As an avid financial modeler, I understand that finding the best laptop for financial modeling can be a daunting task. You need a machine that can handle large datasets, run complex calculations, and manage multiple applications simultaneously. That's why I've taken the time to review an extensive spreadsheet of recent laptop releases, comparing specs and reviews from both professionals and users, to help you identify the perfect device for your specific needs.
Financial modeling professionals know that performance is critical when working with tools like Excel, VBA, and Python, as well as finance-specific applications such as Bloomberg Terminal and Eikon. Therefore, when selecting the best laptop for financial modeling, we'll focus on aspects like processing power, RAM, and SSD storage to ensure smooth navigation through extensive spreadsheets and seamless multitasking. Additionally, a comfortable keyboard, a high-quality display, and excellent battery life are important factors to consider, as they can significantly impact your productivity and user experience.
Throughout this guide, we'll explore various price ranges and performance levels to help you find the ideal laptop to support your financial modeling tasks. From analyzing market trends to creating intricate financial forecasts, you can trust that my experience in this field and my knowledge of laptops will help you make an informed decision. So, let's dive into the world of financial modeling laptops and find the perfect match for your needs.
Unlocking the Power: Choosing the Best Processor for Your Financial Modeling Laptop
Financial modeling is a demanding task that requires a high-end processor. When deciding on the right laptop processor for financial modeling, you need to consider several factors. In this section, we will cover everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What has changed in the laptop processor market?
Apple's ARM-based M1, M2, M2 Pro, and M2 Max system-on-chip modules offer exceptional single-core performance and battery life. AMD has captured 20% of the laptop CPU market, and there are plenty of notebooks with 6th-generation Ryzen CPUs. Recently, AMD has begun shipping the first batches of laptops equipped with its latest 7th-generation Ryzen processors. Intel's 13th-generation Core processors have already been released, but 12th-generation Core CPUs can still provide a lot of value, especially if you don't need cutting-edge performance. Intel's and Apple's silicon chips have adopted a hybrid performance/efficiency core design (based on big.LITTLE), though Intel chips struggle to keep the power consumption low enough. Ryzen models are best if you need a good battery life in a PC laptop.
How do you know which CPU to get?
When choosing a processor for financial modeling, you need to consider the type of applications you'll be using. If you're using Excel, go for a MacBook Pro or a Windows laptop with an Intel Core H series processor. In the latter case, we recommend going for an AMD Ryzen 7, especially if you're on a tight budget. If you're using other applications, such as MATLAB or R, you may need a higher-end processor.
Multiple cores and frequency – what's more important?
When choosing between processors, it's essential to consider both the number of cores and the frequency. More cores mean that your laptop can handle more complex calculations simultaneously, while a higher frequency means that each calculation will be completed faster. When comparing processors, we can use Cinebench R23 to compare them. However, we prefer PassMark and its corresponding performance rating (PassMark score) because it's more widely used and is more accurate when comparing processors from different brands.
Table of recommended processors by price bracket
Here is a table of recommended processors by price bracket:
| Price Bracket | Processor |
|---|---|
| Minimum | i3-1115G4 |
| Recommended | i5-1135G7 |
| High-end | i7-11370H or better |
Please note that these are general recommendations and that your specific needs may vary. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out to us for help.
Graphics Card: The Backbone of Financial Modeling
If you're a finance professional, you might be wondering if you need a dedicated GPU for your laptop. The short answer is no, you don't. A dedicated GPU is only necessary if you're using your notebook for gaming or other graphics-intensive tasks.
That being said, let's dive into the world of laptop graphics cards and see how to select the best GPU for your needs.
The changing laptop GPU market
Nvidia continues to dominate the laptop GPU market, with the RTX 30 series cards being the most widely used at the moment. Desktop GPUs are becoming increasingly power-hungry, which means that the gap between notebook graphics and desktop graphics cards has widened in recent years. Nvidia has discontinued the Max-Q label for its RTX graphics cards, which means that an exact GPU wattage is now determined by the laptop manufacturer. Unfortunately, this can result in a wide variance in graphics performance even in laptops with the same GPU chipset.
GPU vs. CPU performance in financial modeling
In financial modeling, the CPU is the most important component of your laptop. However, a GPU can come in handy when you're working with large spreadsheets or models with many visualizations. A GPU can help speed up calculations and improve rendering times.
Selecting the best GPU for your needs
When it comes to selecting the best GPU for financial modeling, Nvidia's graphics chips are more popular than AMD's. However, this doesn't mean that AMD's chips are bad – they're just not as popular.
To compare different GPUs, we'll use 3DMark since it's one of the most popular benchmarks and has a single score that can be used to compare different models from different manufacturers.
For a low-end model, we recommend a GeForce GTX 1650. This GPU should be more than enough for basic financial modeling tasks.
If you're looking for a mid-range model, we recommend a GeForce RTX 3050. This GPU offers a good balance between performance and price.
For a high-end model, we recommend a GeForce RTX 2060. This GPU has 6 GB or more of dedicated graphics memory, which is important when working with large spreadsheets or models with many visualizations.
Table of recommended graphics cards and their expected laptop prices
| Price range | Recommended GPU | Expected laptop price |
|---|---|---|
| Low-end | GeForce GTX 1650 | $500-$800 |
| Mid-range | GeForce RTX 3050 | $800-$1200 |
| High-end | GeForce RTX 2060 | $1200-$2000 |
In summary, a dedicated GPU is not necessary for financial modeling, but it can be helpful when working with large models or visualizations. When selecting a GPU, make sure to allocate at least 8 GB of RAM to it for the best performance. And remember, Nvidia's graphics chips are more popular than AMD's but don't count AMD out entirely.
Power Up Your Modeling with the Right RAM
When it comes to financial modeling, RAM is one of the most critical components of a laptop. RAM, or Random Access Memory, is used to store data that the CPU needs to access quickly. In financial modeling, this means storing the data that's being used in the model, such as assumptions and time series.
The amount of RAM you need for financial modeling depends on the complexity of the model. For basic models such as DCF, 8 GB of RAM is sufficient. However, for more complex models with many assumptions and time series, at least 16 GB of RAM is recommended.
While DDR5 RAM is the latest technology, it's still quite expensive and not yet widely available. As such, DDR4 RAM is the best choice for most laptops right now. Both Intel and AMD CPUs support DDR4 RAM, and it's readily available at reasonable prices.
When selecting RAM, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind. RAM latency and frequency can affect performance, with lower latency and higher frequency generally resulting in faster speeds. Additionally, some laptops support ECC (Error Correcting Code) RAM, which can detect and correct errors in data.
If you're looking to buy a laptop that will last for several years, it's worth investing in one with DDR5 RAM since it's becoming the standard. However, for most users, DDR4 RAM is the most practical choice right now.
Here's a table of recommended RAM configurations depending on your budget:
| Budget | Recommended RAM |
|---|---|
| Low | 8 GB |
| Mid | 16 GB |
| High | 32 GB |
In conclusion, when it comes to financial modeling, RAM is an essential component of your laptop. While the amount you need depends on the complexity of your model, at least 16 GB of DDR4 RAM is recommended. And if you're looking for a future-proof laptop, investing in DDR5 RAM is a good choice.
Financial Modeling Laptops: Common Questions Answered
Q: What is the best laptop for financial modeling?
The best laptop for financial modeling would be the Lenovo Legion 5 Pro, which is currently priced at $1,350.
What specs do I need for a laptop for financial modeling?
For financial modeling, you would need a laptop with a minimum of 8 GB of memory, a GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, and an i3-1115G4 processor. For better performance, you can go for the medium or maximum specifications listed in the Requirements table.
Can you do financial modeling on a laptop?
Yes, you can do financial modeling on a laptop. In fact, a laptop can be a convenient and portable device for financial modeling.
What is the minimum RAM required for financial modeling on a laptop?
The minimum RAM required for financial modeling on a laptop is 8 GB. However, it is recommended to have at least 16 GB for better performance.
Is a dedicated graphics card necessary for financial modeling on a laptop?
While it is possible to do financial modeling on a laptop without a dedicated graphics card, it is highly recommended to have one. A dedicated graphics card such as the GeForce GTX 1650 will significantly improve the performance and speed up the modeling process.
What laptops are suitable for financial modeling?
Laptops that are suitable for financial modeling would be those with at least a GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, an i3-1115G4 processor, and 8 GB of memory. Some recommended laptops for financial modeling can be found in the Recommendations table above.
What processor should I choose for financial modeling on a laptop?
The processor that you should choose for financial modeling on a laptop depends on your budget and the complexity of your modeling needs. For basic financial modeling, an i3-1115G4 processor will suffice. However, for more advanced modeling, you may want to consider a more powerful processor such as an i5-1135G7 or an i7-11370H.
How to choose the best laptop for financial modeling?
When choosing a laptop for financial modeling, you should consider factors such as budget, performance, portability, and durability. Look for a laptop with at least a GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, an i3-1115G4 processor, and 8 GB of memory. Some recommended laptops for financial modeling can be found in the Recommendations table above.
Which brand of laptop is recommended for financial modeling?
Some recommended brands for laptops for financial modeling are Lenovo, ASUS, and Dell. However, other brands may also have suitable models that meet the required specifications.
Is a 14-inch laptop screen enough for financial modeling?
While a 14-inch laptop screen can be sufficient for basic financial modeling, it is recommended to have a larger screen for better visibility and productivity. A 15-inch or 17-inch laptop screen would be more ideal for financial modeling.
5 Best Laptops for financial modeling
1.HP Victus 15
Affordable and versatile laptop for financial modeling, but don't expect high-end gaming performance.- Excellent price
- Good gaming performance
- Can double as a work laptop
- Bad battery life
- Rather plain design
- Weak GPU yields unsatisfactory frame rates for high-end gaming.
Summary
The HP Victus 15 is a great budget-friendly option that can handle high-end gaming while still being able to perform most financial modeling tasks. However, the laptop's battery life is not impressive, and its design is rather plain.
Alternatives
Lenovo Legion 5 17.3
- Powerful AMD APU and GeForce RTX 3060 GPU for solid gaming performance
- Reasonably quiet under load
- Short battery life
- Small touchpad
2.Lenovo Legion 5 Pro
Lenovo Legion 5 Pro is a high-performance laptop with impressive display and serviceability.- High-quality 165 Hz 16:10 IPS display
- Relatively easy serviceability
- Integrated numpad
- Very fast charging
- Low-resolution webcam with no IR or privacy shutter
- Very warm CPUGPU temperatures when gaming
- Moderate-heavy uneven backlight bleeding
- Only average battery life
Summary
The Lenovo Legion 5 Pro comes with a high-performance CPU and GPU, making it a great option for financial modeling. The 165 Hz 16:10 IPS display is of high quality, and the laptop is relatively easy to service.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74
- Fast performance
- 300 Hz IPS panel w full sRGB coverage
- Chassis base and lid exhibit some flexing
- No per-key RGB lighting
3.ASUS ROG Strix Scar
ASUS ROG Strix Scar: A High-Performance Laptop for Financial Modeling- Powerful Core i9-12900H and RTX 3070 Ti performance
- Sturdy construction
- Fast Wi-Fi 6E
- High heat and noise emissions under load
- Heavy SSD throttling during continuous reads
- Limited display angle
Summary
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar is a high-performance laptop that can meet the demands of financial modeling with its Core i9-12900H processor and RTX 3070 Ti GPU. It has a sturdy build and fast Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, but it can get hot and loud under load.
Reviews
Alternatives
Acer Predator Triton 500
- High-performance capabilities
- Excellent, bright 240-Hz display
- Soldered-in RAM
- Inaccessible SSD
4.ASUS ROG Strix Scar G733CX-XS97
Powerful gaming laptop with high-end hardware and display for financial modeling.- High gaming performance and stable frame rates
- Good QHD panel with a fast 240 Hz refresh rate
- TB4, Wi-Fi 6E, and PCIe 4.0 support
- Relatively quiet fans while gaming
- Inconsistent SSD performance
- Premium HX CPU not worth it for all users
- No built-in webcam
- Electronic noises may be present.
Summary
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar G733CX-XS97 offers high-end hardware with Intel Core i9-12950HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 Ti, and a 240-Hz display. The laptop also features TB4, Wi-Fi 6E, and PCIe 4.0, making it a powerful machine for financial modeling.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo
- Dual-screen setup.
- Top-end performance with a GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU and Ryzen 9 CPU.
- Very high cost.
- Awkward keyboard and touchpad layout.
5.Dell XPS 17 9720
Dell XPS 17 9720 is a high-performing laptop for financial modeling with an excellent display, but slightly weak cooling and lower graphics performance.- Excellent 4K display with AdobeRGB
- High-quality case
- Thunderbolt 4 PCIe 4.0
- Very high system performance
- Lower graphics performance than the predecessor
- Performance not completely stable under combined load
- Not Wi-Fi 6E compatible
- 720p webcam
Summary
Dell XPS 17 9720 laptop is a powerful device with high-quality display, speakers, and system performance. It comes with Thunderbolt 4 & PCIe 4.0 and fast card reader, making it an excellent choice for financial modeling. However, the cooling system is slightly weak, and the graphics performance has reduced compared to its predecessor.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo
- Powerful specs, including GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU and Ryzen 9 CPU
- Dual-screen setup for enhanced multitasking and productivity
- Very expensive, especially when fully configured
- Keyboard and touchpad layout is awkward and uncomfortable to use
Table of the Best Laptops for financial modeling
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| HP Victus 15 | $880 |
| Lenovo Legion 5 Pro | $1,350 |
| ASUS ROG Strix Scar | $2,310 |
| ASUS ROG Strix Scar G733CX-XS97 | $3,800 |
| Dell XPS 17 9720 | $5,600 |
