For investment banking, staying ahead of the curve is the key to success. For investment bankers, a laptop is more than just a tool – it’s a lifeline to the fast-paced world of finance. That’s why choosing a computer with the proper configurations becomes crucial.
Undoubtedly, confusion is natural because there are so many options on the market, and choosing the best laptops for investment banking in 2023 is challenging. Don’t worry; we are here to help you. This guide covers everything you need to know before choosing the correct device and recommends top-rated laptops. So, let’s get started!
If you’re in a hurry, check out our top choices:
- Apple MacBook Pro 14 (for
) - LG Gram 17 (for
)
Best Laptops for Investment Banking 2023 – Buyer’s Guide
As an investment banker, it is essential to maintain constant communication with investors and securities issuers through the phone, email, skype, and other modes of communication. Moreover, you’ll heavily rely on investment tools for market monitoring, utilizing spreadsheets, investment calculators, and accessing financial tools. Many of these tools require a constant internet connection, and it is common for investment bankers to keep their laptops operational all the time to access vital information quickly.
While considering all these factors, let’s discuss which features we should focus on.
Performance
A multi-core processor would be the best to handle complex calculations, financial modeling, data analysis, and multitasking. Choose a laptop with at least an Intel Core i7 or equivalent AMD Ryzen 7 processor. In some cases, going with an even higher processor is recommended. Also, it is essential to note that more potent processors require higher energy, resulting in low battery backup. That’s why we have to find a balance according to our using style.
A laptop also needs an ample amount of memory to deliver efficient performance. Getting at least 8GB memory is recommended to handle this chaos, while 16GB is the safest option. Also, ensure the system memory is upgradeable, especially if you choose the 8GB option.
You can choose storage capacity as per your requirements. However, I suggest the PCIe SSD storage to make the most of your laptop. It will drastically enhance the laptop’s performance, especially if it’s related to accessing the data from the storage, such as opening files, system booting, etc.
A dedicated GPU is not a strict requirement for Investment banking work. Invest in a powerful CPU and sufficient RAM rather than a high-performance CPU.
However, dedicated graphics memory can enhance performance if you need to work with extensive data visualization, complex 3D modeling, or advanced GPU charting software.
Display quality
As an investment banker, you’ll work with financial charts, data visualization, and extensive spreadsheets. A high-quality display can enhance financial data’s clarity and readability, ensuring accurate analysis and decision-making.
So, what should we look into our laptop’s display?
Resolution
Resolution plays a vital role in ensuring more detailed and sharp image quality. However, the resolution must be chosen according to the display size. For a 15-inch laptop, at least a full HD (1920×1080) resolution is recommended; it will give you enough clarity and sharpness to understand data clearly.
Size
A larger display accommodates more information which helps analyze larger charts, graphs, and financial reports. However, you should pay attention to your preferences and workspace constraints. If you use external monitors, then it doesn’t matter that much.
Color Accuracy
Accurate color reproduction is crucial when analyzing charts, graphs, and financial reports. Look for a laptop with a wide color gamut, such as sRGB, Adobe RGB, or DCI-P3; it will help you accurately represent your data.
Brightness
The brighter display allows you to read in different lighting conditions and reduces eye strain. Choose a laptop that offers at least a 300-nit of brightness level.
Matte vs. Glossy
A glossy screen can deliver vibrant colors and enhanced visuals. In contrast, some investment bankers prefer a matte finish which allows working in brightly lit environments or near windows by reducing glare and reflection.
Portability
Usually, investment bankers are one of the busiest people on the earth, and they often work on the go. During critical deal-making periods and intense deadlines, they sometimes work beyond usual office timing and even on weekends or holidays. A lightweight and thin machine is recommended for them, but it shouldn’t lack the essential features.
Battery Life
A laptop with longer battery life is recommended for investment banking professionals, primarily if you work on the go or in situations where power outlets may be limited. Find a laptop that offers 8-10 hours of battery life under normal usage conditions.
Avoid laptops with a dedicated GPU, such as gaming, if you’re not involved in tasks requiring higher graphics processing. It can heavily impact a laptop’s battery life.
Connectivity
Using multiple monitors as an investment banker is common because it can increase productivity and efficiency. Also, you’ll need to connect various other peripherals, such as a printer, wireless keyboard/mouse, etc.
Look for a laptop with at least an HDMI or DisplayPort, USB Type-C (Thunderbolt), USB Type-A, SD card reader, and a headphone jack. It will cover most users’ needs without the requirement for any extra hub or adapter.
Security
Investment banking involves handling sensitive and confidential data which require higher security. Look for a laptop with robust security features such as a fingerprint sensor, IR camera, and Trusted Platform Module (TPM) to protect your data from unauthorized access.
Software and Compatibility
Check the software requirements for investment banking applications that you generally use because some programs are exclusively available on a particular OS. For example, Capital IQ, Microsoft Excel with Power Query, and Power Pivot are only available on Microsoft Windows. While OmniPlan and MarginNote are some macOS-exclusive applications.
However, installing Windows on MacOS and using any Windows software is possible, but it’s not recommended.
General FAQs
Q: What are the key factors when choosing the best laptop for investment banking?
A: For investment bankers, a powerful processor, ample memory, portability, higher display quality, reliable security, longer battery life, and software compatibility are crucial factors we should consider when choosing a laptop.
Q: Is it necessary to have a high-end, expensive laptop for investment banking?
A: A high-end laptop can offer better performance but could be extravagant. Focus on the essential specifications to ensure smoother performance rather than relying on the price tag.
Q: Can I use a Mac for investment banking work, or is Windows preferred?
A: Both Mac and Windows laptops are used in investment banking. It depends on personal preference, software compatibility, and integration with existing systems at your firm.
Q: Do investment bankers typically use multiple monitors?
A: Many investment bankers prefer using multiple monitors to enhance productivity, allowing for simultaneous access to various applications and data.
Q: What software programs are commonly used in investment banking?
A: Popular software programs include Microsoft Excel, Bloomberg Terminal, FactSet, Murex, and specialized financial modelings tools like MATLAB or Python/R.
Q: How important is battery life for investment bankers?
A: A good battery could be crucial for those investment bankers who often work on the go or have power outlets unavailability where they go.
Q: Is it necessary to have a dedicated graphics card for investment banking tasks?
A: A dedicated graphics card is usually unnecessary for investment banking. Focus on CPU performance and RAM, as they significantly impact financial modeling, data analysis, and running specialized software.
Q: Can I use a laptop docking station for enhanced productivity?
A: Yes, a laptop docking station can be a worthwhile investment. It allows you to connect multiple peripherals, such as monitors, keyboard, mouse, and external storage, to create a more comfortable and productive workstation.
Q: How can I ensure data security on my investment banking laptop?
A: Implement security measures such as using strong passwords, encryptions, regular software updates, and virtual private networks (VPNs) when accessing sensitive data remotely.
Q: Is a laptop with a touchscreen useful for investment banking?
A: A touchscreen can offer additional flexibility but is not necessary for investment banking tasks. It could be a good investment if the touchscreen functionality aligns with your work style and specific needs.
QUICK OVERVIEW:
Best investment banking laptops at a glance
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ACER ASPIRE 5 CHEAPEST OPTION |
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View at Amazon |
|
ACER SWIFT X BEST IN BUDGET |
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View at Amazon |
| SAMSUNG – GALAXY BOOK FLEX2 ALPHA
BUDGET CONVERTIBLE |
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View at Amazon |
|
LG GRAM 17 RECOMMENDED |
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View at Amazon |
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MICROSOFT SURFACE PRO 9 MOST PORTABLE |
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View at Amazon |
|
APPLE MACBOOK PRO 14 MOST PREMIUM CHOICE |
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View at Amazon |
| MICROSOFT SURFACE LAPTOP STUDIO
ULTIMATE CHOICE |
|
View at Amazon |
Best Laptops for Investment Banking in 2023 – Reviews
1. Acer Aspire 5 (Cheap Laptop for Investment Banking)
Weight: 3.60 lbs | Processor: i7-1165G7 @4.70GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 12-36GB | Storage: 512GB – 2TB SSD | Screen: 15.6-inch , 1920 x1080 | Battery Life: 7-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Acer Aspire 5 is a fantastic budget laptop packed with all the essential features for investment banking work. On top of that, it’s lightweight and compact, making it a viable choice for those who often work on the road.
Aspire 5 accompanies a 15.6-inch full HD display which can deliver sharper image quality to read the charts and graphs easily. However, the color accuracy could be more compelling; it only supports approximately 57% sRGB. If you want to hook up an external monitor, it’s feasible with its built-in HDMI port.
Inside its compact body, it carries a Quad-core Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, up to 36GB memory, and up to 2TB PCIe storage, which is enough for our investment banking needs.
This notebook features a fingerprint sensor which provides quick and secure authentication. The backlit keyboard, Wi-Fi 6, and USB Type-C port are more features to enjoy at this budget price.
With the power of a 48Wh battery, this machine provides you with up to 7 hours of backup, that’s impressive. You can work from anywhere without worrying about the wall outlet.
If you want to invest less in your laptop, the Aspire 5 could be a viable choice, which offers all the required features for an investment banking professional.
PROS
- Full HD display
- Decent battery life
- Satisfactory performance
- Slim and compact design
- Fingerprint sensor
CONS
- Limited color production
- Weaker sound
- Not ideal for heavy graphics
2. Acer Swift X (Best Budget Laptop for Investment Banking)
Weight: 3.31 lbs | Processor: Ryzen 7 5800U @4.4GHz | GPU: RTX 3050Ti 4GB | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 14-inch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 9-hours | OS: Windows 10 Home
Are you seeking an affordable, portable, powerful, and secure laptop for investment banking work? The Acer Swift X could be a perfect choice. Why? Let’s find out!
Acer Swift X is designed with a 14-inch full HD display supported by a 100% sRGB color gamut and 300-nit brightness level. It allows the creation of highly detailed and color-accurate graphs and charts. The higher screen brightness enhances readability in brighter environments.
In terms of performance, it features an Octa-Core AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor supported by striking 4.4GHz max clock speed to ensure a seamless working experience. This CPU is paired with 16GB memory, 512GB PCIe SSD, and a dedicated Nvidia RTX 3050Ti GPU. Therefore, you can perform complex calculations, detailed data analysis, multitasking, and heavy graphics work.
The Acer Swift X offers a thin and compact metal design with lifting hinges that provide you comfortable typing experience. It’s perfect for mobile lifestyles. Moreover, a fingerprint sensor is given, which provides secure and instant login with Windows Hello. The keyboard supports backlit to work in dim lighting.
It has plenty of connectivity options, including USB Type-A, Type-C, and HDMI ports with a headphone jack that can fulfill all the requirements. The battery life is also promising; it can fuel it up for 9 hours which is impressive.
Whether we talk about processing power, security, mobility, or other modern features, the Acer Swift X can fulfill an investment banker’s needs at a reasonable price.
PROS
- Impressive display
- Robust and slim metal body
- Fantastic performance
- Perfect for carrying
- Fingerprint sensor
- Backlit keyboard
- Brilliant battery life
CONS
- Mediocre speakers
3. Samsung Galaxy Book Flex2 Alpha (Budget Convertible Laptop for Investment Banking)
Weight: 2.62lbs | Processor: i7-1165G7 @4.7GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: 512GB PCle SSD | Screen: 13.3-inch touch , 1920 x 1080 | Battery Life: 10-hours | OS: Windows 11
If you are looking for a touchscreen and convertible laptop for your investment banking work, the Samsung Galaxy Book Flex2 Alpha could be a solid choice. This notebook is compact and packed with powerful hardware making it ideal for mobile use.
Galaxy Book Flex2 offers a 13.3-inch QLED touchscreen with a full HD resolution and 400 nits brightness. It can deliver vibrant and sharp image quality; you can do whatever you want, from working on a color-sensitive project to gaming.
With the support of the 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, 16GB memory, and 512GB PCIe SSD, this notebook can deliver a solid performance. However, it’s not designed for heavy graphical work like gaming or 3D modeling. Surprisingly, the battery life of this notebook is commendable; it can power up for 10 hours with a single charge.
Samsung has made this notebook from metal to withstand touch usage. The slim and captivating design houses a Samsung Stylus to make the most of the touchscreen. It allows directly working on the screen while editing charts or taking notes.
Samsung has implemented the TPM chip and fingerprint sensor to ensure higher security. It supports a backlit keyboard, Thunderbolt 4, USB Type-C, and a MicroSD card slot. Sound and cameras qualities are also good; you can expect a decent quality video calling and music listening experience.
The Samsung Galaxy Book Flex2 Alfa is an all-rounder laptop that can fulfill a tablet’s requirements.
PROS
- Marvelous QLED display
- Stunning design
- Satisfactory performance
- Appreciable battery backup
- Thunderbolt 4
- Fingerprint sensor
CONS
- No dedicated GPU
- Annoying power button position
- Bloatware
4. LG Gram 17 (Best Laptop for Investment Banking Professionals)
Weight: 2.98 lbs | Processor: i7-1260P @ 4.7GHz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: Up to 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 17-inch , 2560 x 1600 | Battery Life: 11-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
Spacious but compact, lightweight but powerful, and slim but long-lasting, the LG Gram 17 is a rare laptop offering versatile features in a single room. LG Gram series is widely popular for its superb performance, feather-like body, and marathon battery life. Even it has debuted in the market with these fascinating features.
LG Gram 17 offers a massive 17-inch IPS screen supported by a 99% DCI-P3 color gamut, 2560 x 1600 resolution, 350 nits brightness, and anti-glare coating. It provides a spacious area for working with multiple application side by side. Moreover, you can do highly color-sensitive tasks without hesitation.
Despite having a larger screen, this notebook is convenient, thanks to its narrow bezel and under 3 lbs body. However, there is no compromise in the build quality; it has passed the 7 MIL-STD 810G test to prove its durability. With the support of 2x Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI, you can connect multiple monitors with this machine.
Gram 17 boasts a full HD camera to ensure hassle-free and secure login, providing a high-quality video calling experience. The sound and microphone quality are also acceptable.
This Gram 17 model is fueled by an Intel Core i7 1260P processor, 16GB memory, and 1TB PCIe SSD, which can deliver a smoother performance. However, it also has a dedicated GPU model if you need more graphical power.
LG Gram 17 is the best laptop for Investment bankers because of its excellent performance, marathon battery life, exceptional display, and super mobility.
PROS
- Brilliant quality spacious display
- Impressive performance
- Ultra-sleek and lightweight
- Thunderbolt 4
- 7 MIL-STD-810 certified
- Fantastic camera and sound
- Marvelous battery life
CONS
- Touchpad could have been better
- A bit costly
5. Microsoft Surface Pro 9 (The most Portable Notebook for Investment Banking)
Weight: 1.94 lbs | Processor: i7-1235U @4.4Ghz | GPU: Intel Iris Xe | Memory: 32GB | Storage: 1TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 13-inch touch , 2880 x 1920 | Battery Life: 12-hours | OS: Windows 11 Home
If portability is the priority, the Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is undoubtedly the best choice. It features a detachable design with uncompromised performance; it’s a fantastic combination.
Surface Pro 9 has a 13-inch PixelSense touchscreen designed for pens, which can produce unmatched picture quality. It can be used as a laptop, tablet, or studio, providing flexibility.
This Surface Pro 9 model has an Intel Core i7-1235U, 32GB memory, and 1TB PCIe SSD; it can handle intricate tasks, including massive data analysis and complex processing. However, it’s not recommended for rigorous graphics-related work.
The build quality is top-notch; it’s crafted from metal unibody which entrusts supreme durability and a sophisticated look. The built-in kickstand allows using it in laptop mode and adds more durability to the frame.
Microsoft Surface Pro 9 is packed with a large battery which can provide sweet backup. Moreover, the Surface Slim Pen 2 supports wireless charging with the Surface Pro Signature keyboard. Remember, you must purchase the accessories separately, which makes it super expensive.
PROS
- Sturdy and robust build
- Handy and compact
- Superb multi-touch screen
- Excellent performance
- Windows Hello support
- Reliable security
- Marathon backup
CONS
- Keyboard and pen are sold separately
- Lack dedicated graphics
6. MacBook Pro 6th Gen (Best Apple Laptop for Investment Banking)
Weight: 3.54 lbs | Processor: Apple M2 Pro | GPU: integrated | Memory: 16 GB | Storage: 512GB/1TB | Screen: 14.2-inch , 3024×1964 | Battery Life: 16-hours | OS: macOS
If the applications you work with are compatible with the macOS, a MacBook is undoubtedly the best choice. However, it’s only suitable for people with deep pockets.
The 6th Gen Apple MacBook Pro isn’t less than a beast; you can do whatever you want with this machine. It will satisfy you for the premium price you pay.
First, let’s start with its display. This MacBook Pro boasts a Liquid Retina XDR display, delivering life-like color accuracy and sharpness. You can use it for gaming, programming, designing, editing, or outdoors. It can provide the best performance and user experience.
The performance department host the Apple M2 Pro chip supported by a 10-core CPU and 16-core GPU with 16GB memory and 512GB PCIe SSD. It can easily handle complex data analysis, 3D modeling, editing, designing, and intense multitasking.
MacBooks’ build quality and security are highly reliable, offering top-notch features. Whether we talk about its Magic Keyboard, TouchID, 1080p FaceTime HD camera, High-fidelity six-speaker sound systems, or Force Touch trackpad, all provide the paramount user experience with the highest efficiency.
The battery life of this 6th Gen MacBook Pro is also incredible; it can deliver up to 16 hours of running time. Surprisingly, despite having all those top-class features and processing power, it’s sleek and lightweight.
The Apple MacBook Pro is the best choice if you want to invest in a long-lasting and reliable laptop for your investment banking work.
PROS
- Supreme quality Liquid Retina XDR display
- Paramount performance
- Incredible build quality
- Highly portable
- Top-class security
- Premium quality camera and sound
- Fantastic keyboard and trackpad
- Mind-blowing battery backup
CONS
- Highly expensive
7. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio (Ultimate Windows Laptop for Investment Banking)
Weight: 4.0 lbs | Processor: i7-11370H @4.8 GHz | GPU: RTX 3050 Ti 4GB | Memory: 16 /32 GB | Storage: 512GB – 2TB PCIe SSD | Screen: 14.4-inch touch , 2400 x 1600 | Battery Life: 10.5-hours | OS: Windows 11
If your environment isn’t macOS-friendly due to software compatibility, Windows is the evident option. The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is worth looking at.
This versatile, powerful, reliable, and long-lasting machine offers everything you could ask for as an investment banking professional.
Surface Laptop Studio is designed with a 14.4-inch PixelSense Flow Display with Dolby Vision, 2400 x 1600 pixels of resolution, 10-point multi-touch, and 120Hz refresh rate, making it versatile. You can use it for gaming to graphics editing with confidence.
Surface Laptop Studio offers a collapsible design with a touchscreen which allows using it in different modes. The Microsoft Surface Pen provides a realistic drawing and notes taking experience. However, you have to purchase the pen separately.
Under the hood, this machine is driven by an Intel Core i7-11370H processor, 16GB memory, 512GB PCIe SSD storage, and a dedicated Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti 4GB dedicated GPU. Therefore, it can deliver robust performance to handle all your intricate processing and tasks.
The Surface Laptop Studio has a 1080p Windows Hello camera, TPM chip, Dual Studio Mics, Quad Omnisonic Speakers tuned by Dolby Atmos, and Wi-Fi 6. The 58WH battery capacity can deliver a backup for a whole day.
PROS
- Excellent quality touchscreen
- Satisfying performance
- Solid build quality
- Responsive keyboard and haptic touchpad
- Windows Hello camera
- Great sound quality
- A whole day’s battery life
CONS
- A bit heavy
- Expensive
Best Computer for Investment Banking in 2023
First, analyze your requirements and budget. I have listed different types of laptops with different budgets and features, and hopefully, it would have been helpful to you.
Some prioritize portability with longer battery life, while others prefer powerful performance. Software compatibility also plays a crucial role here. Thanks for reading!
