What is the Best Laptop for a Solopreneur?

A laptop is an essential tool for many people, whether they are solopreneurs, small business owners, students, or just everyday users.

 

Your choice of laptop as a solopreneur really matters.

Imagine you’re working on a critical project, juggling multiple tasks, and your laptop decides to take a coffee break.

Frustrating, right? This scenario underscores the importance of choosing the right laptop for your business needs.

 

Your laptop should be your reliable sidekick, assisting you in managing emails, creating content, crunching numbers, and everything in between.

 

In choosing the best laptop for your solopreneur activities, there are many factors to consider.

 

When you’re a solopreneur, your laptop needs to be nimble and powerful.

Go for a laptop that strikes a balance between portability and performance. Windows, macOS, or Linux as Operating System? The choice depends on your comfort level and software requirements.

 

Important factors such as the processor, RAM, storage, battery life, portability, and price are most to consider.

 

In this blog post, we will discuss the best laptops for solopreneurs, small business owners, personal use, and work from home jobs.

 

We will also provide tips for choosing the best laptop most suitable for your needs. Let’s dive in now.

 

The Best Laptop for Solopreneurs

There’re noticeable differences between solopreneurs and entrepreneurs.

Solopreneurs are self-employed young or old individuals who run their own businesses.

 

They often need a laptop that is versatile and can handle a variety of tasks, such as email, web browsing, document creation, storage of large data, conference calls, graphic design and many more.

 

When choosing a laptop for a solopreneur, some of the most important factors to consider include:

• • Processor: The processor is the brain of the laptop and it is responsible for running the operating system and applications.

 

A solopreneur will need a laptop with a powerful processor that can handle multiple tasks at once.

Intel Core i5-1135G7, and Intel Core i7-11800 processors are good examples to consider.

 

Laptops having these types of processors may cost about $2600.  And this is why you should prioritize your budget. If you don’t have this figure to get a suitable laptop for your solopreneur needs, you can get a fairly used one with similar processor from the likes of eBay at incredibly low price.

 

Don’t ever go for any laptop with a mediocre processor because of low budget. If you do, you may be surprised the laptop won’t even have the framework to install your preferred programs and software.  

 

Also, low processors are responsible for slow multitasking that will make you waste your precious time expecting your laptop to restart.

• • RAM: RAM (Random Access Memory) is used to store data that the processor is currently using. A solopreneur will need a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM to ensure their laptop runs smoothly.

 

Here are some basic guidelines on choosing the best RAM you need: 4GB is enough for most everyday computing needs, such as browsing the web, checking email, and using productivity software.

 

8GB is a good amount of RAM if you work with large files, such as videos, or do other resource-intensive tasks, such as gaming.

 

16GB should cover all but the most intensive pro-level uses, such as video editing and graphic design work.

 

32GB is only necessary for the most demanding tasks, such as running virtual machines or editing 4K video.

 

It is important to note these are just general guidelines. The amount of RAM you need depends on the specific solopreneur tasks you are using your computer for.

 

Make sure you consider this factor in choosing the RAM size of your laptop. Keep in mind that low RAM size will cause your computer to be pretty slow, which reduces the performance of your laptop greatly

Large SSD/Hard Drives: SSD is used to store data, such as documents, photos, and videos. A solopreneur will need a laptop with at least 256GB of storage space. This is dependent on what your solopreneur activities entail.

 

A video editor for instance will definitely need a large storage of about 500GB and above compared to a content writer, who doesn’t work on heavy data frequently. Note that there’s a difference between SSD and Hard Drive storage. Hard Drive is becoming obsolete since the invention and use of SSD.

 

This is because SSD storage makes your laptop to run more faster compared to HDD. Also, it isn’t as fragile as hard drives that wipe off data easily due to shocks.

I experienced this while using my former HP. My laptop refused to boot due to little shock it had when it slipped off my bed. All my data had to go because the hard drive refused to work ever again.

So, make sure your preferred solopreneur laptop has SSD as its storage device to preserve your valuable data.

 

Battery life: A solopreneur will need a laptop with a long battery life so that they can work on the go and for many hours. This is super important especially for solopreneurs living developing countries such as Nigeria where reliable electricity isn’t guaranteed.

 

If this isn’t prioritized, you may be shocked your laptop won’t let you deliver your services timely which may result to loss of clients or bad reviews.

 

This happened to me when I was still using my former laptop immediately after college. I couldn’t meet up with a particular content writing gig because we had an unexpected blackout in the state.

 

This isn’t good for your success as a solopreneur or a freelancer. And to avoid this, you have to get a laptop having at least 6600 mAh battery. The laptops recommended later on in this article; all have great batteries that can take you for six hours before a recharge.

 

Portability: A solopreneur will need a laptop that is portable so they can take it with them to meetings or other events. Portability of laptops also affords you comfortability.

 

This is because a portable and light-weight laptop won’t be a heavy load for your important journeys, travels and meetings. You can easily slide it into your travel bag and also get it out in meeting without causing a stare.

 

Laptops come in all shapes and sizes. Some are so small that they could easily be mistaken for an A5 notebook, while others are so large and powerful that they could replace your desktop computer.

 

This can make it difficult to decide which laptop is right for you. If portability is your top priority, then a 13-inch Ultrabook is the undeniable best option.

 

These laptops are lightweight, which makes them easy to carry around with you wherever you go. They also tend to be more energy-efficient than larger laptops, so you can get longer battery life.

 

Some of the Best Laptops for Solopreneurs:

Based on these factors and reviews from users, we’ve come to a conclusion that the following laptops are among the best picks for solopreneurs:

 

1. Apple MacBook Pro: The MacBook Pro is a powerful and versatile laptop that is perfect for solopreneurs. It has a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, and a long battery life.

 

The Apple MacBook Pro stands as a macOS-based laptop sporting a 13.30-inch screen that boasts a resolution of 2560×1600 pixels.

 

Its driving force is a Core i5 processor, accompanied by a substantial 12GB of RAM. With regard to storage, the MacBook Pro houses a capacious 512GB SSD.

 

In the realm of connectivity, you’ll find options such as Wi-Fi 802.11 ac and Bluetooth, supplemented by the presence of 2 USB ports (2 x USB 3.0) and Mic In ports.

 

As of August 22, 2023, the starting price for the Apple MacBook Pro sits at $ 1,927.51.

2. Microsoft Surface Laptop 4: The Surface Laptop 4 is a stylish and lightweight laptop that is perfect for on-the-go work. It has a powerful processor and a long battery life. Here are some of its interesting features here:

Processor Options: Core i5-1135G7, Core i5-1145G7, Core i7-1185G7

Ryzen 5 4680U Surface Edition, Ryzen 7 4980U Surface Edition

Display: Two screen sizes available: 13.5-inch with a resolution of 2256×1250 and 201 pixels per inch (ppi), and 15-inch with a resolution of 2496×1664 and 201 ppi. Both use PixelSense technology.

 

Memory: Choice of memory configurations: 8GB/16GB/32GB LPDDR4X running at 3,733MHz or 8GB/16GB/32GB DDR4 operating at 2,400MHz.

Storage: Storage options include 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB M.2 NVMe SSDs.

     Graphics: Graphics options encompass Iris Xe and AMD Radeon Graphics.

Ports: Ports include 1 USB Type C, 1 USB Type A, Surface Connect, and a 3.5mm audio jack.

Security: Equipped with a Windows Hello camera for enhanced security.

Camera: User-facing camera with 720p resolution.

     Battery Life: Battery life varies based on processor and screen size: 13.5-inch models: Up to 19 hours for Ryzen 5, up to 17 hours for Core i5.

15-inch models: Up to 17.5 hours for Ryzen 7, up to 16.5 hours for Core i7.

        Wireless Connectivity: Features Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 technology.

3. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon: The ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a durable and reliable laptop that is perfect for business use. It has a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, and a long battery life. Here are some of its features:

Processor: Intel Core i3, Core i5, or Core i7 Processor, 5th Generation.

GPU: Intel HD Graphics 5500

Memory: 4GB or 8GB, up to 8GB RAM

Dimension: 17.78 mm

Weight: 1.3 kg

Display: 14-inch FHD, 1920 x 1080 pixels or 2560 x 1440 pixels (Touch or Non-Touch), with anti-glare

Keyboard: Full Size Keyboard

Built-in Storage: 128GB, 180GB, 256GB, or 512GB SDD

Bundled Cloud Storage: – Ports & Connectivity

Webcam: Yes, HD Camera

USB 3.0: Yes, 2 Ports

USB 2.0: No

HDMI: Yes

DisplayPort: Yes (Mini)

VGA: Yes

Battery: 50 WHr Battery

Use Time: up to 10.9 hours)

 

4.Dell XPS 13: The Dell XPS 13 is a sleek and stylish laptop that is perfect for professionals. It has a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, and a long battery life. It features include: 13.4-inch display, Intel Core i5-1230U processor, RAM: 16GB, Storage: 512GB SSD

Price: Starts at $749 / $1,149 as tested

 

What Laptop do Business People Use?

 

The type of laptop that business people use varies depending on their specific needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular laptops for business people include:

 Apple MacBook Pro: The MacBook Pro is a popular choice for business people because it is powerful, portable, and stylish.

 Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop is another popular choice for business people because it is lightweight and has a long battery life.

 

 Lenovo ThinkPad: Lenovo ThinkPads are known for their durability and reliability, making them a good choice for business people who need a laptop that can withstand everyday use.

 

 Dell XPS: Dell XPS laptops are known for their sleek design and powerful performance.

 

 HP Spectre: HP Spectre laptops are a good choice for business people who want a laptop with a premium feel. (state the features here: HP Spectre X360 Summary

HP Spectre X360 is a Windows 10 Professional laptop with a 13.30-inch display that has a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. It is powered by a Core i7 processor and it comes with 8GB of RAM.

The HP Spectre X360 packs 256GB of SSD storage.)

 

Which Laptops are Best for Personal Use?

 

The best laptops for personal use also vary depending on the individual’s needs and preferences. However, some of the most popular laptops for personal use include:

 Apple MacBook Air: The MacBook Air is a lightweight and portable laptop that is perfect for students and everyday users.

 

 Microsoft Surface Laptop: The Surface Laptop is another good option for personal use. It is lightweight and has a long battery life.

 

 Lenovo IdeaPad: Lenovo IdeaPads are a good value for money option. They offer a variety of features and are available in a range of price points.

 

 Asus VivoBook: Asus VivoBooks are another good value for money option. They offer a variety of features and are available in a range of price points.

 

 HP Envy: HP Envy laptops are a good choice for users who want their solopreneur Business to flourish.

 

HP Envy is a Windows 10 laptop with a 17.00-inch display that has a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. It is powered by a Core i7 processor and it comes with 12GB of RAM. The HP Envy packs 1TB of HDD storage.

 

Graphics are powered by Nvidia GeForce GTX 850M. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, Bluetooth, Ethernet and it comes with 3 USB ports (3 x USB 3.0), HDMI Port, Multi Card Slot, Mic In, RJ45 (LAN) ports.)

 

Conclusion:

In a world where digital connections and tasks dominate, your laptop becomes your faithful companion on the solopreneur journey.

 

Remember, it’s not just a device; it’s a productivity powerhouse that fuels your dreams and aspirations.

 

By choosing the right laptop—one that suits your business needs, personal preferences, and remote work requirements—you’re setting yourself up for success in the modern entrepreneurial landscape.

 

As you embark on this exciting adventure, consider the insights shared in this guide.

 

Let your laptop be the tool that propels your solopreneurial endeavors to new heights. Happy laptop hunting!