10 Best Laptops for Ph.D Students

A doctor of philosophy (PhD) is the highest academic rank one can attain on an educational path. At this level, learners must undertake extensive research.

To make research and writing essays more convenient, a laptop will be an indispensable assistant for graduate students. To find a computer that can work effectively, you need to spend a lot of time and effort.

In this article, we have provided a detailed review of the top ten laptops for Ph.D Students. These laptops are high-performance, durable, and smooth to help you through your essays and research. Let’s read on to discover!

Our Top Picks:

Each computer on this list is an excellent candidate to accompany you on your path to achieving a Ph. They have useful features and high performance to meet all your usage needs.

1. MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip: Best for HD Camera

Apple 2022 MacBook Air

Specifications

  • Brand: Apple
  • Model Name: MacBook Air
  • Screen Size: 13.6 Inches
  • Color: Space Gray
  • Hard Disk Size: 256 GB

Product Highlights

The first product on my list today is an Apple MacBook. MacBook products are often famous for their thin, light size and high portability.

Indeed, I was surprised when I received this MacBook Air Laptop with an M2 chip device. It’s bigger and heavier than my notebook.

This extremely high resolution helps me see every color on my screen clearly. Analyzing my photographs and reading scientific papers became a lot simpler. I also have great entertainment experiences when watching movies on this device.

The processor of this computer is also potent, allowing me to support tasks with video and graphics. Various ports make it easy to transfer files to my phone and other computers. I also love the product’s MagSafe charging technology.

On first use, it took me just over 15 minutes to fully charge my laptop from 50% battery. When just browsing the web and performing basic tasks, I could continuously use the device for 18 hours without plugging in the charger.

Today’s Best Deal:

Sale
Apple 2022 MacBook Air Laptop with M2 chip: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Backlit Keyboard, 1080p FaceTime HD Camera. Works with iPhone and iPad; Space Gray
  • STRIKINGLY THIN DESIGN — The redesigned MacBook Air is...
  • SUPERCHARGED BY M2 — Get more done faster with a...
  • UP TO 18 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Go all day and into the...
  • BIG, BEAUTIFUL DISPLAY — The 13.6-inch Liquid Retina...
  • ADVANCED CAMERA AND AUDIO — Look sharp and sound great...

What We Like

  • Lightweight
  • Long battery life
  • Diverse connections
  • Full HD 1080p facetime camera

Things to Consider

  • Shipping service and customer care are not good
See also:  Life As an Online Grad Student

2. Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop: Best for Secure System

Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-32DK Slim

Specifications

  • Brand: Acer
  • Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
  • Color: Silver
  • Hard Disk Size: 128 GB

Product Highlights

I regret that I didn’t decide to buy this laptop sooner. The state-of-the-art 3rd generation Intel Core i11 processor lets your PC boot quickly and runs smoothly.

Not only did I perform well in the tasks I needed during my studies, but I could use the computer to entertain myself with my favorite games.

Long essential travel and a convenient numeric keypad are advantages this device brings to users. I feel comfortable typing on my computer without making too much noise.

During the days when I had to work at night to write my thesis, the keyboard backlight became a great assistant for me. I don’t need to turn on the lights to see the keys clearly, so I can avoid disturbing my roommates.

Yet, I do not appreciate the speaker of this product. The sound output could be more realistic and clear enough as I would like.

This disadvantage can be overcome by using external speakers or headphones. Overall, this product has provided me with great experiences during my Ph.D.

Today’s Best Deal:

Sale
Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-32DK Slim Laptop - 15.6" Full HD IPS Display - 11th Gen Intel i3-1115G4 Dual Core Processor - 4GB DDR4 - 128GB NVMe SSD - WiFi 6 - Amazon Alexa - Windows 11 Home in S mode.
  • Powerful Productivity: 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4...
  • Visibly Stunning: Experience sharp details and crisp colors...
  • Ergonomic Typing: Ergonomically-designed hinge lifts the...
  • Internal Specifications: 4GB DDR4 on-board memory (1 slot...
  • Acer's Purified.Voice technology, features enhanced digital...

What We Like

  • Powerful performance
  • Ensure data safety and security
  • Can use using virtual assistant Alexa
  • A plastic cover to cover the camera
  • Advanced Purified Voice technology

Things to Consider

  • Speaker is not good

3. Lenovo Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop: Best for Multi-Ports

Lenovo Ideapad 3 Laptop with 15.6″ HD

Specifications

  • Brand: Lenovo
  • Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
  • Color: Blue
  • Hard Disk Size: 256 GB

Product Highlights

The Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop product I introduce to you is a handy device for both graduates and students. This computer has a powerful Windows 11 Home operating system for all your tasks.

The device has RAM with a high bandwidth of 8GB, which helps it operate even when you use many tabs simultaneously. The 256GB solid-state PCIe hard drive allows for quick boot-ups and easy file transfers to other electronic devices.

Thanks to the various ports, the product’s connectivity will also please anyone. This device provides me with the usual connectivity ports, such as a 3.5mm headphone jack, USB ports, an SD card reader, and HDMI.

I can also easily link the computer to the wireless Internet or Bluetooth to transfer files to other devices.

Today’s Best Deal:

Lenovo 2022 Newest Ideapad 3 Laptop, 15.6" HD Touchscreen, 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB PCIe NVMe SSD, HDMI, Webcam, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth, Windows 11 Home, Almond
  • 【Memory & Storage】Memory is 8GB high-bandwidth RAM to...
  • 【Processor】11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4 Dual-Core...
  • 【Screen】15.6" HD Touchscreen (1366 x 768) Display
  • 【Ports】2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x USB 2.0 Type-A, 1 x...
  • 【Operating System】Windows 11 Home

What We Like

  • Touch screen
  • Smooth operation
  • Powerful operating system
  • Diverse connection ports

Things to Consider

  • Only suitable for Microsoft applications

4. ASUS VivoBook 14 Laptop: Best for Speed

ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 Thin and Light 2-in-1

Specifications

  • Brand: ASUS
  • Dimensions: 12.76 x 8.66 x 0.74 inches
  • Screen Size: 14 Inches
  • Hard Disk Size: 128 GB SSD

Product Highlights

While studying for my Ph.D., I needed to spend some time dealing with digital images. And VivoBook Flip 14 2-in-1 Laptop has assisted me greatly in this work.

The product’s latest Core i3 processor keeps this computer running. This device’s shell is aluminum, which is much more durable and sturdier than other plastic computers.

When I received the product, it was with Windows 10 Home with S Mode. Yet, I love the Windows 11 operating system more, so I decided to upgrade my laptop.

Today’s Best Deal:

Sale
ASUS VivoBook Flip 14 Thin and Light 2-in-1 Laptop, 14” FHD Touch, 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD, Thunderbolt 4, Fingerprint, Windows 10 Home in S Mode, Indie Black, TP470EA-AS34T
  • Touch Screen Type : Capacitive.Aspect Ratio:16:9
  • Latest 11th generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor (6M...
  • Windows 10 Home in S mode, 128GB SSD and 4GB LPDDR4X RAM
  • 14” Full HD Wideview touch display with up to 178°...
  • 12.9” wide, 0.7” thin with a stunning 82% screen-to-body...

What We Like

  • Touch screen
  • It can be into a tablet
  • Durable aluminum case
  • Equip Windows 10 Home with S Mode

Things to Consider

  • Short battery life

5. HP Pavilion 15” Intel Core i7: Best for Storage

HP Pavilion 15” 12th Generation Intel Core i7

Specifications

  • Brand: HP
  • Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
  • Color: Natural Silver Aluminum
  • Hard Disk Size: 512 GB
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
See also:  Is Grad School Worth the Cost?

Product Highlights

I was very annoyed with my older computer models when they took so long to boot up each time. When switching to the HP Pavilion 15 Processor Laptop, my experiences have become much more comfortable.

This laptop has a 12th generation Intel Core processor with powerful performance to shorten boot time. Its screen is 15.6 inches wide, with beautiful graphics that give me a voyeuristic experience.

This computer will be a good choice if your Ph.D. program requires much work with images. The battery life will decrease if I use heavier tasks like graphics processing, video editing, or playing demanding games.

Today’s Best Deal:

HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1255U Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, 15.6' Full HD Display, Windows 11 Pro, Fingerprint Reader, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, HD Webcam (15-eg2025nr 2022)
554 Reviews
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 12th Generation Intel Core i7-1255U Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD, 15.6" Full HD Display, Windows 11 Pro, Fingerprint Reader, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, HD Webcam (15-eg2025nr 2022)
  • POWER, PERFORMANCE, and SECURITY – Get work done on the go...
  • FHD plus DISPLAY – View all your photos, movies, and games...
  • INTEL CORE PROCESSOR – 12th Generation Intel Core...
  • STUNNING GRAPHICS – From creating, gaming, to...
  • STORAGE AND MEMORY – Get up to 15x faster performance than...

What We Like

  • Widescreen
  • Quick start
  • Beautiful graphic
  • Large capacity memory
  • Powerful 12th-Gen Intel Core Processor

Things to Consider

  • Keyboard without backlight

6. Acer Aspire AV15-51-7617 PC: Best for IPS Display

Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-7617 Green PC

Specifications

  • Brand: Acer
  • Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
  • Color: Gray
  • System: Windows 11 Home

Product Highlights

The following product I want to introduce to you is the Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-7617 Green PC. This computer provided all the details I was looking for in a laptop for my PhD course. That’s the latest i7 processor, solid-state drive, and massive RAM.

When using this computer, the images and tables appear realistic and clear before my eyes. The device’s screen is large, up to 15.6 Inches, allowing me to process many images simultaneously.

Intel Iris Xe graphics and full HD resolution make images colorful and detailed.

My previous laptop models would require a password or a picture lock to unlock it. Yet, I can use my fingerprint to unlock the device quickly with this product.

Today’s Best Deal:

Sale
Acer Aspire Vero AV15-51-7617 Green PC | 15.6" FHD IPS 100% sRGB-Display | 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1195G7 | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | 16GB DDR4 | 512GB NVMe SSD | Wi-Fi 6 | PCR Materials | Vero-Sleeve
  • Intel Core i7-1195G7 Processor - up to 5.0 GHz, 4 cores, 8...
  • 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) Widescreen LED-backlit IPS...
  • 1 - USB 3.2 (Type-C) Gen 1 port (up to 5 Gbps) | 2 - USB 3.2...
  • Acer Bio-Protection Fingerprint Solution, featuring Computer...
  • Earthion is our mission to help tackle our generation’s...

What We Like

  • Large size full HD screen
  • Beautiful Intel Iris Xe Graphics
  • Multiple connection ports
  • Fingerprint security
  • With keyboard backlight

Things to Consider

  • The screen does not support touch

7. ASUS VivoBook 14″ IPS FHD Display: Best for Dual-Band

ASUS VivoBook 14″ IPS FHD

Specifications

  • Brand: ASUS
  • Screen Size: 14 Inches
  • Color: Slate Gray
  • Hard Disk Size: 128 GB

Product Highlights

I used to be very annoyed because the computer kept disconnecting from the Internet when the wireless network was unstable.

None of this happened when I used the ASUS VivoBook 14″. It features responsive dual-band Wi-Fi that keeps the wireless connection steady even with interference or congestion. I can work seamlessly in libraries or cafes without any disconnection issues.

I also appreciate how comfortable using the device for word processing is. 1.4 mm key travel provides comfort when using.

When I start the machine, I can use my fingerprint to replace the traditional password. Look for devices with such biometric security for extra peace of mind while working.

Today’s Best Deal:

ASUS VivoBook 14 Slim Laptop Computer, 14' IPS FHD Display, Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor, 4GB DDR4, 128GB PCIe SSD, Fingerprint Reader, Windows 11 Home in S Mode, Slate Grey, F415EA-AS31
833 Reviews
ASUS VivoBook 14 Slim Laptop Computer, 14" IPS FHD Display, Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor, 4GB DDR4, 128GB PCIe SSD, Fingerprint Reader, Windows 11 Home in S Mode, Slate Grey, F415EA-AS31
  • Fast and Efficient: With an 11th Generation Intel Core i3...
  • Stylish and Portable: Weighing only 3.3lbs, the extremely...
  • Immersive Viewing Experience: This 14 inch laptop features a...
  • Ergonomic, Comfortable Typing: This notebook laptop comes...
  • Easy Login: with a built-in fingerprint sensor, there’s no...

What We Like

  • Easy login
  • Slim and light design
  • Comfortable typing
  • Dual-band Wi-Fi 5

Things to Consider

  • Low amount of RAM

8. Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Laptop: Best for Design

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i – 2-in-1 Chromebook Laptop

Specifications

  • Brand: Lenovo
  • Model: Lenovo Flex 5 13″ Chromebook
  • Screen Size: 13.3 Inches
  • Hard Disk Size: 8 GB

Product Highlights

I spent nearly $300 to own a Lenovo IdeaPad Flex laptop, and I find it worth it.

See also:  What's Wrong with Grad School?

This 13-inch computer has a slim and lightweight design that allows me to take it to school daily without difficulty. The product’s 11th generation i3 chip is powerful enough to meet my computing needs during my Ph.D. course.

Screen brightness and 1920×1080 resolution are enough for the images to appear realistic and clear. I can perform my tasks quickly and easily thanks to touch screen interaction.

Chrome shortcuts are very flexible, saving users time and minimizing necessary operations. I used this laptop to do my thesis and analyze my research data. With these tasks, the product can work for about 8 hours continuously before asking to connect the charger again.

Today’s Best Deal:

What We Like

  • Quick start
  • Easy to use
  • Long battery life
  • Flexible ChromeOS
  • Slim and light design

Things to Consider

  • High price

9. Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Travel Laptop: Best for 8GB Memory

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Travel Laptop

Specifications

  • Brand: Lenovo
  • Screen Size: 17.3
  • Operating System: Windows 11
  • Graphics Coprocessor: AMD Radeon Vega 7

Product Highlights

With image and video processing in my research thesis, I recommend the Lenovo – 2022 – IdeaPad 3 – Travel Laptop Computer.

I was okay with handling the tables, image data, and video for my research paper. Yet, the downside of large screens is that the weight of the laptop will increase.

Its boot speed is also an impressive strong point. Thanks to the advanced fingerprint sensor, it took me about 20 seconds to turn on the device and log in.

8GB RAM supports all tasks that I need to use. Its operation is so smooth and fast that I am amazed.

Today’s Best Deal:

Sale
Lenovo - 2022 - IdeaPad 3 - Travel Laptop Computer - AMD Ryzen 5 - 17.3" FHD Display - 8GB Memory - 512GB Storage - Windows 11 Home
  • The IdeaPad 3 laptop delivers speed, endurance, and infinite...
  • Travel light and work, create, and study anywhere with this...
  • Expand your horizons with a big, bright 17.3" FHD IPS...
  • Crystal-clear camera clarity gives you incredible video...
  • Keep your desk space from being overrun with cables via the...

What We Like

  • Large screen size
  • Camera is clear
  • Advanced noise cancellation
  • Smooth and fast operation
  • Free Xbox Game Pass for 3 months

Things to Consider

  • Heavyweight

10. ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1: Best for Chromebook

ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1

Specifications

  • Brand: ASUS
  • Screen Size: 14 Inches
  • Hard Disk Size: 64 GB
  • Hard Disk Emmc: Emmc

Product Highlights

Finally, I bring you a computer with a highly flexible 360-degree hinge. This design allows ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2-in-1 Laptop to flip the screen and use it differently.

You can use the computer to pitch it into a tent to optimize the touch screen or turn it into a full-sized tablet. All these functions are helpful for this device.

The computer’s screen is a NanoEdge display with Full HD 1920×1080. It is a large resolution for the 14-inch size of the screen. In addition, the device is with a high-speed Core m3-8100Y. With the machine’s 3.4 GHz speed, this product can run smoothly and perform all my tasks well.

Today’s Best Deal:

Sale
ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1 Laptop, 14" Touchscreen FHD NanoEdge Display, Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor, 8GB RAM, 64GB eMMC Storage, Backlit Keyboard, Silver, Chrome OS, C433TA-AS384T
  • Aspect Ratio:16:9
  • 14 inch Touchscreen Full HD 1920x1080 4-way NanoEdge display...
  • The Full HD display has a durable 360 degree hinge that can...
  • Powered by the Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor (up to 3.4 GHz)...
  • 8GB LPDDR3 RAM; 64GB eMMC storage and 2x USB Type-C (Gen 1)...

What We Like

  • High performance
  • Works on Chrome OS
  • Flexible 360-degree hinge
  • Full HD 1920×1080 touch screen
  • Provide anti-virus protection and automatic updates

Things to Consider

  • Poor customer service

Buying Guide

The variety of laptops on the market can be a barrier that makes it challenging to find the best product. Each laptop has characteristics suitable for the different needs of users. The buying tips in the section below will help limit your worries.

Size

Laptop size will need to balance with the need to read and analyze data as well as the portability of the device. Products with larger screens often make it easier for users to read documents and process more data simultaneously.

CPU

Laptop products on the market today often use Intel Core processors.

Newly released modern multi-core processors such as the 3rd generation Intel Core i11, i7, and i5 bring powerful information processing and multitasking.

To meet the work demands of a graduate student pursuing a Ph.D., you’ll need a laptop with a powerful and high-performance CPU.

Screen Quality

Different computer monitors will have various qualities and resolutions.

When you become a graduate student, you will have to work for hours with your laptop so you will need devices with good screens.

Products with high-resolution screens and IPS or OLED panels will allow more pixels to be displayed, providing the most colorful and clear images possible.

You will feel more comfortable analyzing the data on your computer.

FAQs

Do Ph.D. students need laptops?

Sure, a laptop is an indispensable device in the process of studying for a PhD.

The laptop with great features for processing the information, preparing the thesis, and analyzing the research will be the best for you.

You can also equip yourself with a Macbook to study for a PhD.

How much does a laptop for Ph.D. students cost?

The laptop price for graduate students will vary depending on the product’s features. A typical device can cost around $400.

You will likely need high-performance computers with many unique features for graphics or information technology-related disciplines.

Is an Apple Laptop best for Ph.D. students?

An Apple MacBook would be the perfect choice for graduate students pursuing PhDs. These computers have many valuable features and powerful multitasking capabilities that meet all your needs.

What are the best laptop brands for a Ph.D. student?

There are many reputable laptop manufacturers that many consumers prefer. Some names with the most famous products are HP, Acer, Lenovo, Dell, and especially Apple.

How long should the battery life of a laptop for Ph.D. students last?

Battery life can last from 1 to 6 hours. If you have to move your laptop around, you’ll need devices with longer battery life. Many high-quality computers can have a battery that continuously lasts up to 17 hours for everyday tasks.

Conclusion

Information technology has become a great aid to education. It may be easier to conquer your PhD with a good laptop. These laptops can endure various features and smoothly perform the tasks you need.

The Lenovo Newest Ideapad 3 with different connections will bring maximum convenience to users. Graduate students working in graphics and imaging must recognize the Acer Aspire Vero AV15.

Hopefully, the detailed information given in this article has helped you find a suitable laptop. Thank you for following this post!