TOP 5+ Best Laptop for Stock Traders & Day Trading in 2021
Every laptop is configured to suit a set of occupations. A stock trader is often misunderstood to use a laptop to sell and buy stocks. However, the reality is that the trader needs to constantly watch the market and choose the call.
In addition to technical knowledge, you need to have a laptop that manages high web browsing and maintains software without crashing.
If you are a stock trader, you must have realized how difficult it is to utilize a laptop that is reliable, secure, has a long-lasting battery, and permits multiple browsing sessions.
Sounds exactly like your story? We have compiled a list of laptops for stock trading right in this article. Let’s dive in.
Top 5 Best Laptop for stock trading in 2021
Image | Products | Speciality | Price |
Apple 13” Macbook Pro | Best Overall | ||
Razer Blade Stealth 13 | Runner Up | ||
ASUS Zenbook 14 | Best Specs | ||
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 | Best Performance | ||
HP Spectre x360 | Best Touch Screen Laptop |
5 Best Laptop For Stock Trading in 2021
1.Apple 13” Macbook Pro – Best laptops for stock
Apple Macbook is known for its graphics performance and service response times. Whether you are a novice or an expert in stock trading, you tend to download stock trading software that covers a major chunk of the storage. When you run out of storage space, it can affect the quality of graphics.
Apple 13” Macbook Pro is a laptop that includes an M1 8-core processor and an integrated 8-core graphic card with a maximum battery life of 17 hours for every full charge similar to a laptop with backlit keyboard.
The fast loading and response times of the Apple Macbook Pro make it credible for use among stock market traders. With a touch bar attached to the 13-inch HD display screen of this laptop, you get a chance to control multimedia files.
The SSD memory of Macbook Pro allows a stock trader to upgrade up to 2 TB storage thereby opening ways for external storage options. There may be times when you have not made the call for the day and hours have passed.
The advantage of the Apple Macbook Pro is that it permits heavy graphical usage for 17 hours in each charge. To add a layer of security, the laptop is embedded with a T2 chip that includes an encrypted storage system and a secure coprocessor.
This laptop is also apt for those of you running stock trading companies and wanting to store multiple multimedia files each day for analysis of reports at a later stage.
Coming to its drawbacks, we should admit that Apple systems tend to heat up faster hence not an ideal choice to be one of the best laptops for 3d modeling. The fan starts at a delay and it can frustrate users at times. Another predominant problem with any Apple system is that it has an extra layer of security and does not encourage apps that do not support Apple OS.
The sleek design combined with the reliability and portability of this exclusive laptop makes it a perfect choice for every stock trader.
If you are someone running multiple applications simultaneously, plan your tasks in advance and ensure that you do not overload your system.
There are 2 USB ports on this laptop. From a stock trader’s perspective, this is considered a plus too as it helps in efficient data management and prevents data leaks.
Doesn’t that sound promising?
Hardware Specifications | |
Processor | Apple M1 8-Core |
RAM | 8 GB DDR4 RAM |
Storage | 256GB NVMe SSD |
Graphics | Integrated 8-core |
Display | 13.3-inch FHD (2560 x 1600) |
Operating System | macOS-based |
- Trustworthy, high-configured brand ideal for users of varied requirements
- Lag-free system
- Best battery life
- Sturdy graphical support
- Touch ID
- Runs only applications that support macOS
- 2 USB ports
2. Razer Blade Stealth 13 – Runner Up
Razer Blade Stealth 13 closely competes with every other laptop for stock trading because of its interesting range of features making it one of the best laptops for stock.
Operating on an Intel Core i7 processor, it is a high-end model giving a smooth experience to users. If you are the one who regularly uses your device to perform daily trading and stock calls, this laptop makes things easier for you. In one touch, you can complete things on the go just like you can with some of the budget gaming laptop under 500.
It is 0.5 inches in thickness and weighs roughly 2.9 lbs. The state-of-the-art graphics card attributes to high GPU performance. This is accompanied by the customizable RGB keyboard that comforts users handling numbers throughout the day.
Though it is slightly expensive, the laptop is often called an engineering marvel as it looks smaller and simpler but lets users accomplish piles of work in a jiffy. Some buyers consider the pricing of this laptop to be a downside but you know what, you get tons of features that can boost your work so you do not have to purchase a new one at a later stage.
This is preferred by stock traders that carry on with their day jobs and trade during free hours. With 512GB SSD memory, you can load thousands of files rapidly without hampering your ongoing trading software.
There are only 2 ports but it does not turn out to be a disadvantage for those of you managing data effectively.
The ravishing structure and astonishing build of Razer Blade Stealth 13 is a product worth every penny. Be it the satisfactory battery or the huge storage capability or its ultra-thin structure or the power-boosting feature up to 3.5 GHz, this laptop for stock trading stands tall in the market.
Hardware Specifications | |
Processor | Intel Core i7-1165G7 4 Core |
RAM | 16GB |
Storage | 512GB SSD |
Graphics Card | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Max-Q |
Display | 13.3-inch QHD+Touch (3200 x 1800) |
Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
- Ultra-thin
- Unique and attractive design
- Large trackpad
- Excellent sound system
- High processing speed
- Lightweight
- Expensive
- 2 ports
3. ASUS Zenbook 14– Best Specs laptop
ASUS Zenbook 14 is known for its powerful specifications. If you are on a budget and prefer a brand of laptop for stock trading that is known to you, this laptop is what you should land on. Running on an Intel Core i7-8550U processor (8th generation), the RAM of 16GB is just fast enough to switch between calls. The nano-edge bezel display gives an added twist to this device. The 512 GB space available in this laptop makes it easier for stock traders to obtain value for money. No need for expensive models when your SSD can be expanded whenever you need it!
Another unique aspect of ASUS Zenbook 14 is the use of the Windows Hello feature. This lets you log in with a one-touch authentication model.
This adds up to the list of advanced Zenbooks from ASUS but outperforms its previous models in terms of loading time, security, and design. There are multiple cable ports including a Micro SD card reader, USB-C, HDMI, and 802.11 a/c WiFi. There are 3 USB 3.0 ports so that you can also connect external devices to upgrade your trading knowledge. This is an important feature if you are a novice stock trader.
Like every other laptop, ASUS Zenbook 14 does have a couple of cons including frequent heating problems and a noisy fan. The fan noise does distract the user from focusing on trading calls. This is only the problem with the coil whine which the brand attempts to solve in its upcoming versions. Also, it gets heated when there are tens of functions operating simultaneously. The recent versions of the laptop seem to be getting better with respect to heating and noise from the fan. This is the good aspect of this manufacturer.
You may urge to refer to several trading documents before you make your trading calls. The high-resolution screen (4k) display screen quality combined with fingerprint unlock system and expandable storage option make it one of the must-have laptops for traders.
Yet another interesting trading feature is the backlit keyboard if you may have to trade in dark places. It lets you maintain your accuracy and also eliminates any negative impact on your eyes with its retina-protection technology.
Several users report how the battery lasts longer than promised at 25% brightness. Some buyers have even bragged about how the laptop works well on heavy functions even with WiFi and Bluetooth turned on. The sleeky nature of this laptop needs to have a source of ventilation. A pro trader benefits from this tip.
Did we also tell you that it takes less than an hour to get the laptop charged? From screen to speaker to keyboard, this is a value addition.
Stock traders insisting on productivity should go with Zenbook 14!
Hardware Specifications | |
Processor | Intel i7-8550U 1.8 GHz processor |
RAM | 16 GB RAM |
Storage | 512 GB SSD |
Graphics Card | Intel HD Graphics 620 |
Display | 14” Full HD |
Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
- Affordable
- High-resolution graphical display
- Promising battery life
- High build quality
- Lightweight
- Frequently heating problems
- Noisy fan
4. Microsoft Surface Pro 6 – Best Performance
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 is an ideal laptop for forex trading and it also functions as a tablet. This 2-in-1 model is also portable and lightweight so you can carry and trade even when you are traveling. The Intel Core i5 processor of this model lets functions operate faster.
The compact nature of this laptops for stock trading makes it widely recommended among traders. A lot of traders happen to travel frequently and attend to calls on the go. This turns out to be the solution if you are one of them.
Comprising 8GB RAM, users can upgrade up to 16 GB at an extra cost. However, 256GB SSD is sufficient to run trading software and also other applications as a part of daily chores.
It weighs 1.7 pounds but never compromises on the display and music. In addition to using it as a tablet and laptop, Microsoft Surface Pro 6 can also be used in studio mode.
The extraordinary audio features of this laptop make it relevant for those of you recording audios and videos or handling stock trading classes.
The biggest advantage of Microsoft Surface Pro 6 is its battery. Although the size is too compact, the battery can withstand up to 13.5 hour and this makes it value for money.
However, this model lets down the buyer in one aspect which is the port. It contains limited ports such as a mini-display port, USB A 3.0 port, jack for headphone, and Surface Connect port.
Ideally, your functions can get restricted if you are someone wanting to transfer files or using them full-time for multiple purposes.
As a trader, you may need a laptop that comes with a keyboard and a mouse since these peripherals add ease to your day. Since Microsoft Surface Pro 6 is compact, it does not have an inbuilt keyboard and you may need to purchase a mouse and keyboard separately.
Ideally, you may have to allocate an additional budget for these peripherals if you are looking at purchasing this multi-purpose laptop for trading.
But, it also gives the trader the freedom to customize the 2-in-1 device in terms of peripherals and functions. This is useful for professionals as there is no need to add in unnecessary applications.
The buyers of this laptop for trading have boasted everywhere about its booting rate which seems extremely beneficial while using applications like MS-Office and other heavy tasks regularly.
How did we forget to tell you the advantage of an IRIS scanner embedded with this device? One word, great! Should you have a hobby like painting, buy a pen for this device and you are good to go. That shows how flexible this multipurpose device is!
Hardware Specifications | |
Processor | Intel Core i5-8250U processor |
RAM | 8 GB DDR4 |
Storage | 128GBGB SSD storage |
Graphics Card | Intel UHD 620 |
Display | 12.3-inch PixelSense (2736×1824) |
O.S. | Windows 10 |
- Promising battery life ideal for a trader
- Adequate RAM and SSD storage
- Available in three modes – studio, laptop, and tablet
- Portable
- Good processing speed with this configuration
- Does not have a type C USB port
- Keyboard and mouse should be purchased at an extra cost
5. HP Spectre x360 – Best Touchscreen Laptop
HP Spectre x360 is one of the widely used laptops among traders for the reason that the configurations are advanced. Day trading consumes nearly 12-13 hours and you need to be alert at all times to make profitable calls.
There are two aspects that should be taken into consideration if you are a day trader – battery life and computing power. With a minimum battery life of 12 hours, the computer operates on a 1.8GHz generation intel core i7-8565U processor.
Although this is a high-performance best laptop for trading, the buyers can also enhance it further to 4GHz with the turbo boost technology of Intel processor. Those traders not wanting to go ahead with Apple laptops should choose HP Spectre x360 for two reasons – pen support and great screen quality.
Apple laptops are known for their promising display features. HP Spectre x360 is often misunderstood to be just a gaming laptop.
This is the biggest pro of HP Spectre x360 as the touchscreen never compromises on quality. Further, the 13.3-inch WLED-backlit touch screen model has 16GB RAM along with 512GB SSD storage. This lets users retrieve data rapidly.
The touchscreen computer is handy as it weighs less than 3 pounds. The only downside of this laptop is its expensive nature. You may have to spend a few hundred dollars extra to avail yourself of the computer with the best configuration.
As a day trader, your calls need security as the operations incur payments and you access one or more payment portals to make profits.
There is a one-touch fingerprint unlock feature in addition to Mcaffee internet security so that the computer is not attacked by viruses, malware, and attacks.
When you travel, you may need a laptop that does not demand you to carry additional peripherals. The HP Stylus pen associated with HP Spectre x360 makes it easier to decide on calls with only a pen.
It has a number of ports promoting easier data transfer and these include a microphone port, 2 USB Type-C Thunderbolt 3 ports, 1 external I/O port for microSD, and 1 USB 3.1 Gen 2. It is evident that it covers the major needs of a port and does not impose restrictions on the type of external device.
The charging cord poses issues at times but this cannot be treated as a serious problem as it is getting fixed in the upcoming versions. If you have this issue, then check out our guide on how to repair the power jack without soldering
With its good power, you should be aware of the heating rate. It heats a bit faster and this is a downside especially if you are carrying the computer and using it during your travel.
But if you provide ventilation arrangement, this is the one to go. The extended warranty period keeps your purchase protected. Not to forget, the turbo charging feature saves time.
It is accustomed with a HP active pen. Have you ever heard that a computer can be stuck against the wall? A lot of traders use this sleek one as a wallscreen to observe charts and use a pen whenever there is a need for a call.
Isn’t that something you would long for?
Hardware Specifications | |
Processor | Quad-Core i7-10510U |
RAM | 16GB RAM |
Storage | 512GB SSD |
Graphics Card | GeForce MX330 |
Display | 15.6 Inch 4K UHD |
Operating System | Win 10 |
- Portable
- Has a stylus pen support
- Highly secure
- Faster processor
- Multiple ports for faster access of data
- Expensive
- On and off charging cord problems
- Heating problem
Frequently asked questions
- Can you day trade with a laptop?
Ideally, one that you choose needs to support trading as this is when most traders make trades. All the laptops mentioned in this article support trading and they also have excellent computing speed and battery life.
Best laptops for trading – Apple 13” Macbook Pro
Best laptops for trading during travel – HP Spectre x360
Best laptops for trading with added security – Zenbook 14
2. How much RAM do I need for day trading?
As mentioned in the basic criteria for a stock trading laptop, the minimum RAM configuration needs to be 16 GB. However, you can also do trading with a device that has 8 GB RAM but be aware of the loading speed and low computing power when applications are overloaded.
Basic laptop for day trading – Microsoft Surface Pro 6
High-end laptop for day trading – Razer Blade Stealth 13
3. Which laptop is best for stock trading?
Whether you are an independent stockbroker or an agency, you need one that meets basic criteria like 8GB RAM, 13.3-inch FHD display, Intel Core i3 processor, 256 GB SSD, and battery life of at least 5 hours. Based on these specifications, we have chosen five laptops that meet your needs and allow you to focus on daily chores irrespective of the volumes of data you have to handle.
Apple 13” Macbook Pro – Best overall
Razer Blade Stealth 13 – High-end laptop for stock trading
Zenbook 14 – Best quality laptop for stock trading
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 – Best performance for forex trading
HP Spectre x360 – Best touch screen laptop
4. Are stock trading laptops worth it in 2021?
We have to admit that laptops have been developed constantly to achieve specific purposes and stock trading is one of them.
Some of the common tenets that pro traders look for in 2021 are right here.
– Portability – This is much needed in this technology-led world as a trader tends to travel frequently but cannot miss making day calls. It needs to have a display of at least 12.3 inches to give clarity to the users. HP Spectre x360 and Microsoft Surface Pro 6 are highly portable.
– Price – If you are an agency, you should undoubtedly go ahead with high-end laptops like Razer Blade Stealth 13 and HP Spectre x360. Although they cost a few bucks extra, they are absolutely worth it as they are designed in a way to handle heavy loads of data, multiple simultaneous operations, and life.
– Backlit keyboard – This is essential if you are handling calls or analyzing charts after daylight. The backlit keyboard guarantees precision of decisions and also makes your system looks elegant.
– Fast processor – This is dependent on RAM, port availability, and SSD storage. Apple 13” Macbook Pro is a lag-free laptop for stock trading. However, you can also look at Microsoft Surface Pro 6 for satisfactory performance.
– Battery power – This is probably the first specification that every trader should take into consideration. On average, you may need one that has a battery life of at least 5 hours but a pro trader considers laptops that have at least 8 hours of life. This is because the trading covers the entire duration and this may be helpful if the trader is traveling.
Conclusion
Traders are seldom aware of models that are built exclusively for them. As things have gone digital, it is important to make a sound investment towards a computer that addresses basic specifications and also guarantees durability.
There are best laptops for stock of all budgets in this article. Before you make your purchase, list down your needs and choose the laptop that goes well in meeting your needs. As the market is getting crazy in releasing newer, high-end laptops for stock trading, we would encourage you to purchase now before the prices skyrocket in due course.
Happy trading!
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About Author
Dean Colin
Dean Colin is an avid reader and an internet enthusiast who is the man behind TheBestLaptops.net where he reviews cutting edge technology.