The world of finance and accounting has rapidly evolved over the last century, from tracking your finances on pen and paper to modern digital software like QuickBooks, Xero, Wave, and the myriad of accounting software available. You might even be using Microsoft Excel to help perform functions in the program; creating budgets, balance sheets, invoicing and many other possible functions within Excel itself. Microsoft Excel is probably the most recognized spreadsheet program around, and a requirement for many hiring companies these days. In essence, Excel is a very handy tool that many accountants in SMEs and other businesses are still using to this day.
With the popularity of careers in Finance and Accounting, many are now looking to make their way into the industry. But for those who are thinking about it should also think about being equipped with the best laptops for accounting students. To get the job done right, you're going to need the best tool to help you with all your accounting and studying needs.
Take Into Consideration Accounting Software
Modern accounting software will help create a seamless operation for businesses. For students, learning and familiarizing themselves with these concepts and use cases of accounting software will help their understanding of finance in the long run. Not to mention it paints a pretty picture on your resume to potential employers that you are familiar with the software they use, or at the very least are eager to learn. It's a matter of preparation and standing out in an almost saturated finance market.
Mainly accounting software like Xero and Wave helps users manage all aspects of your financing. From viewing financial statements, preparing and sending invoices, cloud data storage to making it easier to view, edit and manage your financial data. I mean, just because you're an accountant doesn't mean you should make your life difficult right? Math is hard enough as it is.
But to fully utilize and learn about accounting and finance software, there are a few particulars we need to talk about. Basically, what are some of the important factors that come into play when you're looking for the best laptop for accounting. But first, we have to settle on what the best operating system (OS) for accounting students and software is.
Operating System
The best OS to look for in a laptop for accounting could come up with various different options. Your main three choices would be: Windows, MacOS, or Chrome OS. Depending on what you're used to, the 'best OS' might vary. But let's take a look at what all these operating systems are all about.
1. Windows 10
Windows 10 is the latest Windows version available and unsurprisingly has been well adopted compared to previous Windows releases. You still are able to use any accounting software with previous versions of Windows, but Windows 10 is now the default for almost all purchasable laptops available.
Windows 10 is probably the most reliable version of Windows Microsoft has ever released. It comes chock full of modern features that makes navigating and using the OS smooth and no nonsense. For most, Windows 10 will feel very familiar which is why the OS will be the default for most of the laptops on the list. You just can't go wrong with Windows 10.
2. MacOS
MacOS is Apple's operating system of choice and is a very dependable OS. Any students out there who've grown with Apple's ecosystem and laptops will be accustomed to their OS. If that sounds like you, then your best bet would be to pick up one of the MacBook laptops available from Apple. It will still get the job done, and there are no inherent differences when using software like Xero or QuickBooks. It's the rest of the UI you'll have to get used to if you haven't checked out a MacBook in a few years.
However, in terms of power, the keyboard, and Mac-centric features, Apple's lineup of laptops are more than capable and attractive. For the veteran Apple user, this is the right choice for their best laptop as an accounting student.
3. Chrome OS
This is another option for finance students but there's a catch. Chrome OS is owned and developed by Google, and uses their Google Chrome web browser as the user interface. Its biggest 'feature' is the fact that it's so simple to use. Your whole operating system in this case, is essentially one giant web browser. For most students, I definitely would not recommend a ChromeBook with Chrome OS as it just doesn't provide you enough features and functionality. For the best laptop for accounting, you're going to be running a lot of programs, calculations, and other CPU intensive tasks. Most ChromeBooks are fairly underpowered, so it might hinder the experience greatly.
All this boils down to is there are plenty of laptops for accounting. The best laptops for finance students will make it easier for you to get work done. For the most part, this means you're either looking for a MacOS or Windows 10 enabled laptop.
Now that we've got that out of the way, let's take a look at some other very important features to look for in the right laptop for accounting undergrads.
The Important Stuff
1. Screen & Display
Arguably the most important part of any laptop is the screen. Mainly because that's what you're staring at all day when you're running calculations and preparing balance sheets and what not. Not to mention any other thing you do with the laptop like typing essays, checking emails, watching YouTube videos, and browsing your socials. Some of the best laptops for students will have a great screen and display panel. For a start, we should opt for a base Full HD (1920 x 1080) display as most laptop brands have opted to keep this the norm. We haven't hit full capacity in terms of 4K displays being the standard, so this will do nicely.
Most videos and movies will stream in Full HD rather easily, in comparison to the still limited availability of 4K content. Plus a Full HD screen will make scrolling through invoices and reports much, much easier on the eye. For the screen size, you shouldn't have to worry too much but we'll keep a range of 13-inch to 15.6-inch displays. There are other factors to consider with the screen size, but we'll get back to that later.
Touchscreens & 2 in 1 Functionality
Another feature to consider is a touchscreen and 2 in 1 functionality. 2 in 1 functionality will greatly enhance the user experience by being a flexible, versatile laptop. Many 2 in 1 laptops feature either a detachable screen or foldable display at the very least. For finance and accounting students, this would also be a great value add if you use a stylus/digital pen to help you take notes. You can also use the 2 in 1 functionality to more conveniently peruse reports, databases, spreadsheets and graphs. Overall, it makes it a more worthwhile purchase but comes at a higher cost.
2. Processor, RAM & Storage
Another important consideration when you're looking for the best laptops for accounting is how much power it has. This will entail having a high-end processor, enough RAM capacity and a big/fast enough storage. One thing to note since we don't really need a powerful GPU, anything over a Intel HD graphics card would be sufficient enough for accounting programs.
We'll have most of these needs covered for all the laptops on the list but let's take a minute to get a better understanding of what to look out for.
Processor
A flagship processor like the latest 10th or 11th Gen Intel Core i5 / Intel Core i7 processors will be the best you can buy. These processors will definitely take care of any tasks you need to do in accounting software and programs but come at a higher price point. Considering we don't need the best, a processor with at least a quad core will do the trick. Even the Intel Core i3 or older 7th/8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor lineup will help streamline your workflow, just a little slower. It's not necessary to have the highest end processor, but it is a nice addition to the arsenal, earning yourself some peace of mind when you're running numbers on Excel.
RAM
For your RAM, you're going to need some extra power to help keep things running while you're using the laptop day-to-day. RAM manages how fast and how many programs and tasks your laptop can handle at any given time. Considering finance undergrads will be running multiple programs, web browsers and calculations simultaneously, having a bigger RAM capacity is essential. We should aim to keep at least 4 GB at a minimum, while the best laptop brands will equip their laptops with 8 - 16GB of RAM. The more RAM you have, the faster your computer can process data and calculations.
Storage
Storage on the other hand isn't as essential as the processor and RAM specs. Having at the very least a 256GB SSD is the most ideal scenario for the best laptop for accounting students. This should suffice in terms of storage and speed as SSDs are faster that traditional HDDs. For handling numerous calculations in a jiffy? An SSD will be your best bet. But if you do end up needing more space, an external hard disk is always an option.
3. Keyboard
A dependable keyboard is quintessential for any student, but especially so for finance students. This could mean various factors such as the keyboard style, spacing, backlit capability, a number-pad and dedicated function keys. These are all different features that not all laptops will be equipped with. For the most part, the most common is a number-pad which many 15.6-inch laptops will include. It's pretty obvious why a number-pad would be beneficial for a finance and accounting student because it'll make typing in numbers and calculating large sums much easier. Not essential, but it's a great feature to have.
Style
The keyboard style can also drastically change the way you type on a keyboard. Some for the worse, some for the better. Depending on what you're used to, you may already know which style of keyboard works for you. This could mean a traditional style keyboard with the keys close together sloping at the edges or a chiclet (island) style keyboard with separate and singular keys.
For the most part, you're going to see the island style keyboards most often on modern laptops because the design and typing experience is streamlined. I prefer a chiclet style keyboard for its looks and how comfortable it is to type on. But that's me personally. Depending on what you're used to this could be a different story.
Backlit Capability
Two other important features to keep in mind on your keyboard is backlit capability and a dedicated function key bar. A backlit keyboard will help finance students when they're rushing a report late at night in the dark. Trust me, trying to type in a room with the lights off, at night, with only the screen illuminating the room is not fun without a backlit keyboard. This could range to a myriad of different styles, colors and patterns, but for accountants it's best to look for a single backlit keyboard, usually with a white backlight. Plus, a backlit keyboard looks pretty cool.
Dedicated Function Keys
And finally, dedicated function keys (F1, F2, etc) is essential for accountants. Mainly because these keys are used to perform various macro-tasks within certain accounting software. This could mean pulling up an edit bar, quickly looking through the inventory tab via a function key or any other commands the key is set to. Most laptops will house these function keys, so no need to worry about too much. But it is important to understand, especially when you're familiarizing yourself with various accounting programs.
4. Portability
And now, our final consideration when looking for the best laptop for accounting students is the portability. Why is this such a pressing concern you ask? Think about it this way; you're a student attending class all around campus and moving around to cafes, the library, and back home. All in one day. Lugging around a 17-inch, 7 pound laptop will ensure you're getting a work out in, but you'll get back home sluggish and sore for it. Having a compact screen size like a 13" - 14" laptop is your best bet to avoid any such scenarios.
Screen Size
As I mentioned earlier during the display portion of the important features to look out for, screen size will affect how big your laptop is. A bigger screen, such as a 15.6-inch display will result in bigger space for more hardware to fit in. Which means, a heavier, bulkier laptop. For the most part, 13" - 14" laptops are considerably lighter without sacrificing much in terms of performance. But what you do gain is a laptop that's portable, and isn't a pain to lug around day to day. A lighter, smaller laptop will change the way you work and that's a guarantee. Take it from someone who brought a heavy gaming laptop to campus everyday. Not a good time at all.
Battery Life
Another factor that comes into play when you talk about portability is battery life. Battery life plays an important part of how portable your laptop is because it shows you how long you can detach from a charger. A longer battery life makes it easier to bring your laptop around without having to worry about finding a place to charge it back up. With battery life, you also have to take into account how fast the battery charges. Not many laptops will have this integral feature, but the best definitely will take into account how fast the battery charges.
Phew, now that we've highlighted all the things you need to look out for, let's get straight into the list of the best laptops for students in accounting and finance!
The 5 Best Laptops For Accounting Students
*Note - All laptops will be running Windows 10 for ease of comparison*
1. Dell XPS 13 (7390)
The Dell XPS 13 is a solid choice for any finance students looking for a premium, well built laptop. On the display the Dell XPS 13 houses a gorgeous 13.3-inch 4K UHD InfinityEdge Touch-screen which makes colors more vibrant, images clearer and is at a higher resolution by default. Not to mention the display is also a touch-screen, which makes navigating and using the laptop much easier. No 2 in 1 functionality here, but still a nice addition for a premium laptop.
Besides the gorgeous screen, the laptop also features some stellar looks and design language throughout. At a first glance, the Dell XPS 13 has a plain, but very premium look to it which is attributed to the laptop being cut from a single block of aluminum. The keyboard palm rest and panel has a black carbon-fiber design and feel, which adds to the premium quality. And when you look at the compact dimensions and the laptop weighing in at just 2.7 lbs, you've got a sturdy, lightweight laptop. Perfect for bringing it around campus, to work meetings, or carrying it daily on your commute.
The design and display isn't the only thing the laptop excels at. Powering the Dell XPS 13 is one of the latest 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10710U processors, 16GB RAM and a whopping 1TB SSD. Safe to say, this laptop will get you through huge databases and spreadsheets on Excel. For the GPU, the laptop comes with a rather paltry Intel HD Integrated graphics card. The 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor however, should more than make up for this lacking spec. On the battery, the XPS 13 comes with up to 10 hours of battery life, adding to the already impressive portability.
Overall, the Dell XPS 13 is a very powerful, compact accounting laptop but comes at high price point. For accountants who are really serious about a dependable laptop for work, this should be worth the money.
2. HP EliteBook 840 G6
The HP EliteBook 840 G6 is a straightforward, business oriented laptop made for the modern professional. Added to the basic yet simultaneously striking looks is Military Grade specs with strong security to keep your data and laptop secure. On the screen the laptop comes packed with a 14-inch Full HD (1920 x 1080) display with thin side bezels making for a great looking screen. Not the best or highest resolution display around, but it'll make staring at numbers all day that much more tolerable. For the working professional and those aspiring to those heights, this is a solid companion for the journey.
Powering the laptop is an 8th Gen Intel Quad Core i5-8265U processor, 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD resulting in speedy performance. The 8th Gen Intel Core i5 processor may seem a little outdated, but pairing with the high RAM and 256GB SSD makes up for the overall performance. For the graphics card, the laptop comes equipped with an Intel UHD Graphics 620. Again, the Intel UHD Graphics 620 GPU is still a little lacking. But for those who just need their laptop to perform capably in accounting software, typing reports and essays while browsing the internet, it should be more than sufficient.
Some cool extras the laptop comes with includes HP Noise Cancellation for crisper and clearer sound during calls, Bang&Olufsen top firing speakers, Windows 10 Pro, and up to 11 hours of battery life. The battery can also charge up to 50% in 30 minutes, which is a great value add to the whole package. Speaking of package, the whole laptop's dimensions are pretty compact and comes in at a reasonable 3.3 lbs, making for a dependable and portable work station.
3. ASUSPRO P2540UB
The ASUSPRO P2540UB is another capable business laptop to handle all your accounting tasks. On the display the laptop houses a 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) matte display which makes for a more secure, less reflective display. This helps when you're working in brightly lit conditions, and especially for outdoor use. Otherwise the laptop has a pretty basic, black color all around with a familiar design pattern. It follows a traditional, industrial look which is appealing but personally, not my cup of tea. I need a little pizzazz out of my work station.
Under the hood, the ASUSPRO comes with an 8th Gen Intel Core i5 8250U processor, 8GB RAM and a 256GB SSD. The Intel Core i5 8250U is still very capable in 2020, so you shouldn't have too much of a problem with day-to-day usage. Graphically the laptop is powered by an NVIDIA GeForce MX110 which allows you to get some light gaming and graphic design works done if needed. It's not super packed with the best, but the combination of the Intel Core i5 8250U, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD and a decent NVIDIA GeFORCE MX110 makes for a powerful performer.
Some other special features the laptop has includes up to 9 hours of battery life, fingerprint reader, embedded TPU Security Chip, and an upgradable memory door. These added extras are actually pretty great, especially the fingerprint reader and additional security features to safeguard your data and laptop. It's these little things that makes the ASUSPRO standout, and definitely is worth the money for your dedicated accounting laptop.
4. HP Pavilion x360
The latest HP Pavilion x360 is an affordable 2 in 1 laptop with some moderate power for a stellar price. For the money, you're getting a lesser 14-inch HD touch screen, but you gain 2 in 1 functionality with which you can use the laptop in four various modes. You can transform it from the traditional laptop mode to reverse mode, tablet mode and tent mode. While you are missing out on a Full HD screen, you get a flexible accounting companion for a great price. A worthy exchange for most users I'd say.
Powering the laptop is one of the latest 10th Gen Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor, 8GB RAM and a 128GB SSD. Not the strongest performer on paper, but it will get you through the day for any classes, writing reports, and using accounting programs. Definitely wouldn't ty to play any graphically intensive games as it comes with an Intel UHD Integrated Graphics GPU. For a much lower price point however, you're still getting dependable power which makes the HP Pavilion x360 a worthwhile purchase.
Besides the 2 in 1 form factors, there are some notable features that makes the laptop standout. Firstly, the design is truly stunning with a dual-tone design of silver and black and minimalist design on the rear panel and keyboard. A very stylized, yet minimalistic design which truly makes it even more eye catching. Some other great features the laptop comes with includes up to 13 hours of battery life, a fingerprint reader and speakers from B&O.
As a whole, the HP Pavilion x360 does compromise on power, but makes up for it with the affordable price and versatility. A solid choice for any budget conscious accounting students out there.
5. Microsoft Surface Laptop 3
Microsoft makes some really great laptops that sometimes goes against the normal conventions of a laptop. You'll get what I mean when we get there. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 however, does one thing and one thing well; get you productive. I have reviewed this laptop personally before and I can attest to its performance and dashing good looks. Something about how the laptop functions, the aesthetics, and dependable battery life makes it an enticing piece of hardware for the working professional and serious finance undergrads.
On the display, you've got a stunning 13.5"PixelSense 2256 x 1504 touchscreen which like I mentioned earlier, unconventional. The display is still fantastic and images and video look crisp and clear. Adding to the screen, the whole laptop's design is clean and has such an elegance to it. The nearest laptop similar to it would be the Apple's MacBook Pro lineup, which is a very flattering comparison. It's the use of a solid color highlighted with subtle accents and an otherwise untouched frame that makes it so appealing.
Powering the device is a 10th Gen Intel Core i7-1065G7 processor, 16GB RAM and a 256GB SSD. Pretty standard specs, but the Intel Core i7 processor makes this a very capable productivity and work laptop. In contrast to the 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor however, is a rather weak Intel Iris Plus Graphics card. But for any work related tasks and internet browsing, this laptop still is one of my personal favorites. Adding to the power under the hood is up to 11.5 hours of battery life, making for an attractive and portable laptop weighing in at only 2.8 lbs.
You can get the laptop in four stunning colors and two different keyboard finishes. I'm more a Metal Black man myself, it just looks so clean. That being said, for future accountants and financial wizards out there, you can't go wrong with the Surface Laptop 3.
Conclusion
We've seen all kinds of different laptops, hitting various niches and budgets but only one can reign supreme among the best laptops for accounting students. But honestly, all of the laptops on our list will hit all your accounting needs and more.
Nonetheless, we do have our winner, and this time it is the Microsoft Surface Laptop 3!
The Surface Laptop 3 hits all the right checkmarks when it comes to being a premium, powerful and sleek accountant-approved laptop. One of the latest Intel Core i7 processors, long battery life, and crystal clear display all add into an almost irresistible purchase. That power combined with the elegant design language and minimalist aesthetics comes off very well, instantly turning you into a professional. If you're a business or finance undergrad, you should know that looking the part is just as essential as knowing the math. For all these reasons, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 is the best laptop for your money.
