Best Business Laptops 2021

Are you a business owner or employee tasked with finding the best laptops without breaking the bank? You're in the right place! We understand that every penny counts, and choosing the right laptop can significantly impact productivity and profitability. This guide is tailored for cost-cutters like you, focusing on value, reliability, and long-term cost-effectiveness.

Why Choose a Business Laptop?

While consumer laptops might seem tempting with their flashy features, business laptops offer key advantages. These include enhanced security features, robust build quality, longer lifespans, and better warranty support. Investing wisely now can save you headaches and money down the road.

Our Top Picks for 2021 (Bargain Hunter's Edition)

Budget-Friendly Powerhouse: Lenovo ThinkPad E14

The Lenovo ThinkPad E14 strikes a balance between performance and affordability. It's a solid choice for everyday tasks like email, word processing, and web browsing. A durable build and comfortable keyboard make it a workhorse.

Pros: Excellent value, durable design, comfortable keyboard.

Cons: Integrated graphics, screen could be brighter.

The Underdog: Acer Aspire 5

Don't underestimate the Acer Aspire 5. It offers impressive performance for its price point. It's a good option if you need a larger screen without a premium price tag.

Pros: Large screen, good performance for the price, ample storage.

Cons: Plastic build, shorter battery life than some competitors.

The Chromebook Contender: HP Chromebook Pro c640

If your business relies heavily on cloud-based applications, the HP Chromebook Pro c640 is worth considering. It's secure, lightweight, and offers excellent battery life. It may not be good for applications requiring heavy local processing.

Pros: Excellent battery life, lightweight, secure Chrome OS.

Cons: Limited functionality offline, relies on cloud-based applications.

Detailed Reviews

Lenovo ThinkPad E14: The Reliable Workhorse

The ThinkPad E14 boasts a classic ThinkPad design: understated and durable. It can withstand the rigors of daily use. The keyboard is a highlight, offering a comfortable and tactile typing experience.

Performance is adequate for most business tasks. Choose a configuration with at least 8GB of RAM and an SSD for optimal responsiveness. Integrated graphics are sufficient for basic tasks, but don't expect to run demanding software.

Acer Aspire 5: Big Screen on a Budget

The Acer Aspire 5 stands out with its large display, making it ideal for multitasking and presentations. Performance is surprisingly good for the price. You can run multiple applications without significant slowdown.

However, the plastic build feels less premium than some competitors. Battery life is also a concern. You may need to plug in during a full workday.

HP Chromebook Pro c640: Cloud-Centric Champion

The HP Chromebook Pro c640 is designed for businesses that operate primarily in the cloud. Chrome OS is lightweight and secure, providing a smooth and efficient user experience. Boot-up times are incredibly fast.

Battery life is exceptional, easily lasting a full workday and beyond. The main limitation is its reliance on cloud-based applications. You won't be able to run many traditional desktop programs.

Side-by-Side Specs & Performance

Customer Satisfaction

Based on recent surveys, Lenovo ThinkPad E14 users report high satisfaction with durability and keyboard quality. Acer Aspire 5 owners appreciate the large screen and overall value. HP Chromebook Pro c640 users praise its battery life and ease of use.

Maintenance Cost Projections

Generally, ThinkPads have lower long-term maintenance costs due to their robust design. Acer Aspire 5 may require more frequent repairs due to the plastic chassis. Chromebooks often have lower maintenance as their operating system is cloud-based.

Consider extended warranties for added peace of mind. Budget for potential battery replacements after 2-3 years.

Key Considerations

Choosing the best business laptop for your needs involves balancing cost, performance, and reliability. Think about which features are most important for your daily tasks. Consider factors like battery life, keyboard quality, and screen size.

Don't forget to factor in long-term maintenance costs and warranty options. Thorough research will help you make an informed decision.

Make Your Choice!

Ready to upgrade your business laptops? Take a closer look at each model discussed and evaluate your specific needs. Compare prices from different retailers and consider refurbished options to save even more. Invest wisely and boost your team's productivity!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the most important factor when choosing a business laptop?

A: It depends on your needs, but reliability and durability are crucial. Look for a laptop with a solid build quality and a good warranty.

Q: Is it worth buying a refurbished laptop?

A: Yes, often! Refurbished laptops can offer significant savings. Make sure to buy from a reputable seller with a warranty.

Q: How much RAM do I need for a business laptop?

A: At least 8GB of RAM is recommended for smooth multitasking and running multiple applications. 16GB is preferred.

Q: What is the difference between an SSD and a HDD?

A: SSDs (Solid State Drives) are much faster than HDDs (Hard Disk Drives). Choose a laptop with an SSD for faster boot times and application loading.

Q: Is a Chromebook suitable for business use?

A: If your business relies heavily on cloud-based applications, a Chromebook can be a great option. They are secure, lightweight, and offer excellent battery life.