Laptops are often considered accounting essential. They offer accountants an opportunity to handle a range of financing and account-related tasks seamlessly. From calculations to issuing payroll, a high-quality laptop can help automate multiple accounting tasks.
So, it makes sense for businesses, accountants, and students to invest in a laptop that supports important accounting software. In this post, we are going to review the top 5 laptops that are especially recommended for aspiring accountants, professional accountants, accounting students, and anyone who handles accounts or record-keeping tasks. Let’s get started.
Common Needs of Accountants
Accounting helps businesses and individuals track their performance for the financial year. It gives you an insight into your total assets, liabilities, profit and loss for the year and the financial status of your business. This information is crucial for decision making. Based on these insights, you can plan your future business strategies. Thanks to the evolution in technology, these days accounting is no longer a manual task. You need an automated solution to prepare financial statements in the most efficient way possible.
Today, we rely on some of the advanced account management software systems, such as QuickBooks, Microsoft Excel, Spreadsheets, HCC, Saga, Odoo Accounting, and Freshbooks. Not only does it streamline the most complex of account tasks, but these solutions can also help with bookkeeping. It is important to buy a laptop that supports accounting software and enables users to execute all kinds of accounting tasks seamlessly.
What Should Accountants Look for in a Laptop?
As mentioned before, accounting is a complex process. Only computers and laptops that are compatible with accounting software can be used for crafting financial statements. Even basic computing needs a significant amount of RAM and a powerful processor. Let’s take a look at the minimum requirements for an accounting laptop.
RAM – the laptop needs at least 2GB RAM to run an accounting system. However, that won’t suffice if you plan on multitasking. So, we recommend you choose a solution with 8GB RAM.
You should also look for:
- Free Space: 2.5GB free space to house accounting software
- Battery life: 8-10 hours
- Connectivity: HDMI and USB ports. It must also support wireless connection
- Display: Minimum 13-inch large screen with 1080p resolution
- Storage: 256GB SSD memory
1. Asus ZenBook 14 Windows 10 Pro
One of the thinnest laptops for accounting currently available is the ultra-modern Asus ZenBook Windows 10 Pro. Users love this model for its sleek and slim structure. We’d give it five stars for portability. You can carry this model anywhere you want. Despite being the thinnest laptop on this list, Asus ZenBook 14 is nice and sturdy, being made of high-quality and durable components.
Display and Processor
The display is quite bright with a resolution of 1080 pixels. The model sports a 14-inch screen that’s large enough to give a clear view. The Intel i7-105010U processor can support all kinds of heavy accounting software systems. The powerful processor with a 16GB RAM makes the Asus ZenBook pro an ideal option for all aspiring accountants and professionals out there.
Graphics Card and Memory
The model comes equipped with the Nvidia GeForce MX250 GPU, which is one of the most reliable graphics cards for an accounting laptop. With a whopping built-in RAM and powerful graphics card, Asus ZenBook 14 supports video gaming. In fact, you can run high-end video games alongside accounting software. Even if you use the laptop for multitasking, rest assured that it won’t overheat.
The average battery life of this unit is 8-10 hours. The 512GB SSD memory of the unit can house QuickBooks, TurboCASH, Sage X3, and other accounting systems. The comfortable keyboard allows smooth and fast typing. Besides, the backlit keys help you type in the dimly-lit environment. You also get a range of ports, including HDMI and USB slots.
Pros
Cons
2. HP Pavilion 2020
HP has gained popularity for developing work-centric laptops that support a plethora of graphic-intensive applications effortlessly. The HP Pavilion 2020 is no exception. Weighing only 4.25lbs, this lightweight laptop can be your travel companion. It sports a 15.6-inches display and 1920x1080p resolution.
What caught our attention is the productivity and amazing internal power. The model comes equipped with the 10th gen i7-1065G7 processor that is capable of running the heaviest applications and accounting software. The company has upgraded the RAM to 32GB, making it the best choice for accountants. The Intel Iris Plus Graphics and massive storage allow accountants and students to run multiple tabs on the browser without speed issues. If 32GB RAM wasn’t enough, the HP Pavilion 2020 offers a 1TB of SSD and 1TB of HDD units. With a dual storage system, the laptop offers speedy performance. It has 8 hours of average battery life, which guarantees uninterrupted accounting sessions even during a power failure.
The model is shipped with a wireless mouse. It has a couple of connectivity ports. It supports Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. The backlit keyboard is another interesting quality that makes HP Pavilion 2020 an ideal option for those who often have a long typing session.
Pros
Cons
3. 2020 Newest Dell Inspiron 15 5000
For accountants and students who are on the lookout for a portable laptop to boost productivity, the Dell Inspiron 15 5000 is a good option. This time the company has focused on the aesthetic of the device. The sleek and stylish design makes Dell Inspiron 15 5000 a well-built model.
Display and Processor
Like other laptops mentioned above, this model by Dell features a 15.6-inch display and 1920x1080p resolution. The full HD display will give you the best accounting experience. One interesting quality of this unit is the anti-glare panel that protects your eyes. Your eyes will not strain even if you sit in front of this laptop for hours. It is quite common for students and professionals to run multiple apps simultaneously since accounting needs complex calculations and accurate balance. The quad-core i5-1035G1 processor in conjunction with 16GB RAM makes it super easy for accountants to multitask without having to worry about the laptop overheating.
The processor supports demanding applications. The 256GB SSD storage space can house all kinds of heavy accounting software systems and battery performance is good too, lasting up to 10 hours. So, the next time you start your accounting work on the 2020 Newest Dell Inspiron 15 5000, you don’t have to worry about the power cuts.
Connectivity Options
In addition to accounting, this Dell laptop supports a host of entertainment and gaming activities. The Intel UHD Graphics is designed to handle some light video games. As mentioned before, it is a perfect model for multi-tasking. You can watch movies, play music in the background, and run accounting software all at the same time. The laptop supports wireless connection, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. It also comes equipped with a host of ports that offer multiple connectivity options. Most importantly, it is a budget-friendly laptop.
Pros
Cons
4. Lenovo Flex 5 81CA0008US
When it comes to the best laptop for accounting, most students prefer devices with a vibrant display and touch support. Weighing only 4.4 pounds, the Lenovo Flex 5 is a portable and lightweight model that’s perfect for students and business travelers. The model sports a 15.6-inches display and 1080p resolution. This laptop for accounting by Lenovo has a responsive internal system. You get to use the fingerprint reader to access the laptop easily. Finally, 8GB built-in RAM with the 8th generation Intel Core i5-8250U processor supports multitasking. The touchscreen display enables users to write or touch the icons directly on the screen.
The graphics card might not support heavy games and graphic-intensive applications, but accountants won’t need that. This 2-in-1 laptop has a 256GB SSD memory that can house large files and multiple accounting apps easily. The advanced processor and plenty of storage allow accountants to run their desired software without hiccups and technical issues. The battery isn’t a problem: this model has the average battery life of up to 10 hours, which is enough for students and accountants to perform basic computing to complex accounting even during power cuts. The manufacturer has added a bunch of ports, including an HDMI slot.
Pros
Cons
5. Dell XPS 13 9300 Windows 10 Pro
The Dell XPS 13 9300 Windows 10 Pro sports a stylish and durable chassis. The manufacturer has used carbon fibre in conjunction with aluminum for its construction. The body is strong enough to withstand harsh elements and unfavorable working conditions. Dell XPS 13 9300 Windows 10 Pro is a scratch-resistant laptop. Design-wise, it is one of the best Dell models on the market.
Display and processor
The 13-inch display might not give you the largest screen, but the model offers the EyeSafe technology that prevents eye-straining. Under the hood, the model features the 10th generation Intel Core i7-1065G7 processor and the Intel Iris Plus Graphics. It also has a 16GB built-in RAM that supports multi-tasking and multimedia edition.
Though you won’t be able to run heavy-graphic video games on this system, it is compatible with almost all kinds of accounting software. Whether you want to prepare financial statements from the ledger and trial balance or run the basic computing system, Dell XPS 13 9300 Windows 10 Pro will not disappoint.
Storage and Add-ons
This laptop is designed to handle demanding accounting apps easily. It does support some video games, such as Minecraft. However, if you need a laptop that’s compatible with high-end games like PUBG and Skyrim, then Dell XPS 13 9300 Windows 10 Pro is not your best option. Rest assured that you will not face any issue with the accounting software. Even professional accountants need a laptop with 400GB storage and this laptop has 512GB SSD storage that can house heavy apps and large files. The battery life of the model is 10 hours, which is great for those who work long hours.
Other add-ons include a high-quality webcam that helps you join meetings and video conferences. It supports Wi-Fi 6 wireless connection. The manufacturer has added the Thunderbolt port for mobile connection.
Pros
Cons
How to Buy the Best Laptop for Accounting
For students and accountants buying a laptop for accounting purposes, here are a few tips and tricks for buying the best accounting laptop.
Check RAM and Processor
Sure, QuickBooks and other accounting software need only 2GB RAM to run. However, you won’t be able to multitask if your laptop doesn’t have sufficient RAM and a powerful processor. If you want your system to run the accounting solutions without lag, then it needs at least 4GB of RAM. The models listed above are powered by strong processors. Besides, they have 8GB or higher RAM. Check the RAM and processor details of the laptop if you plan on running multiple tabs on the browser (alongside accounting software).
Let’s say you open the spreadsheet, log onto your accounting software, play some music in the background, and open another tab for calculation. Do you think laptops with 2GB RAM and a weak processor will be able to support all these processes simultaneously? Chances are your laptop will freeze.
Don’t Focus too much on the Graphics Card
A modest graphics card can support a host of accounting apps and automated solutions seamlessly. Unless you are planning to use your laptop for multimedia editing and video gaming, there is no need for a quality graphics card. An ordinary one will do.
High-quality Display
Assuming that you are going to sit in front of the screen for countless hours, it makes sense to invest in a product that features anti-glare technology. A bright screen will strain your eyes in an hour. Screen size isn’t that important, but resolution matters. A full HD high-resolution means you will be able to run multiple tabs on your screen by adjusting the screen resolution.
Lightweight and Portable
Since you will attend several meetings, classes, events, you should look for a laptop that is easy to carry around. If you are able to bring your laptop everywhere you go, then you can execute your work efficiently. The models we have mentioned above are all portable and lightweight and you can easily fit them in a small laptop case.
Long Battery Life
You don’t want your laptop to shut down when you are working on an important financial project. Similarly, you can’t go on looking for power outlets in your school, office, and other places. A laptop with decent battery life, i.e. at least 8-10 hours will make a smart investment.
Good battery life will help you run any accounting module for the whole day. You don’t have to worry about your battery draining quickly.
Keyboard Quality
As an accountant, your job involves a lot of typing. You are supposed to enter a considerable amount of data in the software for calculation. That being said, well-spaced and backlit keys are a must in the accounting laptop. However, what’s more, important is the number pad. The num pad section should neither be missing nor be too small and inconvenient for typing. You are going to type figures all the time. So, it’s important to check the number of pad quality before making a purchase.
FAQs
What Factors Do I Need to Consider When Buying a Laptop for Accounting?
The first and most important factor is when it comes to the best laptop for businessmen or accounting is RAM. If your laptop doesn’t have sufficient RAM, then you will not be able to run accounting software. The second important thing is portability, especially if you plan on carrying your laptop around. Other factors include the screen, Graphics card, CPU, and battery.
How Should I Choose a Laptop for Accounting?
The best accounting laptop is capable of running QuickBooks, Saga, Odoo, and other such accounting software seamlessly. If you are a student, then you are going to need QuickBooks for mathematical calculations, journals, ledgers, trial balance, and financial statements.
From a journal that records the day-to-day business transactions to the profit & loss account that helps show businesses their financial position, QuickBooks can create all types of accounts effortlessly. So, a laptop that passes the minimum requirements for running an accounting solution (QuickBooks) can be used for financial accounting and bookkeeping.
Are all Laptops Compatible with QuickBooks?
No, not all laptops support QuickBooks. This accounting software needs at least 2GB RAM. However, the 2019 pro version of the software can run on a laptop with 1GB RAM. In order to run this system without any lag, you are going to need 2.5GB available space on your device.
These are only a few crucial requirements. Make sure that you pay special attention to the RAM and storage of the laptop. It is best to use a laptop with an SSD for accounting. Accounting solutions are designed to handle a large volume of data. You cannot run these systems if you don’t have enough storage.
What Processor is the Best for QuickBooks?
The Pro and Premier version of this accounting software is compatible with the 2.0-GHz processor. So, that is the minimum requirement to run QuickBooks on your laptop. Now, if you would like a speedy performance and uninterrupted operations, then we will recommend 2.4-GHz or higher processor.
Do I Need to Consider Security Factor When Buying a Laptop for Accounting?
Students who buy a laptop for basic computing and accounting purposes do not need to take the security factor into account. However, if you are buying a laptop to prepare the financial statements of a company or record sensitive data about employees or the organization, then security needs to be your priority.
You need a system that does not allow a third-party to access the software or data stored in your system. That’s one of the reasons why experts often recommend MacBooks for accountants. They feature a range of security tools that protect your system from hackers. The latest laptops also feature advanced security options that restrict the access of other users.
Final Thoughts
Gone are the days when accounting students and professional accountants would perform all those tricky mathematical calculations manually. That time is long gone! So, buy any laptop from the above-mentioned options and make the best of your financial accounting software.
About Our Reviews:- Techdentro.com is a team of consumer advocates committed to bringing you accurate, non-biased reviews on all tech products. We also analyze customer satisfaction insights from verified buyers. If you click on any link on techdentro.com & decide to buy it, we may earn a small commission.