Since there are no physical interactions, as an online teacher, you need to be even more effective – one way of achieving this is through a great online teaching laptop.
When it comes to learning devices, laptops are the superior option over tablets or desktops.
The beauty of laptops is that you don’t have to worry about installing a webcam since all laptops, even a mid-range laptop, come equipped with a widescreen integrated HD webcam.
In addition, they generally have decent internal microphones, too.
Therefore, if your headphones break or aren’t working properly, then you can still provide your students with a high-quality learning experience.
Whether you have been teaching for a long time or you’re new to teaching – especially when it comes to online learning – and unsure what the best laptop for teaching online is, then don’t worry! We’re here to help.
Product Reviews
Today, this guide will explore everything you need to know about the best laptops for teaching online. (Check out ‘15 Best Udemy Teaching Courses You Must Try‘)
Let’s get started.
Apple MacBook Air M1
Out of all the Apple products, the Macbook Air M1 is the lightest laptop in their range.
Despite this, it boasts all the capabilities of Apple’s larger laptops. Fast, more affordable, and thin – some consider this laptop to be better than the MacBook Pro.
Unless used for teaching video editing, the Macbook Pro can be over the top.
The only difference between the Air and the Pro (that teachers should keep in mind) is the screen size difference. For instance, the new Pro models can come in screen sizes of 14” and 16” – older models can go up to 17”.
That said, you can purchase the latest Apple MacBook Air for under $1,000 which provides you with everything you need to start teaching online.
Plus, don’t forget about your education discount to receive even more savings.
Thanks to the updated microphone and enhanced sound, the deceive can easily capture your voice.
Plus, the retina screen is equipped with true-tone color technology – perfect for tired eyes. The best part? The battery life is incredible – you don’t have to worry about finding a power socket when you’re out and on the go.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life – You don’t have to worry about being next to a power source all the time.
- Thin, lightweight, and portable – Great for when you’re on the go – taking your lessons anywhere!
- Recent upgrades – These make the laptop as powerful as its bigger brothers.
Cons
- Small screen – The only available screen size is 13.3”.
Also available at:
Microsoft Surface Pro 7
When it comes to flexibility and portability, you can’t go wrong with 2-in-1 laptops. The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is one of the best – perfect for online teaching.
The best part?
This laptop comes with a stylus pen which is convenient for teachers when they are interacting with learning resources. You can use the pen to draw circles, lines, etc. (See also ‘Is Teaching On Teachable Worth It?‘)
The laptop is powered by a 10th generation Core i3 processor, which is combined with 4GB RAM, therefore, you can rely on this laptop to get you through lessons without lag or delay. In addition, the laptop has a built-in 8MP camera that can be used for high-quality video calls with students or used to record lessons.
Moreover, in terms of portability, the laptop itself only weighs 1.7 lbs and features a battery life of 10.5 hours on a single charge.
Pros
- Lightweight – This is the lightest laptop featured on this list – ideal for portability.
- Touchscreen + Pen – This is ideal for creating lessons and engaging with students.
- Laptop-class hardware + Capabilities – You don’t have to worry about lags or delays.
Cons
- Keyboard purchased separately – Unfortunately, the keyboard and laptop aren’t sold together.
Also available at:
Dell XPS 13”
Originally, the Dell XPS was marketed as a gaming laptop.
However, it has since been re-branded and transformed into a professional device for consumers.
Showcasing a 13-inch screen with end-to-end bezels, the laptop is lightweight and feature-rich.
In fact, the XPS range has some of the best screens available in the market.
Plus, the XPS contains the hardware to handle everything you’re looking to achieve with the laptop.
From playing video games and video editing to, of course, online teaching – the XPS is the perfect, light, and small laptop.
If you’re looking for a small yet incredibly mighty laptop, then the XPS is the perfect laptop for any professional online teacher.
Pros
- Excellent performance – Thanks to its impressive hardware, the capabilities are endless.
- Gorgeous screen – Allows you to make the most of your teaching experience.
- Small body and thin – Perfect for portability, great for on-the-go teaching.
Cons
- Expensive – This is to be expected since it is off the top-of-the-line offering.
Also available at:
Acer Aspire 5
If you’re looking for a budget-friend combination of battery life and performance, then you can’t go wrong with the Acer Aspire 5. In fact, it is the cheapest model on this list. Thanks to this balance of features, this laptop is one of the best when it comes to Zoom lessons, as well as for anyone who considers price over top-end capabilities.
The laptop itself is somewhat thin, however, due to the large screen (15.6”) it is slightly heavier when carried in a tote bag when compared to the other laptops in this list.
However, it will provide you with all the hardware and technical specifications in order to teach our online lessons successfully – all without breaking the bank.
Like the MacBook Air, the webcam is less than desirable when it comes to clarity and resolution.
That said, it is perfectly workable, and many teachers praise the laptop for meeting their needs. In addition, unlike the MacBook, the Aspire laptop is equipped with a range of ports – therefore, you don’t have to worry about carrying adapters wherever you go.
Pros
- Large screen – Great for online teaching.
- Budget-friendly – You’ll receive all the desired capabilities without the expensive price tag.
- Selection of ports – You don’t need to worry about purchasing any additional adapters.
Cons
- Poor battery life – Depending on your circumstances, this could be a huge factor for some teachers.
Also available at:
Samsung Galaxy Pro Book
The Samsung Galaxy Flex is a premium laptop featuring an ideal weight and perfect size.
At a similar price, you’re receiving a stylish Windows alternative to the MacBook.
This laptop is great for anyone looking for something more powerful than the XPS but on a different budget from the Acer.
If you want a laptop that is regular in size (15.6”), powerful, lightweight, pays attention to aesthetics, and has a great screen, then you can’t go wrong with the Galaxy Pro Book.
Pros
- Lightweight – This is ideal for portability.
- Powerful – You’ll be able to achieve all your laptop goals.
- A great alternative to the MacBook – Features similar capabilities as the MacBook.
Cons
- Expensive – Since it is a premium laptop, it has a price point to match.
Also available at:
Best Laptop For Teaching Online Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to laptop options, there are so many out there that it can sometimes be overwhelming.
That said, there are a few standout options for online teachers.
Below, we have outlined everything you need to know about purchasing the best laptop for online teaching.
Screen Size
Depending on what you’re doing, the size and weight of your laptop are essential.
Generally speaking, a smaller laptop screen will result in a thinner and lighter machine.
Below, we have detailed the most common sizes and what you should expect with each dimension:
- 13” Screen – This size is perfect for any who is only looking to teach online. The beauty of this size screen is that there is a range of different price points to meet your requirements. For instance, you can get something with more hardware built-in or an extremely thin and light laptop. When it comes to these three sizes, this is the most mobile one – perfect for carrying around all day.
- 15” Screen – In the middle, this screen size isn’t too big or too small. It provides you with enough space to accomplish all your tasks, including video editing, and features high-quality software to create a performance-based device. That said, it is still small enough to carry around in your backpack and not have to worry about a sore back at the end of the day. It is ideal for everyday use, work, and play.
- 17” Screen – This is one of the largest screens available – it is big and heavy. Most laptops with this size screen are designed with professionals and video gaming in mind. Generally, they are too large to fit into a standard backpack and too heavy to carry around all day. That said, these laptops have their place, of course. If you stay in one location for 90% of the time but need something to travel with occasionally, then this laptop size is ideal.
When it comes to the best laptop screen size – something that isn’t too big or small – 15.6 inches or fewer screens are ideal. Of course, this depends on your preferences.
Touch Screen
When it comes to online learning environments, having a touch screen is a fun and valuable experience.
On the screen, you can circle items and writer worlds – providing you with control flexibility, and fun while teaching. Additionally, this is also a great backup in case you don’t have a mouse for whatever reason.
For instance, your mouse could unexpectedly break one day, however, thanks to the touch screen feature, you can accomplish all your lesson objections without having to find a replacement teacher or cancel the lesson.
Recommended Technical Requirements
When it comes to purchasing a modern laptop, there are a few things you’ll want to be made aware of.
This is because having dated laptop components can lead to a poor learning and teaching experience.
Therefore, avoid this by following our recommended technical requirements:
- Processor – The best processing software is currently AMD Ryzen. That said, anything past Intel 7th Gen is considered to be acceptable, too.
- Operating system – iOS Big Sur/ Windows 10 or 11.
- Ram – The minimum you’ll want is 8 GG. That said, anything above 16 GB will future-proof your device.
- Graphics – Unless you’re performing intensive graphic applications or are gaming, then you don’t have to worry about using a graphics card.
- Storage space – You’ll want to purchase a device that features an SSD. These are much more reliable and faster than mechanical HDDs.
CPU/ Processor
This contributes to your laptop’s main processing unit. In fact, it plays an essential role when it comes to the speed and response of your device.
Today, there are many different names and types of processors available on the market.
Some of which include the new Apple M1, Intel Core, and AMD Ryzen.
As such, when looking for a reliable laptop when teaching online, you’ll want to avoid anything that contains less than the AMD Ryzen 5 or Intel Core i5. That said, you can work with Ryzen 3 if you are unable to get anything else.
However, if you’re looking for a fool-proof laptop, then you’ll want to purchase something that at least contains the new Apple M1, AMD Ryzen 7, or Intent Core i7.
These will provide you with longer battery life, stronger staying power, and enhanced resale power when you’re ready for your next laptop upgrade.
RAM/ Memory
When it comes to the best laptops for online teaching, RAM is important. It is required for your computer’s short-term memory and its ability to manage various tasks at the same time.
However, this can sometimes be hard to wrap your mind around, so we will explain it in simpler terms.
Essentially, if you like to have different applications and windows open while teaching – such as references or notes – then you’ll need a decent RAM to prevent your laptop from slowing down during your lessons.
For online ESL platforms such as GoGoKid or VIPKID, they recommended a minimum of 8 GB of RAM – this is our recommendation, too.
While you can perfectly get by using 4 GB of RAM on your Zoom calls – you don’t want to risk it.
Therefore, it is always better to have too much than not enough.
Final Thoughts
As technology advances, so do the ways we use it in our everyday lives, too.
One example of this is online teaching. No longer are we confined to the traditional classroom, instead, you can now teach and learn wherever and whenever you want.
That said, to accommodate these changes in time, you’ll need a laptop that can support all your teaching needs.
This is where this guide comes in handy. Hopefully, this guide has informed you about all the best laptops for teaching online – providing your students with the very best experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How To Choose The Best Laptops For Teachers?
When deliberating the best laptop for teaching online lessons, the first thing you’ll want to keep in mind is your education requirements. For instance, if you’re always using apps and the browser – for instance Excel – then you’ll want a laptop that is moderately powerful.
That said, if you’re in the engineering field, then you’ll want a laptop that is more powerful and can provide you with a lag-free experience. In addition, you’ll want to keep in mind your laptop’s battery life.
A laptop that can keep charged all day means that you don’t have to worry about taking a charger with you everywhere you go. Although, if you only need to set up your laptop in one place every day, then having a lower battery capacity should be fine, too.
Moreover, if you work with tons of space-consuming files, then you’ll want to ensure your laptop has enough space and storage. Otherwise, you could be left carrying external hard drives everywhere you go. The last thing you’ll want to take into consideration is security features, ports, pricing, and display.
Which Is The Best Laptop For Teachers?
The best laptop for teaching online classes will depend on what you’re looking for and what you teach. If you need something to write notes and create lesson plans, write up assignments and tests, receive coursework, and correct homework then you won’t need a lot of power.
Even laptops that feature the lowest specs are able to handle these kinds of tasks. Therefore, if you’re looking for something with great portability, value, and battery life, then you might want to consider Acer Aspire 5.
If you’re teaching lessons in a creative field – including video production or design – then you might want to consider a device that is more powerful, especially if you need to demonstrate processes or work in class.
Therefore, you’ll want something that has sufficient power and RAM to handle all your demanding tasks and software. The minimum RAM you’ll want to get is 8 GB, however, for the more demanding programs, you can benefit from something like 16 GB.
