Laptops capable of handling complex tasks effortlessly are the ones you should be looking for if you’re a cyber security professional or even a student. Developing IT security, finding loopholes in the system, and cracking passwords call for heavy data crunching and programming.
Therefore, the best laptops for cyber security should have a little bit of everything, from a decent display and a snappy processor to good battery life and adequate storage.
So which laptops have it all? Well, there are plenty of them. You just need to look at the right places, and this guide right here is one of them. We’ve carefully curated a list of 7 incredibly impressive laptops for cyber security. Let’s get into it!
Which are the best laptops for Cyber Security?
1. HP Pavilion 2021
- Processor: AMD Athlon 3050U
- Graphics: AMD Radeon
- Display: 15.6” HD
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Battery Time: 8 hours
The HP Pavilion 2021 laptop is going to be your ultimate cyber security tool. It is equipped with decent features that keep it portable and powerful at the same time.
Processor
As for the processor, this laptop uses AMD Athlon dual-core processor that’ll allow you to perform multitasking seamlessly. But since it belongs to the budget processors category, you cannot expect it to deal with power-hungry tasks.
Display
Keeping that aside, the display and the graphics of this laptop are super impressive. The laptop boasts a 15.6” HD micro-edge display with an 82% screen-to-body ratio. The visuals are crisp with 220 nits of brightness that work well outdoors too.
Storage
The RAM of this device is upgraded to 16 GB that renders a snappy performance. It allows the system to smoothly run multiple programs and fulfill your browsing needs without breaking a sweat.
The storage capacity of this device is just suitable for a cyber security professional or student as well. You can easily store tonnes of client databases in its 512GB SSD memory.
Other Features
The laptop comes with an integrated numeric keypad which allows fast and easy data processing. Not to mention, the sleek and contemporary design of the laptop makes it a treat for aesthetics as well. Lastly, the 8-hour battery life is quite sufficient, and you can rely on it while working on the go as well!
Pros
- Future proof RAM and storage
- Integrated numeric keypad
- Good value for money
Cons
- Mediocre processor
2. 2021 HP Flagship
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 3-3250U
- Graphics: AMD Radeon Graphics
- Display: 15.6” HD display
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 128 GB SSD, 1TB HDD
- Battery Time: 8 hours
This laptop by HP is yet another budget device but comes with impressive specs and is sure to impress you with its performance as well.
Processor
The laptop uses an AMD Ryzen 3 processor that is a close competitor of the Intel i5 series. In fact, it performs better than the i5-7200U processors. It can handle power-intensive applications and delivers unprecedented performance.
However, it is a dual-core processor to expect some glitches in performance for heavy-duty tasks at times.
Display
The 2021 HP features a 15.6” HD backlit display with a 1366x768p resolution. The display is pretty good, with 220 nits of brightness. Moreover, the laptop comes with AMD Radeon Graphics, which is quite appropriate for a device of this kind. The display overall is not top-notch, but it is not disappointing either. So the laptop’s a pass in terms of the display as well.
Storage
Next, let’s talk about the RAM, which is just at par with our requirements. It features 8GB RAM with an accessible upgrade facility. Although an 8GB RAM works well for cyber security tasks, a future upgrade option is always excellent.
This laptop offers a 128GB SSD memory, in addition to the enormous 1 TB HDD storage. So storage is never going to be a problem with this device.
Other Features
Lastly, you can rely on this device for working on the go as well, for it holds up to 8 hours on a single charge.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Fast and powerful
- Incredible sound
Cons
- Fans are slightly loud
3. Lenovo Flex 5
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5
- Graphics: AMD Radeon Graphics
- Display: 14″ FHD
- RAM: 16GB DDR4
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Battery Time: up to 10 hours
Thin, light, stylish, and efficient, if these are the qualities you’re looking for, then the Lenovo Flex 5 is the perfect option for you. It is an ultra-portable device with a powerful performance.
Processor
This laptop is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, which renders a snappy performance. You can rely on it for heavy data crunching and processing, or essentially any task you need to perform as a cyber security professional.
Display
Since it is a super portable device, it features only a 14” Full HD touchscreen display. The display is quite stunningly impressive. The resolution, brightness, bezels, viewing angles all are up to par. And with the integrated AMD Radeon graphics, this laptop will catch your eye.
Storage
The 16 GB RAM capacity will never put you off in terms of performance. This device delivers high-speed and lag-free performance. As for the storage, that too is quickly sufficient. The laptop offers a 256GB flash memory that renders faster loading times and offers adequate capacity for loads of data.
Other Features
Since it is a 2 in 1 laptop, it is fun and easy to use. With the 360° hinge, you can use your laptop in various modes at your ease. And last but not least, the laptop can deliver up to 10 hours of non-stop function on a single charge.
Pros
- Responsive touchscreen
- Weighs only 3.6lbs
- High-speed processor
Cons
- Glossy coating on the screen produces glare
4. HP Pavilion x360
- Processor: 11th Gen. Intel Core i5
- Graphics: Intel Iris Xe
- Display: 14″ Touchscreen
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 256GB
- Battery Time: up to 8 hours
The x360 convertible is a versatile device that is made for a multitude of tasks. It is a sleek and promising device that delivers a fantastic performance.
Processor
This laptop uses the latest 11th generation technology with an Intel Core i5 processor. It is a quad-core processor that can bring the best out of a system. This laptop is a reliable option for you to perform faster and more efficiently for all kinds of tasks.
It can deal with heavy-duty software and process tonnes of data without a hiccup. In short, the processor is going to make your performance unstoppable.
Display
Moving on to the stunning 14″ touchscreen display with an edge-to-edge glass design. The touchscreen is quite responsive and accurate. The screen also comes with an IPS panel that accounts for its excellent viewing angles.
Moreover, the laptop delivers crisp visuals, thanks to the Intel Iris Xe graphics. The 14-inch design keeps it compact and portable.
Storage
If we talk about the RAM, it will easily meet most of your requirements. The 8GB RAM can swiftly handle many tasks simultaneously and delivers a stutter-free performance.
The 8GB RAM is paired with 256GB of SSD memory, making one perfect combination. You get faster start-up and loading times with SSD and store massive databases without any trouble.
Other Features
The battery life is also sufficient. The laptop can function for around 7 to 8 hours wirelessly. Apart from that, the streamlined metal design makes the laptop thin, light, and durable.
Pros
- 360° hinge allows versatile modes of use
- Efficient processor
- Responsive touchpad and keys
Cons
- Brightness level not suitable for outdoors
5. HP 17 Laptop
- Processor: 10th Gen. Intel Core i5
- Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics
- Display: 17.3” FHD IPS
- RAM: 12 GB
- Storage: 1TB HDD
- Battery Time: 7 hours
The HP 17 is quite a decent device for cyber security professionals. However, just a heads up that it is not for the ones looking for a portable option.
Processor
This device is loaded with a 10th generation CPU that delivers an efficient performance. The Intel Core i5 chipset is made to handle multiple tasks at once. It can handle heavy data processing-related applications and software.
To be completely honest, the laptop may not be as fast due to a single core only, but you can still rely on it for most tasks.
Display
It features a big 17.3” FHD display with an IPS panel that delivers excellent viewing angles and crisp visuals. This laptop is the only 17-inch device on our list. And, of course, you get a huge display to look at all day. The graphics are integrated, and so I’d instead not write home about that.
Storage
The RAM and storage combination is killer for the price. With this laptop, you get a 12 GB massive RAM capacity that allows you to take your performance up a notch and stay productive all day. The HDD storage capacity of 1TB is more than enough to store all your work-related data. Sure an SSD would have been great, but we can still make peace with the existing one.
Other Features
The battery is quite mediocre. The battery holds up to 5 to 6 hours on average but can last for 8 hours with minimal use.
Pros
- Backlit keyboard
- Massive storage capacity
- Fast performance
Cons
- Not portable
6. New Lenovo Ideapad 3
- Processor: Intel Core i5
- Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics
- Display: 14-inch FHD
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Battery Time: up to 9 hours
This one is yet another compact and power-packed device at a budget-friendly price. The Lenovo Ideapad 3 is made for those who need portability and efficient performance, side by side.
Processor
This laptop uses an Intel Core i5 processor with four cores that means you’re going to get your hands on a beast of a device. It is unrivaled in terms of its performance. It’ll not be wrong to say that this laptop can surpass your expectations from an entry-level device.
It can effortlessly deal with multitasking and intense browsing. Also, you can process loads of data and run all those power-intensive software without any trouble. The power-packed processor leaves no room for any lags or freezing issues.
Display
The display is also stellar. It is a 14-inch device with a full HD display that comes with an IPS panel as well. On top of that, the laptop offers an anti-glare display that keeps your eyes strain-free all day long. The visuals overall are great for a work-related unit.
Storage
The 8GB RAM is just up to the mark for a cyber security laptop. However, if you wish, you can easily upgrade it with an additional 50 bucks. The 512GB SSD capacity is sufficiently enough for all your storage needs.
Other Features
Lastly, the battery life also will not fail to impress you with its 9 hours run on a single charge (as per the claims).
Pros
- Lightweight
- Sufficient storage capacity
- Fast performance
Cons
- Battery life less than advertised
7. Flagship Acer Nitro 2020
- Processor: 9th Gen Intel Core i5-9300H
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650
- Display: 15.6” FHD IPS
- RAM: 8 GB
- Storage: 256 GB SSD
- Battery Time: up to 8 hours
Well, this laptop, you cannot beat in performance for the price. It is an entry-level gaming device, so that you can expect a devastatingly powerful performance from it for your cyber security missions.
Processor
This device is equipped with a 9th generation CPU featuring an Intel Core i5 processor that has enough capacity to kill every task you throw at it.
The i5-9300H processor is capable enough to perform heavy data crunching and programming. It can deal with intensive software needed for password cracking, or any power-hungry task, for that matter.
Display
The laptop features a stunning full HD 15.6” display. The screen delivers impressive visuals and excellent viewing angles, thanks to the IPS panel. On top of that, the display is backlit.
As for the graphics, this device uses a dedicated 4GB VRAM and boasts a GTX 1650 Nvidia card that enhances the overall performance by two folds.
Storage
Other than that, the laptop features a combination of 8GB RAM and 256GB of SSD memory that keeps the performance lightning fast and responsive. The laptop can efficiently run heavy-duty applications, numerous programs, and browser tabs, all simultaneously.
Other Features
Lastly, you can expect the battery to perform 6-8 hours, depending on your usage. Overall, this laptop will indeed serve all the cyber security professionals and students quite well.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Responsive keyboard and trackpad
- Backlit keyboard
Cons
- Brightness levels could be improved
Best Laptops for Cyber Security: Buyer’s Guide
Finding loopholes in the system and keeping it safe from black hackers is quite an intimidating task itself. And so, you possibly do not want to make it more complex by choosing a sub-standard device. Therefore, you need to look for a capable laptop. Now we did provide you with some excellent options above.
But if you need a little more insight on the features that should mainly concern you, then here’s a short yet comprehensive guide for you. Go on and give it a read.
Processor
The processor is the most crucial component of a computer system. Without a capable processor, you’ll be going nowhere with your tasks because all the functions of a laptop majorly depend on it. The most commonly available processors in the market today are Intel and AMD.
You can find laptops ranging from an Intel i3 processor to an Intel i9 processor, the latter being the most capable one. Similarly, there are plenty of processors in the AMD series like Ryzen 3, 5, or 7, etc.
If we mainly talk about cyber security laptops, then the most minor requirement is an i3 processor for those tight on the budget. Otherwise, your best bet will be a Core i5 processor or its AMD equivalent. These processors perform more efficiently without any trouble during intensive use as well.
RAM and Storage
RAM is yet another factor that immensely affects the performance of a computer system. It decides how fast and responsive your device is going to be. Also, the amount of load it can handle at a single moment depends on the RAM. As a cyber security professional, you cannot compromise on it by any chance.
So what we recommend is that you get at least 8GB RAM. It performs well for all kinds of tasks without a hitch. However, if you want a future-proof device, you can get a higher capacity RAM such as 16 or even 32 GB.
Storage, of course, is a primary feature of a laptop. You always need to store lots of data and download tons of software to get past specific security systems, crack passwords, etc. So you need to get your hands on a sufficient amount of storage. The least you should get is 256GB of SSD memory. And of course, more than that is always good news.
Battery Life
Battery life may or may not be a priority for you. So it is up to you if you want to go after that. However, we suggest you get a device that holds up the battery for at least 6 hours.
At times, you do need to work on the go or take meetings whatsoever. And for those times, you need a reliable laptop. A good cyber security laptop, in our opinion, should be able to function wirelessly for 6-8 hours on average.
Portability
Portable devices are always great. You can take them anywhere as you travel. If you’re a cyber security student, then the portability of the best laptop for cyber security should be an essential part of your checklist. Because who really can carry bricks to school every day?
So most likely, you can find impressively portable devices in the 15-inch screens. 14-inch screens or less than that are, of course, super lightweight and compact, but they’re not always practical. So more often than not, a 15.6” device is the best bet.
In short, if portability is essential for you to then, look for devices that weigh around 3 to 3.8 pounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What laptops do hackers use?
Hackers need a laptop with heavy-duty hardware that can run virtual machines and process complex data. A powerful processor with multitasking ability is the primary requirement for a hacker. So any laptops offering all of that are used by hackers.
How much RAM do I need for cyber security?
Typically an 8 GB RAM is the minimum requirement. If you’re not low on budget, we suggest going for a 12GB to 16GB device for the best performance.
Is Mac good for cyber security?
Some people prefer Mac OS for developing software and other cyber security tasks. At the same time, others like to work with a Windows system. So it depends on your preference.
Is Lenovo good for cyber security?
Yes, with the required specs, a Lenovo laptop sure is good for cyber security. They’re reliable, fast, and minor, so why not? A good option is the Lenovo Flex 5 on our list.