As digital journalists, we need to be prepared for the future with the right tools and technology. Here are five laptops that will help you stay ahead of your competition.
The best laptop for writers 2021 is a question that many journalists and journalism students have been asking. To help answer this question, we have compiled a list of 5 laptops that are perfect for the job.
What are the finest laptops for journalists and students who want to pursue a career in journalism? If you work as a journalist, you will be responsible for more than just collecting information and breaking news from the field. And, if you’re a journalism student, your work will include a lot more than just reading the news.
Before it is written in the newspaper or shown on television, you will need to evaluate and combine them all to make it crisp and build a narrative. For that, you’ll need a decent laptop.
It is difficult for most journalists and journalism students to select the right laptop for their work based on their requirements and budget since most are not tech savvy or fully educated computer experts.
This is where the content of this article comes into play. This article includes a list of the five most suitable laptops with specific specifications that will aid journalists, both professional and student journalists.
Table of Contents
Price of Laptops for Journalists and Journalism Students
XPS 13 7390 (Dell) Laptop with 13.3″ FHD InfinityEdge Display and 1.1 GHz Intel Core i7-10710U Six-Core Processor
$1,179.00
From $1,179.00, 1 was utilized.
as at 2:45 p.m. on September 9, 2021
Acer Aspire 5 is a laptop computer. Slim Laptop, 15.6″ Full HD IPS Display, Intel Core i5-10210U, 8GB DDR4, Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop, Acer Aspire 5 Slim
$672.00
5 brand new items starting at $672.00
From $649.63 for 4
as at 2:45 p.m. on September 9, 2021
ThinkPad E580 (Lenovo) 15.6-inch High-Performance Business Laptop with 256GB SSD and Intel Core i5 7th Generation Processor
$1,199.00
$1,299.99
$839.95 for 2 used
as at 2:45 p.m. on September 9, 2021
ASUS Chromebook C202 Laptop- 11.6″ Ruggedized and Spill Resistant Design with 180 Degree Hinge, ASUS Chromebook C202 Laptop- 11.6″ Ruggedized and Spill Resistant Design with 180 Degree Hinge, ASUS Chromebook C202 Laptop- 1
$449.99
2 brand new items starting at $449.99
a total of 16 were utilized from a total of $122.22
as at 2:45 p.m. on September 9, 2021
The information on this page was last updated at 2:45 p.m. on September 9, 2021.
Apps & Software for Journalists and Journalism Students to Install on a Laptop for Better Performance
Apart from the proper specifications, you’ll need to install a few specific apps and software on your laptop to improve its performance and efficiency.
Photoshop is one such software that may assist with photo editing in order to produce high-quality images for use in content.
When you don’t have a camera available for an immediate TV broadcast, you’ll also need certain video applications to produce video content. A few audio applications will also come in handy in this regard.
Because social media plays such a significant part in journalism nowadays and is a fantastic source of news, you’ll be better off downloading the WordPress app to start writing your own blogs.
System Requirements for Journalists and Journalism Students (Minimum and Recommended)
A laptop with an Intel Celeron or Intel Core i3 CPU from the 10th generation, as well as a reasonably good integrated AMD or Intel HD graphics chip, may satisfy the minimal system requirements and demands of journalists and journalism students. It also requires 4 GB of RAM, 256 GB of SSD storage, and a screen with a resolution of at least 13 inches.
A laptop with the minimal system requirements may meet the demands of journalism students in particular. However, it may not always meet the requirements of professional journalists who are responsible for much more than simply collecting news from the field.
A laptop with the following specifications will also aid them in quickly editing and uploading news stories with pictures for live broadcast. It will also ensure that the system is future-proof.
6th generation Intel Core i5 or Intel Celeron processor| 4 GB of RAM or higher | 16 GB eMMC or higher SSD storage | Integrated Intel HD Graphics 520 or above | 11.6-inch screen | 1366-by-768-pixel screen resolution
10th generation Intel Core i5 or higher Core i7 processor| 8 GB of RAM or more | 256 GB SSD or 1 TB HDD storage | Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 or higher | 13.3-inch screen or larger | 1920 x 1080 pixels or higher screen resolution
The 5 Best Laptops for Journalists and Students in Journalism:
1. Dell XPS 13 7390 – Overall Winner
Dell XPS 13 7390
Bottom Line: A 10th generation Intel Core i7 CPU powers this safe and secure laptop with a fingerprint sensor. This, along with its other features and specifications, puts it at the top of the list for journalists and journalism students to utilize for the greatest overall performance.
Characteristics
- 13.3-inch display
- 256 GB NVMe PCIe M.2 SSD storage
- DDR4 SDRAM (16 GB)
- Intel Core i7 10710U processor, 10th generation
- Windows 10 Professional (OS)
- Intel UHD Graphics Integrated GPU
Pros
- Backlights are included with the keyboard.
- The Infinity Edge screen is very impressive.
- A fingerprint reader provides for a safer and quicker login.
Cons
- A separate numeric keypad is not available.
- The graphics card is built-in.
- The system is very large, weighing in at over 5 pounds.
If you need a strong computer to fulfill all of your journalistic requirements, whether you’re a professional writer or a student, this Dell model will definitely meet, if not exceed, your expectations.
Examine the performance of the Intel Core i7 CPU from the 10th generation, as well as the integrated Intel UHD graphics.
This CPU has six strong cores with a 1.1 GHz processing speed.
The Windows 10 professional operating system, which is installed on this device, will provide you with the finest computing experience.
The 16 GB of DDR4 RAM that comes with it will fulfill all of your needs and will aid you in your research when you have several browser tabs open when surfing the web.
Thanks to its effective cooling system and quicker NVMe PCIe M.2 SSD storage, you won’t experience any warmth or delays while using it.
With a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, the FHD display, despite its tiny size, will be sufficient to view the pictures well. You will have a bigger viewing area with the Infinity Edge design.
You can use it at any time of day or night thanks to the illuminated keyboard. The key travel is sufficient to provide a more comfortable typing experience.
The big trackpad, which is responsive to touches and various motions, is also excellent.
This system is very safe and secure to use since it has a fingerprint reader that prevents unwanted access.
Using the Killer wi-fi 6 AX1650 standard or the Bluetooth 5.1 compatibility that this system provides, you may simply and rapidly transfer your data.
Overall, this is a fantastic system for journalism students and journalists to invest in, even if it is a little on the heavy side. Check out our review of the Dell XPS 13 7390 laptop.
Runner-up: Acer Aspire 5.
Acer Aspire 5
Bottom Line: This laptop, like the others on the list, features a 10th generation CPU, but it is from the Intel Core i5 family, making it the runner-up. However, for journalists and journalism students, the operating system, keyboard, fingerprint reader, and broad connections make this an excellent and safe laptop.
Characteristics
- 15.6-inch display
- 256 GB PCIe NVMe SSD storage
- 8 GB DDR4 SDRAM RAM
- 10th generation Intel Core i5 10210U processor
- Windows 10 Home is the operating system.
- GPU: Graphics Processing Unit
Pros
- A fingerprint reader is included with the system.
- The keyboard has a separate numeric keypad and is illuminated.
- The system has a wide range of connection possibilities.
Cons
- This machine lacks an optical drive.
- The graphics card is built-in.
- The trackpad is not in the middle of the screen.
This is a gadget made for artists and designers. This laptop is both powerful and portable, making it an excellent choice for journalists and journalism students.
When you use this gadget for daily computing, it will assist you in every area and provide the required results in a short amount of time thanks to its high-end specifications.
With an Intel Core i5 CPU from the 10th generation, this Acer model can handle and analyze any data string, no matter how complicated it is.
On the big, full HD screen, the images are clean and clear. Whether you use it in your workplace or outside, the IPS panel and narrow bezel surrounding it make it more practical and functional.
Even if you work for long hours, the Acer Color Intelligence guarantees that the pictures are bright and strong while remaining gentle to your eyes, due to the Acer Blue Light Shield.
The Acer True Harmony technology ensures a strong, loud, and clear sound output.
The twin stereo speakers’ unique design guarantees that the music has more bottom and fills the space.
This system’s battery life is just as impressive as its performance.
On a single charge, it will last almost 10 hours, enabling you to take it out into the field and work all day, returning with an exclusive report.
Because to its sturdy and lighted keyboard, you can work easily on this laptop. You can type quickly and comfortably with the keys that have excellent key travel and feedback.
The system’s fingerprint reader guarantees security and provides a simple and quick method to log in without a password and with just one touch.
Through its wireless wi-fi 6 support, you will have continuous and powerful connection.
This complies with the IEEE 802.11ax specification. The RJ 45 connector also supports Bluetooth 4.2 technology and Gigabit Ethernet LAN.
An HD camera, one USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type C port capable of data transfers of up to 5 Gbps, two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports, one of which supports power-off charging, one USB 2.0 port, and one HDMI connector with HDCP compatibility are also included in this system. Check out our review of the Acer Aspire 5 laptop.
Lenovo ThinkPad E580 is a safe and secure laptop.
Sale
Lenovo ThinkPad E580
Bottom Line: This laptop has security measures that make it a highly safe and secure machine for journalists and students of journalism. It has a hidden TPM 2.0 security mechanism that ensures the data on it is securely secured. On the other side, the fingerprint reader prohibits illegal access to it.
Characteristics
- 15.6-inch display
- 256 GB SSD storage
- 8 GB DDR4 SDRAM RAM
- 7th generation Intel Core i5 7200U processor
- Windows 10 Professional (OS)
- GPU: Intel HD Graphics 620 integrated graphics
Pros
- A separate TPM 2.0 security system is included with the system.
- The keyboard is spacious and includes a numeric keypad.
- For additional security, there is a fingerprint reader.
Cons
- The battery life is good.
- The trackpad is not in the middle of the screen.
- The graphics card is built-in.
The laptop is equipped with a powerful Intel Core i5 CPU from the 7th generation, which runs at 2.5 GHz and can be boosted to 3.1 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost technology. It also comes with an excellent integrated graphics card.
With addition, in this laptop for journalists and journalism students, you will be able to utilize the most known Windows 10 professional operating system with a 64-bit architecture.
The 8 GB of DDR4 RAM is plenty for your journalistic requirements, whether at work or in school. The 256 GB SSD storage is also more than enough to store and retrieve all of your news items.
On the big enough LED backlit display, you’ll be able to read the text and pictures well. This screen is energy efficient, which means it will extend the life of your battery.
Even though the resolution is only HD (1366 x 768 pixels), it is sufficient for work on the go.
You may also remain connected to your workplace with the next-generation Intel Wireless-AC, which provides dependable and powerful wireless connection.
If you prefer the wired approach, you may utilize its Bluetooth 4.1 technology compatibility as well as the 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet LAN.
It is a secure and long-lasting technology that will prevent unwanted access if the built-in fingerprint scanner does not identify the user.
The 720p HD webcam is also extremely dependable for making video calls to your workplace and sending live unique reports. The sound will be handled by the built-in stereo speakers and microphones.
The battery life is sufficient to enable you to work on it for the whole day on a single charge without it dying in the midst of a report.
If you’re working inside, the USB Type C connector, two USB 3.1 ports, USB 2.0 port, HDMI port, and single VGA port may all be used to connect a variety of devices and peripherals.
The lack of backlighting on the keyboard is the sole drawback of this lightweight laptop.
It does, however, include excellent and firm keys, as well as a separate 10-key numeric keypad with decent key travel and feedback for a more comfortable typing experience.
4. HP 15 ay011nr Notebook — Convenient and Easy-to-Use Features
HP Notebook 15 ay011nr
Bottom Line: This laptop’s easy-to-use and handy features make it ideal for journalists and journalism students to use anywhere and at any time. All of the components are useful: the CPU and graphics, RAM and storage, camera and connection, keyboard and trackpad, Cortana, and optical drive.
Characteristics
- 15.6-inch display
- 1 TB hard drive
- DDR3L SDRAM (8 GB)
- 6th generation Intel Core i5 6200U processor
- Windows 10 Home is the operating system.
- GPU: Intel HD Graphics 520 integrated graphics
Pros
- This laptop has a lot of storage.
- The sound quality is excellent.
- A rewritable DVD drive is included with this laptop.
Cons
- An integrated graphics card is included with the system.
- The storage is a hard disk drive (HDD) rather than a solid-state drive (SSD).
- The trackpad is slightly off-center and stiff.
This is another another laptop that professional journalists and others, as well as journalism students and those in other academic fields, will find helpful. It has all of the tools you’ll need to do your task properly and fast.
There’s a strong Intel Core i5 CPU with speeds ranging from 2.3 to 2.8 GHz, as well as plenty of DDR3L SDRAM that can be upgraded.
It also comes with the Windows 10 Home operating system, a large HDD with a 5400 rpm rotational speed, and a DVD writer.
It also has an HD camera and a big, full HD SVA screen with WLED backlights and anti-glare properties.
With all of these specifications and features, this system provides reliable performance, adequate multitasking, and stunning visuals.
With DTS Studio Sound technology, you can anticipate smoother and better multimedia performance as well as outstanding audio output.
HP has made no sacrifices with this laptop’s security, making it even more dependable for outside usage.
Windows has a number of security measures by default. It guarantees that your data is secure and enables for secure authentication.
With the regular updates, all potential threats are taken into account, both now and in the future.
Apart from the convenience of the big keyboard with separate numeric keypad (which does not have backlighting), Windows’ personal assistant Cortana will do all tasks for you through voice command.
One RJ 45 port, one HDMI port, one USB 3.0 port, one USB 2.0 port, and one headphone out/microphone in the combination jack are located on the left side.
A USB 2.0 port, a media card reader slot, and the optical drive are all located on the right side.
5. Chromebook C202SA from Asus – Good Value
Sale
Asus Chromebook C202SA
Bottom Line: Despite having lesser specifications than the other laptops on our list, this laptop promises a lot better value for money. The device’s robust design and low weight make it one of the easiest and most handy gadgets for journalists and journalism students to use.
Characteristics
- 11.6-inch display
- eMMC 16 GB storage
- DDR3 SDRAM (four gigabytes)
- Intel Celeron N3060 processor
- Chrome OS is the operating system.
- GPU: Intel HD Graphics Integrated
Pros
- This technology is designed to be lightweight and durable.
- The hinge is sturdy and can open all the way to 180 degrees.
- The battery works well and lasts a long time.
Cons
- The screen is tiny and is surrounded by thick bezels on all sides.
- On the keyboard, there is no separate number keypad.
- There isn’t a built-in optical drive.
If you’re looking for a sturdy laptop that’s both compact and powerful, this is the one to choose.
This laptop, dubbed the “perfect computer for learning,” is suitable for both journalism students and professionals.
You may take it to any location with harsh circumstances since it will be able to withstand the everyday hardships.
Even when used often, it may provide the desired effects.
The spill-resistant keyboard can withstand 66 ml of liquid and continue to function normally.
The keys have a 2 mm travel distance, making typing pleasant and simple, while the 15 percent bigger letters printed on the keys guarantee greater accuracy.
It is excellent and sturdy, despite the lack of backlights and a separate 10-key numeric keypad.
The extended battery life of 10 hours will allow you to operate outside all day. Because to the easy-grip and strategically positioned grips, you will have no trouble holding this gadget in your hand.
Even if it falls, the strengthened rubber shields will readily absorb the shock and avoid internal component damage.
The 180-degree flexible hinge allows you to share the screen with others when giving a news report, group study in the classroom, or discussion sessions.
Apart from that, this Chromebook has an HD matte screen, albeit a tiny one.
The Intel Celeron processor in this device runs at 1.6 GHz, but the RAM and storage are quite limited.
This very lightweight system’s Chrome OS, 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, and HD webcam are all highly helpful for any kind of computer, however simple. Check out our review of the Asus Chromebook C202SA.
How Do Journalists and Journalism Students Pick the Best Laptops?
The laptop specifications for journalists and journalism students may seem to be simple and uniform.
Though this is somewhat true, you will need to concentrate on a few key elements to guarantee you get the most bang for your buck and that it works at its best in order to tell the greatest tales.
Recognize your requirements.
First and foremost, you must understand that various individuals in journalism have different requirements.
As a student, you should prioritize mobility, affordability, and storage.
If you work for a newspaper, you’ll be more concerned with the keyboard than with mobility.
You’ll want a better display if you work for a magazine. As a result, you should choose features based on your particular work environment.
Portability
You’ll be doing most of your reporting outside of the workplace, so your laptop should be light.
When you carry a tiny and portable laptop with you all day, your neck and shoulders will not be strained.
Though mobility may vary depending on variables like as display size and storage, you should aim for one that weighs between 3 and 5 pounds.
CPU
When it comes to journalists and journalism students, the processor of the laptop is usually not as important as the other elements.
Any Intel Core CPU that isn’t an Atom or a Pentium will meet all of your journalistic requirements.
If you don’t need sophisticated or professional video editing, an Intel Core i3 U series or i5 CPU would suffice.
For that matter, Intel Core i7 CPUs will be overkill.
RAM
You won’t be able to work only with Microsoft Word and will most likely need to multitask with several internet tabs and applications open at the same time.
For additional information, you’ll need to consult a variety of sources, including statistics, video, and audio.
On this case, a sufficient quantity of RAM in your laptop is necessary. Ideally, 8 GB is the very minimum, with twice that being preferable.
Storage
This is another element about which you should not be too concerned. There are two explanations for this.
One, the news reports you produce will be transmitted to the appropriate authorities for printing or live broadcast, so you won’t need to keep them on your computer.
Two, most modern laptops have at least 256 GB of storage capacity, which is more than adequate for storing a significant number of data.
As a result, you should prioritize the kind of storage you desire in your laptop above the quantity.
You may choose an HDD, which is inexpensive and provides a lot of storage capacity but is prone to failure and generates more heat.
An SSD, on the other hand, will take up less space but will start up faster and be more durable.
Display
The laptop’s screen is an essential element to consider, and there are three different characteristics to examine: resolution, brightness, and type.
Image quality will be improved with higher resolution screens. Instead of an HD display, you should go for a full HD or 1080p monitor for a better user experience.
Because you’ll be working outside a lot, the display’s brightness should be higher than 300 nits, with 500 nits being ideal for seeing pictures clearly even in direct sunlight.
To protect your eyes, select a matte IPS display with anti-glare properties.
Battery
The most important aspect to consider is the laptop’s battery. Why?
Because you’ll be working on the go and may even be required to go to distant locations to cover the news, there may be no available outlets to charge your laptop.
As a result, a smartphone with a battery life of more than 10 hours is preferable.
Remember that manufacturer claims are often incorrect since they are evaluated under controlled circumstances.
Laptops with low-resolution screens, low-end CPUs, SSDs, and compact form factors often have longer battery life.
The best option is a Chromebook, although it will have restricted capabilities. A MacBook or a high-end Windows laptop with a lengthy battery life is the way to go.
However, before choosing one, be sure to read the third-party and user reviews.
Keyboards
Because you’ll be writing a lot, you’ll need a sturdy keyboard that’s also simple to write on.
The keys should be spaced properly, have a decent travel distance, provide tactile feedback whether or not there is a separate number keypad.
Look for a scissor mechanism and avoid those with a key mechanism.
Additionally, if the keyboard is backlit, you will be able to type in low-light and dark environments.
Security
Because the information and data on your laptop are sensitive and essential, they should be properly secured.
As a result, choose a laptop with sufficient and effective security measures.
Look for features like a fingerprint sensor with Windows Hello compatibility, Kensington lock, privacy shutter on the camera, and TPM security chip to prevent unwanted access and infringement on your privacy while working.
Additionally, you may download and install a few pieces of software that will encrypt and hide your data.
System software
This is a feature that is more of a personal choice than a need. It all relies on how acquainted you are with the UI and how comfortable you are with it.
You may pick between Linux, Mac, and Windows operating systems, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
The Windows operating system is the most popular, easiest to use, and compatible with the widest range of devices, but it is also the most susceptible to data theft and hacking.
The MacOS X operating system is excellent, with automatic and frequent upgrades to fix security flaws, but it does come with certain limitations on the kind of applications that may be used with it.
It will also be more susceptible than Windows to viruses and malware.
Linux is complicated, but it is much better since you may customize its functionality and usefulness to your preferences.
It also comes with stronger security measures than Windows.
FAQs:
Is it essential for journalists and journalism students to have portable laptops?
It is, without a doubt, required. A small and portable laptop will make it easier to work on your news stories wherever you are. It should also be elegant and thin, since this would increase its portability.
Is it beneficial for journalists and journalism students to use a laptop with a larger screen?
Yes, since you will be able to clearly read the words and pictures on it. A 15-inch screen will suffice. A 13-inch screen will be insufficient, while a 17-inch laptop will be both costly and hefty.
For journalists and journalism students, how important is CPU speed on a laptop?
The laptop’s performance is critical since you’ll need applications and programs to load quickly. You’ll also need to transmit the facts you’ve collected as soon as possible, since exclusivity is essential in journalism nowadays.
Is it possible for me to buy a mid-range laptop for journalism?
Yes, but be certain that it is dependable and long-lasting. Investing in a better laptop with the newest technology, on the other hand, would be a wiser choice in terms of coverage and productivity.
Is the laptop’s durability essential for journalists and journalism students?
Yes, it is correct. This is because a journalist may be required to transport it to a conflict zone or a location with severe weather conditions in order to cover a news story. Aside from that, it should be robust enough to withstand everyday wear and tear.
The best laptops for writing notes is a list of the 5 best laptops for journalists and journalism students.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best laptops for journalists?
This is a difficult question to answer because there are so many different types of journalists. For the most part, I would recommend going for a laptop with a good processor and RAM such as an Intel Core i7-8750H or Ryzen 7 2700U.
What laptop do journalists use?
Most journalists use Apple laptops.
Which laptop is best for media students?
The Lenovo ThinkPad T480s is a great laptop for media students. It has an Intel Core i7-8550U processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD.
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