Remote work has become a more popular option for many people, allowing them to work from anywhere in the world. However, to be successful in this type of work, you need the right tools, and a laptop is one of the most important. A laptop for remote work needs to be powerful enough to handle demanding applications, lightweight and portable enough to carry around, and have a long battery life to last through a full day of work.
When choosing the best laptop for remote work, it’s essential to consider factors such as processing power, battery life, and portability. A laptop with a powerful processor and enough RAM will allow you to run multiple applications simultaneously without slowing down your system. Additionally, a long battery life will ensure that you can work for several hours without needing to recharge your laptop.
Portability is also a crucial factor to consider when choosing a laptop for remote work. A lightweight laptop that is easy to carry around will allow you to work from anywhere, whether you’re at a coffee shop, on a plane, or in a park. Finally, a laptop with a comfortable keyboard and trackpad will ensure that you can work efficiently and comfortably.
We spent hours researching and testing various laptops to identify the best laptop for remote work. In the next section, we’ll highlight the critical factors to consider when choosing a laptop for remote work and recommend some of the best laptops on the market that meet these criteria.
Best Laptops for Remote Work
As remote work becomes more prevalent, having a reliable and efficient laptop is crucial. We’ve compiled a list of the best laptops for remote work based on factors such as performance, battery life, and portability. Whether you’re a freelancer, a digital nomad, or an employee working from home, these laptops will help you stay productive and connected. Check out our top picks below.
1. Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Laptop
If you’re looking for an affordable laptop that can handle remote work, the Lenovo IdeaPad 1 might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- With its 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage and 4 GB of RAM, you’ll enjoy faster performance and improved multitasking compared to traditional hard drives.
- Stay connected wherever you are with Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth combo.
- The integrated keyboard and 720p HD camera with integrated dual array digital microphones make this laptop great for remote work.
Cons
- The 14-inch HD display with a resolution of 1366 x 768 is not the best for watching movies or editing photos.
- The laptop is not backlit, which can be inconvenient in low-light environments.
- The battery life of up to 8 hours is decent, but not exceptional.
We recently tested the Lenovo IdeaPad 1 laptop and found it to be a reliable workhorse for everyday tasks. While it’s not the most powerful laptop on the market, it’s more than capable of handling web browsing, email, and word processing. The laptop’s slim and lightweight design makes it easy to take on the go, and the anti-glare display is easy on the eyes.
The laptop’s Intel Pentium Silver N5030 processor and Intel UHD Graphics are not the most powerful, but they get the job done. We were able to stream video and run multiple applications without any issues. The laptop’s 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage and 4 GB of RAM provided fast performance and improved multitasking.
The keyboard is comfortable to type on, but it’s not backlit, which can be inconvenient in low-light environments. The 720p HD camera with integrated dual array digital microphones is great for video conferencing, and the privacy shutter is a nice touch.
Overall, we recommend the Lenovo IdeaPad 1 for anyone looking for an affordable laptop for remote work. It’s not the most powerful laptop on the market, but it gets the job done and is a great value for the price.
2. Lenovo Chromebook 3 11 11.6″ Laptop Computer for Business Student, AMD A6-9220C up to 2.7GHz, 4GB LPDDR4 RAM, 32GB eMMC, 2×2 AC WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2, Webcam, Remote Work, Chrome OS, iPuzzle Type-C HUB
If you’re looking for an affordable laptop that can handle remote work, the Lenovo Chromebook 3 11 might be a good option for you.
Pros
- The AMD A6-9220C Processor provides enough power to handle basic tasks, such as browsing the web and using office applications.
- The 11.6″ HD anti-glare display is bright and clear, making it easy to read documents and watch videos.
- With up to 10 hours of battery life, you can work all day without needing to plug in.
Cons
- The 4GB LPDDR4 RAM and 32GB eMMC storage might not be enough for more demanding tasks, such as video editing or gaming.
- The laptop is relatively small and lightweight, which might not be comfortable for long typing sessions.
- The Chrome OS might not be suitable for everyone, especially if you’re used to using Windows or macOS.
We’ve used the Lenovo Chromebook 3 11 for a few weeks, and we think it’s a decent laptop for basic remote work tasks. The AMD A6-9220C Processor is not the most powerful, but it can handle web browsing, email, and office applications without any issues. The 11.6″ HD anti-glare display is bright and clear, and we didn’t experience any eye strain even after working for several hours.
The laptop is also lightweight and portable, which makes it easy to carry around. However, the small size might not be comfortable for everyone, especially if you have big hands. The keyboard is decent, but the keys are relatively small and might require some getting used to.
One of the best things about the Lenovo Chromebook 3 11 is the battery life. With up to 10 hours of battery life, you can work all day without needing to plug in. This is especially useful if you’re working from a coffee shop or a library where power outlets might not be readily available.
Overall, we think the Lenovo Chromebook 3 11 is a good option for anyone who needs a basic laptop for remote work. However, if you need more power or storage, you might want to look at other options.
3. HP Newest Laptop for College Student & Business
If you’re looking for a laptop that can handle multitasking and large files, the HP Newest Laptop for College Student & Business is a great option.
Pros
- With 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD, this laptop can handle multiple programs and large files with ease.
- The 17.3-inch diagonal HD+ SVA BrightView micro-edge WLED display is perfect for video conferencing and streaming.
- The laptop comes with Windows 11 pre-installed, making it ready to use right out of the box.
Cons
- The Intel Core i3-1125G4 processor may not be powerful enough for more demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.
- The laptop is on the heavier side, weighing in at 5.4 pounds.
- The battery life may not be long enough for extended use without a charger.
This laptop is perfect for anyone who needs a reliable machine for remote work or online classes. The 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD make it easy to multitask and store large files, while the HD+ display and webcam are great for video conferencing. However, the Intel Core i3-1125G4 processor may not be enough for more demanding tasks, and the laptop is on the heavier side.
In summary, if you’re looking for a laptop that can handle basic tasks and is great for remote work or online classes, the HP Newest Laptop for College Student & Business is a great choice.
4. HP Portable Laptop
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop for remote work, the HP Portable Laptop is a solid choice.
Pros
- The 16GB DDR4 SDRAM memory and 64GB eMMC hard drive make for fast boot-up and speedy data transfer.
- The 14″ diagonal HD display is clear and bright, and the micro-edge design adds a modern touch.
- The laptop is lightweight and easy to carry around.
Cons
- The HD display may not be sufficient for graphic design or video editing work.
- The Intel Celeron N4120 Processor may not be powerful enough for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.
- The laptop only has one USB Type-C port.
We’ve used the HP Portable Laptop for basic tasks like web browsing, email, and document editing, and it’s performed well. The 16GB DDR4 SDRAM memory and 64GB eMMC hard drive make for fast boot-up and speedy data transfer. The 14″ diagonal HD display is clear and bright, and the micro-edge design adds a modern touch. The laptop is also lightweight and easy to carry around.
However, the HD display may not be sufficient for graphic design or video editing work. The Intel Celeron N4120 Processor may not be powerful enough for heavy multitasking or demanding applications. Additionally, the laptop only has one USB Type-C port, which may be inconvenient for those who need to connect multiple devices.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop for basic remote work tasks, the HP Portable Laptop is a good choice.
5. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle remote work, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a solid choice.
Pros
- The 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor provides fast and reliable performance for multitasking and running multiple applications.
- The 15.6″ HD Touchscreen display is responsive and easy to use, making it a great tool for video conferencing and presentations.
- The laptop is lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
Cons
- The battery life is only up to 7 hours, which may not be enough for a full day of work without needing to recharge.
- The screen resolution is only 1366 x 768, which may not be as sharp as other laptops in this price range.
- The laptop does not have a backlit keyboard, which may be inconvenient for working in low-light environments.
In our experience, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a reliable and affordable option for remote work. The 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor provides fast and reliable performance for multitasking and running multiple applications, while the 15.6″ HD Touchscreen display is responsive and easy to use. The laptop is also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take with you on the go.
However, the battery life is only up to 7 hours, which may not be enough for a full day of work without needing to recharge. Additionally, the screen resolution is only 1366 x 768, which may not be as sharp as other laptops in this price range. Finally, the laptop does not have a backlit keyboard, which may be inconvenient for working in low-light environments.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle remote work, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a solid choice.
6. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 11 Chromebook Laptop
We highly recommend the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 11 Chromebook Laptop for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable laptop for remote work.
Pros
- No setup required, simply log in with your Google account and start working
- Slim and lightweight design makes it easy to take with you anywhere
- 10 hours of battery life ensures productivity on the go
Cons
- Limited storage capacity with only 64GB of storage
- Low screen resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels
- May not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks such as video editing or gaming
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 11 Chromebook Laptop is a great option for those who need a laptop for remote work. Its lightweight design and long battery life make it easy to take with you on the go. The laptop boots up quickly and updates automatically, ensuring that you are always up to date with the latest software.
The 3-side narrow bezel HD display delivers beautiful clarity, while dual 2W stereo speakers offer crystal-clear audio. The 720p webcam, 2×2 WiFi 5 (802.11 ac), and Bluetooth 4.2 combo with WiFi card keep you connected with ease. Additionally, the laptop has 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 12 (Type-C) ports, 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 12 (Type-A) ports, a microSD Card Reader, and an audio combo jack.
Overall, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 11 Chromebook Laptop is a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable laptop for remote work. Its ease of use and long battery life make it a convenient option for those who need to work on the go.
7. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
We highly recommend the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop for remote work due to its impressive features and affordable price.
Pros
- The AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Dual Core Processor provides fast and reliable performance for all your work needs.
- The 15.6 inches full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen LED backlit IPS display is perfect for video conferencing and streaming.
- The backlit keyboard and 7.5 hours battery life make it easy to work in any lighting conditions and for extended periods of time.
Cons
- The 4GB DDR4 Memory may not be sufficient for heavy multitasking.
- The laptop comes with Windows 10 in S mode, which limits the installation of third-party apps.
- The laptop has only 128GB PCIe NVMe SSD storage, which may not be enough for storing large files.
The Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop is a great choice for remote work, especially for those on a budget. The laptop provides a smooth and reliable performance, making it easy to work on multiple tasks simultaneously. The full HD display and backlit keyboard are perfect for video conferencing and working in low-light environments. The laptop also has a long battery life, allowing you to work for extended periods of time without worrying about charging.
However, the laptop has only 4GB DDR4 Memory, which may not be enough for heavy multitasking. Additionally, the laptop comes with Windows 10 in S mode, which limits the installation of third-party apps. Finally, the laptop has only 128GB PCIe NVMe SSD storage, which may not be enough for storing large files.
Overall, the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop is a great choice for remote work, especially for those on a budget. Its impressive features and affordable price make it a great value for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient laptop for remote work.
8. HP Newest 14 Laptop
We recommend the HP Newest 14 Laptop for remote work due to its impressive performance and long battery life.
Pros
- The 16GB RAM allows for smooth multitasking and improved performance.
- The 1TB M.2 SSD storage provides up to 15x faster performance than a traditional hard drive.
- The 14″ diagonal FHD display with IPS and micro-edge technology offers stunning visuals.
Cons
- The laptop is not a powerhouse machine and may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
- The keyboard may feel a bit cramped for users with larger hands.
- The laptop does not come with an optical drive.
We were impressed with the HP Newest 14 Laptop’s performance and battery life. The AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor and AMD Radeon Graphics offer solid performance for everyday tasks. The laptop’s 16GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking, and the 1TB M.2 SSD storage provides lightning-fast boot and load times.
The 14″ diagonal FHD display with IPS and micro-edge technology offers stunning visuals with accurate colors and wide viewing angles. The laptop’s dual stereo speakers deliver clear and crisp audio, making it ideal for video conferencing and streaming.
The laptop’s lightweight design and long battery life make it easy to carry around and work on the go. The HP Newest 14 Laptop’s battery can last up to 8 hours, and the laptop comes with a 45W Smart AC power adapter for fast charging.
Overall, the HP Newest 14 Laptop is a great choice for remote work, offering solid performance, long battery life, and a stunning display.
9. CHUWI HeroBook Pro
If you’re looking for an affordable laptop for remote work, the CHUWI HeroBook Pro is a great option.
Pros
- The powerful Intel Gemini Lake N4020 processor ensures fast and efficient performance.
- The 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD storage make multitasking a breeze.
- The 14.1 inch IPS screen with 1920×1080 resolution provides a clear and comfortable visual experience.
Cons
- The battery life of 6-9 hours may not be sufficient for all-day use.
- The laptop may not be suitable for heavy gaming or video editing.
- The charger quality is not the best.
We’ve been using the CHUWI HeroBook Pro for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The Intel Gemini Lake N4020 processor and 8GB RAM ensure that it can handle multiple applications and tasks at once. The 256GB SSD storage is also a great feature, as it provides ample space for files and documents.
The 14.1 inch IPS screen with 1920×1080 resolution is another standout feature. It provides a wider field of vision and a clearer and more comfortable visual experience. The laptop is also lightweight and thin, making it easy to take on the go.
However, the battery life of 6-9 hours may not be sufficient for all-day use, and the laptop may not be suitable for heavy gaming or video editing. Additionally, the charger quality is not the best.
Overall, we think the CHUWI HeroBook Pro is a great option for remote work or school use. It’s affordable, lightweight, and has solid performance. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle basic tasks and has a good display, the CHUWI HeroBook Pro is worth considering.
10. Dell Latitude 5490 Business Laptop
If you’re looking for a reliable laptop for remote work, the Dell Latitude 5490 Business Laptop is a great option.
Pros
- The 7th Gen Intel Dual-Core i5-7300U Processor and 16GB DDR4 memory make this laptop powerful and efficient for multitasking, computing, and everyday tasks.
- The sleek and slim design of the Dell Latitude 5490 makes it easy to travel with and use on the go.
- The 14.0 inch FHD Anti-Glare display delivers clear and bright visuals, making it easy on the eyes for extended use.
Cons
- The LCD is not 1080p as advertised, it’s only 1366×768.
- The laptop may have some aesthetic imperfections due to its renewed status.
- Some users have reported issues with the laptop’s sound and occasional blue screens.
We’ve been using the Dell Latitude 5490 for a few weeks now and we’re impressed with its performance and design. The laptop is powerful and efficient, making it easy to handle multiple tasks at once. We love how slim and lightweight it is, making it easy to travel with and work on the go. The Anti-Glare display is also a great feature, as it reduces eye strain during extended use.
One downside to this laptop is that the LCD is not 1080p as advertised, which may be a dealbreaker for some users. Additionally, as a renewed product, it may have some aesthetic imperfections. Some users have also reported issues with the laptop’s sound and occasional blue screens.
Overall, we recommend the Dell Latitude 5490 Business Laptop for those in need of a reliable and efficient laptop for remote work.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best laptop for remote work, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for when making your decision:
1. Portability
One of the most important factors for remote work is portability. You want a laptop that is lightweight and easy to carry around. Consider the weight and size of the laptop, as well as its battery life. A laptop with a long battery life will allow you to work for longer periods of time without needing to recharge.
2. Performance
Another important factor to consider is performance. You want a laptop that can handle the demands of remote work, including video conferencing, file sharing, and multitasking. Look for a laptop with a fast processor, plenty of RAM, and a solid-state drive (SSD) for quick boot times and fast file access.
3. Connectivity
Remote work often requires a strong internet connection, so make sure your laptop has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. Additionally, consider the number and type of ports on the laptop. You may need to connect to external monitors, keyboards, and other peripherals, so having a variety of ports can be helpful.
4. Display
A high-quality display can make a big difference when working remotely. Look for a laptop with a bright, clear screen and a high resolution. Additionally, consider the size of the screen and whether it will be comfortable to work on for long periods of time.
5. Security
Finally, security is an important consideration when working remotely. Look for a laptop with built-in security features, such as a fingerprint scanner or facial recognition. Additionally, consider purchasing a laptop with a privacy screen or webcam cover to protect your privacy while working in public places.
Overall, when choosing a laptop for remote work, consider your specific needs and preferences, and choose a laptop that meets those requirements. With the right laptop, you can work productively and efficiently from anywhere.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the best laptop for remote workers?
The best laptop for remote workers is one that is reliable, has a long battery life, and is easy to use. Some recommended laptops for remote work include the MacBook Pro, Dell XPS 13, and Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon.
2. How do I set up a laptop for employees working remotely?
To set up a laptop for employees working remotely, you will need to ensure that they have access to a stable internet connection, a VPN (if necessary), and any necessary software or applications for their job. It is also important to provide clear instructions on how to use the laptop and any company policies that need to be followed.
3. Can you use a laptop for a remote job?
Yes, a laptop is a great option for a remote job as it allows for flexibility and mobility. However, it is important to ensure that the laptop meets the necessary requirements for the job and has a reliable internet connection.
4. What type of computer do I need to work from home?
The type of computer needed to work from home will depend on the job requirements. In general, a laptop or desktop computer with a reliable internet connection is sufficient for most remote jobs. It is important to check with your employer for any specific requirements.
5. What are the laptop requirements for working from home?
The laptop requirements for working from home will vary depending on the job requirements. In general, a laptop with a fast processor, at least 8GB of RAM, and a solid-state drive (SSD) is recommended. It is also important to have a reliable internet connection and any necessary software or applications for the job.
6. Which Lenovo laptop is best for remote work?
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a great option for remote work as it is lightweight, durable, and has a long battery life. It also has a fast processor, ample storage, and a comfortable keyboard for extended use.