The 10 Best Trading Computers and Laptops

In trading, you gotta have the right tools, namely computers and laptops.

As a stock trader, no amount of talent can make up for a lack of tools. And since trading is online now, one of your most vital trading tools is your laptop or computer.

Of course, a great computer in and of itself won’t make you a great trader. But the quality of your laptop or desktop setup can improve your effectiveness as a trader. So, it’s important to choose one that can live up to your performance demands.

The choices here can be overwhelming. Laptops and computers come in all shapes and sizes. You’ve got to strike the perfect balance between reliability, functionality, and price. 

In this post, we’ll share our favorite laptop and computer picks for traders. Plus, we have additional tips on what to look for in a laptop or computer and answers to some FAQs.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops

Here are StocksToTrade’s picks for some of the best laptops and desktop computers for traders, in no particular order…

These are the most likely to have great compatibility with StocksToTrade along with other trading applications too! Don’t have StocksToTrade? Get a 14-day trial today for only $7!

Laptops

Let’s look at laptops first…

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #1: Dell XPS 17

What it is: This is one of the best laptops produced by Dell. It features a big battery, a sleek display, and a well-designed keyboard. And it looks pretty slick, too.

Why it works: This laptop is a mobile powerhouse. You’re getting a portable top-shelf laptop from a reputable company. It’s got a Core i7 mobile processor and incredible battery life. 

Where to buy: Find the Dell XPS 17 on Amazon here.

This is a great laptop for traders on the go. If you’re looking for sleek but powerful, this might be the one for you. Go for the 17-inch model for more screen real estate.

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The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #2: MSI GP65 Leopard

What it is: A powerful laptop that will satisfy performance-hungry traders. It’s got a 15-inch screen and features a durable metal case.

Why it works: This laptop’s raw power will help traders run the most demanding software. The beefy graphics card supports attaching monitors without a hitch. It’s also crazy big …. seriously, this laptop is HUGE! It won’t get points for style, but it will for performance.

Where to buy: Find the MSI GP65 Leopard on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

This laptop can be a great choice for traders who want maximum power.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #3: Acer ConceptD 7

What it is: A powerful laptop with plenty of ports. 

Why it works: It’s the laptop with the smallest screen on this list, coming in at 15.6 inches. And while its battery isn’t the biggest, its performance is still great.

Where to buy: Find the Acer ConceptD 7 on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

You’ll be able to hook up to most screens with this laptop. It’s a great pick for traders who want versatility in monitor output.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #4: Razer Blade Pro 17

What it is: This is performance packed into a sleek-looking shell. The metal case makes it the sturdiest compared to some of the others here. But that also makes it heavier and more expensive.

Why it works: It’s a powerful computer with a great 17-inch screen that provides traders that extra screen real estate.

Where to buy: Find the Razer Blade Pro 17 on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

The 4K option is for traders who want good-looking performance.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #5: 16” MacBook Pro 2019

What it is: The most recent Intel Macbook Pro

Why it works: If you prefer using MacOS, this might be the laptop for you. Just make sure your trading programs are compatible with macOS. Recently, Apple switched to non-Intel chips, which many trading programs don’t fully support yet. Apple says it won’t make another Intel laptop … So this is the one to get until developers make apps more compatible with the new chips.

When you’re traveling, you can use an iPad as an external screen. This is a feature exclusive to Macs. You can also dual boot Windows with Boot Camp — something you can only do on Intel Macs.

Where to buy: Find the MacBook Pro 2019 on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

While the MacBook Pro is a solid choice and is compatible with StocksToTrade … be aware that macOS can’t run all trading software. A lot of software is Windows only. If your software is only compatible with Windows, consider getting a Windows laptop. Otherwise, go with the Intel MacBook Pro. But double-check that you’re buying the Intel machine before checking out!

Desktop Computers

Think a desktop computer is more up your alley? Here are some killer options.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #6: Dell XPS Desktop

What it is: A business tower PC that’s more than capable of running trading software.

Why it works: This tower PC has multiple display outputs for hooking up to four monitors. This is great for traders who want a set-it, forget-it experience from a big brand. 

Where to buy: Find the Dell XPS Desktop on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

If you’re considering this computer, get the model with the discrete graphics card if you want to connect four monitors.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #7: 27” iMac 2020

What it is: The latest desktop Intel iMac with the biggest screen. 

Why it works: The all-in-one form factor is great for traders who want a compact setup without a bulky tower. Thunderbolt ports allow users to attach multiple monitors. And the fast CPU will help your trading software run smoothly. Make sure your software is compatible first! All the caveats of the MacBook Pro apply here.

Where to buy: Find the iMac 2020 on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

It’s the desktop for those who prefer macOS over Windows. It can be expensive, but remember that you’re getting a desktop computer with a great screen built in. Consider opting for the fastest Intel i7 processor when checking out.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #8: Acer Aspire TC

What it is: An affordable desktop with great power for trading.

Why it works: It’s a solid trading computer that won’t break the bank. It’s got all the power you need in an unassuming design.

Where to buy: Find the Acer Aspire TC on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

This computer offers great value with the power that traders need.

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #9: OMEN 30L

What it is: A premium desktop with top-tier performance.

Why it works: This is a sleek-looking desktop PC that packs performance inside. Get the model with the discrete video card so you can add multiple monitors.

Where to buy: Find the OMEN 30L on Amazon here.

(As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.)

This is for traders who want a great-looking computer, but don’t want to build it themselves. It’s a sleek-looking computer with a ton of power. Just be prepared — it’s pricey!

The Best Trading Computers and Laptops #10: Build it!

What it is: A custom trading computer built to suit your needs.

Why it works: Building your own computer will make sure you get everything you want and nothing you don’t. You’ll be able to install a clean Windows installation too, so there won’t be any bloatware.

Where to buy: That depends on your needs!

If you have time, plan out and build a custom computer for your trading setup. This will give you increased customization. And if you don’t want to put it together yourself, there are computer stores that will build it for you. While building your computer takes some planning, you can get more bang for your buck.

Before You Buy

Before handing over your credit card, it’s important to consider your tech needs as a trader. A laptop might look sleek and professional, but it also needs to be reliable for when you need to quickly sell your position into a midday spike.

So don’t pick your laptop or computer purely based on which one costs the least. Everyone wants a good deal. But is it worth it if your computer crashes and you miss a $500 or $5,000 trading opportunity? You get what you pay for…

Evaluating Laptops

There are two elements to consider when evaluating a trading laptop: functionality and reliability. 

Picture this: You’re mid-trade and your laptop powers off when your so-called eight-hour battery fails you.

Or, maybe your computer crashes when you open your tenth browser tab because it can only process a few tasks at once.

While these might cause momentary blips, they can have huge ramifications on your trades. A computer needs to be able to handle intense trading software, multiple tabs, and other activities. 

If using a laptop, the battery has to have enough juice for you to monitor your watchlists, time your trades, and strike when the iron’s hot.

The good news is that there are many great laptops available for a variety of different price points.

What Does a Professional Trader Look For in a Computer?

Let’s get into some common questions about trading laptops and desktops…

Q: What type of laptop does Tim Sykes use?

A: In 2015, Tim used a MacBook Pro. Unfortunately, while he was making a video about how great it is to make money next to a pool … the wind blew it into the pool. If you haven’t seen the video footage of this yet, you should. The scream alone is worth it.

To replace it, Tim bought a MacBook Pro … then in short order, he spilled water on it and fried it. And to replace that one, he bought another MacBook Pro.

Guess what Tim uses now? A MacBook Pro. Clearly, Sykes likes this laptop.

Q: Is there anything special about laptops for traders? Can’t I just buy a regular laptop at my local Staples or Best Buy?

A: Trading software can be a beast. It hogs lots of resources and drains battery power fast. Trading software is chart-heavy, and traders typically view multiple charts at a time. So, it’s important to have a big battery and ideally a 17-inch screen to see all the details.

Q: Don’t all laptops have the same things on the inside? Does it matter which one I choose?

A: Like a car, laptops have the same vital organs on the inside. They have a lot of basic similarities. That said, some cars have 6.2-liter engines, while others have 1.5-liter engines…

For laptops, you want to watch for high CPU speeds, lots of RAM, a discrete graphics card, and a large battery size.

What to Look For in a Laptop or Desktop Computer

Let’s talk about some of the things you should look for in a computer…

RAM

RAM (random-access memory) is largely misunderstood. RAM decides how many applications you can run at the same time.

And contrary to popular belief, adding RAM doesn’t necessarily make your computer faster. However, having enough RAM can keep your computer from slowing down.

You should aim for 16GB of it in a trading computer and 32GB will likely be more than enough.

CPU

Way back in the dark ages of the 90s, you just chose the fastest processor you could afford.  Pretty straightforward. Each processor had a numerical value assigned to it that showed how fast it was. These days, CPUs have multiple cores too. 

The more cores you have, the more big programs you can run at once — like Excel, Chrome, StocksToTrade, and iTunes…

However, trading software tends to use only a couple of cores… so if you won’t be doing too much at once, aim to get the higher clock speed CPU (measured in gigahertz).

For StocksToTrade, I think Intel is the way to go. The software also prefers higher clock speeds over core count. If you’re solely building the computer for StocksToTrade and other trading programs, you’ll get the same (or better) performance for cheaper with a Core i7 as with a Core i9 processor. That’s because the i9 has more cores but not faster clock speeds.

Hard Drive

Solid-state drives (SSDs) are great. Their prices have dropped in recent years, and they substantially increase performance over older spinning drives. The absence of moving parts also makes SSDs the more durable choice.

Size matters, too. No, you probably don’t need to get that 2TB SSD. But you might want to set your sights higher than 120GB.

If you use your laptop ONLY for trading, you might not need a lot of storage space, unless you’re saving chart images and such.

Also, get an NVMe SSD if you can, these are the fastest types you can get.

GPU

Your GPU should be a mid-range card and up. That’s so it can keep up with your screens (or future screens you want to add at a later date). 

The most important thing here is to look at the outputs on the card. Does it have four HDMI outputs or two DisplayPort outputs? The outputs you prefer depend on which monitors you have.

As of May 2021, stores are experiencing higher graphics card prices due to cryptocurrency mining. A lot of graphics cards are either out of stock or overpriced. So, if you want to buy one, you might want to wait for the prices to drop.

Display

The display on your laptop or desktop computer matters. You’ll log many hours staring at that screen. 

So make sure the display is adjustable and as gentle on the eyes as possible. Remember, you’ll be staring at it all day, every day. Don’t skimp out!

Also, consider where you’ll work … Is it in an office with little natural light or outside on a patio? 

Choose a computer with a display that’s well suited to your work environment. Ideally, get a 4K display. This will help ensure you see all the details in your charting and trading software.

If you’re on a desktop, start with one screen and gradually add screens as you need them. Traders who are just starting out don’t need more than two screens. Don’t be the person who thinks eight screens will make you better. 

Odds are, it’ll only lead to overtrading.

Battery Life

When it comes to laptops, battery life matters … big time. You can’t always plug in your laptop when you’re on the go. If you’re on the beach — electrical outlets can be scarce.  

While you’re running trading software know that there’s NO WAY your battery will last as long as the manufacturer says it will. Not even close. Prepare for this reality.

Weight

Usually, battery power usually comes as a tradeoff to weight. The longer the battery life, the more the laptop weighs.

However, you’ve got to keep your comfort in mind. You might be hauling your laptop around for hours on end, so you want a unit that won’t strain your shoulders to carry.

Screen Size

Small computers and screens are easy and convenient to carry around.  However, trading charts are awfully hard to look at on a tiny screen. That’s why a 17-inch laptop is better than a 15-inch one for trading. Yep, sometimes size does matter.

Internet

Your internet connection is important.

Often your software won’t be limited by the GPU, CPU, RAM, or hard drive — it’s the internet connection that is limiting you. Remember, trading applications stream a ton of data from the internet.

Make sure your download speed is solid. Ask your internet provider for all the details of your connection. And before upgrading any other part of your computer, consider upgrading your internet connection first.

What kind of computer do you use for trading? Share your comment below!

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