Which laptop is best for coding and Python? Python is one of the most popular and versatile programming languages in the world.
It is used for web development, data science, machine learning, automation, and more. Whether you are a beginner or a professional, you need a reliable and powerful laptop to run your Python code smoothly and efficiently.
But how do you choose the best laptop for Python programming? There are so many factors to consider, such as the processor, the RAM, the storage, the display, the keyboard, and the battery life. You also need to balance your budget and your preferences.
To help you with your decision, we have compiled a list of the top 10 laptops for Python programming in 2023. These laptops are based on expert reviews, user feedback, and technical specifications. They cover a range of prices, features, and brands, so you can find the one that suits your needs and goals.
Our expert recommendations will highlight top contenders in the market, such as the Apple MacBook Pro, LG gram, MSI Thin GF63, Acer Aspire Vero, Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5, and HP Pavilion x360 2-in-1 Laptop. With their unique features and capabilities, these laptops have proven themselves as reliable choices for Python developers.
Whether you’re working on data analysis, machine learning, web development, or any other Python-related tasks, our goal is to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect laptop that aligns with your programming requirements and budget.
Some things to consider when buying a laptop for python programming are:
Display:
The size, resolution, and quality of the screen can affect your coding experience and comfort. A larger screen (at least 14 inches) with a higher resolution (at least 1080p) and a matte finish can provide more space, clarity, and visibility for your code. A touchscreen or a 4k display may not be necessary or worth the extra cost and battery drain.
CPU:
The processor is the brain of the laptop and determines how fast and smoothly it can run your Python programs and applications. A powerful processor (such as Intel i5, i7, or i9, or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7) with a high frequency (at least 3GHz) and multiple cores can handle complex and demanding Python tasks.
RAM:
The memory is the temporary storage of the laptop and affects how well it can multitask and run multiple programs at once. A sufficient amount of RAM (at least 8GB, preferably 16GB or more) can prevent lagging and freezing when working with Python.
Storage:
The storage is the permanent storage of the laptop and affects how much data and files it can hold. A large-capacity storage (at least 256GB, preferably 512GB or more) can store more Python projects and libraries. A solid-state drive (SSD) is faster, quieter, and more reliable than a hard disk drive (HDD), but also more expensive.
Graphics:
The graphics card is the component that renders images and videos on the screen. A dedicated graphics card (such as Nvidia GeForce or AMD Radeon) can improve the performance and quality of graphics-intensive Python applications, such as data visualization, machine learning, or gaming.
Operating System:
The operating system is the software that manages the laptop’s hardware and software resources. Python is compatible with most operating systems, such as Windows, macOS, Linux, or Chrome OS. However, some operating systems may have advantages or disadvantages for Python programming, depending on your preferences and needs.
For example, Windows may have more compatibility issues with some Python libraries or tools than Linux or macOS. macOS may have more security features and stability than Windows or Linux. Linux may have more flexibility and customization options than Windows or macOS. Chrome OS may have less functionality and support for Python than other operating systems.
Battery Life:
A longer battery life (at least 8 hours) can allow you to work with Python without worrying about finding a power outlet. However, a longer battery life may also mean a heavier or bulkier laptop.
Portability:
The portability is the ease and convenience of carrying the laptop around. A lighter and thinner laptop (under 4 pounds and under 0.8 inches) can make it easier to travel with your Python projects. However, a lighter and thinner laptop may also compromise some features or performance.
Design:
The design is the appearance and style of the laptop. A well-designed laptop can enhance your coding experience and comfort. Some design features to consider are the keyboard layout and quality, the touchpad responsiveness and accuracy, the webcam position and resolution, the speaker sound and volume, the cooling system noise and efficiency, the port selection and placement, and the color and finish of the laptop.
Price:
The price is the amount of money that you are willing to spend on a laptop for Python programming. A higher price may indicate better features or performance, but also more risk or investment. A lower price may indicate worse features or performance, but also more savings or value. The best price depends on your budget, needs, and expectations.
Also See: Best Motherboard For Programming
Here are the recommended best laptop for Python programming:
- Overall Best For Python: Apple MacBook Pro
- Best Budget: LG gram (2022)
- High Performance: MSI Thin GF63
- Best Cheapest: Acer Aspire Vero
- Best 2 in 1 : Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 2023
- Best Convertible: HP Pavilion x360 2 in 1 Laptop
1. Overall Best For Python: Apple MacBook Pro
The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch is the top choice for best laptop that is perfect for Python programming, data science, and machine learning. It is equipped with the latest M1 Pro chip, which provides excellent performance and battery life. The MacBook Pro 14-inch also has a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, which is perfect for viewing code and debugging.
The M1 Pro chip is one of the most powerful chips ever made for a laptop. It has 10 CPU cores and 16 GPU cores, which is more than enough power for most Python tasks. Even for more demanding tasks, such as machine learning, the M1 Pro chip can handle it with ease.
The MacBook Pro 14-inch has excellent battery life. It can easily last for 10 hours on a single charge, even when you are running demanding tasks. This makes it perfect for working on the go.
The MacBook Pro 14-inch has a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display. It has a resolution of 3024 x 1964, which is perfect for viewing code and debugging. The display is also very bright and colorful, which makes it great for watching videos or working on creative projects.
The Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch is an excellent laptop for Python programming. It is powerful, portable, and has a great display. However, it is also expensive, and there are some features that are missing, such as a dedicated GPU and an SD card slot.
2. Best Budget: LG gram (2022)
The LG gram (2022) 17Z90Q is is capable of handling python programming and other tasks. This laptop combines a large display, light weight, and long battery life. Weighing only 2.98 pounds and measuring 0.7 inches thick, it is considered an ultraportable 17-inch model. With a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P processor, 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and 2TB of NVMe SSD storage.
The laptop features a 17-inch IPS panel with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels and a 16:10 aspect ratio, providing ample vertical space for coding and document viewing. The matte display reduces glare and reflections, and offers good brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. It also supports Wi-Fi 6E for faster and more reliable wireless connectivity.
The keyboard has a full-size layout with a numeric pad and backlight, while the touchpad is large and supports multi-touch gestures.
It is suitable for python programming, web development, and data analysis. The battery life is exceptional, with up to 20 hours of usage on a single charge, thanks to the 80Wh battery.
The laptop offers adequate ports, including two Thunderbolt 4 ports, two USB-A 3.2 ports, an HDMI port, a microSD card reader, a headphone/mic combo jack, and a DC-in port. The Thunderbolt 4 ports support charging, data transfer, and high-resolution external displays.
The LG gram (2022) 17Z90Q is an excellent laptop for python programming and productivity tasks. It offers a large display, light weight, long battery life, good performance, a comfortable keyboard and touchpad, a Full HD webcam, Wi-Fi 6E support, Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a durable design. However, it is not suitable for heavy gaming or video editing due to the lack of a discrete GPU and mediocre speakers. It is also relatively expensive compared to similar laptops.
3. High Performance: MSI Thin GF63
The MSI Thin GF63 is a budget-friendly gaming laptop suitable for python coding and other programming tasks. It features a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and 512GB NVMe SSD storage.
The 15.6-inch IPS display offers a 144Hz refresh rate, delivering smooth visuals. It has thin bezels on three sides, providing a modern look and a high screen-to-body ratio.
The keyboard has a red LED backlight, adjustable in three brightness levels. It offers decent travel and feedback, with gaming features such as anti-ghosting and N-key rollover. The touchpad is large, smooth, and supports multi-touch gestures.
Powered by the Intel Core i7-12600H processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card, the laptop delivers impressive performance for python coding, web development, data analysis, and medium to high settings gaming at 1080p resolution.
The battery life is average, with up to 7 hours of usage on a single charge. However, carrying the charger may be necessary for extended use away from a power outlet.
The laptop offers adequate ports, including USB-A and USB-C ports, an HDMI port, an Ethernet port, a headphone/mic combo jack, and a DC-in port. The USB-C port lacks Thunderbolt and charging support.
The design features a minimalist black metal chassis with red accents and Cooler Boost 5 technology for improved cooling during gaming sessions. The laptop is relatively thin and lightweight for a gaming device.
In summary, the MSI Thin GF63 is a budget-friendly laptop suitable for python coding and gaming. It offers a powerful performance, smooth display, comfortable keyboard and touchpad, sturdy design, and decent battery life. However, it falls short in terms of ports, webcam, speakers, and storage capacity.
4. Best Cheapest: Acer Aspire Vero
The Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-7617 Green PC is a laptop that combines performance, sustainability, and security. It features an 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor, 16GB of DDR4 memory, and a 512GB NVMe SSD, which deliver fast and smooth multitasking and data transfer.
The 15.6-inch FHD IPS display offers a wide color gamut and crisp visuals, while the Intel Iris Xe graphics provide decent graphics performance for casual gaming and content creation.
The laptop also comes with Windows 11 Home, which offers a modern and intuitive user interface, enhanced security features, and compatibility with various apps and devices.
The Aspire Vero is not only powerful, but also eco-friendly. It is made of 30% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic, which reduces CO2 emissions by 21%. It also uses low volatile organic compound (VOC) materials, which minimize harmful emissions and odors.
The laptop is designed to be easily disassembled, repaired, upgraded, and recycled, extending its lifespan and reducing electronic waste. The packaging is also made of recyclable materials, including ocean-bound plastic.
The Aspire Vero also boasts several security features, such as a fingerprint reader, a firmware trusted platform module (TPM), a Kensington lock slot, and BIOS passwords. These features protect the laptop from unauthorized access and theft, ensuring the safety of your data and privacy.
The Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-7617 Green PC is an ideal choice for python users who value performance, sustainability, and security. It offers a powerful processor, ample memory and storage, a vivid display, and a green design. It also comes with Windows 11 Home, which enhances the user experience and security.
5. Best 2 in 1 : Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 – (2023)
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 is a highly versatile and powerful 2-in-1 laptop suitable for Python programming and other tasks. Its standout features include a 16-inch WUXGA touchscreen with a 360-degree hinge, allowing users to switch between laptop, tablet, tent, and stand modes. The laptop is equipped with Windows 11, providing a modern user interface, enhanced security, and compatibility with various apps and devices.
Powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor, the laptop delivers fast and smooth performance for multitasking, gaming, and content creation. The processor includes four cores, eight threads, and a base clock speed of 2.2 GHz, with a boost up to 4.1 GHz. It also integrates an AMD Radeon RX Vega 10 graphics card, offering decent graphics performance for casual gaming and video editing.
With 16GB of DDR4 memory, the laptop enables seamless multitasking and handles multiple applications and browser tabs without lag. It also features a 512GB NVMe SSD, ensuring swift boot-up times, rapid data transfer, and ample storage for files and programs.
The laptop provides additional security features, including a fingerprint reader, a firmware trusted platform module (TPM), a Kensington lock slot, BIOS passwords, and a physical webcam privacy shutter. These measures safeguard against unauthorized access and theft, ensuring data and privacy protection.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 offers Python programmers a highly versatile, performant, and secure computing solution. Its prominent attributes include a large and responsive touchscreen with a flexible hinge, a powerful processor with integrated graphics, generous memory and storage capacity.
6. Best Convertible: HP Pavilion x360 2 in 1 Laptop
The HP Pavilion x360 14 Convertible 2-in-1 Laptop is a versatile and powerful device suitable for work and entertainment. It features a 14-inch Full HD touchscreen display that rotates 360 degrees, offering laptop, tablet, tent, and reverse modes. The laptop includes a backlit keyboard, fingerprint reader, and stylus pen for convenience and security.
Powered by an Intel Core i5 processor, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage, the laptop is capable of running Python coding applications smoothly. It handles multitasking well and offers fast boot-up and ample storage space.
However, it is not a dedicated gaming laptop and may have limitations with demanding games or software. The absence of a dedicated numeric keypad may also be inconvenient for users requiring extensive number entry.
The laptop’s 3-cell 43 Wh lithium-ion battery provides up to 8 hours of usage on a single charge, depending on usage. HP Fast Charge technology allows for quick charging, and the USB-C port supports Power Delivery for alternative charging options.
The laptop boasts a sleek silver aluminum chassis, matte black keyboard deck, and a compact and lightweight design. It weighs 3.55 lbs (1.61 kg) and measures 12.76 x 8.78 x 0.81 inches (32.41 x 22.29 x 2.05 cm), making it portable.
The laptop offers a variety of ports, including USB-C with Power Delivery and display output, USB-A (one with HP Sleep and Charge), HDMI, headphone/microphone combo jack, SD card reader, power connector, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0. It lacks an Ethernet port or DVD drive.
Dual speakers with Audio by B&O deliver clear sound quality, although their bottom placement may affect audio depending on the laptop’s surface. HP Audio Boost enhances sound quality and volume.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering the best laptop for Python programming, several excellent options stand out based on their features and performance. The Apple MacBook Pro with the M1 Pro chip offers exceptional processing power, optimized for efficiency and performance. Its reliable performance and integration within the Apple ecosystem make it a top choice for Python developers.
Another standout option is the LG gram (2022), known for its lightweight design and long battery life. With a 17-inch display, ample RAM, and storage capacity, it provides a comfortable coding experience for Python programmers on the go.
The MSI Thin GF63 impresses with its powerful Intel Core i7 processor and Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics card. This combination ensures smooth multitasking and the ability to handle graphics-intensive tasks alongside Python coding. Its affordability makes it an attractive option for developers on a budget.
The Acer Aspire Vero offers a balance of performance and affordability, featuring an Intel Core processor and ample storage for Python coding projects. Its reliable performance and solid construction make it a reliable choice for Python developers.
The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5 2023 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop with a touchscreen display and powerful AMD Ryzen processor. It provides flexibility for Python programmers who require both laptop and tablet functionality.
Lastly, the HP Pavilion x360 2-in-1 Laptop offers versatility with its convertible design and strong performance with an Intel Core processor. With its touchscreen display and stylus pen support, it provides an interactive and convenient coding experience for Python programmers.
Ultimately, the best laptop for Python programming depends on individual needs and preferences. Factors such as processing power, storage capacity, display quality, and portability should be considered to ensure a smooth and efficient coding experience.
People Also Ask
Which laptop is best for coding and Python?
The best laptop for coding and Python depends on individual preferences, but options like the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon, Dell XPS 13, and MacBook Pro are popular choices among programmers.
However, some of the common factors to look for in a good laptop for coding and Python are: a large and sharp display, a fast and powerful processor, enough RAM and storage space, a comfortable keyboard, a long battery life, and a variety of ports and wireless connectivity options.
How much RAM do I need to run Python?
The amount of RAM needed to run Python depends on the complexity of the code and the size of the datasets being processed. Generally, 8GB of RAM is sufficient for most Python programming tasks, but 16GB or more may be beneficial for more demanding projects.
Can I learn Python on a laptop?
Yes, you can learn Python on a laptop. In fact, most Python learners use laptops as their primary devices for learning and practicing Python. Laptops are convenient, portable, and versatile devices that can run Python code using various tools and methods. You can use an online IDE (integrated development environment), such as Repl.it or Google Colab, or install a local IDE or text editor on your laptop, such as PyCharm or Visual Studio Code. You can also use Jupyter Notebook or Anaconda to run Python code interactively on your laptop.
Do I need a powerful laptop for programming?
The answer to this question depends on what kind of programming you do and what level of performance you expect from your laptop. Generally speaking, you do not need a very powerful laptop for programming, as most programming languages and tools do not require high-end specifications or graphics. However, if you work with large or complex projects, use multiple programs or tabs at once, or deal with graphics-intensive tasks or software, you may benefit from a more powerful laptop that can handle your workload without slowing down or crashing.
Is Mac or PC better for coding?
Both Mac and PC platforms are suitable for coding, and the choice between the two depends on personal preference and specific requirements. Mac is popular among developers for its Unix-based environment and seamless integration with other Apple devices, while PCs offer a wider range of hardware options and flexibility in terms of software choices.
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