- 9.00/10 1. Premium pick: Microsoft Surface Pro 7
- 9.60/10 2. Editors choice: Apple MacBook Air
- 9.00/10 3. Best value: Lenovo Flex 5
- 9.00/10 4. HP Pavilion x360
- 7.60/10 5. Microsoft Surface Go 3
- 9.20/10 6. ASUS VivoBook F512
- 8.20/10 7. Dell XPS 13 9310
With an increase in remote working, freelancing is more common now than ever before.
The boom in the freelancing industry has led to companies introducing tons of laptops that can meet freelancers' needs. The most popular functions are portability and versatility, allowing freelancers to move around freely.
A feature-rich laptop is a must-have gadget for freelancers, but there are so many options to choose from.
Here are the best laptops for freelancers available today.
Premium pick1. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
9.00 / 10 Read ReviewsThe Microsoft Surface Pro can transform into three different modes, including a studio, a tablet, and a notebook. With its 8GB RAM and Intel processor, you can run multiple apps smoothly without lag, making it perfect for multitasking, which freelancers do most of the time. It is equipped with Windows 10 Home and direct access to Office 365, allowing freelance writers to create amazing articles. After that, they can store their documents securely on Onedrive, a safe and easily accessible storage space.
The faster 256GB SSD won't let you down if you keep your data on your laptop. Taking your Surfer pen out while your versatile laptop is switched to Studio Mode allows you to start creating masterpieces for your clients; a convenient feature for artists. Also, the device is highly portable with a weight of just 1.70lbs and is thin enough to fit in your backpack.
The battery can power the device for almost 10.5 hours which is long enough to last the whole day. Furthermore, you can charge your battery from zero to 80 percent within an hour with a super-fast charging capability. In addition, the Hello face authentication camera allows you to continue where you left off, and the dual cameras with powerful microphones make it an excellent choice for virtual client meetings
Key Features- PixelSense Display
- Firmware TPM
- Ultimate security with Windows Hello face authentication camera
- Convertible laptop with three different modes
- Super-fast charging - 80 percent within an hour
- Brand: Microsoft
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- CPU: Intel Core i5
- Memory: 8 GB
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Battery: 10.5 hours
- Ports: 1x USB-C, 1x USB-A, 1x 3.5 mm headphone jack, 1x Surface Connect port
- Camera: 5.0MP front-facing camera with 1080p full HD video, 8.0MP rear-facing autofocus camera with 1080p full HD video
- Display (Size, Resolution): 12.3-inch, 2736x1824
- Weight: 1.70lbs
- Dimension: 12.74 x 9.09 x 1.91 inches
- Speakers: 1.6W stereo speakers with Dolby Audio
- Perimeter vents for cooling
- 15-degree kickstand
- Office 365 access
- Light-weight
- High-end cameras
- Studio mics for a clear and loud sound
- A bit pricey
- Screen freezing issue reported by users
1. Apple MacBook Air
9.60 / 10 Read ReviewsKnown for its sleek design and sturdy construction, the Apple MacBook Air M1 is renowned for its 3.5x CPU performance, making it convenient for long hours of freelance work. Thanks to its 8-core GPU and compatibility with all graphic design software, you can now retouch your images like a professional. Compared to the Surface Pro 7, the device far outperforms it when it comes to battery timing. You won't need to worry about finding a charger throughout the day, thanks to its impressive 18 hours of battery life.
The 16 GB unified memory accelerates the device's processing speed so it won't lag when rendering graphics-intensive files. In addition, its responsiveness will genuinely amaze you. One-Touch ID, which protects your data and credit card information privacy, makes sure your online security is top-notch.
If you're used to working on a large display, the 13.3-inch screen might seem small. Still, with its reinforced pixel density and excellent resolution of 2560x1600, the device reflects vivid colors evident in images and videos thanks to its retina display. You won't feel your fingers aching with this smooth typing keyboard that works on a scissors mechanism, enhancing comfort. When participating in virtual meetings with your clients, you will see and feel the value of its face detection HD camera and high-quality microphones and speakers that ensure crystal clear communication between two parties.
Key Features- Smooth typing with scissors mechanism keyboard
- Realistic view with true tone technology
- Three built-in microphones
- One-Touch ID
- 3.5x CPU performance
- Brand: Apple
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- CPU: Apple M1 8-core
- Memory: 16GB
- Operating System: Mac OS X
- Battery: 18 hours
- Ports: 1x USB 4, 1x USB 3.1 Gen 2, 2x Thunderbolt
- Camera: 720p HD
- Display (Size, Resolution): 13.3-inch, 2560x1600
- Weight: 2.8lbs
- Dimension: 11.97 x 0.63 x 8.36 inches
- Speakers: Wide stereo sound Support for Dolby Audio
- Fast Wi-Fi connectivity
- High-end display
- Suitable for multitasking
- Face detection HD camera
- Lightweight and portable
- Lacks Ethernet port
- Video gets blurry at times
1. Lenovo Flex 5
9.00 / 10 Read ReviewsThe Lenovo Chromebook Flex 5 with Chrome OS is an excellent choice for freelancing, primarily if you have previously used a Chrome OS device. You must, however, manage all your data on Google Drive as the built-in 64GB SSD will not hold your data for very long. While the storage space may not be enough, the 10th Gen Intel Core i3 processor will impress you with its quick processing speed and responsiveness.
In addition, the backlit keyboard with a 1.44 mm key travel distance makes typing fast and comfortable—impressive features for freelance writers. Its 10-hour battery timing ensures you won't run out of power before your next deadline. Additionally, the Full HD IPS Display with narrow bezels gives you a clear view no matter what angle you look at it from. That way, you can binge-watch videos in any orientation.
In addition, you won't miss even a single beat with the front-facing dual speakers. Being Chrome OS-based, it comes preloaded with essential Android apps you use frequently, and it updates automatically after a few weeks. Above all, the convertible nature of this unit gives it an edge over non-convertible devices. Nevertheless, if you have never used a Chrome OS device before, it may take some time to get used to it. In addition, if you are accustomed to Mac or Windows, the change may be challenging to comprehend at first.
Key Features- Quick bootup
- Full HD IPS display
- 360-degrees convertible design with touch screen
- Wide-angle view
- Backlit keyboard
- Brand: Lenovo
- Storage: 64GB SSD
- CPU: Intel Core i3-10110U
- Memory: 4GB
- Operating System: Chrome OS
- Battery: 10 Hours
- Ports: 2x USB 3.1 Type C, 1x USB 3.1 Type, 1x Audio jack
- Camera: 720p HD
- Display (Size, Resolution): 13.3-inch, 1920x1080
- Weight: 2.97lbs
- Dimension: 12.2 x 8.43 x 0.67 inches
- Speakers: Front-facing stereo speakers
- Updates automatically after six weeks
- Preloaded apps
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Super Fast
- Light-weight
- The hinge design is not impressive
1. HP Pavilion x360
9.00 / 10 Read ReviewsWith its 14-inch widescreen, the HP Pavilion with an 11th Gen Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor is a good choice for freelance programmers and graphic designers as it offers ample space for coding and designing beautiful logos. Multi-touch Full HD with a high-end display makes researching your next project so much fun. This machine supports 45 percent NTSC color space so that you can use it for all your creative projects
With an accumulative weight of 3.55lbs and a 360-degree geared hinge, you can orient this lightweight laptop into four different positions. The Intel Iris Xe graphic processor also provides a more realistic view of your designs with a combination of vibrant colors. Despite sitting in front of the screen for hours to meet your tight deadline, your eyes won't hurt.
With 256GB of SSD storage, you can store most of your files, and 8GB RAM ensures you won't run out of RAM while running the long code you spend all day writing. Further, even if you perform multitasking while coding in parallel, the device won't give up on you. Its incredible battery life of more than 8 hours allows you to complete the task at hand in one go.
It also features an HP Fast Charge feature that charges your battery up to 50 percent within 45 minutes, which means you won't have to wait long after running out of power to get back to work. Last but not least, the device is highly energy-efficient, as evidenced by its Energy Star certification.
Key Features- Fast Wi-Fi connectivity
- Energy Star certified
- Full HD multi-touch screen
- 360-degrees flexible hinge
- Convertible into four modes
- Brand: HP
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- CPU: Intel Core i5-1135G7
- Memory: 8GB
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Battery: 9 hours
- Ports: 1x USB Type-C, 2x USB Type-A, 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x AC smart pin, 1x headphone/microphone combo
- Camera: HP Wide Vision 720p HD
- Display (Size, Resolution): 14-inch, 1920x1080
- Weight: 3.55lbs
- Dimension: 12.76 x 8.7 x 0.71 inches
- Speakers: Dual speakers and audio provided by B&O
- Energy efficient
- Dual Speakers
- High-quality Camera
- Free upgrade to Windows 11
- Lightweight
- No backlit keyboard
- A limited number of ports
1. Microsoft Surface Go 3
7.60 / 10 Read ReviewsThe Microsoft Surfer Go 3 is a 2-in-1 laptop, suitable for a wide range of freelance tasks, including preparing spreadsheets, designing graphics, long hours of writing, and general tasks. Corning Gorilla Glass display ensures a smooth view while writing, editing videos, or retouching images for your client.
With Windows Hello face authentication, you can quickly resume work right where you left off before lunch. You can manage all your documents in one place with the help of Office 365 and OneDrive cloud storage. With a built-in 128GB SSD, you can store files on your PC as well, if you are not a fan of keeping data in the cloud.
Weighing only 1.18 lbs, the device is lightweight and highly portable, making it an ideal choice for digital nomads. Furthermore, 11 hours of power backup ensure that you won't run out of memory midway through your next tour. With its backlit keyboard and smooth typing experience, your fingers won't ache much after typing. Last but not least, it features a built-in studio microphone that makes transcription jobs a breeze, as well as dual cameras to demonstrate the best side of your skills to prospective clients.
Key Features- MicroSDXC card reader
- Touchscreen with HD resolution
- Corning Gorilla Glass display
- Windows Hello face authentication
- Adjustable kickstand
- Dual camera and studio mics
- Brand: Microsoft
- Storage: 128GB SSD
- CPU: Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y
- Memory: 8 GB
- Operating System: Windows
- Battery: 11 Hours
- Ports: 1 x USB-C, 1x 3.5 mm headphone jack, 1x Surface Connect port,1x Surface Type Cover Port, 1x MicroSDXC Card Reader
- Camera: 5.0MP front-facing camera with 1080p HD video 8.0MP rear-facing auto-focus camera with 1080p HD video
- Display (Size, Resolution): 10.51-inch, 1920x1280
- Weight: 1.18lbs
- Dimension: 7.98 x 10.82 x 1.89 inches
- Speakers: 2W stereo speakers with Dolby Audio
- Backlit keyboard providing typing comfort
- PixelSense touchscreen for perfect sketching
- Super lightweight
- Built-in studio mics
- Long-lasting battery
- It gets slow at times
- Relatively small screen
1. ASUS VivoBook F512
9.20 / 10 Read ReviewsThe ASUS VivoBook F512 features an ErgoLift design that improves typing position, making it an excellent device for freelance writers and journalists. Featuring a backlit keyboard, the smooth key travel allows you to type all day long. With an AMD processor and 8GB RAM, your laptop stays efficient and will not lag, despite running multiple applications.
Moreover, its large 15.6-inch screen provides a wide-angle HD display, which makes it ideal for people who are used to large displays. An 80 percent screen-to-body ratio and ASUS NanoEdge Bezels maintain the aesthetics of this computer.
For people who are concerned about security, the device has a fingerprint sensor. Cortana integration enables you to dictate your commands so that the device follows your instructions when you are not in the mode of moving your hands. In terms of regulatory compliance, this ASUS model is Energy Star certified, a mark of energy efficiency.
The fast charging feature will allow you to charge the battery up to 60 percent in 49 minutes. Additionally, the ASUS battery health technology ensures your battery won't overcharge. Audio clarity is assured with perfect audio delivery and deeper bass, so you won't miss a word your client says.
Key Features- Innovative ErgoLift design
- Fingerprint sensor
- Windows Hello Face sign-in
- Windows Hello Face sign-in
- Energy Star rated
- Cortana integration
- Brand: ASUS
- Storage: 128GB SSD + 1TB HDD
- CPU: Ryzen 5 3500U Processor
- Memory: 8GB
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Battery: Not Provided
- Ports: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, 2x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x 3.5mm, 1x Combo Audio Jack, 1x Micro SD card reader
- Camera: 720p HD
- Display (Size, Resolution): 15.6-inch, 1920x1080
- Weight: 3.70 lbs
- Dimension: 14.1 x 9.1 x 0.75 inches
- Speakers: ASUS Sonicmaster Technology
- Affordable option
- Fast charging
- Large display
- Typing comfort
- High audio quality
- Super lightweight
- Relatively short battery life
1. Dell XPS 13 9310
8.20 / 10 Read ReviewsWith an aluminum build and carbon fiber on the palm rest, the Dell XPS 13 has an elegant look and feel. It's also incredibly robust, making it a perfect laptop for freelancers who are remote working. You will enjoy designing your next logo using its cutting-edge stunning Infinity Edge screen when it comes to the display.
You can binge-watch Netflix movies in the brightest colors with a 20 percent higher contrast ratio when you have free time. This feature is equally applicable when editing videos. The Intel 11th Gen processor and Iris Xe graphics take graphic and computing performance to the next level.
You can install the Dell Mobile Connect on both your mobile and PC to control your Android device from your PC entirely. You can send messages, make calls, and transfer files. In terms of heat management, this beast leaves behind all other laptops for freelancers. You won't feel the heat from the dual fans as they efficiently exhaust the heat through vents in the hinge, passing through the heat pipes.
As well as being slim enough to slip into your backpack easily, the device is lightweight, so you won't feel burdened while traveling. The fingerprint reader allows you to log in with a single touch while the lid's smart sensor can turn your laptop on as soon as you lift its lid. The touchpad is pretty smooth, and you will love typing on its keyboard. Finally, thanks to the 14 hours of battery life, one charge will last the entire day.
Key Features- Eco-friendly
- Energy Star certified
- Infinity Edge display
- Fingerprint reader
- Lid Sensor - quickly powering up your laptop
- Brand: Dell
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1185G7
- Memory: 16GB
- Operating System: Windows 10 Pro
- Battery: 14 hours
- Ports: 1x USB 2.0, 1x USB 3.0, 2x Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1x headset port,
- Camera: 720p HD
- Display (Size, Resolution): 13.4-inch, 1920x1200
- Weight: 2.80 lbs
- Dimension: 7.82 x 11.64 x 0.58 inches
- Speakers: Stereo speakers with Waves MaxxAudio
- Decent touchpad and keyboard
- Compact and lightweight - highly portable
- Responsive machine
- Supports Dell Mobile Connect
- Energy efficient
- Louder fans
- Small screen size
FAQ
Q: How Much RAM Is Required In A Laptop For Freelancing?
The more RAM your computer has, the better it will perform. If your pocket allows you to buy more RAM, then do so. In general, 8GB RAM should be sufficient to process all freelancing work on a basic level. To avoid frequently encountering low memory errors, go for 16GB RAM if you do a lot of designing work. For client management and writing-related job, 8 GB RAM would suffice.
Q: Are MacBook M1 Models Suitable For Freelancing?
Both MacBook M1 models (Air and Pro) are packed with all the features a freelancer will need. They provide high-quality mics, speakers, cameras, and high typing comfort, fast processing, lightweight, and long-lasting batteries. Investing in MacBook Air or Pro will give you at least five to ten years of service, depending on how you use it.
Q: What To Look For Before Buying A Laptop For Freelancing?
When choosing a laptop for freelancing, make sure it has a long battery life, enough storage space for all of your files, high-end RAM, and a powerful processor for fast processing and multitasking.
Furthermore, a good quality camera and high-end audio technology are essentials for smooth virtual meetings, while the laptop should not break the bank. A lightweight unit with additional security features will be a plus.
