There are several maxims that you should keep to heart when trading. Big things start in small ways, so be patient. Learn from your mistakes to improve your future strategies. Only you are in charge of your trading actions, so keep it that way. Don’t share your trading strategies – recognize investment value that others overlook and act accordingly.
The most important maxim to take to heart about trading in the 21st century is that you need a good internet connection and a good laptop to optimize your potential future gains.
As a trader, having the right laptop can make all the difference in your success. Today’s trading software demands a computer with high processing power, fast and reliable internet connection, and a large display that can show multiple charts.
Having a good laptop keeps you continually attuned to financial market activity, makes research instantaneous, and helps with calculations.
The average day trader makes anywhere from $68,000 to $198,000 annually, with $116,000 being the median.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that with patience, research discipline, and a good laptop you could potentially become a millionaire via stock trading. In 2022, a 24-year-old trader made headlines for making over $8 million within 24 months. Another trader, only 28 years old in 2022, flipped $12,000 into $650,000 within 4 years.
You can become a millionaire via trading – it just won’t happen overnight, you must be disciplined with research, get advice from experts, and have the right tools, like a good laptop.
In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to choose the best laptops for trading. Here are the five laptops that will be reviewed in this article:
- ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED
- Acer Vero Green
- Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10
- Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch, 2023
- Razer Blade 17 2020
The laptops reviewed in this guide range in prices anywhere between $600 to $3,000. While spending a few thousand on a laptop is pricey, it is important to understand that it takes money to make money. The most important step in starting a business is having a business strategy and startup capital, even for a trader.
The article is based on my 20 years of investing experience including buying and selling stock, as well as a review of the existing literature on which contemporary laptops are best for the average trader’s needs. The main idea here is to put the best machines in front of you – and if you decide to buy one, Thousandaire.com will get a modest commission that will help keep the lights on.
Best Desktop Day Trading Software
If you’re in the market for a laptop for stock trading purposes, then you should also consider getting an accompanying day trading software program designed for desktop or laptop use.
Day trading software programs can perform instantaneous calculations, utilize AI to keep track of and execute trading decisions based on your preexisting preferences, keep exacting track of current market conditions, and more.
Here are some excellent day trading software programs that you should consider getting to help you with your trading executions:
- Fidelity Investments
- TradeStation
- Firstrade
- J.P. Morgan Self-Directed Investing
- Charles Schwab
- TD Ameritrade
- ZacksTrade
- E*Trade
- Ally Invest
- Interactive Brokers
- Merrill Edge
Understanding Traders Computing Needs
Trading is a demanding task that requires a lot from your laptop. As a trader, you need a reliable and powerful laptop that will help you execute your trades in a timely manner. Here are some key factors you need to consider when choosing which machine you want to get:
Processor Power and Speed
For trading, you’ll want a processor that’s powerful enough to process market data and execute trades quickly. A faster processor can help you make quick decisions and execute trades faster. Intel Core i5 or i7, or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 processors are good options for trading laptops. These processors offer high performance and speed, making them ideal for trading.
RAM Requirements: 8GB is Good, 16GB is better
RAM is essential for your laptop to run multiple applications simultaneously. For trading, you’ll want at least 8GB of RAM, but 16GB or more is recommended for high frequency and algorithm trading. Having more RAM allows you to run multiple trading applications and charts simultaneously, making your trading experience smoother and more efficient.
Graphics and Display Quality: 1080p or Better
Graphics and display quality are critical when it comes to trading. A high-resolution display (1080p or higher) is essential for traders to see all the details in their charts and graphs. A laptop with a high-quality display is also helpful. Also, consider the viewing angles, color accuracy, and screen size when choosing a laptop.
Battery Life and Portability: At Least 6-8 Hours
Many traders need to be mobile and work away from home. For this reason, it’s essential to consider the laptop’s battery life and portability. Look for laptops that have a battery life of at least 6-8 hours and are lightweight and portable.
Get A Solid SSD For Storage Capacity and Speed
Trading software and data can take up a lot of space. It’s important to have enough storage on your laptop to store all your trading software, data, and documents. Solid-state drives (SSDs) are recommended for trading laptops since they offer fast read and write speeds. A faster SSD can help you access your data and trading applications quickly, making your trading experience more efficient.
Top Laptops for Trading in 2023
As a trader, having the right laptop is crucial to your success. You need a laptop that can keep up with your demanding workload and handle all the software and charts you need to run. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top laptops for trading in 2023.
Now that you know what to look for in a trading laptop, we’ve put together a list of the top laptops for trading in 2023. These laptops have been selected based on their performance, price, and features.
Best Overall: ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED
The ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED is my pick for the best overall trading laptop in 2023. It comes with an Intel Core i9 processor, 32GB of RAM, a 1TB, GeForce RTX 3060 Laptop GPU, Gigabit-class Wi-Fi 6, and a touch-sensitive 15.6-inch full HD display. Its battery life is up to 12 hours, making it ideal for traders who need to work on the go.
In addition to its impressive specs, the ASUS Zenbook Pro also has a sleek and professional design, making it a great choice for traders who want to make a good impression on clients.
In all fairness, while this laptop is a great all-around trading machine, some reviewers note the battery life is just middling. This laptop retails for between $2,100 and $2,800. Amazon appears to have better prices than the ASUS Store. Get it using the button below:
You can read our in-depth review of the ASUS here.
Best Budget Option: Acer Vero Green
“Recycled plastic never looked so good“, Cnet.com.
Low-cost trading laptops generally have a bad reputation. They typically have integrated lower-grade Intel graphics onboard. This means the graphics performance of is often more limited than bigger budget options. Less expensive laptops are often a bit heavier and have more limited storage space. The Acer Vero Green is the exception to this rule.
The Acer Vero Green is called “green” as it is made with recycled materials and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes (here).
For traders on a budget, the Acer Vero Green is a solid option. It comes with an Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor, 16GB of RAM, a 512 NVMe SSD, and a 15.6-inch full HD IPS display, and an Intel Iris Xe Graphics card. The average battery life is 10 hours, has good ergonomics and plenty of ports.
While it may not have the same high-end specs as some of the other laptops on this list, The Acer Vero Green is still a reliable and capable machine that can handle most trading tasks with ease.
Acer wants to charge you $750 for it on their website. Amazon is selling it for $600. Even with a promo code, Amazon is still your best bet for this trading laptop. You can get it here:
Best for Portability: Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10
Famed as the PC Magazine’s editors’ choice for “The World’s Best Laptop”, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 is well suited for traders who are running simple web-based applications and who want a lightweight but long-lasting and durable computer.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 is portable, lightweight, durable, and has a battery life of up to 10 hours. It comes with a heavy-duty core 4.7 GHz I7 processor, 16 GB LPDDR5 of memory, 512 GB total SSD, and a 14″ 1920 x 1200 full HD display. You’ll have no problem running multiple trading applications on this laptop. This laptop weighs 4.29 pounds and has a battery life of 9 hours.
Whether you’re traveling to meet clients, doing the digital nomad thing, or working from a coffee shop, The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 is a solid companion for traders on the go. Its compact size, completive hardware, and long battery life make it easy to take with you wherever you need to go.
Read our in-depth review of the Lenovo ThinkPad here.
Best for High-Performance Trading: Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch, 2023
High-performance laptops are generally considered the fastest, most powerful laptops on the market. So, based solely on performance and processing power, the Apple MacBook Pro 16 Inch consistently makes the list of high-performing computers.
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch is my pick for high-performance trading. It’s equipped with an M2 Pro chip with a 12-core CPU and 19-core GPU. The display is 16.2 inches, with a very high-resolution liquid retina XDR display. The laptop has 16GB of unified memory and 512 gigabytes of SSD storage.
One downside of Macintosh products is nearly no trading software works on Apple devices. But, if you’re running web-based trading tools, the Apple MacBook Pro can do wonders in terms of its weight, very fast performance, and first-rate display quality. The battery on the MacBook Pro can last for up to 20 hours for normal browsing and 15 hours when running computationally intensive applications.
The Apple MacBook sells for about $2,250 on Amazon, which is a couple of hundred less expensive than comparable pricing at the Apple store. Get it at the button below:
You can review our in-depth review of the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch here.
Best for Multitasking: Razer Blade 17 2020.
For traders who need to run multiple applications concurrently, the Razer Blade 17 is an excellent choice.
Manufactured by the Razer Corp, a lifestyle brand for gamers (here), the Razer Blade 17 is an excellent tool for multi-taskers. In general, gaming laptops have heavy-duty processors, excellent graphics cards, and fast internet connections. This makes them excellent tools for traders who need to run multiple memory/computationally intensive trading applications.
The Razor Blade 17 2020 boasts an Intel Core i7-10875H 8-Core processor, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Super Max-Q graphics card, a 17.3″ FHD 300Hz display, 16GB of memory, a 512GB SSD hard drive, a very nice CNC Aluminum color and enough ports to plug in additional monitors.
In addition to its impressive specs, the Razer Blade 17 also has a comfortable keyboard and touchpad, making it easy to work for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort. The Razor company has manufactured gaming laptops in 2021, 2022, and 2023, but the price for value obtained in these later models isn’t as good as the 2020 models.
Razor.com charges roughly $3,100 for a Razer Blade 17. Amazon charges just $2,900, you can get their store here, or click the button below.
You can read our detailed review of the Razer Blade 17 here.
Overall, these are the top laptops for trading in 2023. Whether you’re a professional trader or just getting started, there’s a laptop on this list that will meet your needs and help you succeed.
Operating System Considerations
When it comes to trading laptops, choosing the right operating system is crucial. The operating system you choose will determine the software you can run, the user interface you’ll be working with, and the overall performance of your laptop. There are three main operating systems to consider: Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Windows vs. macOS for Trading
Windows and macOS are both excellent options for trading laptops, but they have their differences. Windows has a larger selection of trading software, making it a popular choice for traders. However, macOS is known for its stability and security, which is a huge plus for traders who value reliability.
Another factor to consider is the user interface. Windows has been around for much longer than macOS and has a more traditional interface. macOS, on the other hand, has a sleek and intuitive interface that is easy to navigate. Choose the one that you’re most comfortable with.
Linux and Other Alternative Operating Systems
Linux and other alternative operating systems are not as widely used for trading as Windows and macOS, but they can be more cost-effective and customizable for traders who are tech-savvy. Linux is an open-source operating system, which means that it’s free to use and can be customized to suit your needs. It’s also known for its stability and security, making it a reliable option for traders. However, it has a steeper learning curve compared to Windows and macOS.
Compatibility with Trading Software
Before choosing an operating system, make sure it’s compatible with your trading software. Some trading software may only be available on specific operating systems. For example, if you’re using a trading platform that’s only available on Windows, you’ll need to choose a Windows laptop. The same goes for macOS and Linux.
It’s also worth noting that some trading software may run better on certain operating systems. For example, some traders prefer to use macOS for charting and analysis because of Apple’s traditional advantages in high-quality display and graphics capabilities.
In conclusion, choosing the right operating system for your trading laptop depends on your personal preferences and needs. Consider the software you’ll be using, the user interface you’re most comfortable with, and your budget. With the right operating system, you’ll have a laptop that’s optimized for trading and can help you make better decisions in the market.
Essential Accessories for a Trading Laptop
In addition to a trading laptop, there are some essential accessories that traders should consider:
External Monitors for Multi-Screen Setups
Multiple screens can significantly improve your workflow as a trader. Consider getting an external monitor that’s compatible with your laptop.
External monitors come in different sizes and resolutions. You can choose one that suits your needs and budget. A larger screen can make it easier to track multiple charts and news feeds simultaneously. Some external monitors also come with built-in speakers, which can be useful if you need to listen to audio alerts or news updates.
The best option in this space is the Dell SE2719HR. It retails for something like $180 on Amazon. This is what it looks like:
Ergonomic Keyboards and Mice
Ergonomic keyboards and mice can help prevent repetitive strain injury and make trading more comfortable. Consider investing in an ergonomic keyboard and mouse that’s comfortable to use for long periods of time.
Ergonomic keyboards and mice come in different shapes and sizes. Some have split keyboards or curved designs that can reduce wrist and hand strain. Some mice have vertical grips that can reduce forearm strain. You can also find keyboards and mice with customizable keys or buttons that can be programmed to perform specific functions or shortcuts that can speed up your trading workflow.
Laptop Stands and Docking Stations
Laptop stands and docking stations can help optimize your workspace and provide more ports and connections. Look for a stand or docking station that’s compatible with your laptop.
A laptop stand can elevate your laptop to eye level and improve your posture. This can reduce neck and back strain. Some stands also have built-in fans that can help cool down your laptop during intense trading sessions. A docking station can provide additional USB ports, HDMI ports, and Ethernet ports that can be useful if you need to connect to multiple devices or networks.
Reliable Internet Connection Solutions
A fast and reliable internet connection is crucial for trading. Consider getting a mobile hotspot or a reliable Wi-Fi adapter that can help you stay connected even when you’re on the go.
A mobile hotspot can provide a secure and stable internet connection even in areas with poor Wi-Fi coverage. Some mobile hotspots also have long battery life and can be charged via USB. A reliable Wi-Fi adapter can help you connect to Wi-Fi networks with weak signals or long distances. Some Wi-Fi adapters also have high-gain antennas that can boost your signal strength and improve your connection speed.
Optimizing Your Laptop for Trading Performance
Once you’ve chosen the perfect trading laptop and accessories, it’s essential to optimize it for maximum performance. Trading can be a demanding activity, and you need your laptop to keep up with your fast-paced work. Here are some tips for optimizing your laptop to ensure it performs at its best:
Adjusting Power Settings for Maximum Performance
One of the first things you should do to optimize your laptop’s performance is to adjust its power settings. By default, laptops are set to balance performance and battery life, which can limit their performance. To get the most out of your laptop, consider setting it to high-performance mode. This will ensure that your laptop is using all available resources to deliver the best performance possible. However, keep an eye on battery life, as high-performance mode can drain your battery quickly.
Managing Startup Programs and Background Processes
When you start your laptop, many programs and processes start running in the background. These programs can slow down your laptop’s performance, especially if they are resource-intensive. To optimize your laptop’s performance, you should close any unnecessary programs and background processes. This will free up system resources and improve your laptop’s performance. Consider using a program like CCleaner to manage startup programs and background processes automatically.
Regular Maintenance and Updates
Regular maintenance is essential to keep your laptop running smoothly and prevent performance issues. You should run antivirus software regularly to ensure that your laptop is free from viruses and malware that can slow it down. Additionally, you should keep your software updated to ensure that you have the latest features and security patches. Finally, cleaning your laptop’s hardware, such as the keyboard and screen, can help prevent performance issues and keep your laptop looking and functioning like new.
By following these tips, you can optimize your laptop for maximum trading performance. Remember to regularly maintain your laptop and keep it updated to ensure that it continues to perform at its best.
Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Trading Laptop
Trading laptops have become an essential tool for traders, and choosing the right one can make a significant difference in your trading success. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to choose. However, by considering a few factors, you can make a well-informed decision.
Don’t forget, based on performance and budget, I recommend the following five laptops:
Best Overall => ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 OLED
Best Budget Option => Acer Vero Green
Best for Portability => Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10
Best for High-Performance Trading => Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch, 2023
Best for Multitasking => Razer Blade 17 2020.
Performance
Performance is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a trading laptop. You need a laptop that can handle the demands of trading software, which can be quite resource-intensive. A laptop with a powerful processor, sufficient RAM, and a dedicated graphics card will ensure that your trading software runs smoothly without any lag or delays.
Additionally, consider the storage capacity of the laptop. You’ll need enough space to store your trading software, data, and other applications that you might need for trading. A solid-state drive (SSD) is an excellent option for trading laptops as it provides faster boot and load times.
Budget
When it comes to buying a trading laptop, budget is a significant consideration. While you want a laptop with all the features you need, it’s important to stay within your budget. However, keep in mind that investing in a high-quality laptop can save you money in the long run as it will last longer and perform better.
Consider the cost of the laptop, as well as any additional accessories you might need, such as an external monitor or docking station. Look for deals and discounts to get the best value for your money.
Personal Preferences
Personal preferences are also important when choosing a trading laptop. Consider factors such as the size and weight of the laptop, the keyboard and touchpad, and the battery life. You want a laptop that is comfortable to use for extended periods and easy to carry around if you need to trade on-the-go.
Additionally, consider the brand and customer service of the laptop. You want a laptop from a reputable brand that offers good customer support in case you encounter any issues.
In conclusion, choosing the best laptop for trading requires careful consideration of performance, budget, and personal preferences. By keeping these factors in mind, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect laptop for your trading needs.
Lastly, a good machine is one good idea, another is to get yourself some inspiration. To whit, you might consider reading about the legendary history of Jesse Livermore. Livermore was one of the greatest, if not the greatest, day trader in American history. In 1929 Livermore took a short position in the US stock market. When the 1929 Wall Street crash occurred, he profited $100 Million (in 1930s dollars), cementing his place in US trading history (1).