. A good small business laptop provides the necessary performance to handle everyday tasks, portability for on-the-go efficiency, and reliable battery life to ensure you stay powered throughout your workday.
When selecting the best laptop for small business use, there are several key factors to consider. Performance and processor speed should align with your business tasks, while the build quality must withstand regular travel and use. Portability is vital, so look for lightweight designs with durable construction. Battery life is another critical consideration, as it determines how long you can work without needing a recharge. Storage options vary, and should be chosen based on your specific needs, whether it’s larger space for files or faster SSDs for speed.
Balancing performance, portability, and price is crucial in finding the right laptop for small business needs. We spent countless hours evaluating various models to identify the ones that can reliably support you and your operations.
Best Laptops for Small Business
We’ve gathered the top laptops that cater to the unique needs of small businesses. These models offer a balance between performance, portability, and reliability, ensuring that you can work effectively and efficiently.
HP 17 Business Laptop
For those in search of a dependable business laptop with ample storage and a spacious screen, the HP 17 is a strong contender.
Pros
- Large 17.3” screen enhances productivity
- Quick setup and fast execution of tasks
- Generous storage and RAM for multitasking
Cons
- Comes initially in S mode, which may require tweaking
- Some concerns about build quality
- May be considered bulky for frequent travelers
This laptop delivers substantial performance power for everyday business tasks. The large HD+ display provides an excellent canvas for working with multiple windows open, allowing us to manage tasks seamlessly. Its speed is impressive, with the device booting up almost instantaneously due to the SSD.
With 32GB of RAM, multitasking is a breeze, making complex tasks and browsing with multiple tabs open a snap. The initial setup was straightforward, letting us dive into work without any unnecessary delays. We notice the machine performs well under heavy-duty use, and transferring large files is rapid and efficient.
However, the large size, while beneficial for visibility and usability, means it’s not the most portable option if we’re constantly on the move. The HP 17’s build may require more thoughtful handling, but overall, its performance and features make it an appealing option for our business needs.
HP 255 G10 Laptop
This HP laptop is a solid choice for small business owners due to its portability, performance, and affordability.
Pros
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry around
- Strong performance with AMD Ryzen processor
- Affordable price without compromising essential features
Cons
- Does not include Microsoft 365
- Slower performance under heavy multitasking
- Some users have reported missing advertised features
The HP 255 G10 is great because it balances price and functionality, offering just the right features for business tasks. It feels solid, yet remains lightweight, making it ideal for on-the-go productivity. We found that the vibrant display and fast storage speed enhance the user experience significantly.
This laptop impresses us with its battery efficiency, which is crucial during long workdays or meetings without power sources. The inclusion of Windows 11 Pro ensures seamless navigation and modern security features, which are integral for handling business data securely. It connects effortlessly to all your essential peripherals with its array of ports, a big plus for any business user.
While it excels in many areas, those requiring high-level multitasking might notice some slowdowns. We suggest upgrading RAM if that’s a concern. Despite this, its value for cost remains high, and it’s a great investment for businesses needing a dependable work machine that can travel well.
HP Business & Student 14″ Laptop
A smart investment for small business owners and students, balancing performance, portability, and price.
Pros
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry around.
- Fast charging capability gets it to 50% in just 45 minutes.
- Dual microphones ensure clear audio for virtual meetings.
Cons
- Limited storage space requires cautious file management.
- Slower performance if you demand heavy multitasking.
- S mode restricts app installation until switched to regular Windows 11.
As a tool tailored for both business professionals and students, this HP laptop is impressive for its portability. When we first opened it, we noticed its sleek and light design, which was easy to slide into our backpack. It’s perfect for those on the move, making it convenient to take from one meeting to another or for studying in various locations.
The battery life also stands out; during our busy day, we only needed to plug it in once, thanks to its fast-charging feature. The audio quality truly adds to its functionality. Whether we’re on a video call or recording a quick note, the noise reduction software enhances sound clarity, making communication seamless.
Switching out of S mode is a must if we want to explore apps beyond the Microsoft Store. The process is straightforward but necessary to maximize the laptop’s potential. Though the storage is quite limited, the additional micro SD card is a welcome solution. For us, conscious management of storage becomes vital in day-to-day use.
Dell Inspiron 15 3000
This laptop is an excellent option for those managing a small business looking for a reliable everyday performer without breaking the bank.
Pros
- The touchscreen interface is intuitive and increases productivity.
- Lightweight and portable for easy transport.
- High-speed SSD allows quick access to files and programs.
Cons
- The non-backlit keyboard can be tricky in low light.
- Battery life may not last an entire workday without a charge.
- Occasional overheating was observed under heavy workloads.
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 stands out with its responsive touchscreen, which helps us navigate tasks swiftly. It’s compact enough to stash in a bag and light enough to carry from meeting to meeting. With an SSD onboard, the high-speed data transfer is a noticeable fix for any sluggish tasking issues we’ve faced with older models.
While the performance is great, the keyboard’s lack of backlighting might be inconvenient in dim settings. We’ve also noted that the battery may not support long hours of use, especially under demanding tasks, so having a charger nearby is advisable for full workdays.
On a practical note, the system can get warm during intensive use. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall speed and functionality make it a worthy contender for our business needs, particularly given its reasonable price point.
Lenovo Newest V15 Business Laptop
The Lenovo V15 delivers impressive performance and storage capacity, making it a solid choice for small businesses seeking reliability and value.
Pros
- Ample memory and storage for business tasks
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Comes with essential accessories
Cons
- Lacks a backlit keyboard
- The display brightness may not suffice for outdoor use
- Customer service can be challenging to reach
Navigating through our daily business tasks was effortless with the Lenovo V15. The generous 32GB RAM enhances multitasking, ensuring smooth performance even when handling demanding applications. The storage space is more than adequate for housing large files, which is crucial for productivity on the go.
We appreciated the sleek design of this laptop. Weighing in at only 3.75 pounds, it’s easy to transport between meetings or on business trips. The inclusion of a 512GB external hard drive and a microfiber cloth is a thoughtful touch, demonstrating Lenovo’s attention to user convenience.
On the downside, the absence of a backlit keyboard can be a minor inconvenience during late-night work sessions. The screen’s brightness is acceptable indoors but struggles a bit under sunlight. Despite these small hiccups, the Lenovo V15 remains a versatile and cost-effective solution for small business needs.
Buying Guide
When selecting laptops for a small business, priority should be on essential features that meet our needs. Consider budget constraints without compromising quality. Price isn’t the only factor; assess total value in terms of performance, durability, and features.
Features to Consider
Performance
- Opt for a processor that strikes a balance between speed and energy efficiency.
- RAM: At least 8GB for multitasking and smooth operation.
Storage Options
- SSD vs. HDD: SSDs offer faster access to data and are generally more reliable.
- We should determine storage needs based on business operations, starting from 256GB SSD.
Display
- A crisp, clear display improves productivity. Aim for at least a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution.
Battery Life
- Look for a laptop that can last a workday without needing a recharge. 7-9 hours is ideal.
Portability & Connectivity
Portability
- Size and weight should be considered if frequent travel is expected. A 13-15 inch screen is often a sweet spot.
Connectivity
- Ensure a range of ports (USB-C, HDMI, etc.) for versatility.
- Built-in Wi-Fi 6 can provide better connectivity in a busy environment.
Support and Warranty
Choosing a laptop with comprehensive support services and a robust warranty can save us from potential disruptions. Look beyond basic warranties and consider additional support options for peace of mind.