An ethical hacker needs to run software and tools like virtual machines, penetration testing, DDoS attacks, password cracking, and Kali Linux to identify system loopholes. These activities require running multiple virtual machines, handling massive data, multitasking capacity, and rigorous processing power.
Top Rated Budget Laptops
Last update on 2024-12-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The best laptops for ethical hacking must have a snappy processor, extensive memory, powerful GPU, higher screen resolution, and excellent battery life. A powerful machine can save you a lot of time.
If you want to know which configuration is the best for a hacking laptop, then keep reading. You can also directly jump to our laptop recommendations by clicking here.
If you’re in a hurry, check out our top choices:
Best Laptops for Ethical Hackers and Hacking in 2024 – Buyer’s Guide
A flashy or stylish laptop won’t help here; we need a robust machine that can handle our torture.
Processor
However, actual hackers can do serious hacking with just a Raspberry Pie, which is the tiniest computer/laptop system you can find nowadays. Then why do we need a powerful laptop for ethical hacking?
A robust computer is a must if you want to indulge in your work rather than troubleshooting system performance. It means a slower computer can work but can devastate your precious time; even some tasks are very time-sensitive in the hacking world.
You need at least Intel Core i5 latest Gen processor in your hacking laptop. The best thing about the newest processor is that they are more energy-efficient to ensure a better backup. The Intel Core i7 would be the best option if you can spend more.
Memory
Undoubtedly, for working with several virtual machines or heavy multitasking, an 8GB memory won’t work. Therefore, you must get at least 16GB of RAM in your laptop to avoid headaches. However, if you’re a beginner and just started your ethical hacking journey, you can go with 8GB, but make sure it’s upgradable in the future.
GPU
A dedicated GPU helps run password cracking tools such as HashCAT and Aircrack-ng; it not only reduces the workload of the CPU but also saves tons of time. If your budget is tight, try to get a dedicated GPU with at least 2GB VRAM.
Storage
The PCIe-based solid storage drive is recommended because it ensures the fastest speed. Shoot for at least 512GB (1TB is recommended) capacity because we will deal with larger files.
PCIe SSDs are expensive, and if you want to save money, look for a laptop that offers an extra SATA slot. You can use this slot to add a spare SATA SSD to enhance storage. The laptop performance won’t be affected because the OS is installed in the PCIe SSD. Don’t worry; we have listed some laptops with dual storage options.
Display
A big screen is always a fantastic choice for multitasking, but we shouldn’t forget the portability if you want to work on the go. Keeping that in mind, a 14-inch or 15-inch laptop would be great.
Also, ensure your laptop has at least full HD resolution because it’s recommended for easy reading and shows more data lines on the screen. Consider an anti-glare screen with higher brightness for working outdoors or in brighter lighting.
Ports
This section is quite important because you will need to connect several peripherals. Therefore, make sure your laptop has at least two USB 3.0+ Type-A, a USB 3.0+ Type-C (Thunderbolt 3/4), HDMI, and a LAN port. Yes, a dedicated LAN port comes in handy sometimes despite having WLAN technology exists.
Portability
You should consider the laptop’s weight and size if you work on the road. However, I won’t recommend very slim or compact laptops for ethical hacking because they usually come with low-watt processors and lack performance. Moreover, most thin laptops don’t allow upgrading; it’s another restriction.
Battery life
Everyone loves long battery life. The combination of excellent battery life and robust performance isn’t common, at least not cheap.
Thankfully, the latest Gen processors are very energy efficient. Still, a laptop with a large battery generally will cost you more.
QUICK OVERVIEW:
Best ethical hacking laptops at a glance
MSI GV15 CHEAPEST OPTION | View at Amazon | |
ACER PREDATOR HELIOS 300 BEST BUDGET INTEL |
| View at Amazon |
LENOVO LEGION 5 BEST BUDGET AMD |
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DELL XPS 15 9510 SLIM AND PORTABLE |
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DELL XPS 17 9720 SLIM AND LARGE |
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GIGABYTE AERO 15 ROBUST GPU AND OLED |
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HP OMEN 17 LARGE AFFORDABLE |
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ALIENWARE X17 R2 BEST LARGE |
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| LENOVO THINKPAD P15 GEN 2 BEST WORKSTATION |
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| RAZER BLADE 15 ULTIMATE CHOICE |
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| MSI RAIDER GE76 HACKING MONSTER |
| View at Amazon |
Last update on 2024-12-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Laptops for Ethical Hacking in 2024 – Reviews
1. MSI GV15 Thin (Cheapest Laptop for Ethical Hacking in 2024)
Weight: 4.10 lbs | Processor: i5-11400H @4.5Ghz | GPU: GTX 1650 4GB | Memory: 8GB | Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch 144Hz , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 5-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
If you’re a beginner and looking for an affordable machine for your ethical hacking needs, the MSI GV15 Thin might be a great choice.
This buddy is available with Intel Core i5-11400H, 8GB memory, 256GB NVMe SSD, and Nvidia GTX 1650 discrete GPU. This configuration can deliver stable performance; whether you’re running cracking tools or a few virtual machines, it can handle them easily. The memory and storage capacity are upgradable as per your requirements in the future which is a plus point.
It has several connectivity options, which include three USB Type-A 3.2, HDMI, LAN, USB Type-C ports, and mic/headphone jacks. This buddy won’t stop you if you want to connect to a networking device or an external monitor.
MSI GV15 Thin is packed with a 15.6-inch full HD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate; the picture quality is ideal for gaming and general tasks. With the Nahimic 3 support, it can produce Hi-Res Audio, whether it’s about gaming or listening to music.
This notebook is thin and lightweight; you can carry it around conveniently. The aluminum built provides durability to handle daily hurdles.
This machine doesn’t have the best battery backup as a gaming laptop, but it can last up to 5 hours on typical usage, which isn’t bad for this meager price.
MSI GV15 is quite patient and remains calm and quiet under a heavy workload. MSI GV15 could be a good starting point if you started with hacking and stuff.
PROS
- Affordable
- Good performance
- Considerable display quality
- Enough connectivity options
CONS
- Not ideal for professionals
- Below-average battery life
2. Acer Predator Helios 300 (Best Budget Intel Laptop for Ethical Hackers)
Weight: 5..51 lbs | Processor: i7-11800H @4.6GHz | GPU: RTX 3060 6GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe + Extra slot | Screen: 15.6-inch 144Hz , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 6-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
If you can stretch your budget a little bit, the Acer Predator Helios 300 could be a solid choice for ethical hacking. This gaming machine’s robust hardware configuration can handle rigorous multitasking or torturous workload without a hiccup.
This beast carries an 11th Gen Intel Core i7-11800H, 16GB memory, 512GB PCIe SSD storage, and Nvidia RTX 3060 powerful graphics.
The memory or storage is upgradeable; it comes with an extra PCIe, a 2.5-inch SATA, and a RAM slot.
The build quality of Predator 300 is brilliant; it accompanies metal chassis, which entrusts higher durability. The dual-fan latest Aeroblade technology provides even more efficient thermal control to handle intense processing.
This latest Helios 300 model is available with a 144Hz full HD IPS screen, which is very versatile and can be used for multiple purposes.
You won’t complain about connectivity because it incorporates three USB 3.2, USB Type-C (Thunderbolt 4), HDMI, Mini DisplayPort, and LAN ports. You can hook up several monitors and other peripherals as per your requirements.
Compared to its previous model, it has many design, performance, and durability improvements. It’s still one of the most popular laptops among professional gamers.
Packed with robust performance and premium features, the Acer Predator Helios 300 could be a reliable option in the mid-range for hacking. However, this machine is heavy and might be uneasy for on-the-go use.
PROS
- Great display
- Brilliant performance
- Upgradable design
- Sturdy build quality with metal chassis
- Impressive thermal control
- Great value for money
CONS
- Slightly heavy
- Poor battery life
3. Lenovo Legion 5 (Best Budget AMD Laptop for Hacking in 2024)
Weight: 5.07 lbs | Processor: Ryzen 7 5800H @4.4GHz | GPU: RTX 3050Ti 4GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 8-hours | OS: Windows 11
Lenovo Legion series is one of the most favorite loved by gamers and professionals. Minimalistic design, solid hardware, and the latest features are some highlights of this lineup. The pricing is also competitive; that’s why it comes into our hacking laptops’ rundown radar.
This notebook is powered by AMD Ryzen 7 5800H, an Octa-Core chip that supports up to 4.4GHz clock speed. It’s somewhat close to the Intel Core i7-11800H in terms of performance. It has 16GB preinstalled memory and 512GB PCIe storage; you can extend it later.
It features a powerful GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU with 4GB VRAM as a gaming notebook. Honestly, this laptop is a bit slower than the Helios 300 in terms of overall or graphics performance. However, it’s a strong choice if you want a portable, slim gaming notebook with a better backup.
This machine has unique features, such as an E-shutter camera, a 180-degree foldable design, and many ports on its rear side. It overall offers 4 x USB A 3.2 ports, 2 x USB-C (DisplayPort and one support power delivery), HDMI 2.1, RJ45, Headphone/mic combo, and power input ports. With the help of the E-Shutter button provided on the right side, you can disconnect the camera from the system, which is a concrete privacy solution.
A 15.6-inch full HD panel provides enough area for multitasking; you can connect to multiple monitors if required. It also has a 4-zone RGB backlight and premium quality sound with Nahimic Audio.
Lenovo Legion 5 could be better than Acer Predator Helios 300 if you need a robust gaming machine with a portable design and good battery life.
PROS
- Competitive Pricing
- Amazing display
- Solid performance
- Lots of ports
- Good battery life
- Upgradable design
- Camera E-shutter for privacy
CONS
- Average webcam
4. Dell XPS 15 9510 Elite (Best Slim and Portable Laptop for Hacking)
Weight: 3.99 lbs | Processor: i7-11800H @4.6GHz | GPU: RTX 3050 Ti 4GB | Memory: 32GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 9-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Dell XPS series is quite famous among professionals, whether we talk about musicians, programmers, engineers, or graphic designers. The XPS 9510 Elite is not only a powerful notebook but also quite portable, perfect for on-the-go purposes.
This device is packed with an Intel Core i7-11800H, 32GB memory, 1TB SSD, and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti 4GB dedicated graphics, which means it can handle pretty much everything from gaming to intricate multitasking.
This premium notebook offers all the latest features, such as a backlit keyboard, fast charging, and a power button fingerprint sensor.
It has a 15.6-inch full HD screen with an anti-reflective coating and higher brightness. It can deliver sharp and vivid picture quality and is also helpful in working outdoors.
Dell XPS 9510 provides a clean, clutter-free aluminum design that is durable and looks professional. It’s pretty thin and comes with an InfinityEdge bezel, making it more portable than other full-size laptops.
Unfortunately, due to the slim design, there is no LAN, USB Type-A, or HDMI ports, which I don’t like. However, with the Thunderbolt 4 and USB Type-C ports, you can connect anything you want, but you’ll need to purchase a hub.
The XPS 9510 Elite is a premium range laptop and expensive, but if you’re looking for a portable and high-performance laptop for ethical hacking, it might be the right choice.
PROS
- Gorgeous full HD display
- Fantastic performance
- Compact design
- Paramount durability
- It comes with a fingerprint sensor
- Sweet battery life
CONS
- Pricey
- Only Type-C/Thunderbolt 4 ports
5. Dell XPS 17 9720 (Best Slim and Large Laptop for Hackers)
Weight: 5.67 lbs | Processor: i7-12700H @4.7GHz | GPU: RTX 3050 Ti 4GB | Memory: 16/32 GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 17-inch touch , 3840 x 2400 | Battery Life: 11-hours | OS: Window 11 Pro
When we talk about large laptops above 15.6-inch, they usually don’t consider portable. The Dell XPS 17 9720 has proven me wrong; it’s surprisingly slim and comes with an InfinityEdge bezel; therefore, it doesn’t look that large despite having a massive 17-inch display.
Whether you’re running multiple virtual machines or several Brute Force attacks, it remains calm. This notebook is slightly more powerful and offers outstanding display quality than the previous Dell 9510. It comprises the 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H processor, 16GGB memory, 512GB PCIe SSD storage, and Nvidia RTX 3050 GPU.
Its 17-inch IPS touch display is equipped with UHD+ pixels of resolution, which can deliver life-like vivid, and vibrant images. Also, it’s perfect for heavy multitaskers.
From the design aspect, this premium notebook can attract anyone’s attention with a glance. However, it offers four most potent Thunderbolt 4 ports, but you’ll need a Type-C hub if you want to use a regular Type-A, HDMI, or LAN connection.
Altogether, if you’re looking for a robust and larger yet slim and portable Dell XPS 17 9720 can be considered.
PROS
- Superior quality UHD+ touch display
- Mind-blowing performance
- Four Thunderbolt 4 ports
- Professional and sturdy design
- Advanced thermal control
- Faster one-touch login
- Impressive battery life
CONS
- Too expensive
- Only USB Type-C ports
- No OLED display
6. GIGABYTE AERO 15 (Best Hacking Laptop with Robust GPU and OLED Display)
Weight: 5.07 lbs | Processor: i7-11800H @4.6GHz | GPU: RTX 3070 8GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch , 3840 x 2160 | Battery Life: 5-hours | OS: Windows 11 pro
It’s also an Intel Core i7-11800H powered laptop, but it’s backed with a stronger RTX 3070 8GB GPU. It’s super helpful for doing some small calculations at a blazing-fast speed required when running a Brute force attack.
The display quality is also top-notch; it has a 15.6-inch 4K Samsung AMOLED panel with a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut that can produce ultra-sharp and highly color-accurate images. The screen is surrounded by a thin bezel which makes this laptop compact. However, it’s not considered a lightweight machine because it’s over 5 pounds.
It has an adaptable connectivity solution, which incorporates 3x USB 3.2 Type-A, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI, Mini DP, JR-45, and a headphone jack. There is no complaint about this department.
With the support of 16GB preinstalled memory and 1TB storage, it has enough liquor to get your party started. However, you can upgrade it as your requirements widen.
It supports an RGB backlit keyboard, fingerprint sensor, and 3D surround sound quality with DTS:X technology. The camera placement is weird, and many users might not like it.
GIGABYTE AERO 15 is backed by a fantastic cooling mechanism to ensure seamless operation. It is supported by 2x 71-blade cooling fans and five heat pipes, but it produces lots of noise, especially during higher workloads.
This laptop offers several extra features at a better price than the Dell XPS 9510, such as an OLED display, a wide array of ports, and a mighty GPU. However, you have to compromise battery life and portability.
PROS
- Gorgeous 4K Samsung OLED display
- Incredible performance
- RGB backlit
- Wide range of ports
- Sturdy aluminum build
- Carryable
CONS
- Lousy battery life
- Loud fan noise
- Nosecam
7. HP Omen 17 (Affordable Large Laptop for Ethical Hacking)
Weight: 6.15 lbs | Processor: i7-12700H @4.7GHz | GPU: RTX 3060 6GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 512GB PCIe SSD | Screen: 17.3-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 8-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
I have also listed another large laptop earlier named Dell G7 17, but the HP Omen is a more value-for-money option.
This machine is heavy, but if you rarely leave your cushioning chair, you don’t need to worry about that.
HP Omen is packed with a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-12700H, 16GB memory, 512GB PCIe SSD, and Nvidia RTX 3060 6GB GPU. It can deliver liquid-like performance and can handle any sophisticated processing.
Compared to the previous year’s model, it offers a sleek design that makes it easy to handle. Also, it features a plethora of connectivity options. It has Thunderbolt 4, Mini Display, HDMI, LAN, and 3x USB Type-A ports.
As mentioned above, it’s coming with the Nvidia RTX 3060 6GB GPU; this discrete chip can handle any latest AAA title or rigorous graphics processing. As an ethical hacker, having a robust GPU in your laptop is always a good idea; it will pay you back and save time.
Additionally, it’s a gaming machine; therefore, it’s offering some extra stuff such as RGB backlit, enhanced audio, or an anti-ghosting keyboard.
If you want to large and robust laptop without spending a premium price, HP Omen 17 might be your way to go.
PROS
- Gigantic display with 100% sRGB
- Speedy performance
- Commendable pricing
- Great thermal control
- RGB backlit keyboard
- Sleek and durable design
- Extensive connectivity options
- Ideal battery life
CONS
- Heavy
8. Alienware x17 R2 (Best Large Laptop for Hacking in 2024)
Weight: 6.54 lbs | Processor: i7-12700H @4.7GHz | GPU: RTX 3070Ti 8GB | Memory: 16GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 17.3-inch 360Hz , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 4-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Alienware New M17 could be a perfect choice for hacking if you can spend enough, but why?
This notebook offers a mighty GPU that can change the game when it comes to hacking. Also, it’s packed with several premium features, which makes it a better choice over Dell XPS 17.
The design of this machine is eye-catching. It features a slim and unique aluminum body with AlienFX RGB lighting. Due to the skinny bezel, it’s very compact despite having a colossal display. The display isn’t just large, but it’s available with touch and 4K resolution; you can choose as per your needs.
With the support of quad fan technology and Element 31, it can handle intense stress like a saint. Additionally, it’s equipped with several connectivity ports; whether you talk about Thunderbolt 4 or USB Type-A, HDMI, or Mini Display port, it will get you covered.
X17 R2 is packed with a superior quality keyboard co-developed with Cherry. Some highlights are anti-ghosting, N-key rollover, RGB backlit, and high responsiveness.
Regarding larger laptops on this list, Alienware X17 R2 is good to go if you want the best features. HP Omen 17 is better value for money, while Dell XPS 17 wins in portability. The choice is yours!
PROS
- Unique, eye-catching design
- Superior performance
- Vast connectivity options
- Cutting-edge thermal technology
- Per-key RGB LED AlienFX lighting
- Rock-solid durability
CONS
- A bit costly
- Heavier
- Helpless battery life
9. Lenovo ThinkPad P15 (Best Workstation Laptop for Ethical Hackers)
No products found.Weight: 6.32 lbs | Processor: i9-11950H @5.0GHz | GPU: RTX A3000 6GB | Memory: 32GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch , 3840 x 2160 | Battery Life: 8-hours | OS: Windows 10 Pro 64
Workstation laptops are expensive because they are specially designed for professionals and have robust hardware configurations. Lenovo ThinkPad P15 Gen 2 might be a viable choice for hackers because it offers many solid features.
Powered by a mighty Intel Core i9-11950H and NVidia RTX A3000 6GB, it doesn’t matter what workload you apply; it can deliver stable performance. This powerhouse is backed with 32GB memory and 1TB PCIe SSD storage and supports upgradability.
There is no need to worry about the connectivity option for a workstation; it has everything we need. Additionally, it comes with a fingerprint sensor and a dTPM chip for added security.
The keyboard quality of the ThinkPad series is already well-known. Along with the higher durability and responsiveness, the keyboard is also spill-resistant.
It features a 15.6-inch UHD IPS display that supports HDR 400 and 600 nits brightness. The image quality isn’t just breathtaking but also ideal for any occasion, whether it’s a dark room or sunlight.
Despite having such a high-end hardware configuration, this machine still delivers around 8-hour backups; it’s admirable.
Usually, mobile workstations aren’t designed for on-the-go use, so their weight isn’t surprising.
If you can spend decent money on your hacking laptop, you should consider a reliable workstation such as the Lenovo ThinkPad P15.
PROS
- Fantabulous 4K display
- Exceptional performance
- Fingerprint sensor and dTMP chip
- Efficient and spill-resistant keyboard
- Easily upgradeable
- Enough connectivity options
CONS
- Expensive
- Weighty
10. Razer Blade 15 (Ultimate Choice for a Hacking Laptop in 2024)
Weight: 4.4 lbs | Processor: i9-12900H @5.0GHz | GPU: RTX 3080 Ti 16GB | Memory: 32GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch touch , 3840 x 2160 | Battery Life: 5-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
This laptop checks almost all the boxes according to our requirements, whether we talk about processing power, carry ability, or the latest features.
This machine is also packed with Intel Core i9-12900H, 32GB memory, and 1TB PCIe SSD like the Lenovo Thinkpad P15, but it has a way more powerful RTX 3080 Ti GPU with 16GB VRAM. It’s around 31% faster comparatively.
With a 15.6-inch UHD IPS touch panel, it can produce real-life-like images. The thin bezel makes this laptop more attractive and compact. This Razer notebook has an elder 17-inch sibling with almost the same configuration. However, due to a bigger screen, it’s much heavier.
The design is minimalistic yet packed with all recommended connectivity options; 3x USB Type-A 3.2, 2x USB Type-C 3.2, and Thunderbolt 4 ports are provided.
It’s crafted from T6 Anodized Aluminum to ensure rock-solid durability and look sophisticated and professional. The keyboard comes with Razer Chroma RGB support which allows per-key color customization.
The best thing about the Razer laptops is that they come without bloatware.
It could be a solid deal if you are a deep-pocket individual looking for the best machine for your hacking journey.
PROS
- Brilliant quality 4K display
- Superior performance
- Premium quality build
- Upgradable
- Slim and easy to carry
- Dazzling Razer Chroma RGB
- A wide array of ports
CONS
- Absurdly expensive
- Frivolous battery life
11. MSI Raider GE76 Pro Extreme (Desktop Replacement Hacking Monster)
Weight: 6.39 lbs | Processor: i9-12900HK @5.0GHz | GPU: RTX 3080 Ti 16GB | Memory: 64GB | Storage: 2x 2TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 17.3-inch 120Hz , 3840 x 2160 | Battery Life: 3-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Powered by the Intel Core i9-12900HK and NVidia RTX 3080Ti 16GB, the MSI Raider GE76 Pro Extreme isn’t less than a monster. You can do anything on this machine, such as hacking, coding, editing, designing, gaming, modeling, or anything else; it won’t mind.
The MSI Raider comes with 64GB memory and 4TB (2x Samsung 980 Pro) PCIe SSD storage which is as extreme as its name.
The only thing this laptop lack is battery life; otherwise, it’s extreme in all features, whether we talk about the processor, graphics, memory, storage, display, sound, keyboard, or webcam.
Despite having these great features, I don’t recommend it because it’s painfully costly and doesn’t get swallowed. There are dozens of great value-for-money options available, and I have already discussed them above.
PROS
- Paramount performance
- Top-notch 4K IPS display
- Extensive connectivity options
- Per-key RGB and Mystic Light
- Great full HD camera
- Premium quality mic and sound
CONS
- Painful price
- Worst battery
- Clunky design
Top Rated Hacking Laptops of 2024
One of the famous quotes from Top Gun Maverick, “It’s Not The Plane, It’s The Pilot,” fits well with hacking also. Hacking isn’t directly proportional to the powerful or more capable machine. However, in some cases, more muscle comes in handy, but as a beginner, you don’t need to spend much.
I have listed the most reliable laptops for ethical hacking in 2024. Whether a beginner or a maniac multitasker, this list has at least one trusted laptop.
I hope this post helped you a little bit in making your decision. If you still have any questions or suggestions, please comment below.
Thanks for your precious time, have a great day. 🙂
