Finance students require a reliable and efficient laptop to support their academic and professional endeavors.
In this article, we will explore the key factors to consider when choosing a laptop for finance studies, as well as provide recommendations for the best Laptop for Finance Students available in the market.
Whether you’re crunching numbers, analyzing data, or running financial models, having the right laptop can greatly enhance your productivity and overall experience as a finance student.
As technology continues to advance, laptops have become an essential tool for students in various fields, including finance. With the increasing demand for computational power and the need to handle complex financial analysis, it’s crucial for finance students to invest in a laptop that can meet their specific requirements.
By choosing a laptop that is tailored to their needs, finance students can excel in their studies and be better prepared for their future careers.
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Importance of a Laptop for Finance Students
A laptop is an indispensable tool for finance students due to the nature of their coursework. Whether it’s running financial modeling software, analyzing large datasets, or working with complex spreadsheets, a powerful and reliable laptop is essential for efficient and accurate financial analysis.
Additionally, laptops allow students to access online resources, research financial markets, and collaborate with peers, enabling a comprehensive learning experience.
1. Best Overall: HP Envy
The HP Envy is a standout choice for finance students and professionals, offering impressive performance and a range of features to support your financial tasks. Powered by the Intel Core i7-10510U CPU, this laptop delivers exceptional computing power for number crunching and multi-threaded processes. With a turbo clock speed of up to 4.9GHz, it excels at budgeting and intelligent financial forecasting.
The 16GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking and efficient management of large data volumes and spreadsheets. The 1TB SSD provides ample storage space and enables quick boot times for the Windows 10 operating system. The 17.3-inch FHD touch display enhances the interactive experience, and the multi-touch support is beneficial for financial planners on the go. Additionally, the color gamut and bezel-less design make it suitable for creative tasks.
The HP Envy offers functional perks such as a comfortable keyboard with dedicated hotkeys, a bright wide-vision webcam with a physical shutter, and a fingerprint scanner for data security. The dual-speaker system with B&O enhancement delivers quality audio for your entertainment needs.
While the laptop weighs 6.14 pounds, it compensates for its weight with excellent connectivity options, including SuperSpeed ports, HDMI 2.0, and Wi-Fi 6 support. The battery life of up to 10 hours ensures you can work on the go without frequent recharging.
Despite its slightly heavier weight and higher price tag, the HP Envy’s high-end chipset, Wi-Fi 6 support, touchscreen display, fingerprint reader, and long battery backup make it an excellent investment for finance students and professionals seeking a reliable and powerful laptop.
Specifications:
| CPU | 1.8GHz Intel Core i7-10510U |
|---|---|
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| Display | 17.3-inch FHD Touch (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | 4GB NVIDIA GeForce MX250 |
| Battery | Up to 10 hours |
| Price | $1,598.88 |
Pros:
- High-end chipset for exceptional performance.
- Wi-Fi 6 support for faster and more reliable wireless connectivity.
- Touchscreen display for enhanced interactivity.
- Fingerprint reader for secure access and data protection.
- Long battery backup of up to 10 hours for on-the-go productivity.
Cons:
- Relatively heavier compared to some other options.
- Pricey, making it a significant investment.
Why You Should Buy This?
The HP Envy is an ideal choice for finance students and professionals due to its powerful performance, ample storage space, and comprehensive feature set. The high-end chipset, Wi-Fi 6 support, and touchscreen display provide a seamless user experience, while the long battery life ensures productivity throughout the day. The laptop’s additional perks, such as the fingerprint reader and excellent audio quality, further enhance its value. Although it may be slightly heavier and more expensive than some alternatives, the HP Envy justifies its price with its superior capabilities and reliability.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the HP Envy stands out as the best overall laptop for finance students and professionals. With its powerful CPU, generous RAM, ample storage, and interactive touchscreen display, it offers the necessary tools for financial tasks and accommodates creative endeavors. While it may be on the heavier side and comes with a higher price tag, its exceptional performance, long battery life, and comprehensive features make it a worthy investment for those seeking a reliable and powerful laptop for finance-related work.
2. Dell XPS 15 7590
The Dell XPS 15 7590 is a top contender for finance students looking for a reliable and stylish laptop. With its powerful processor, exceptional aesthetics, and lightweight design, it offers a great balance of performance and portability. While it may lack sufficient RAM for professionals and could be more cost-effective, it still stands out with its stellar display, Thunderbolt 3 port, and Wi-Fi 6 support.
Product Specs:
| CPU | 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-9750H |
|---|---|
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 |
| Battery | Up to 8 hours |
| Price | $903.32 |
Pros:
- Powerful processor
- Exceptional aesthetics
- Light and portable
Cons:
- Not enough RAM for professionals
- Not cost-effective
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
The Dell XPS 15 7590 is ideal for finance students and professionals who prioritize aesthetics and portability. Its powerful processor ensures smooth performance for financial software, while the dedicated GPU enables part-time creative activities like photo and video editing. The laptop’s lightweight design and impressive battery life make it convenient for on-the-go use.
Conclusion:
The Dell XPS 15 7590 stands out among laptops for finance students with its combination of power, style, and portability. While it may not meet the RAM requirements of professionals and could be more budget-friendly, its impressive display, sleek design, and reliable performance make it a strong choice for students in the finance field.
3. Asus VivoBook K571
The Asus VivoBook K571 is a reliable and powerful laptop designed for finance students, financial advisors, and spreadsheet managers. With its advanced storage setup and impressive specifications, it offers a seamless computing experience for finance-related tasks.
Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-9750H |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD + 1TB HDD |
| Display | 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 |
| Battery | Up to 4 hours |
| Price | $1,999.00 |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
| Keyboard | Standard illuminated keyboard |
| Thermal Design | Ice Cool |
| Weight | 4.70 pounds |
| Connectivity | Type-C, USB 3.0, USB 3.1, Wi-Fi AC |
| Webcam | Standard webcam |
| Speakers | Powerful speakers |
| Cooling | Dual fans, rear venting support |
| Display Features | NanoEdge bezels, 178-degree visual coverage |
Pros:
- Powerful processor for efficient multitasking.
- Dual storage setup for faster performance and ample storage capacity.
- Innovative thermal design for optimal cooling.
Cons:
- Subpar battery life of around 4 hours.
- Lacks Wi-Fi 6 support for faster wireless connectivity.
Why should people buy it?
The Asus VivoBook K571 is an excellent choice for finance students, financial advisors, and spreadsheet managers due to its powerful processor, dual-storage support, and large amount of RAM. The immersive widescreen display and innovative thermal design further enhance the user experience.
Final Verdict:
The Asus VivoBook K571 is a resourceful laptop that excels in handling financial workloads. Its impressive processing power, dual-storage setup, and immersive display make it a reliable choice for finance students and professionals. However, if extended battery life and Wi-Fi 6 support are essential requirements, alternative options should be considered.
4. LG Gram 15
The LG Gram 15 is a remarkable choice for finance students, offering a great keyboard, impressive battery life, decent specs, and exceptional portability. With its sleek design and lightweight build, this laptop is tailor-made for on-the-go productivity.
Product Specifications:
| CPU | 2.4GHz Intel Core i5-1135G7 |
|---|---|
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | Integrated Intel Iris Xe |
| Battery | Up to 18.5 hours |
Pros:
- Long battery life.
- Lightweight and portable.
- Numeric keypad for enhanced productivity.
Cons:
- Reflective display in bright areas.
Why and Which Type of People Should Buy It?
The LG Gram 15 is ideal for finance students and professionals who require long-lasting battery life and portability. Its powerful performance, ample storage, and numeric keypad make it suitable for mid and advanced-level finance software. With its sleek design and lightweight build, it is perfect for individuals constantly on the move.
Final Verdict:
The LG Gram 15 stands out as the best battery-life laptop for finance students. While it may not meet the exact battery life claims, its impressive endurance, lightweight design, and powerful performance make it a top choice for those seeking productivity and portability. However, the reflective display can be a drawback, especially in bright environments. Overall, the LG Gram 15 offers a compelling package for finance professionals and students alike.
5. Lenovo Yoga C940
The Lenovo Yoga C940 is a top contender when it comes to 2-in-1 convertible laptops for finance students. With its sleek design, powerful performance, and impressive features, it offers great value for its price.
Product Specifications:
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | 1.3GHz Intel Core i7-1065G7 |
| RAM | 12GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Display | 14-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | Intel Iris Plus Graphics |
| Battery Life | Up to 12 hours |
Pros:
- Future-proof processor
- Versatile Thunderbolt 3 slots
- Impressive battery life
Cons:
- Not suitable for processor-intensive tasks
- Average audio quality
Which type of people should buy it?
The Lenovo Yoga C940 is an excellent choice for finance students and professionals who prioritize portability, versatility, and reliable performance. Its 2-in-1 design allows for effortless transition between laptop and tablet modes, making it ideal for note-taking, research, and financial analysis on the go.
Final Verdict:
The Lenovo Yoga C940 is a well-rounded 2-in-1 convertible laptop that offers the perfect balance of performance, portability, and functionality for finance students. With its sleek design, powerful processor, and impressive features, it is a solid investment for those seeking a versatile and reliable device for their finance-related tasks.
6. Acer Aspire 7
The Acer Aspire 7 is a standout choice for students and professionals seeking an affordable yet powerful laptop for finance-related tasks. With its reliable processor, advanced connectivity options, and impressive display, it offers a great balance between work and leisure. While it may not be ideal for heavy gaming or touch-screen enthusiasts, the Aspire 7 excels in its intended purpose.
Product Specifications:
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | 2.1GHz AMD Ryzen 5 5500U |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch FHD IPS |
| Resolution | 1920 x 1080 |
| GPU | 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours |
| Weight | 4.14 pounds |
| Operating System | Windows 10 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, USB, HDMI |
Pros:
- Future-proof processor
- Wi-Fi 6 support
- Light and portable
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy gaming
- Lacks touchscreen support
Why & Which Type of People Should Buy It?
The Acer Aspire 7 is perfect for finance students and mid-level professionals looking for an affordable yet capable laptop. Its powerful AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor ensures smooth performance for finance applications like QuickBooks, Mint, and Microsoft Office. The dedicated GPU, GTX 1650, with 4GB VRAM, allows for decent gaming and graphic-intensive tasks. The 8GB RAM and 512GB SSD offers sufficient memory and storage capacity for daily usage.
Final Verdict:
The Acer Aspire 7 is a solid choice for students and professionals in the finance field. It offers a reliable processor, excellent display, and a good balance of portability and performance. While not designed for heavy gaming or touch-screen enthusiasts, it provides all the necessary features and specifications for a budget-friendly finance laptop.
7. Apple MacBook Pro 13 – M2 Chip
The Apple MacBook Pro 13 is the ultimate laptop for finance-related tasks. With its powerful processor, stunning display, and long-lasting battery, it is designed to handle financial modeling, business bookkeeping, investment banking, analysis, and stock trading with ease. The MacBook Pro 13 is compatible with popular finance software solutions like Quicken Premier, Banktivity, and Turbo Tax, providing a seamless user experience. While lacking Windows 11 functionality, the macOS interface offers a unique perspective for finance professionals.
Product Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Apple M2 8-Core |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Display | 13.3-inch FHD Retina |
| Resolution | 2560 x 1600 pixels |
| GPU | Integrated 10-Core |
| Battery Life | Up to 20 hours |
| Weight | 3.0 pounds |
| Operating System | macOS |
| Ports | 2 x Thunderbolt 4, 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 2 |
| Keyboard | Magic Keyboard |
| Touch Bar | Yes |
| Touch ID | Yes |
| Webcam | FaceTime HD |
| Speakers | High-quality stereo speakers |
| Microphones | Studio-grade |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Dimensions | 11.97 x 8.36 x 0.63 inches |
Pros:
- Powerful processor
- Advanced keyboard
- Long-lasting battery
Cons:
- Only 2 USB ports
- Pricey
Why and Which Type of People Buy It?
The Apple MacBook Pro 13 is ideal for finance professionals who require a reliable and efficient laptop for their work. Its powerful processor ensures smooth performance without throttling or bottlenecks. The stunning Retina display and integrated 10-Core graphics enhance visual projections and provide a satisfying gaming experience. The MacBook Pro 13’s long battery life of up to 20 hours allows for uninterrupted productivity throughout the day. Finance experts, business professionals, and stock traders who prioritize performance display quality, and portability will find this laptop appealing.
Final Verdict:
The Apple MacBook Pro 13 stands out as the best laptop for finance, offering powerful performance, a stunning display, and excellent battery life. While it has a limited number of USB ports and comes at a higher price point, its advantages outweigh the drawbacks. Finance professionals who value efficiency, reliability, and a top-notch user experience will find the MacBook Pro 13 to be an excellent investment.
8. Asus VivoBook 15
The Asus VivoBook 15 is a reliable and budget-friendly laptop that caters to the needs of college students and mid-level professionals. It features a powerful AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor and an integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8 GPU, surpassing the performance of its Intel counterparts. The laptop is equipped with 8GB RAM and a speedy 512GB SSD, providing ample storage and efficient multitasking capabilities. The 15.6-inch FHD IPS display offers sharp visuals with excellent viewing angles.
Product Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | 2.1GHz AMD Ryzen 5 3500U |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8 |
| Battery | Up to 16 hours |
- Reliable processor
- Sizable storage capacity
- Excellent keyboard
- Light and portable
- Sharp screen
Cons:
- Heats up a fair bit
- Erratic and unpredictable battery life
Why buy it? The Asus VivoBook 15 is an ideal choice for individuals in the finance sector who require a reliable laptop within a budget. Its powerful processor, sufficient RAM, and ample storage capacity enable the smooth running of finance software solutions.
Final Verdict:
The Asus VivoBook 15 offers an impressive set of features, making it a reliable and affordable option for college students and mid-level professionals in the finance industry. With its powerful performance, a comfortable keyboard, and sharp display, it is a worthwhile investment. However, potential buyers should be aware of the laptop’s tendency to heat up and its inconsistent battery life. Overall, the VivoBook 15 is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly laptop without compromising on functionality.
9. Dell Inspiron 3511
The Dell Inspiron 3511 is a noteworthy option for those seeking a business laptop that combines affordability and functionality. While it may have a few limitations, it offers several features that make it a compelling choice for finance professionals.
Specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | 2.8GHz Intel Core i7-1165G7 |
| RAM | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| Display | 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | Integrated Intel Iris Xe |
| Battery | Up to 8 hours |
Pros:
- Great business design
- 15.6″ touchscreen display
- Reliable performance
Cons:
- No Ethernet and USB-C ports
Why and Which Type of People Should Buy It?
The Dell Inspiron 3511 is ideal for finance professionals who prioritize reliability and affordability. Its solid performance, coupled with the large touchscreen display, makes it suitable for tasks involving financial analysis, data management, and business applications. However, creative professionals may find it less suited to their needs.
Final Verdict:
The Dell Inspiron 3511 offers an attractive combination of design, performance, and affordability for finance professionals. While it may have limitations in terms of connectivity options, its strong specs and reliable real-world performance make it worth considering for business use.
10. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a highly affordable option that offers impressive features for finance students. With its AMD-powered internal setup and capable processor, this laptop can handle financial evaluations, forecasting, accounting, and number-crunching tasks with ease. While it may have some limitations, it provides excellent value for its price range.
Product Specifications:
| Specs | Description |
|---|---|
| CPU | 2.1GHz AMD Ryzen 5 3500U |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| Display | 14-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) |
| GPU | Integrated AMD Radeon Vega 8 |
| Battery | Up to 5 hours |
Pros:
- Excellent processor performance.
- Bright and sharp display.
- Separate usage modes for optimizing performance.
Cons:
- Lacks Wi-Fi 6 support.
- Inadequate on-premise storage space.
Why & Which Type of People Buy It?
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is an ideal choice for finance students who are on a budget. Its powerful processor, efficient multitasking capabilities, and sharp display make it suitable for various financial tasks. Additionally, the advanced Q-control UI and functional attributes like the HD webcam with privacy shutter enhance the overall user experience. However, it may not be suitable for those requiring extensive storage or Wi-Fi 6 support.
Final Verdict:
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a top contender for finance students seeking an affordable laptop. Its powerful processor, functional features, and portable design make it an excellent choice for everyday financial tasks. While it has some limitations, its overall performance and value for money make it a reliable option for budget-conscious individuals.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Laptop for Finance Students
When choosing a laptop for finance studies, there are several important factors to consider:
1. Processor and Performance
The processor is the heart of your laptop and determines its overall performance. For finance students, a laptop with a powerful processor is essential to handle intensive tasks such as running financial software, performing calculations, and multitasking. Look for laptops with Intel Core i5 or i7 processors, as they offer excellent performance and responsiveness.
2. RAM and Storage Capacity
Finance students often work with large datasets and require ample memory to handle the computational demands. Aim for a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM, but if your budget allows, consider upgrading to 16GB for smoother multitasking. In terms of storage, a combination of a solid-state drive (SSD) and a hard disk drive (HDD) is ideal. An SSD provides faster boot times and data access, while an HDD offers ample storage space.
3. Display and Graphics
A high-quality display is crucial for finance students, as it enhances the visual experience when working with spreadsheets, charts, and graphs. Look for laptops with at least a 14-inch Full HD (1920×1080) display for clear and crisp visuals. Additionally, consider laptops with dedicated graphics cards, such as NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon, if you plan to work with advanced financial modeling or graphics-intensive applications.
4. Battery Life
As a finance student, you may need to attend long lectures or work on projects without access to a power outlet. Opt for a laptop with a long battery life to ensure uninterrupted productivity. Look for laptops that offer a battery life of at least 8-10 hours to get through a full day of classes without worrying about running out of power.
5. Portability and Weight
Since you’ll be carrying your laptop to classes, meetings, and study sessions, portability is a significant consideration. Choose a lightweight laptop that is easy to carry around campus without causing strain on your shoulders. Ultrabooks or laptops weighing around 3 pounds provide a good balance between performance and portability.
6. Connectivity Options
Finance students often need to connect their laptops to external devices such as monitors, projectors, or external storage. Ensure that the laptop you choose has sufficient connectivity options, including USB ports (preferably USB 3.0 or higher), HDMI or DisplayPort, and an SD card reader. This allows you to seamlessly connect to various peripherals and expand your workspace when needed.
7. Software Requirements
Check the software requirements for your finance program or specific courses. Some finance software may have higher system requirements, and it’s essential to ensure that your laptop meets those specifications. Popular finance software such as Excel, MATLAB, or statistical analysis tools may require specific operating systems or hardware capabilities.
8. Budget Considerations
Finance students often have budget constraints, so it’s crucial to find a laptop that balances performance and affordability. Set a realistic budget and prioritize the key features that are essential for your studies. Consider refurbished or previous-generation models to save costs while still getting a powerful laptop.
Tips for Maintaining Your Laptop
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your laptop, follow these maintenance tips:
- Keep your laptop clean: Regularly clean the screen, keyboard, and other surfaces using appropriate cleaning solutions and microfiber cloths.
- Install software updates: Keep your operating system and antivirus software up to date to ensure optimal security and performance.
- Use a laptop cooling pad: If you frequently use your laptop for resource-intensive tasks, consider using a cooling pad to prevent overheating.
- Avoid eating or drinking near your laptop: Accidental spills can cause significant damage to your laptop’s internal components.
- Use a surge protector: Protect your laptop from power surges by using a surge protector when connecting it to a power outlet.
Conclusion
Choosing the best laptop for finance students requires careful consideration of various factors such as processor performance, memory capacity, display quality, and battery life.
By prioritizing your needs and budget, you can find a laptop that caters to the demands of finance studies and enhances your productivity. Remember to read reviews, compare options, and make an informed decision based on your specific requirements.
FAQs
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Can I use a budget laptop for finance studies?
While budget laptops can handle basic finance tasks, investing in a more powerful laptop will provide a smoother experience when dealing with complex financial modeling and large datasets.
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Is a touchscreen display necessary for finance students?
A touchscreen display is not essential for finance studies, but it can add convenience and flexibility to your workflow, especially if you prefer a 2-in-1 laptop.
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Are MacBooks suitable for finance students?
Yes, MacBooks are suitable for finance students, especially if you prefer the macOS ecosystem and are comfortable working with productivity tools available on macOS.
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How much storage capacity do I need for finance studies?
Aim for a laptop with at least 256GB of storage capacity. This allows you to store your files, software, and datasets comfortably. Consider external storage options if you require more space.
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Can I upgrade the RAM and storage capacity of my laptop?
It depends on the laptop model. Some laptops offer upgradeable RAM and storage, while others have fixed configurations. Check the specifications and user manual of your laptop for upgrade options.
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Should I prioritize portability or performance?
It depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you need to carry your laptop frequently, prioritize portability. If performance is crucial for running complex financial software, prioritize a more powerful laptop.
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How often should I backup my data?
It is recommended to backup your data regularly, either to an external hard drive or a cloud storage service. Set up automated backups to ensure your important files are safe.
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Can I use a gaming laptop for finance studies?
Gaming laptops often offer powerful processors and dedicated graphics cards, which can be beneficial for finance tasks. However, they tend to be heavier and have shorter battery life, so consider your priorities before choosing a gaming laptop.
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Is it necessary to have a numeric keypad on the laptop?
While a numeric keypad can be useful for finance students working extensively with numbers, it is not essential. External numeric keypads are available as separate accessories if needed.
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Can I use a tablet for finance studies?
While tablets can be convenient for note-taking and basic tasks, they may lack the processing power and software compatibility required for complex financial analysis. It is advisable to use a full-fledged laptop for comprehensive finance studies.
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