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Any computer or laptop with a word processor will suffice for writing, right?
Not quite.
The type of computer you buy can make all the difference between a successful writing career and a frustrating writing experience. The last thing any journalist, blogger, or writer would want to deal with is a sluggish, unresponsive system with short battery life and an uncomfortable keyboard.
This post is for you if you are in the market for the best computers for writers. Read on to discover some of the most impressive modern laptops at different price points. Most importantly, they are all suitable for writers like you.
HP Spectre x360
Stunning is the best one-word description for the HP Spectre x360. The chassis simply beats many of the laptops available today.
But the product is not only about looks. It is packed with powerful internal components and superior multitasking capabilities that make it one of the best computers for writers.
Pre-loaded with Windows 10 Pro (64 Bit), the system boasts a wide range of outstanding features, including a fingerprint reader, mic mute key, touchscreen display, webcam kill switch, and a very comfortable keyboard.
Connecting other devices to the system is a breeze, thanks to the multiple port support, including thunderbolt, USB-C port, and SD card reader. The computer comes complete with an HP active stylus pen.
Keep in mind this is an excellent performer when it comes to writing. But if you use it for video editing or any demanding programs, it might perform below expectations and even shut down often. Also, it might become extremely hot with heavy use.
Specs
- Processor: 10th-Generation Intel Core i7
- Storage: 512GB
- RAM: 16GB
- Screen: 13.3 inches
Pros
- Sleek modern design with high-quality finish
- Comfortable keyboard
- Integrated security features
Cons
- Tends to become very warm sometimes
- Expensive option
Google Pixelbook Go m3
Many users will prefer a “real” laptop to a Chromebook, and that’s understandable considering the limitations of the Google device. However, Google Pixelbook Go m3 is in a world of its own, as far as performance goes.
Featuring an Intel i5 processor, 8GB memory, and 128GB of storage, you can be sure of a high-speed computer. It has a battery that powers the device for up to 12 straight hours. Combine that with a backlight keyboard that comes with hush keys, and you can write for more than 10 hours in any light condition without making any annoying keyboard sounds.
As if that’s not silent enough, the device has no fan. That means even when the process kicks in, you’re not going to hear any noisy sounds.
Pixelbook Go m3 also features a 13.3-inch full-HD touchscreen and a webcam that delivers clear images during video conferencing.
Specs
- Processor: Intel i5
- Storage: 128GB
- RAM: 8GB
- Screen: 13.3 inches
Pros
- Up to 12 hours of battery life
- Backlit keyboard with hush keys
- Extremely lightweight (2 lbs)
Cons
- Only works with Chrome OS supported apps
- Screen is slightly less sharp than other models
Dell XPS 15
If you have deep pockets and appreciate a computer with an eye-catching design, incredibly high-speed, and a large screen, you might as well go for the Dell XPS 15. This is arguably one of Dell’s most highly rated systems so far, giving it a spot on this list of the best computers for writers.
Apart from donning a stylish look, it has a phenomenal battery and dual fans to distribute heat throughout one of the thinnest form factor computers to ever come from Dell.
The 15-inch screen delivers over 16 million ultra-vivid colors, leaving you crystal clear images and videos. The screen itself is made from tough, durable, and damage-resistant gorilla glass.
Who says you can’t enjoy your favorite music while writing? Get immersed in over 7,000 machined speaker holes carefully positioned to deliver 3D surround sound via Waves Nx audio and a quad-speaker design.
The laptop doesn’t come cheap, though. But it is worth every single dollar considering what you get.
Specs
- Processor: 10th-Generation Intel Core i7
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- RAM: 16GB
- Screen: 15.6 inches
Pros
- Attractive design
- Very fast performance
- Great battery life
Cons
- Screen might be too large for some users
- Touchpad might have false clicks
Acer Swift 3
The Acer Swift 3 appears somewhat plain but don’t make the mistake of judging the book by its cover. This unassuming laptop packs quite a lot of power, making it ideal for writing and studying.
A spacious trackpad coupled with a backlit keyboard makes this computer quite comfortable to use, even for long hours. Whether you mostly spend time writing at home, office, or on the move, this is definitely an option you want to check out, particularly if you are not looking to spend a ton of cash.
Yes, a big plus with Acer Swift 3 is the price point. It is available for nearly half the price of Dell’s XPS 15 (discussed above), yet it puts up an excellent performance every time, especially when it is not handling intensive tasks.
Specs
- Processor: 10th-Generation Intel Core i7
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- RAM: 8GB
- Screen: 14 inches
Pros
- Up to 11 and a half hours of battery life
- Built-in microphone filters out typing noise for crystal clear audio communication
- Reasonably priced option
Cons
- Noisy fans tend to always run at full speed
- Can get really hot, especially when handling serious tasks, such as continuous browsing and gaming
Lenovo IdeaPad 3
Lenovo has established itself as the go-to brand for good-quality, lightweight laptops. But if you are in the market for all of those qualities plus a cheap computer with great performance, you should take a look at the Lenovo IdeaPad 3.
This is one of the best computers for writers who are just beginning their writing career or those on a budget. The laptop comes with just about everything that will make your work go smoothly, including a comfortable keyboard and ultra-fast RAM. A handy numeric keypad makes it even easier to work with numbers and speed up your productivity.
The brand adopts a straightforward approach to security with this laptop. It features a physical shutter on the webcam that gives you complete peace of mind and prevents any possible webcam hacks.
Other noteworthy features (for this laptop’s price) include three USB ports, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, microphone, HDMI, and SD card reader.
Specs
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3250U
- Storage: 128GB SSD
- RAM: 4GB DDR4
- Screen: 15.6 inches
Pros
- Highly affordable option
- Lightweight laptop
- Super fast processor
Cons
- Battery can last for only 6 hours max
- Low webcam resolution and frame rate
Apple MacBook Air (Latest Model)
If you love Apple laptops, you will likely fall in love with the fastest computer to ever come from the tech giant. The latest version of the Apple MacBook Air features the cutting-edge M1 chip – a huge leap in CPU technology.
With an 8-core CPU, you can expect the computer to execute instructions with ultra-fast speed. But that’s not all. You also get ample storage space for all your work and downloaded files. As the name suggests, there is only air to keep things coo. There is no internal fan in the design, and that means there is no noise when the CPU gets busy.
Even if you spend an entire day working on your laptop, you are not likely to run out of battery juice with 18 hours of battery life.
In a nutshell, this is the best Apple laptop yet, and definitely an excellent choice for writers. As you may have guessed, this option is quite expensive. But that’s really not surprising at all, considering all that you get from this Apple laptop.
Specs
- Processor: Apple M1 chip, 8 core-CPU
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- RAM: 8GB
- Screen: 13.3 inches
Pros
- Extremely lightweight (weighs only 2.8lbs)
- Long battery life (up to 18 hours)
- Sleek design
Cons
- Keyboard not as impressive
- Frequent crashes due to compatibility issues with applications
Microsoft Surface Laptop 3
From Microsoft comes the stunning Surface Laptop 3, one of the tech giant’s best offerings so far. The laptop comes with a 13.5-inch touchscreen, a large 128GB storage, and an incredibly fast 8GB memory. These features are more than sufficient to handle any type of writing and research you want to carry out.
The product comes in a few different colors, including Matte Black, Platinum, Sandstone, and Cobalt Blue, giving users various options to pick from. Microsoft did a great job with this laptop’s battery, both in terms of how long it lasts and how fast it charges. It can last for up to 11 hours and can go from zero to 80% full in under an hour.
At only 2.79lbs, you can comfortably carry the laptop about all day without feeling weighed down. Plus, the new aluminum chassis gives it a first-rate look and feel while keeping it safe from rude shocks and knocks.
Specs
- Processor: 10th-Generation Intel Core i5
- Storage: 128GB SSD
- RAM: 8GB
- Screen: 13.5 inches
Pros
- Fast battery charging (up to 80% in 60 minutes)
- Thin and light laptop with elegant design
- Highly responsive keyboard
Cons
- Limited port options
- A bit pricey
What Makes a Great Computer for Writers?
If writing is the primary purpose for purchasing a computer, the system should have the following features:
Processor
Intel Core i5 seems to be the minimum for most laptops these days. Consider getting one with that specification or at least close to it. It is even better if you can afford a system with a higher processor.
Battery Life
Most modern laptops come with impressive batteries, which is why you shouldn’t settle for anything less than four hours of battery life at the very minimum. Going below this means you may have to spend long hours per day confined to a desk or move around with a charger.
Storage
Storage of 250GB tends to be common with most modern computers. But whether you choose this depends on where you prefer to store most of your work – locally on the hard disk or a cloud service. If you’re going to download many programs on your computer, it makes sense to opt for larger storage space or go for secondary storage such as an SSD drive.
Memory
A minimum of 4GB RAM is recommended if you want a highly responsive computer for writing. But opt for 8G RAM or higher if you want higher performance.
Keyboard
Laptop keyboards are not as comfortable as those on desktop computers. But you don’t want to be tethered to your desk throughout the day, so you have to bear a little bit of “discomfort.” Besides, you will get used to the laptop keyboard layout in no time.
You can also opt for a wireless keyboard if you simply can’t deal with laptop keyboards. In any case, consider choosing a keyboard with a backlight feature. This will allow you to work comfortably in low-light conditions.
Weight
A lightweight computer of about 4lbs or less is ideal, especially if you plan to carry it about very often.
Writing Pad/Touchscreen
A writing pad or touchscreen feature is completely optional. You might want to consider these features if your work involves taking plenty of handwritten notes.
Conclusion
Hopefully, this review has helped make your search for the best computers for writers a tad easier.
While sleek a chassis is desirable, you must look beyond that if you want something that will perform exceptionally well. Keep in mind that you will be spending considerable time working on the device, so you don’t want to compromise your comfort.
