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Do you need the perfect laptop for your programming and design tasks? If so, check out these top-rated laptops we’ve handpicked specifically for this purpose. These 7 laptops are best for programming and design, starting with ✅the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop – our preferred choice.
Below is a comparison table for the best laptop for programming and design
Comparison Table For The Best Laptop For Programming And Design
Tap the image in the table below to get the best laptop for programming and design on Amazon.
| Product Name | Product Image | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 3700U Display: 15.6" RAM: 8 GB DDR4 Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Windows 10 Home |
| HP 15-cs3019nr Pavilion |   | Processor: Intel Core i7-1065G7 Display: 15.6 RAM:"16 GB DDR4 Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Windows 10 Home |
| Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U Display: 14" RAM: 8 GB LPDD4X Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Windows 10 Home |
| 2022 Lenovo Ideapad 3i 14.0" FHD Laptop |   | Processor: Intel Core i5-10210U Display: 14" RAM: 20 GB (Upgraded) Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Windows 11 |
| Newest 2022 HP 15.6" FHD Micro-Edge Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Display: 15.6" RAM: 16 GB Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Windows 11 |
| Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Display: 17.3" RAM: 8 GB Storage: 512 GB SSD Operating System: Windows 10 Home |
| 2020 HP 17.3" HD+ Premium Laptop Computer |   | Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3500U Display: 17.3" RAM: 12 GB DDR4 Storage: 256 GB SSD Operating System: Windows 10 |
Compare The Top 7 On One Page
Programming And Design; An Overview
Programming simply means executing and solving problems with the use of software programs.
It also has to do with creating application software that solves specific problems for a defined market.
However, the people who create these applications are called programmers or software developers.
They create and design web interfaces, web pages, and online text used for communication on our various devices.
These online pages include; Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Twitter Apps, and many others.
Similarly, design has to do with originating and developing a plan, component, system, or structure of a thing to give it a beautiful look.
In a nutshell, programming, and design work hand in hand.
Computer programming involves giving out commands to the computer and directing it on the best way to carry out those commands.
This is called Coding.
Computer programming is a creative task that requires power to run the IDE- Integrated Development Environment.
The IDE is a software application that offers the technical resources computer programmers need for software development.
Hence, you need the right laptop to help you overcome this demanding application.
To that effect, here’s a breakdown of the required specs for a laptop for programming and coding.
Required Specs For The Best Laptop For Programming And Design
Processor/Graphics Card
Processors and graphics work hand in hand to ensure the smooth execution of tasks.
To start with, the processor plays a lead role in the computer by coordinating the activities of all other software and ensuring that they function well.
Also, it determines how fast or slow your laptop can load each application, reboot the system, and access files.
Since it’s a laptop for programming and design, you should get one with a Core i5 or more processor for swift execution of tasks.
Also, it should be an AMD or Intel processor.
Likewise, the graphics card helps the CPU tackle and solve all graphical details.
Since we are also talking about design, you need both a fast processor and a strong graphics card.
Specifically, a dedicated graphics card will be perfect for high-intensive tasks like programming, graphics design, 3D rendering, video editing, and the like.
On the other hand, integrated graphics will handle most basic computational tasks that are less demanding.
Therefore, get a laptop with either an AMD or NVIDIA graphics card if you desire the best graphics performance.
RAM/Storage
If you want to run all applications and programs without stuttering, you need a laptop with sufficient RAM size.
A large RAM will allow you to handle both computer programming and graphic design simultaneously without making you experience a lagging system.
As such, you need a laptop with at least 8 GB RAM so you can multitask efficiently and complete projects on time.
The same applies to storage.
Getting a laptop with a good storage size and options will allow you to access all your files without hitches.
So get a laptop with an SSD storage type.
On the size, you should get at 256 GB to allow you to save files on your computer as you work.
Screen Size/Display Quality
You’ll be spending long hours staring at the screen while you work.
This is why it’s essential you get the right screen size and display quality for impressive visuals.
Firstly, you need a vibrant display with anti-glare and IPS features to prevent reflections on the screen.
Then, 13-15-inches should be the least you’ll settle for.
Overall, these will allow you to enjoy a crystal clear and wide-angle view.
Ports/Connectivity/Weight
It would be excellent to have a laptop that comes with USB ports, HDMI, Ethernet, Headphone/Microphone combo, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a Micro SD card connector.
This will allow you to extend your laptop’s capabilities for maximum efficiency.
Of course, a portable laptop is the way to go.
This is so you can easily work anywhere inspiration strikes.
Keyboard/Battery Life
You’ll be doing a lot of typing, so you need a good keyboard.
You’ll need an ergonomic, full-sized, well-spaced keyboard with adequate key-travel distance.
It should also have a backlit feature so you can type conveniently in the dark.
Of course, the touchpad should be wide and responsive for seamless navigation.
Lastly, you’ll need a laptop that offers a decent battery life of 6 hours minimum so you can enjoy long hours of productive work.
Now to the review proper.
The 7 Best Laptops For Programming And Design
1. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
This Acer Aspire 5 laptop is a strong performer suitable for programming and design tasks.
Design/Weight
This has a sleek and subtle look.
Although it is not so lightweight, it has the capabilities to take your design work to the next level.
It measures 14.31 x 9.74 x 0.71 inches and weighs 4.19 pounds.
The chassis has an attractive silver color with an Acer logo placed on the lid.
More so, it has two up-facing innovative speakers.
These speakers are driven by true Harmony and deep bass technology, making it a good companion for streaming movies or listening to music.
Display/Keyboard
Furthermore, this is a 15.6″ Full HD 1920 x 1080 laptop with IPS, widescreen, LED-backlit, and Acer Bluelightshield features.
These will deliver crystal clear visuals, prevent eye strain, and protect your eyes from harmful blue light rays.
The laptop comes with an awesome keyboard layout to help you enjoy a comfortable typing experience.
In addition, it has a backlight feature to allow you to type conveniently, even in a dark environment.
It tops that up with a wide and responsive touchpad for seamless navigation.
Performance
Performance-wise, it is powered by AMD Ryzen 7 3700U dual-core processor that boosts up to 4.0 max frequency.
Following the processor is AMD Radeon RX Vega 10 mobile graphics, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage space.
Overall, this combination will offer you a fantastic programming experience without hitches.
Operating System/Ports/Connectivity
It functions with Windows 10 Home Operating System.
Even more, it comes with good arrays of ports which include; 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1, 2 USB 2.0, HDMI, HDCP support, and a super-fast Wi-Fi connector.
Battery Life
Lastly, it offers up to 7.5 hours of battery life on a single charge.
Pros
- It has a tear-free display.
- Furthermore, it has excellent specs to deliver impressive performance.
- It also complements its performance with an excellent keyboard.
Cons
- It has no SD card reader.
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2. HP 15-cs3019nr Pavilion
This HP Pavilion laptop is our second-best laptop for programming and design.
Design/Weight
This laptop got a stylish and solid design.
As such, it is made with a metal body to deliver a sturdy and elegant look.
Due to its metallic build quality, it’s not so lightweight.
Display/Keyboard
The display has a large screen fixed into a smaller frame.
Specifically, the narrow bezels surround a 15.6-inch Full HD 1920 x 1080 screen.
Undoubtedly, this will offer you an immersive viewing experience from all angles.
This laptop has a comfortable full-size keyboard with a responsive numeric keypad.
However, it doesn’t have a backlight.
Performance
The laptop is configured with the 10th Generation Intel Core i7-1065G7 processor having 4 cores, a 1.3 GHz base clock, and up to 3.9 GHz boost clock.
Added to that are integrated Intel graphics, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage.
This will deliver above-average performance for your programming and design work.
Operating System/Ports/Connectivity
It has the Windows 10 Pro Operating System.
For connectivity, it has Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth connector with which you can easily connect to the internet and transfer files to different devices.
Aside from that, it comes in handy with USB ports, HDMI, and a Headphone/Microphone jack but has no RJ45 port.
Battery Life
On the whole, HP equipped this laptop with an impressive battery life that can last for 10 hours.
Pros
- This laptop offers a long-lasting battery life.
- Then, it offers an immersive display.
Cons
- Mid-range specs.
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3. Acer Swift 3 Thin & Light Laptop
The Acer Aspire 3 takes a well-deserved top spot on our list.
Let’s check it out
Design/Weight
Like our overall laptop in number 1, this Acer has a sleek and subtle design but weighs lighter than the previous one.
It weighs 2.62 pounds and measures 12.71 x 8.35. x 0.63 pounds.
Lightweight right?
Display/Keyboard
This unit has a 14″ Full HD 1920 x 1080p display.
In addition to that, it features a backlit ergonomic keyboard to allow you to interact seamlessly with this device.
You can also navigate this device as you work with its trackpad.
The fingerprint reader remains the only way to access the laptop via your biometrics.
Performance
This HP laptop will yield powerful productivity with AMD Ryzen 7 5700U Octa-Core Processor with an AMD Radeon Graphics.
Also, you can work on multiple applications without having to slow down with its 8 GB LPDD4X RAM.
Still, it bags 512 GB of SSD storage space.
Operating System/Ports/Connectivity
It has Windows 10 Home OS.
There’s nothing to worry about when it comes to connectivity.
It has USB Type-C for charging, USB Type-A, Wifi-6, and Bluetooth 5.2.
Battery Life
Sadly, it has poor battery life that lasts just 4 hours.
Pros
- First, it has enormous storage.
- Also, it has a sleek and subtle design.
- Nice-looking body build.
- Lastly, it features an 85.73% screen-to-body ratio.
Cons
- Sadly, it has poor battery life.
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4. 2022 Lenovo IdeaPad 3i 14.0″ FHD Laptop
This 2022 Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is also included in the list of the best laptop for programming and design.
Design/Wight
There’s not much going on in the design area.
Its plastic chassis is coated in a dull and not-so-attractive gray color.
It weighs 4.74 pounds and measures 12.9 x 9.5 x 0.78 inches.
Display/Keyboard
The display has a 14-inch 1920 x 1080 Full HD resolution that delivers crisp and sharp details without clutter.
Going further, this laptop features nicely spaced keys with good travel distance.
In addition, it has a large touchpad with enough palm resting space on the keyboard deck so that you can comfortably work and navigate with ease.
Sadly, it has no backlit.
Performance
Even at that, the laptop is loaded with the 10th Generation Intel Core i5-10210U Processor that can handle your programming and design tasks.
Sadly, it features an integrated Intel UHD Graphics card.
It has an upgradeable RAM of up to 20 GB and 512 GB SSD storage.
With this, you will have excellent multitasking and snappy storage performance.
Operating System/Ports/Connectivity
With Windows 11 Home OS, all performance will go smoothly.
It is also blessed with (3) USB Type-A, (1) HDMI, (1) Media Card Reader, (1) Combination Audio Jack, Wifi, and Bluetooth 5.1
Battery Life
It’s powered by 1 AC battery.
Pros
- It has 2 speakers with Dolby Audio.
- Then, it offers an upgradable RAM of up to 20GB.
- Lightweight design.
- Lastly, it has (2) 1.5W Speakers with Dolby Audio technology for impressive sound quality.
Cons
- Sadly, it has no backlit keyboard.
- Also, its battery runs down quickly.
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5. Newest 2022 HP 15.6″ FHD micro-edge Laptop
Design/Weight
Its blue and white-colored chassis gives this laptop a premium look, with the HP logo on the top lid for identification.
Hence, you can take it anywhere.
It weighs 3.75 pounds.
Display/Keyboard
It has a decent screen size with impressive features to offer you the best visual experience.
Specifically, it has a 15.6-inch display with 1920 x 1080 resolution.
Then it features an ergonomic key for comfortable typing.
However, the keyboard isn’t backlit.
Performance
This laptop is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor and AMD Radeon Graphics to handle intensive tasks like programming and designing.
With 16 GB DDR4 RAM and 512 GB SSD storage, you won’t struggle to multitask as you work on different apps and software.
Also, you’ll have enough space to save your work files.
Operating System/Ports/Connectivity
This also operates with the Windows 11 OS.
The laptop has (1) SuperSpeed USB Type-C, (2 )SuperSpeed USB Type-A, (1) HDMI 1.4b, (1) AC smart pin, and (1) headphone/microphone combo port.
Battery Life
Finally, it has a 45w 3-cell, 41 Wh Li-ion that offers up to 9 hours and 30 minutes of battery life.
Pros
- It comes with upgradeable storage.
- It is portable to move around with.
- Sufficient RAM.
- Also, it offers an SD card storage expansion option.
- Overall efficient performance.
Cons
- Annoying clicky sound from the touchpad.
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6. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Laptop
Taking the sixth spot on our list is the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 laptop.
Design/Weight
This laptop is quite heavy.
It weighs 6.14 pounds and measures 15.71 x 10.79 x 0.78 inches.
Also, it has a black-colored chassis that looks pleasing to the eyes.
Display/Keyboard
It features a 17.3-inch HD+ display to offer crisp and clear visuals.
Sadly, despite its large size, it has a cramped keyboard.
Performance
It’s equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Processor and AMD Integrated Radeon 7 Graphics card for swift execution of tasks.
Also, the 8 GB DDR4RAM supports the processor to make sure that there’s no lag while you work on multiple tasks.
Then, you have 512 GB SSD storage to save your work files.
Operating System/Ports/Connectivity
It features Windows 10 Home OS for all-around productivity.
Also, it has good arrays of ports for easy connection such as USB-C, USB-A 3.2, USB-A 2.0, HDMI, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
Battery Life
Finally, it is powered by 1 Lithium Polymer battery.
Pros
- Large display.
- Also, it has above-average specs to deliver excellent performance.
- It is quite affordable.
- Lastly, it features unique airflow enhancements and intelligent thermals to prevent overheating.
Cons
- Heavyweight.
- Cramped keyboard with no backlight feature.
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7. 2020 HP 17.3″ HD+ Premium Laptop Computer
Here’s the last laptop to be featured in this review.
Design/Weight
It is equipped with a sleek plastic chassis painted in an all-black color.
Also, it looks bulky and weighs heavy.
It weighs 5.4 pounds and measures 16.33 x 10.72 x 0.96 inches.
Display/Keyboard
Like the sixth laptop, it features a 17.3″screen size with 1600 x 900 resolution pixels.
Of course, this will deliver accurate and pleasant details and a wide view.
It has a full-sized island-style black keyboard with a functional numeric keypad.
The touchpad also supports multi-touch gestures.
Performance
The processor is an AMD Ryzen 5 3500U, while the graphics card is a Radeon Vega 8 of the same brand.
The RAM size is 12 GB and it offers a 256 GB SSD for storage.
Operating System/Ports/Connectivity
It has Windows 10 OS.
Furthermore, it has a good array of ports such as 1 HDMI; 1 headphone/microphone combo; 1 RJ-45; 2 USB 3.1 Gen 1 (Data transfer only); 1 AC smart pin; 1 USB 2.0 Type-A (Data Transfer Only).
It also has Wifi and Bluetooth for wireless connection.
Battery life
Finally, it is powered by 3-cell, 41 Wh Li-ion battery.
Pros
- It supports multi-touch.
- There’s HP Webcam with an integrated digital microphone.
- Two quality speakers.
- Full-sized keyboard with dedicated number pad.
Cons
- It is heavyweight.
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Conclusion On The Best Laptop For Programming And Design
There you have it- seven different laptops suitable for programming and design to choose from.
So, pick one that meets your preferences and budget.
Preferably, you could go with our preferred option, ✅the Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop.
Tap the link above to get it now on Amazon.
