Natasha working remotely

11 Best Laptops for Remote Work in 2024

LOOKING FOR THE BEST LAPTOPS FOR REMOTE WORK?

As a seasoned traveler and a remote worker, I know how crucial it is to have a reliable laptop. Whether you are traveling to exotic destinations or just working from your local coffee shop, having one of the best laptops for remote work can make all the difference.

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of finding the best laptops for remote work.


Things to Consider When Buying a Laptop for Remote Work

Selecting the best laptop for remote work goes beyond chasing the latest models or impressive specs; it’s about meeting your unique needs, and ensuring portability and reliability. Consider these points:

  • Performance: Go for laptops with powerful processors like Intel Core i5, i7, or equivalent AMDs.
  • Portability: Frequent travelers should prioritize light, compact laptops. Models around 13 to 15 inches balance screen size and portability well.
  • Battery Life: The best laptop for remote work should last a full workday on battery.
  • Storage: Depending on your work, ample storage space might be crucial. SSD storage, faster and more reliable than HDDs, is advised.
  • RAM: More RAM means smoother multitasking. 8GB is the suggested minimum, but heavy tasks like video editing might require 16GB.
  • Display Quality: High-resolution displays can enhance your work experience, especially in design or photography.
  • Keyboard & Touchpad: Ensure the laptop has a comfortable keyboard and a responsive touchpad.
  • Connectivity: Check for sufficient USB ports, support for the latest Wi-Fi standards, and HDMI for external display connectivity.
  • Connectivity: Check for sufficient USB ports, support for the latest Wi-Fi standards, and HDMI for external display connectivity.
  • Durability: Travel can be tough on tech, so opt for durable laptops with robust build quality.
  • Price: Lastly, your chosen laptop should fit your budget. The goal is to find the best laptop for remote work within your price range.

11 Best Laptops for Remote Work in 2024

Let’s dive in and explore the laptops that have earned a spot on this coveted list. Each one has its unique strengths, and I’ve tried to highlight those while also pointing out any potential drawbacks.

Remember, the best laptops for remote work are one that match your individual needs and working style.

1. Apple MacBook Air (2024)

Apple MacBook Air - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $1249

Description: The MacBook Air is a strong contender for best laptops for remote work, especially for Apple aficionados. It’s lightweight, powerful, and flaunts a high-resolution Retina display.

Size: 15.3 inches

Processor: Apple M2 chip

RAM/Memory: 8GB

Battery Life: Up to 18 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Exceptional battery life
  • Seamless integration with other Apple devices
  • Silent operation due to the M2 chip
  • Cons:
  • Limited ports
  • Higher price point
  • Lack of touchscreen

Purchase the Apple MacBook Air (2024) here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


2. Apple MacBook Pro

Apple MacBook Pro - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $1,799

Description: Apple’s MacBook Pro is a powerhouse. It’s an outstanding laptop with an elegant design, known for its vibrant Retina display and powerful performance. Its Apple M1 Pro chip provides superior processing speed, making it a go-to choice for professionals who require a high-performance laptop for work.

Size: 14.2 inches

Processor: Apple M2 Pro

RAM/Memory: 16GB

Battery Life: Up to 17 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Exceptional battery life
  • Superior performance
  • Retina display for vibrant visuals
  • Durable aluminum build
  • Excellent sound system
  • Cons:
  • Price point is high for some
  • Limited port selection
  • Software compatibility issues for non-Mac applications

Purchase the Apple MacBook Pro here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


3. Asus Vivobook

Asus Vivobook - best laptops for remote work

Price Starting At: $499

Description: The Asus Vivobook is an affordable and portable option for remote workers who are always on the move. It offers solid performance for everyday tasks like browsing and document editing, making it an excellent value-for-money option.

Size: 15.6 inches

Processor: Intel i5

RAM/Memory: 8GB

Battery Life: Up to 6 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Budget-friendly without compromising essential features
  • Lightweight and portable design for easy travel
  • Solid performance for everyday tasks
  • Multiple ports
  • Cons:
  • Average battery life
  • Display quality is average
  • Screen brightness could be brighter

Purchase the Asus Vivobook here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


4. Dell XPS 17

Dell XPS 17 - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $2519

Description: The Dell XPS 17 boasts a large screen and powerful performance, making it great for multitasking and media editing. Its premium design, combined with the powerful Intel i7 processor and substantial memory, makes it a formidable workstation.

Size: 17 inches

Processor: Intel i7

RAM/Memory: 32GB

Battery Life: Up to 9 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Powerful performance with Intel i7 processor
  • Larger 17-inch screen
  • Premium design and build
  • High-quality display
  • Cons:
  • Heavy and less portable
  • Premium-priced product
  • Battery life could be better

Purchase the Dell XPS 17 here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


5. Dell XPS 15

Dell XPS 15 - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $1,199

Description: A compact version of XPS 17 with similar high performance, the Dell XPS 15 offers a balance between portability and power. Its high-quality display and substantial processing power make it a good choice for professionals.

Size: 15.6 inches

Processor: Intel i7

RAM/Memory: 16GB

Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Compact yet powerful
  • Premium design
  • High-quality display for vibrant visuals
  • Solid performance with the Intel i7 processor
  • Cons:
  • Priced at the premium end of the market
  • Average battery life
  • Laptop can get warm during heavy use

Purchase the Dell XPS 15 here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


6. Microsoft Surface Pro 7

Microsoft Surface Pro 7 - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $723

Description: The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 provides the flexibility of a tablet and laptop, making it ideal for digital nomads. Its versatile design and solid performance make it an excellent choice for remote workers.

Size: 12.3 inches

Processor: Intel i5

RAM/Memory: 8GB

Battery Life: Up to 10.5 hours of typical device usage

  • Pros:
  • Versatile 2-in-1 design
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Solid performance with Intel i5 processor
  • Excellent display quality
  • Cons:
  • Accessories like the Type Cover are sold separately
  • Battery life is average

Purchase the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


7. Acer Aspire 5

Acer Aspire 5 - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $529

Description: The Acer Aspire 5 is a great budget-friendly laptop with enough power for basic tasks and browsing. Its AMD Ryzen 4 processor and adequate memory make it an excellent value-for-money choice for remote workers.

Size: 15.6 inches

Processor: AMD Ryzen 4-Core Processor

RAM/Memory: 4GB

Battery Life: Up to 7.5 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Affordable price point
  • Decent performance for basic tasks
  • Good selection of ports for connectivity
  • Cons:
  • Not suitable for resource-intensive applications
  • Display quality is average
  • Average battery life

Purchase the Acer Aspire 5 here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


8. Acer Aspire 7

Acer Aspire 7 - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $599

Description: The Acer Aspire 7 offers more power than its sibling Aspire 5, making it a good mid-range laptop for remote work. Its Core i7 processor and 8GB memory provide solid performance for most tasks.

Size: 15.6 inches

Processor: Core i7

RAM/Memory: 8GB

Battery Life: Up to 8 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Good performance for the price
  • Decent graphics capabilities for light media editing or gaming
  • Variety of ports for connectivity
  • Cons:
  • Average battery life compared to other laptops
  • Not as lightweight as other options
  • Not the best-quality display

Purchase the Acer Aspire 7 here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


9. Lenovo ThinkPad X13 (AMD)

Lenovo ThinkPad X13 - best laptops for remote work

Price: Starting at $749

Description: The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 combines power and portability, making it a good all-around option for remote work. Its AMD Ryzen 7 Pro processor delivers reliable performance for various tasks.

Size: 13.3 inches

Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 Pro

RAM/Memory: 16GB

Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Good performance with AMD Ryzen 7 Pro
  • Compact and portable design
  • Durable build quality typical of the ThinkPad line
  • Excellent keyboard for typing
  • Cons:
  • Priced at the premium end of the market
  • Average battery life for the price
  • Lacks an SD card reader

Purchase the Lenovo ThinkPad X13 here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


10. Lenovo Flex 5

Lenovo Flex 5

Price: Starting at $559

Description: The Lenovo Flex 5 is a budget-friendly 2-in-1 laptop suitable for remote workers who appreciate versatility. Its 360-degree hinge allows it to be used in multiple modes, and its AMD Ryzen 5 processor provides solid performance for its price.

Size: 14 inches

Processor: AMD Ryzen 5

RAM/Memory: 16GB

Battery Life: Up to 10 hours of web browsing

  • Pros:
  • Affordable price point
  • Versatile 2-in-1 design
  • Solid performance with AMD Ryzen 5 processor
  • Stylus pen for digital note-taking or drawing
  • Cons:
  • Display could be brighter
  • Average battery life
  • 2-in-1 design might not be suitable for everyone

Purchase the Lenovo Flex 5 here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


11. Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Pro

 Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Pro

Price: Starting at $1,099

Description: The Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Pro offers robust performance, a stunning AMOLED display, and a sleek design. It’s an excellent choice for professionals who demand power and visual quality from their laptops.

Size: 15.6 inches

Processor: Intel i7

RAM/Memory: 16GB

Battery Life: Up to 16 hours of video playback

  • Pros:
  • High-quality AMOLED display
  • Powerful performance with Intel i7
  • Thin and lightweight design
  • Long battery life
  • Cons:
  • High price point
  • Fewer ports
  • Might get warm during heavy usage

Purchase the Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Pro here directly on Amazon for the cheapest price


Things to Avoid when Buying a Remote Work Laptop

Embarking on your search for the best laptops for remote work can be thrilling, like planning a travel adventure to an unknown land. Yet, as with any journey, there are pitfalls to avoid. Here are some red flags that you need to watch out for when shopping for your ultimate remote work companion.

  1. Poor Battery Life: Don’t compromise on battery life. A long-lasting battery is a remote worker’s best friend, particularly when power outlets are scarce.
  2. Heavy Weight: If you’re constantly on the move, choose a lightweight and portable laptop. Your back will thank you!
  3. Subpar Performance: A laptop’s performance is crucial for smooth multitasking. Avoid devices with a slow processor, low memory, or insufficient storage.
  4. Uncomfortable Keyboard and Trackpad: Remember, you’ll be interacting with these the most. Ensure they’re comfortable and responsive.
  5. Low-Quality Screen: A low-resolution screen can strain your eyes. Prioritize a laptop with a high-quality, clear, and bright display.
  6. Insufficient Ports: Depending on your needs, you might require various ports (USB, HDMI, SD card slots). Check the number and types of ports a laptop offers before purchasing.

Best Budget Laptops for Remote Work

Remote work

For the budget-conscious traveler, high performance doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. These cost-effective laptops deliver great value, making them some of the best laptops for remote work in 2024 for those on a budget.

Best Laptop for Working from Home Under $500

The Asus VivoBook 15 delivers an impressive performance, featuring an AMD Quad Core r5-3500u Processor and 8GB DDR4 RAM. With its lightweight design and durable build, it’s a top contender in the under $500 category.

Best Laptop for Working from Home Under $1000

Coming in at under $1000, the Acer Aspire 7 is a powerhouse packed with an Intel Core i5-1035G1 Processor and 8GB DDR4 Memory. Its sleek design, long battery life, and high-resolution screen make it an attractive choice for remote workers.


FAQs: Best Laptops for Remote Work

What is the best laptop for working remotely?

The “best” laptop for remote work depends on your specific needs. If you’re a graphic designer or video editor, you may need a laptop with a robust graphics card like the MacBook Pro or Dell XPS 17. If you’re a writer or social media manager, a more compact and portable laptop like the MacBook Air or Asus Vivobook could be ideal.

What size laptop is good for travel?

For travel, a laptop between 13 to 15 inches often provides the best balance between usability and portability. Smaller laptops are more travel-friendly but may compromise on keyboard size and screen real estate. Larger laptops offer a better viewing and typing experience but can be cumbersome to carry.

Is it better to travel with an iPad or laptop?

This really depends on your needs. An iPad is lighter and more portable, and with the right accessories (like a keyboard), it can function similarly to a laptop. However, if your work involves heavy multitasking or specialized software, a laptop would be the better choice.

What is the best 2 in 1 laptop for remote work?

The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is an excellent 2-in-1 laptop for remote work, offering the versatility of a tablet and the power of a laptop. With its detachable keyboard and support for the Surface Pen, it’s a great tool for designers, artists, and note-takers.

Can I get travel insurance for my laptop?

Yes, many travel insurance policies provide coverage for electronic items, including laptops. Make sure to check the terms and conditions to understand the extent of the coverage.

What laptop specs do I need for remote work?

The specifics will depend on your line of work. However, generally speaking, an ideal remote work laptop should have a strong processor (at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5), a minimum of 8GB RAM, ample storage (preferably a fast SSD), a comfortable keyboard, a high-quality display, and a robust battery life.

Can I charge my laptop with a travel adapter?

Yes, you can charge your laptop with a travel adapter. Just make sure the adapter is compatible with the power standards of the country you’re visiting. Also, verify that your laptop’s power supply can handle the voltage range in your destination country to avoid any electrical mishaps.

Can you travel with a laptop in your carry-on?

Yes, you can travel with a laptop in your carry-on. In fact, it’s usually recommended to do so, as it reduces the risk of damage or theft. Remember that you’ll need to take it out of your bag when going through security at the airport.


Conclusion: Best Laptops for Remote Work

The world has become our office. For those of us blessed with the freedom to work from virtually anywhere, having the right laptop is not just a convenience, it’s an essential part of our toolbox.

The best laptop for remote work has to tick boxes for performance, portability, battery life, and indeed, price.

Remember that the best laptop for you will cater to your specific needs and budget. From the sleek, high-performance MacBook Pro to the budget-friendly but reliable Acer Aspire 5, this list offers options to fit various working styles and budgets.


Digital Nomad Backpack

Safeguarding your laptop during travel and remote work is paramount, and a top-notch laptop bag is key to this endeavor. It ensures your journey is hassle-free and more importantly, shields your valuable tech arsenal from potential damage!

Explore our article on The Best Digital Nomad Backpacks to find your perfect travel mate!

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