Python is one of the most popular programming languages out there, it’s easy to learn and to use. And if you’re new to programming, investing in a good laptop is essential, particularly for those who want to pursue a career as a programmer. To help you out in your search for the best laptop for Python programming, we have compiled a list of some of the best laptops available right now, and which you can find down below. But before we proceed, let’s first learn more about Python language and what it’s used for.
What is Python language, and what is it used for?
Python is an interpreted programming language, intended to be as simple to understand as the English language itself, and that’s why its functions can be carried out with simpler commands and less text in comparison to other programming languages. Python was created in 1991 by Dutch programmer Guido Van Rossum.
What sets Python apart from other programming languages is the fact that it comes with an interpreter within the package. This interpreter is capable of executing the program directly, as opposed to depending more complicated machine languages. This makes Python one of the easiest programming languages to learn and to use, and it is one of the top 5 programming languages in the world today.
Being a versatile language, Python can run in many systems. Used by many popular platforms and companies, such as Google, Wikipedia and even NASA), Python is often used as a scripting language for web and software applications, to automate specific series of tasks, making it more efficient. Python can also be used in scientific and mathematical computing, and even in AI projects.
What to Look For in a laptop for Python Programming?
As you might already know, there is no best laptop for Python programming that can meet the needs of everyone, it all depends on what you’re trying to do with the program, and your specific needs. However, there are a few key features that you should keep an eye out for when buying a new laptop for Python, and for programming in general:
- CPU
If you’re new to Python programming, then chances are you won’t need a powerful processor. Most laptops nowadays (even budget laptops) can be used for programming. However, if you will be working on more advanced projects, or if you will be using your laptop for other tasks that might need a strong processor, then consider at least a laptop with 8th generation i5 or i7 processor, or an AMD equivalent.
- RAM
When buying a new laptop, we recommend at least a laptop with 8GB of RAM, and that’s true not only for programming, but for any other task. Getting more RAM is also beneficial, and will help you work on more advanced projects, and with multitasking.
- Storage type and capacity
An SSD is highly recommended, it’s going to make the laptop even faster and improve your overall programming experience. Unless you need a laptop with a high storage capacity, you should avoid laptops that only come with a traditional HDD.
- Display
What makes the screen such an important detail on a laptop for programmers, is the amount of time you’ll be spending looking at it. Try to search for better quality screens with adjustable brightness. It is also recommended that you buy a laptop that has a Full HD display, which is already standard these days. Display size is also important, and we wouldn’t recommend going any lower than 13,3 inch.
- Portability
This one is often overlooked, since everyone knows that a laptop already means portability. If you’re a student or simply someone who will need to carry the laptop for work, then getting a laptop that offers a decent battery life is essential. However, if you’re going to use the laptop mainly at home, or at the office, then it’s preferable to spend your money on machine that offers more power, because more power usually means less battery life, and vice versa.
- Operating System
Python is available on all of the major Operating Systems, and this includes Windows, Mac OS, and Linux. You can get the OS you’re familiar with the most, which will be Windows for most users, and which will allow you to choose from a wide variety of laptops, unlike Mac. In addition to that, windows laptops are considerably less costly in comparison to Macbooks.
A lot of programmers recommend Linux, as the tools offered by the OS are better and more solid. Laptops with pre installed Linux are quite rare, but the good news is that you can install it yourself in dual boot along with Windows.
- Keyboard
Many people will overlook the keyboard when getting a new laptop, when in fact it’s one of the main things to consider if you’re going to be typing lots of text, or code. Getting a laptop that has a low-quality or stiff keyboard will affect your typing speed, and the quality of your work. Unfortunately, a lot of laptops comes with low quality keyboards, and that’s especially true for ultrabooks and slim laptops. So when getting a new laptop for programming, make sure to check if the keystrokes are comfortable and if the keys give good feedback. Also, getting a backlit keyboard laptop can be a huge advantage if you will be working in low light environments.
- Graphics Card
In general, having a dedicated graphics card isn’t that important when it comes to programming. However, it all depends on what you’re trying to achieve, because a dedicated GPU can be used for Accelerated Computing with Python. For most users,we would recommend getting a laptop with an integrated graphics card, which will be less expensive, and allow for better battery life. However, if you’re an advanced users, and if will be doing parrallel computing, or GPU programming, then investing in a good dedicated GPY is necessary. A GPU is also required if you want a laptop that you can play some games on occasionnaly, or if you’re into video editing.
Best laptops for Python programming:
So, now that you have an idea what to look for in order to get the best laptop for your needs; let’ scheck some fo the best laptops for Python Programming available right now. If you have any questions, plese feel free to ask us in the comments.
Acer Aspire E 15 E5-576G-5762
The Acer Aspire E 15 E5-576G-5762 has always proved to be a good fit for those who are looking for great value for the money, and it’s one of the best laptops for Python programming you can find at this price range. With an Intel Core i5 CPU, the machine can reach a speed of 1.6 GHz, proving to be capable of running programming software with no hassle and even some games with high configurations. That is also thanks to its 8 GB of RAM, to the 256 GB SSD and to the NVIDIA GeForce MX150 GPU.
With features like a backlit keyboard, you will improve your working experience and be able to keep working even in low-light conditions. Acer has also built this device in order to remain relevant and competitive even after some time.
The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides a quality picture and can also be seen from every angle. It carries a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. For ports, you can count with 1 USB 2.0 port, 2 USB 3.0 ports, 1 VGA port, 1 HDMI port and 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C port. The battery can run up to 15 hours.
Processor | Intel Core i5-8250U Processor |
RAM | 8GB |
Storage | 256GB, SSD |
Graphics | Dedicated, NVIDIA GeForce MX 150 |
Screen | 15,6 inch, 1920X1080, IPS |
Connectivity and Ports | 1 – USB Type C port
2- USB 3.0 port 1- USB 2.0 port 1 – HDMI port, Card reader, Bluetooth 4.1, DVD/RW |
Battery | up to 15 hours battery life |
Acer Predator Helios 300
This laptop has an Intel Core i7 processor, capable of providing speeds from 2.2 GHz up to 4.1 GHz. It also has six cores and hyperthreading, meaning it’s one of the fastest CPUs available. This laptop also comes with 16 GB RAM, enough to perform some heavy-duty tasks, and even gaming. For internal storage it has a 256 GB SSD, so it is recommended that you use another device to storage your files, leaving this one for the system and software. The GPU is a dedicated NVIDIA GTX 1060, capable of running games in medium to high settings. This is a great laptop for Python programming, especially if you will be working with GPU accelerated codes.
Some other good features of this device include the backlit keyboard and the side numpad. The case is solid, with some metal parts and some plastic parts, making this a good quality device for its price. With a 17.3-inch device, you’ll be getting a Full HD 1920 x 1080-pixel resolution. You can also count on 2 USB 2.0 ports, 2 USB 3.0 ports and 1 HDMI port. The battery life is of approximately 7 hours.
Processor | Intel Core i7-8750H Processor |
RAM | 16GB |
Storage | 256GB Nvme SSD |
Graphics | Dedicated, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 |
Screen | 15,6 inch, 1920X1080, IPS |
Connectivity and Ports | 1 – USB 3.1 Type C port
1- USB 3.0 ports 2- USB 2.0 ports 1 – HDMI port, Ethernet Card reader, Bluetooth 4.1 |
Battery | up to 7 hours battery life |
HP ProBook 440 G6
The HP ProBook 440 G6 is a business laptop that can offer good performance and reliability for programming. It comes with an 8th gen Intel Core i7-8565U processor, 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD and an integrated 620 graphics card.
This ProBook is a tough, simple and fast laptop, capable of handling most of your daily computing needs, and even tackle some more demanding tasks, such as video editing. The keyboard is quite comfortable, and is also backlit, unlike many other versions of this laptop.
This laptop also comes with a 14 inch Full HD display, and it’s an ideal choice for small businesses, or anyone looking for a stylish and portable device. Battery life is also very good, and it can last up to 13 hours, according to the manufacturer.
Processor | Intel Core i7-8565U Processor |
RAM | 16GB |
Storage | 512GB Nvme SSD |
Graphics | Integrated, Intel UHD 620 |
Screen | 14 inch, 1920X1080, IPS |
Connectivity and Ports | 1 – USB 3.1 Type C port
3- USB 3.0 ports 1 – HDMI port, Ethernet Card reader, Bluetooth 4.1 |
Battery | up to 13 hours battery life |
Lenovo ThinkPad T480S
Thinkpads have always been one of the most popular laptops among programmers, and that’s for because they offer excellent performance, and they have some of the best lapotps keyboards ever. And here, we have the Lenovo ThinkPad T480S, which comes with an Intel Core i7 8550U CPU, 16 GB of RAM, a 512 GB SSD and an integrated GPU, this option will suffice the most average consumers. It’s fast, reliable and has great support. The laptop combines a shiny exterior design with a competent interior, betting high on safety features and portability.
The screen comes packed with a 14-inch display, bringing you a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. For ports you’ll have 1 Thunderbolt 3, 1 USB-C, 2 USB 3.0, one SD Card Slot and one HDMI port. The battery will last you up to 13.5 hours.
Processor | Intel Core i7-8550U Processor |
RAM | 16GB |
Storage | 512GB Nvme SSD |
Graphics | Integrated, Intel UHD 620 |
Screen | 14 inch, 1920X1080, IPS |
Connectivity and Ports | 2- USB 3.1 Type C port / one with Thunderbolt 3
3- USB 3.0 ports 1 – HDMI port, Ethernet Card reader, Bluetooth 4.1 |
Battery | up to 13 hours battery life |
Dell XPS 15 7590
The New Dell XPS 15 7590 comes with a 4.5 GHz Core i7 Family CPU, 16 GB of RAM, a 1 TB SSD and a dedicated 4 GB NVIDIA Radeon R5 Graphics GPU. With a serious amount of power, this laptop will run programming software fast and without any hassle. The boot-up is quick, and so is browsing through folder packed with many files.
The screen is a 15.6-inch 4K display, giving you a 3840 x 2160 pixels resolution and will make it easier for you to see every line of code easily or even watch a movie with such amazing resolution. The device has 1 Thunderbolt 3 port, 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports and 1 HDMI port. The battery will last over 15 hours if idle, and about 8 hours of regular usage.
Processor | Intel Core i7-9750H Processor |
RAM | 16GB |
Storage | 1TB Nvme SSD |
Graphics | Dedicated, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 |
Screen | 15,6 inch, 3840 X 2160, IPS |
Connectivity and Ports | 1- USB 3.1 Type C port / one with Thunderbolt 3
1- USB 3.0 ports 1 – HDMI port, Card reader, Bluetooth 4.1 |
Battery | up to 15 hours battery life |