Every businessperson knows that one of the most crucial tools for running and managing their business is having great accounting software, and QuickBooks is one of the top accounting software out to use today.
If you’re looking to upgrade your current laptop, and you’re looking for something suitable for all your computing needs, we’re here to help you out.
Looking for a laptop for a specific use makes choosing a laptop a lot easier, but you’re going to need to know what to look for. QuickBooks have released their system requirements, and these are the sort of specs you’ll need to look out for in a laptop.
QuickBooks also has two variants of their software; QuickBooks for Desktop, which we download and install onto our computer, and QuickBooks Online, which we can access from our internet browser.
Contents
Best Laptops for QuickBooks Compared
Best Laptops for QuickBooks Reviewed
1. New Apple MacBook Air
One of Apple’s biggest appeals to business owners is that their laptops are not just stylish, they’re functional too. That’s why the MacBook Air is one of our top choices for any businessperson’s everyday computing tasks.
RAM, Processor, and Storage
Apple’s newest MacBook Air doesn’t just reach the bare minimum of QuickBooks’ system requirements. QuickBooks requires all users to have a device with at least 4GB RAM and can process data at 2.5GHz.
Thanks to its 8GB RAM and Intel Core i5 processor which can turbo process data at 3.5GHz, the MacBook doesn’t have any problems running QuickBooks alongside any other applications or browser windows open.
It’s efficient and responsive when multitasking, and thanks to its impressive 512GB SSD, it’s also extremely quick to boot.
Display
The MacBook Air also surpasses the base resolution requirement of QuickBooks. It’s got 13.3-inches of Ultra-HD display, with a 2560×1600 resolution, so spending a whole day in the office (or home) managing your businesses won’t put a strain on your eyes.
Its display is also supported by True Tone Technology, so watching movies and shows in your spare time, when you’re away from managing your books, is much more immersive and enjoyable.
Other Benefits
Apple’s MacBook Air weighs in at just 2.8lbs, so if you’re frequently on the go, running from meeting to meeting, you won’t have to worry about carrying a bulky laptop around (it’s so light, you might feel like you’ve left it behind).
Doing loads of work isn’t much of a problem either thanks to the MacBook Air’s battery life. It lasts about 9 hours on a single charge if you aren’t doing anything too heavy.
The MacBook’s keyboard is also extremely comfortable to use thanks to its new scissor mechanism. The keyboard feels much more responsive, and it’s also backlit, making working in dimly lit rooms easier.
It’s also got Apple’s TouchID technology, so your MacBook is sure to be secure when put to sleep, all while still being convenient to start back up – all at the tip of your finger.
You can also expect quick file transfer thanks to the Thunderbolt 2 ports in the MacBook Air.
Drawbacks
As always, MacBooks are guaranteed to last for quite a while, but one of the drawbacks of owning an Apple MacBook is that the repairs are quite costly when they do breakdown.
The Apple MacBook air also costs over $1000, so if you’re on a tight budget, it’s not the right pick for you.
Pros
- Up to 8 hours of battery
- 512GB SSD storage for quick startup
- Great 13.3-inch display that’s easy on the eyes
- Compact and lightweight
- Quick data transfer because of Thunderbolt Ports
- Costs $1000+
2. ASUS ZenBook 13
The ASUS ZenBook 13 is a great choice for business people looking for a much cheaper alternative to a MacBook Air. It’s sleek, stylish, and still powerful enough to run all your programs for your daily computing needs.
RAM, Processor, and Storage
Of the devices that we listed on our top 5 laptops, the ASUS ZenBook 13 is by far the most powerful device on the list. It’s got an Intel Core i7 processor, which can go at speeds up to 4.6GHz. Paired with its 16GB RAM, you won’t have a problem running multiple software, including QuickBooks, at the same time.
The 512GB solid-state drive also means you’ll have plenty of room to store your important documents, and you can still expect the ASUS to start quickly.
Display
The ASUS ZenBook 13 sports a Full-HD 13.3-inch display, with a screen resolution of 1920×1080. The display meets the system requirements of QuickBooks and is also great for streaming videos in your free time.
Thanks to the NanoEdge technology that ASUS has integrated with their laptops, you also have a high screen-to-body ratio, giving you an even larger display.
Other Benefits
ASUS has integrated its new touchpad into the ZenBook 13, which allows you to turn the touchpad into a number pad, for extra computing convenience. The keyboard on the ZenBook is also backlit, and quite comfortable to use.
The ZenBook also uses an ErgoLift design, which automatically adjusts the keyboard to the most comfortable angle based on how far you’ve pushed your screen back.
Not only does it make it more comfortable to use, but it also helps keep your systems cool, and give you better sound quality too (so movie night after a hard day’s work has just gotten much better).
It’s portable and lightweight, weighing in at 2.6lbs, so businesspeople on the go won’t have an inconvenience when traveling with it.
Those of you who are prone to dropping your devices (a bit like me) won’t have to worry, because the ZenBook 13 uses military-grade parts to keep its quality build. It’s sure to handle rough day-to-day handling either, so you’re sure that it won’t break down from a small drop.
The ZenBook 13 can last up to 10 hours on a single charge, or even longer if you aren’t doing any processor-heavy tasks.
One of the features of the ZenBook 13 that adds to the security and speed of startup and sign in is the fingerprint reader. If you frequently have to transfer files as well, the ZenBook 13 comes with a USB-C port, USB-A port, and SD card reader.
Drawbacks
While the keyboard is comfortable to use, the right-side shift key is in a slightly awkward position, so some users might accidentally hit the enter key instead. That might not be a dealbreaker for some, but it’s a little tough to get used to.
The ZenBook is a powerful device, but because of its power, the fans tend to start spinning to keep the system cool. The ZenBook itself can heat up at times, but never to the point where it’s unusable.
Pros
- Long battery life
- Powerful enough for QuickBooks and other tasks
- Military-grade durability
- Portable, lightweight, easy to bring when traveling
- ErgoLift tech makes usage more comfortable
- Integrated number pad in the touchpad for convenience
Cons
- Price is just shy of $1000
- Prone to heating up if overworked
- Awkward positioning of the right shift key
3. Acer Aspire 5 Slim
When looking at mid-range laptops for your work and home computing needs, you don’t need to look much further than the Acer Swift 3. Just because you aren’t paying top-dollar doesn’t mean you can’t get premium features on a laptop.
RAM, Processor, and Storage
The Acer Aspire 5 Slim is the only laptop on this list that makes use of AMD processing tech, rather than Intel, and that’s not a bad thing. This laptop sports a 10th Gen Intel Core i5 processor, which goes up to speeds as quick as 4.1GHz.
It’s also got 8GB of RAM, paired with a 256GB SSD. The Aspire 5 boots in just a matter of seconds, and thanks to its processing power, you won’t need to worry about any hiccups or delays.
The Aspire 5 has enough power to smoothly run QuickBooks alongside other office applications, so overclocking the processor is not an option.
Display
Just like most of the other applications on this list, the Acer has a 1920×1080 resolution, which is more than what QuickBooks require.
If you’re the type to frequently readjust your seat when working (or you’re just fidgety), the Aspire 5 has an IPS panel integrated into its display, meaning you can view the screen from just about any angle.
Other Benefits
The Acer Aspire 5 has great specs considering which price range it’s in, you won’t be getting many other devices as powerful for less than $700. If you’re using the Aspire 5 Slim to do moderate computing tasks, you can expect it to last up to 6 hours long, but it can last up to 12 hours if you’re using it to do light work.
The Acer Aspire 5 Slim also has an added numerical keypad, so entering numerical data into your various office software (like QuickBooks) is a breeze.
Drawbacks
While the Aspire 5 Slim has more than enough space for QuickBooks and your other files, you’ll also find several pre-installed software on this laptop. While it’s not a dealbreaker, spending your first couple of minutes uninstalling bloatware might be a nuisance for some users.
It’s also got an average cooling system. If you’re working in a cool environment, like in an office, expect the Swift 3 to heat up slightly, but it’s not unusable. When it does heat up, the fan might be distracting for some users.
Pros
- Pretty powerful and fast considering the lower price
- Excellent Full-HD IPS Panel
- Good 6-7hr battery life
- Fingerprint scanner for easy and secure access
- It has a numerical, backlit keypad
Cons
- Prone to heating up
- Dim display
#4. ASUS VivoBook 15 (Budget Pick)
If you’re on a much tighter budget and only want a laptop to run QuickBooks while you’re at work, then the ASUS VivoBook 15 is the answer to your prayers. It’s a great option for anyone who’s looking at the ZenBook, but only need it for basic computing needs.
RAM, Processor, and Storage
The ASUS VivoBook might have the lowest specs on this list, but it’s not out of the game. This is a great choice for people looking to upgrade their work laptops.
The VivoBook runs a 10th Gen Intel Core i3 processor, which reaches speeds of 3.4 GHz. It’s quick to start thanks to the solid-state drive that it utilizes.
The laptop is sure to run QuickBooks without a hitch and handle other basic computing tasks and multiple browsing windows thanks to its 8GB RAM.
Display
Just like the ZenBook 13 that we mentioned above, the Vivobook also has NanoEdge technology to give users a much larger viewing area. The screen-to-body ratio is quite high with narrow bezels on the side, along with a Full-HD 1920×1080 resolution display.
Other Benefits
The ASUS VivoBook 15 also utilizes ErgoLift technology, which adjusts the keyboard automatically to be more comfortable based on the position of your screen. This also means that the VivoBook will cool quickly if lifted slightly.
It’s got a comfortable keyboard, which is backlit. If you work in dimmer rooms or at night, this makes working much more convenient. It’s also got a comfortable touchpad that isn’t prone to many glitches.
While the VivoBook weighs in at 3.5lbs, which is heavier than other laptops on this list, it’s still extremely lightweight and easy to carry around.
You also won’t have to worry about slow charging times, as the ASUS can easily reach 100% in less than 2 hours. If you’re using the laptop for light work, then expect it to last about 8 hours.
Drawbacks
One of the biggest drawbacks to the VivoBook is that it lacks a handful of features you can find in ASUS’ ZenBook series. But if you’re looking at something for just your basic computing and QuickBooks needs, then this laptop gets the job done.
The ZenBook also tends to heat up just a little bit when performing heavier tasks, between 80 to 90-degree F temperatures, but not to the point where it’s unusable.
While the battery life is fine for light tasks, don’t expect the laptop to last any longer than 4 or 5 hours with heavier use.
Windows 10S is installed on the laptop, and you may have to find a guide to disable it.
Pros
- Costs less than $400
- Sturdy build and design
- Reaches the minimum system requirements for QuickBooks
Cons
- Not as impressive as the ASUS ZenBook series
- Average battery life
- Comes with Windows 10S, but can be disabled
5. Lenovo ThinkPad E595
Lenovo has come out with another reliable laptop that’s perfectly made for your everyday office tasks. While still staying true to their classic Lenovo style, this laptop is sure to deliver what you need for your accounting needs.
RAM, Processor, and Storage
The ThinkPad is one of the other mid-range laptops on this list. It’s quick to start, thanks to its 256GB SSD. Running multiple software on this laptop won’t be a problem either, because multitasking will go without a hitch thanks to its 8GB RAM. This laptop also has a processing speed of up to 3.7GHz, so you won’t be encountering any hiccups while you manage your books.
Display
Lenovo’s ThinkPad has a 15.6-inch Full-HD display and surpasses the minimum resolution requirements of QuickBooks. While it might not be a touchscreen display, the ThinkPad has an anti-glare screen that has up to 250 nits of brightness, making it easy to use in bright lighting or under the sun.
Other Benefits
The ThinkPad is built to last with its sturdy exterior, which still stays true to the classic Lenovo design we’ve seen over the years. Despite having a 256GB SSD for storage, it’s also got variants with a 1TB SSD, or with 16GB or 32GB RAM.
Because you’re looking for a laptop to run your basic computing needs, you’ll also want to have a comfortable number pad to use, which the Lenovo ThinkPad E595 laptop has.
The laptop is sturdy, yet lightweight, and portable. It weighs just about 4lbs, so there’s no need to worry about carrying a heavy laptop around when you’re running from one meeting to another.
Drawbacks
When the laptop heats up, the fans come on and you can hear a slight whirring sound. Overall, it’s nothing too noisy, but some users might be bothered by this.
The laptop can heat up quite badly, but that’s only if you’re doing something that’s graphics intensive. If you’re looking for a laptop just for office use, then there isn’t much to worry about.
Pros
- Sturdy, lightweight, portable build
- Comfortable, anti-glare display
- Bright display for comfortable outdoor use
Cons
- Slightly noisy fan
- Overheats if used for graphics-intensive tasks
5 Best Laptops for QuickBooks FAQ
Q1. What are the minimum system requirements for QuickBooks?
- 2.4GHz processor minimum
- 4GB RAM minimum, 8GB RAM Recommended
- 1280×1024 for Minimum Display Resolution
- 2.5 GB of disk space (additional space required for data files)
- Wi-Fi / Ethernet port for internet access
- DVD drive to install QuickBooks from CD (Not required if you download QuickBooks from Intuit server)
Q2. Are QuickBooks for Desktop and QuickBooks Online the same thing?
No, they’re not. If you’re looking for a device just for QuickBooks Online, then you won’t need something with the minimum system requirements listed above. You can, however, use both QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks online on the laptops listed above. You’ll need to install QuickBooks for desktop through an installation CD or their website.
Q3. Can I use QuickBooks on two devices?
As long as you’re the only person using QuickBooks on those devices, then it’s okay. Keep in mind that the software comes with a license agreement that states only one person may use the software; if more than one of you need to use it, you have to buy more licenses.
Q4. Do I need an internet connection to use QuickBooks for Desktop?
You would need an internet connection to successfully download and install QuickBooks for Desktop from their website. If you’re installing it straight from an installation CD, you wouldn’t need an internet connection.
All you’ll need the internet for after installing QuickBooks is for activation and registration of the product, and to download the latest updates for the software.
Q5. Where does all my data go if I use QuickBooks online?
QuickBooks provides a monthly cloud subscription for all their online users. This means any data you input and save through the QuickBooks online application is going to be saved on the internet, so you can access your files whenever you’re logged in to QuickBooks Online, even on other devices.
Best Laptop for QuickBooks Buying Guide
When looking for a laptop with a specific purpose, you need to understand why certain applications have certain system requirements. We’re here to explain some of the requirements, and other features you might want when selecting a laptop.
We want you to be able to make your own decision on which laptop you think is best for your QuickBooks needs.
RAM
You’re going to need a decent amount of RAM if you want your laptop to perform quickly and effectively, especially if you’re fond of multitasking. The less RAM you have, the more likely your laptop is going to slow down when working on multiple tabs and applications, or even just having multiple browser tabs open.
QuickBooks requires a minimum of 4GB RAM but recommends at least 8GB. You can still expect to run QuickBooks with the minimum, but it would be much less efficient than with a device with 8GB RAM.
Processor
This is what helps your laptop process any data you input into it. The processor is what handles billions and trillions of computations you input into your laptop, and the more powerful the processor, the quicker your laptop is going to work.
For QuickBooks, we recommend having a Core i5 or i7, or Ryzen 5 or 7 processor installed in your PC. While Intel i3 and Ryzen 3 are still fine, you’ll want the extra bit of processing power in their more powerful counterparts.
Storage
All the laptops on this list have SSDs installed (or Solid-State Drives), which are much more efficient and reliable than HDDs (or Hard-Disk Drives). While an HDD is still fine to store your data on, we recommend using an SSD because they are much quicker, and use less mechanical parts, making them less prone to breakage.
Battery Life
While not a system requirement for the QuickBooks application itself, you’ll want to have a laptop with a good battery lifespan if you frequently work on the go. Having a laptop with good battery life makes working from anywhere much more convenient, so you’ll want a laptop with something between 6-8 hours.
Keyboard
If you’re working on computations and accounting software all day, you’ll need a comfortable number pad to work on. Software like the QuickBooks application often means you’re inputting numerical data, so look for a laptop with a comfortable number pad for maximum efficiency.
Conclusion
The laptop you choose all boils down to whether you want just the minimum for your office needs, or if you want other features so you can use it all-around. All you need for QuickBooks is a laptop with the minimum spec requirements and the QuickBooks software itself.
We recommend you pick something out that’s got a decent processor and large storage. Using an HDD as storage is just fine, but we recommend SSDs more because they’re faster and much more reliable. As long as you’ve got a full-HD display, the size of the laptop is all up to your personal preferences.
And there you have our top 5 laptops we think is best suited for Quickbooks. Let us know down below if you’ve given these laptops a try, and whether or not they work for you! If you’re using something else, then let us know in the comments which other laptops you recommend for QuickBooks.