Are “business-grade” laptops worth it?

Does this sound familiar? “My IT team insists that we buy only ‘business grade’ computers. But they cost hundreds of dollars more than those available at the big box stores or from online retailers. Do I really need to invest that much more? What do I get for that extra money?”

Business-grade laptops and consumer-grade laptops are designed for unique needs and usage scenarios. If employee productivity and the security of your IT environment are important to you, here are some things to consider when investing in laptops.

Build quality and durability

Business-grade laptops are typically built to withstand more rigorous use and offer better durability than consumer-grade laptops. They often have reinforced chassis and higher-quality materials and undergo additional testing for reliability. This is because businesses require laptops that can handle frequent travel, daily commuting, and extended hours of operation.

Performance and specifications

Business-grade laptops generally offer higher performance specifications, such as faster processors, more RAM, and dedicated graphics cards, to handle demanding tasks like data analysis, video editing, and software development. Consumer-grade laptops, on the other hand, are designed for everyday tasks like web browsing, multimedia consumption, and light productivity work.

Security features

Business-grade laptops usually have enhanced security features to protect sensitive business data. These may include features like biometric authentication (fingerprint or facial recognition), Trusted Platform Module (TPM) for secure storage of encryption keys, and remote management capabilities. Consumer-grade laptops typically have basic security features but may lack the advanced protection businesses require.

Manageability and support

Business-grade laptops are designed with IT management in mind. They often include features like remote management tools, enterprise-level support, and compatibility with corporate networks and software. Consumer-grade laptops, on the other hand, may have limited management capabilities and are primarily designed for individual use.

Warranty and service

Business-grade laptops usually have longer warranties and more comprehensive support options. This is because businesses rely heavily on their devices and require prompt service to minimize downtime. Consumer-grade laptops generally have shorter warranties and may have limited support options.

Price

Business-grade laptops tend to be more expensive than consumer-grade laptops. This is due to their higher build quality, advanced features, and additional support options. Businesses are typically willing to invest in these laptops because they prioritize reliability, security, and performance.

Your IT team or MSP should be able to determine the specific types of computers you need. You should be prepared to invest in quality, reliability, and security – your business, customers, and employees deserve that.