As an accounting student, having a reliable and efficient laptop is essential for your studies. From crunching numbers to analyzing financial data, your laptop will be your trusted companion throughout your academic journey. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting the best laptop for accounting students.
We’ll discuss the minimum requirements, highlight important features, provide useful tips for optimizing performance, and recommend essential accessories. So let’s dive in and find the perfect laptop to support your accounting education!
Table of Contents
Importance of Choosing the Right Laptop
Choosing the right laptop is crucial for accounting students due to the nature of their work. Here are a few reasons why selecting the best laptop is of utmost importance:
- Efficiency: Accounting involves working with complex calculations and large datasets. A powerful laptop with a fast processor and ample RAM will allow you to perform calculations and analyze financial data quickly and efficiently.
- Portability: As an accounting student, you may need to carry your laptop to classes, study groups, and internships. Opting for a lightweight and portable laptop will make it easier to transport your work wherever you go.
- Software Compatibility: Accounting students often work with specialized accounting software, such as QuickBooks, Excel, and tax preparation software. It’s crucial to choose a laptop that meets the system requirements for these applications, ensuring smooth and seamless usage.
- Display Quality: Clear and accurate display is essential for working with spreadsheets and financial reports. A laptop with a high-resolution display and good color accuracy will allow you to analyze data with precision.
Best Laptop for Accounting Students
1. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon – WQHD Display
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a versatile laptop that caters to various needs, including accounting, professional work, academics, and personal use. With its full keyboard and impressive battery life, this laptop is designed to handle even the busiest of days, especially when it comes to number crunching. Additionally, the wide WQHD display enhances the viewing experience, particularly for working with numbers. It’s no surprise that the Lenovo ThinkPad is consistently rated highly among professionals.
Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| CPU | 10th Gen Core i7-10510U processor |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 620 |
| RAM | 16 GB |
| Screen | 14.0″ WQHD (2560 x 1440) IPS, 300 nits, anti-glare Display |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro |
| Battery Life | 10 hours |
| Weight | 2.6 lbs |
Why and Which Type of People Buy It?
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is highly recommended for individuals who prioritize productivity and mobility. Its powerful 10th gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16 GB RAM, and generous storage capacity of 512 GB SSD make it capable of handling day-to-day work and school activities. Additionally, its highly configurable nature allows users to customize the laptop according to their specific needs, although customization may affect the price.
The laptop’s affordability, even in its base configuration, makes it an ideal choice for budget-conscious students and young professionals who require a reliable and efficient device.
Pros:
- Comfortable keyboard for number crunching.
- Impressive battery life (10 hours).
- Highly configurable to fit individual needs.
Cons:
- Battery life may be slightly shorter under heavy usage.
- Upgrading features affects the price.
Final Verdict
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon with WQHD Display offers a powerful and portable solution for individuals seeking a reliable laptop. Its excellent performance, comfortable keyboard, and long battery life make it an ideal choice for professionals, students, and anyone in need of a versatile computing device. While customization options and potential price adjustments should be considered, the base model delivers exceptional value for money.
2. Asus VivoBook S15
The Asus VivoBook S15 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers impressive performance at an affordable price. While it falls slightly short in terms of battery life, its powerful processing ability and customizable design make it a great option for accountants and accounting students.
Product Specifications:
| CPU | Intel Core i7 processor |
|---|---|
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce MX250 |
| RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Screen | 15.6-inch NanoEdge bezel display |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 7 hours |
| Weight | 3.97 lbs |
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
The Asus VivoBook S15 is an ideal choice for accountants and accounting students who require a laptop with a sufficient processing power for their daily tasks. It is particularly useful during busy periods, such as tax season or exam periods when performance becomes crucial. Additionally, its customizable design allows users to add a touch of personal flair to their professional tool.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly price
- High-performance processor
- Customizable design
Cons:
- Average battery life
- Limited storage capacity (256GB)
Final Verdict:
The Asus VivoBook S15 offers excellent value for money, delivering impressive performance and a customizable design at an affordable price. While its battery life may not be the longest, its overall features make it a worthy consideration for budget-conscious accountants and accounting students.
3. HP Spectre X360 – Portable 2 in 1
The HP Spectre X360 is a 2-in-1 laptop that offers versatility, power, and portability. With its robust performance and lightweight design, it is suitable for both work and school environments.
Product Specifications:
| CPU | 10th Gen Intel® Core i7-1065G7 processor |
|---|---|
| Graphics | Intel Iris Plus Graphics |
| RAM | 8 GB RAM |
| Screen | 13.3″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS BrightView WLED Multi-Touch Screen |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro |
| Battery Life | 10 hours |
| Weight | 2.87 lbs |
Why and Which Type of People Buy It?
The HP Spectre X360 is an ideal choice for individuals who value both portability and performance. Its 2-in-1 functionality allows users to seamlessly switch between laptop and tablet modes, offering versatility for various tasks. Students, professionals, and frequent travelers can benefit from its lightweight design and powerful specifications. Whether you need to work on documents, browse the web, or enjoy multimedia content, this device caters to a wide range of needs.
Pros:
- Versatile 2-in-1 functionality
- Lightweight and portable
- Ample selection of ports
Cons:
- Limited RAM capacity
- Relatively small screen size
Final Verdict:
The HP Spectre X360 is a top-notch 2-in-1 laptop that delivers a balance of performance and portability. With its powerful processor, stunning display, and convertible design, it offers versatility for different tasks and environments. While the limited RAM capacity and smaller screen size may be drawbacks for some users, the overall package of this laptop-tablet combination makes it a compelling choice for those seeking a versatile and highly portable computing device.
4. Dell XPS 13 7390 – Anti-Reflective Display
The Dell XPS 13 7390 is a sleek and ultraportable laptop that combines impressive processing power, memory, and storage. With its anti-reflective display and long battery life of 12 hours, it has become one of the most popular Dell laptops in the market.
Recommended configuration for Dell XPS 13 7390:
| CPU | 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10710U processor |
|---|---|
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| RAM | 16 GB RAM |
| Screen | 13.3” FHD (1920 x 1080) InfinityEdge Touch Display |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
| Battery Life | 12 hours |
| Weight | 5.69 pounds lbs |
Why & which type of people buy it?
The Dell XPS 13 7390 is an excellent choice for individuals who prioritize portability without compromising on performance. Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for busy professionals and students who are always on the move. The powerful specifications, including the impressive processor, ample RAM, and storage, cater to those with demanding processing needs, such as content creators, programmers, and professionals working with resource-intensive applications.
Pros:
- Sleek and ultraportable design.
- Impressive processing power.
- Anti-reflective display.
Cons:
- Slightly heavier than average.
- Limited storage capacity.
Final Verdict:
The Dell XPS 13 7390 with its anti-reflective display offers a winning combination of portability and performance. It is an ideal choice for professionals and students who prioritize mobility and need a powerful machine to handle their processing needs. However, individuals requiring extensive storage might need to consider additional options due to its limited storage capacity. Overall, the Dell XPS 13 7390 is a reliable and versatile laptop that delivers on its promises.
5. Apple MacBook Pro 16 – Amazing All-Around Review
The Apple MacBook Pro 16 is a remarkable laptop that offers a range of features specifically beneficial to accounting students. With its sleek design, portability, and impressive performance, it stands out as a top choice for those in the field. However, it is important to note that the high price may not be justified for everyone, considering the availability of alternative options with similar features at a lower cost.
Product Specifications:
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core i9 |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| RAM | 16 GB RAM |
| Screen | 16-Inch Retina with True Tone display |
| Storage | 1 TB SSD |
| Operating System | Mac OS |
| Battery Life | Up to 11 hours |
| Weight | 8.23 lbs |
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
The Apple MacBook Pro 16 is particularly well-suited for accounting students due to its exceptional portability and overall performance. Its lightweight design allows students to easily carry it around campus or to the office, while its powerful specifications ensure smooth multitasking and efficient work. Additionally, the inclusion of TouchID and Touch Bar features enhances security and simplifies workflow management. Professionals in the accounting field who value convenience and reliability would find this laptop a valuable investment.
Pros:
- Portability
- Precision touchpad and TouchID
- Leading performance
Cons:
- High price
- Fewer features compared to some alternatives
Final Verdict:
The Apple MacBook Pro 16 offers an incredible blend of portability, performance, and innovative features that make it an excellent choice for accounting students and professionals alike. While its higher price tag may be a deterrent for budget-conscious individuals, those who prioritize top-notch performance and reliability will find this laptop to be an amazing all-around companion for their accounting needs.
6. Acer Aspire E 15 – Cheap and Affordable for Accounting Students
The Acer Aspire E15 is an excellent choice for budget-conscious accounting students who require a reliable laptop for their business needs. It boasts a combination of quality design, impressive performance, and essential features such as a full-sized keyboard and long-lasting battery life.
Product Specifications:
| CPU | Intel Core i3 8130U Processor 2.2 GHz (Up to 3.2GHz) |
|---|---|
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 620 |
| RAM | 8 GB RAM |
| Screen | 15.6 inches Full HD (1920 x 1080) widescreen LED-lit Display |
| Storage | SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | Up to 13 hours |
| Weight | 5.27 lbs |
Why and Which Type of People Should Buy It?
The Acer Aspire E15 is an ideal choice for accounting students on a tight budget. Its affordability, combined with decent specifications, makes it suitable for individuals who need a laptop capable of running accounting software like QuickBooks. It is also suitable for those who prioritize long battery life and a comfortable typing experience.
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Long-lasting battery life
- Comfortable full-sized keyboard
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity (1 TB HDD)
- Integrated graphics card may not satisfy gaming needs
Final Verdict:
The Acer Aspire E15 is a reliable and cost-effective laptop that fulfills the requirements of accounting students. With its decent configuration, long battery life, and comfortable keyboard, it provides excellent value for its price. However, individuals with extensive storage needs or a desire for advanced gaming capabilities might need to consider alternative options. Overall, for accounting students seeking an affordable and efficient laptop, the Acer Aspire E15 is a highly recommended choice.
7. HP 17 – HD Display
The HP 17 with its impressive NanoEdge bezel display offers a delightful visual experience, making it an excellent choice for both work and study. Its powerful performance, packed inside a reasonably sized 17-inch laptop, ensures smooth multitasking and seamless usage.
Product Specifications:
| CPU | 8th Generation Intel Core i5-8265U Quad-Core Processor Speed |
|---|---|
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 620 |
| RAM | 8 GB |
| Screen | 17.3″ diagonal HD+ SVA BrightView WLED-backlit Touchscreen Display (1600×900) |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Battery Life | 5 hours |
| Weight | 6.49 lbs |
Why and which type of people buy it?
The HP 17 is an ideal choice for individuals who value a superior display experience while working or studying. Its large 17-inch screen, combined with the NanoEdge bezel display and WideView technology, provides breathtaking views and ensures comfortable usage. The powerful performance and ergonomic chiclet keyboard make it suitable for professionals, students, and anyone who requires a reliable and efficient laptop.
Pros:
- Stunning NanoEdge bezel display.
- Powerful performance for multitasking.
- Comfortable and satisfying keyboard.
Cons:
- No backlit keyboard.
- Not a full-sized keyboard.
Final Verdict:
The HP 17 with its HD display and impressive performance offers an excellent user experience for work and study. Its beautiful design, powerful specifications, and comfortable keyboard make it a reliable choice for professionals and students alike. Although it lacks a backlit keyboard and a full-sized layout, its overall performance and stunning visuals make it a highly recommended laptop.
8. ASUS ZenBook 13 – Portable And Durable
The ASUS ZenBook 13 is an exceptional laptop that perfectly caters to the needs of accounting students. With its impressive portability, durability, and outstanding specifications, this laptop offers a seamless user experience throughout the academic journey. Let’s delve into its features and understand why it’s a recommended choice for accounting students.
Product Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Intel Core i7-10510U |
| Graphics | NVIDIA GeForce MX250 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Screen | 13.3 inches; 1920 x 1080 |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro |
| Battery Life | Over 11 hours |
| Weight | 2.8 lbs |
Why and Which Type of People Buy It?
The ASUS ZenBook 13 appeals to accounting students for several reasons. Firstly, its compact and lightweight design makes it ideal for carrying between classes. Weighing only 2.8 pounds and featuring a 13.3-inch display, it ensures convenience without compromising on-screen real estate. Additionally, the powerful 10th gen Intel Core i7 processor enables swift and efficient handling of complex calculations, a crucial aspect of accounting studies. Lastly, the laptop’s impressive battery life of over 11 hours ensures uninterrupted usage during long study sessions and lectures.
Pros:
- Portability and lightweight design.
- Powerful 10th gen Intel Core i7 processor.
- Impressive battery life of over 11 hours.
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity (512GB SSD).
- Dedicated graphics could be more powerful for resource-intensive tasks.
Final Verdict
The ASUS ZenBook 13 combines portability, durability, and impressive specifications to create an excellent laptop for accounting students. Its lightweight design and long battery life make it perfect for on-the-go usage, while the powerful Intel Core i7 processor ensures smooth performance in demanding accounting tasks. Though it may have limited storage and the dedicated graphics could be improved, these factors do not overshadow the overall excellence of the laptop. For accounting students seeking a reliable and efficient companion, the ASUS ZenBook 13 is a top choice.
9. MSI GF63 – For Students Who Play Games
The MSI GF63 is a budget-friendly entry-level gaming laptop that offers impressive performance for both accounting students and casual gamers. With its powerful specifications, ample storage, and affordable price, it caters to the needs of multitasking users. Let’s dive into the details.
Product Specifications:
| CPU | Intel 6-Core i7-9750H up to 4.5GHz |
|---|---|
| Graphics | GTX 1050 Ti 4GB |
| RAM | 8GB RAM |
| Screen | 15.6-inch FHD (1920*1080), IPS-Level 60Hz 45%ntsc thin Bezel |
| Storage | 256GB SSD (Boot) + 1TB HDD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
| Battery Life | 5 hours |
| Weight | 4.1 pounds |
Why and Which Type of People Should Buy It?
The MSI GF63 is an excellent choice for accounting students who need a laptop capable of handling accounting applications like Quickbooks while still offering the ability to enjoy recreational activities such as gaming or watching movies. Its powerful specifications, including a 9th gen Intel i7 processor and a GTX 1050 graphics card, make it suitable for rendering files for games and video editing for school projects. With a generous storage capacity of 1256 GB, it provides ample space for all your school projects and large game files. Moreover, being an entry-level gaming laptop, it strikes a balance between performance and affordability, making it a wise investment for accounting students seeking a reliable and versatile machine throughout their school year.
Pros:
- Affordable for students.
- Powerful specifications for multitasking.
- Ample storage capacity.
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer.
- Limited color accuracy on the display.
Final Verdict:
The MSI GF63 impresses with its balance of affordability and performance. With its powerful hardware, including a 9th gen Intel i7 processor and a GTX 1050 graphics card, it provides enough processing power to handle accounting applications and demanding tasks like video editing. The generous storage capacity ensures that you can store all your school projects and game files without running out of space. While the battery life could be improved, the overall package offered by the MSI GF63 makes it a great choice for accounting students who want a versatile laptop that can handle both work and play.
10. LG Gram – Long Battery Life for Accounting Students
The LG Gram is a remarkable laptop option, particularly suited for accounting students who prioritize a wider screen and extended battery life. With an impressive battery life of up to 21 hours, the LG Gram offers unparalleled convenience for users who need their laptop to last throughout the day. While it may not be as durable as the ASUS ZenBook 13, it compensates with its military standard durability and lightweight design, effectively minimizing the impact of accidental drops.
Product Specifications
| CPU | 10th Gen Core i7-1065G7 |
|---|---|
| Graphics | Intel Iris Plus Graphics |
| RAM | 8 GB RAM |
| Screen | 15.6” Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS LCD Screen |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
| Battery Life | Up to 21 hours |
| Weight | 2.4 lbs |
Why & Which Type of People Should Buy It?
The LG Gram is an excellent choice for individuals who require a laptop with exceptional battery life. Accounting students, in particular, can greatly benefit from its extended battery performance, allowing them to use it for prolonged periods without the need to constantly charge it. Additionally, the LG Gram boasts powerful specifications, featuring the latest 10th gen Intel Core i7 processor and Intel Iris Plus graphics, ensuring smooth performance and efficient multitasking.
Pros:
- Lightweight design (2.4 lbs)
- Extended battery life (up to 21 hours)
- Powerful specifications (10th gen i7, Intel Iris Plus graphics)
Cons:
- Less durable compared to ASUS ZenBook 13
- Limited RAM capacity (8 GB)
Final Verdict:
With its impressive battery life, powerful specifications, and lightweight design, the LG Gram proves to be an exceptional laptop for accounting students and anyone in need of a portable productivity powerhouse. While it may not offer the same level of durability as some other models, its combination of features makes it a top choice for individuals seeking a reliable and long-lasting device for their daily tasks.
Comparison Table of Laptop for Accounting Students
| Laptop Model | Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon | Asus VivoBook S15 | HP Spectre X360 | Dell XPS 13 7390 | Apple MacBook Pro 16 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | 10th Gen Core i7-10510U | Intel Core i7 | 10th Gen Intel Core i7-1065G7 | 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10710U | Intel Core i9 |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 620 | NVIDIA GeForce MX250 | Intel Iris Plus Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| RAM | 16 GB | 8 GB | 8 GB | 16 GB | 16 GB |
| Screen | 14.0″ WQHD (2560 x 1440) | 15.6″ NanoEdge bezel display | 13.3″ FHD (1920×1080) IPS BrightView WLED Multi-Touch Screen | 13.3″ FHD (1920 x 1080) InfinityEdge Touch Display | 16-Inch Retina with True Tone display |
| Storage | 512 GB SSD | 256 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD | 256 GB SSD | 1 TB SSD |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Pro | Windows 10 | Windows 10 Pro | Windows 10 Home | macOS |
| Battery Life | 10 hours | Up to 7 hours | 10 hours | 12 hours | Up to 11 hours |
| Weight | 2.6 lbs | 3.97 lbs | 2.87 lbs | 5.69 lbs | 8.23 lbs |
Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Laptop
When selecting a laptop as an accounting student, consider the following key factors:
1. Processing Power
Accounting tasks often involve running multiple software applications simultaneously. Look for a laptop with a fast processor and sufficient RAM to handle multitasking without any lag or slowdowns.
2. Storage Space
Accounting students deal with large datasets and software installations. Opt for a laptop with ample storage space, preferably an SSD, to ensure quick access to your files and smooth performance.
3. Keyboard and Touchpad
As you’ll be spending a significant amount of time typing and working with spreadsheets, a comfortable keyboard and responsive touchpad are essential. Test the keyboard and touchpad before making a purchase to ensure they meet your preferences.
4. Connectivity Options
Consider the connectivity options available on the laptop. USB ports, HDMI, and an SD card slot are important for connecting peripherals like external hard drives, monitors, and card readers.
5. Display Quality
A high-resolution display with good color accuracy is crucial for working with financial data. Look for a laptop with a vibrant and sharp display to ensure accurate analysis and presentation of your work.
6. Battery Life
Having a long-lasting battery is essential for accounting students who spend long hours in classes and libraries. Look for a laptop with good battery life to avoid interruptions during your study sessions.
7. Durability and Build Quality
Since you’ll be carrying your laptop to various places, it’s important to choose a laptop with sturdy build quality and durable materials. Look for laptops with reinforced frames and spill-resistant keyboards to handle the rigors of student life.
Tips for Optimizing Your Laptop
To optimize your laptop’s performance for accounting studies, consider the following tips:
- Regular Software Updates: Keep your operating system, accounting software, and antivirus programs up to date to ensure optimal performance, security, and compatibility with the latest features.
- Disk Cleanup: Regularly clean up your laptop’s storage by removing unnecessary files, temporary files, and old backups. This will free up space and improve overall performance.
- Backup Your Data: Create regular backups of your important accounting files and documents. Use cloud storage or an external hard drive to ensure that your data is safe in case of any hardware failures or accidental deletions.
- Optimize Startup Programs: Disable unnecessary startup programs to reduce boot time and improve system responsiveness. You can manage startup programs through the Task Manager on Windows or the System Preferences on macOS.
- Use Cloud Storage: Consider using cloud storage services like Google Drive, Dropbox, or Microsoft OneDrive to store and access your accounting files from anywhere, ensuring seamless collaboration and backup.
- Utilize Keyboard Shortcuts: Learn and utilize keyboard shortcuts for common accounting software. This will help you navigate through applications more efficiently and save time in the long run.
Essential Accessories for Laptop
To enhance your accounting experience, consider these essential accessories:
- External Monitor: Connecting your laptop to an external monitor can provide you with additional screen space, making it easier to view multiple spreadsheets and reports simultaneously.
- Ergonomic Keyboard and Mouse: An ergonomic keyboard and mouse can improve your typing speed, reduce strain on your wrists, and enhance overall comfort during long study sessions.
- Laptop Stand: A laptop stand can elevate your laptop to a comfortable viewing angle, promoting better posture and reducing neck and back strain.
- Wireless Headphones: Noise-canceling wireless headphones can help you stay focused in noisy environments, allowing you to concentrate on your accounting tasks.
- USB Hub: A USB hub can expand the number of available USB ports on your laptop, enabling you to connect multiple peripherals simultaneously.
Conclusion
Selecting the best laptop for accounting students is a decision that requires careful consideration. By choosing a laptop with sufficient processing power, storage, and display quality, you can optimize your accounting studies and work efficiently with financial data. Remember to follow the tips for optimizing your laptop and consider essential accessories to enhance your productivity. With the right laptop and tools by your side, you’ll be well-equipped to excel in your accounting education and future career.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a Chromebook for accounting studies?
A: While Chromebooks offer affordability and portability, their compatibility with accounting software may be limited. Ensure that the accounting applications you require are compatible with the Chrome OS before making a decision.
Q: Is a touchscreen display necessary for accounting students?
A: A touchscreen display is not essential for accounting studies. It’s more important to focus on factors like processing power, storage, and display quality for efficient accounting work.
Q: Do I need a dedicated graphics card for accounting software?
A: Accounting software generally does not require a dedicated graphics card. Integrated graphics found in modern processors are typically sufficient for accounting-related tasks.
Q: Should I invest in a laptop cooling pad?
A: Laptop cooling pads can help in keeping your laptop’s temperature down during long usage sessions. They can be beneficial if you find your laptop heating up frequently during resource-intensive tasks.
Q: Can I use an external numeric keypad instead of a laptop with a built-in numeric keypad?
A: Yes, you can use an external numeric keypad if your laptop doesn’t have a built-in one. This can be useful for accounting students who frequently work with numbers and calculations.
Q: Can I upgrade the RAM and storage of my laptop in the future?
A: It depends on the laptop model. Some laptops allow RAM and storage upgrades, while others have soldered components that cannot be upgraded. Before purchasing a laptop, check the manufacturer’s specifications or consult with a sales representative to determine upgrade options.
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