10 Best Laptops For Running Virtual Machines 2021 ( Reviews )

Virtual Machines are a sort of virtual environment that allows running another operating system on a PC. This operating system works as an independent OS or machine in a layer abstracted from the current OS. VM software creates this virtual environment and allows running two OS at a time.

Virtual machines require powerful hardware specifications so, a powerful machine is needed to enjoy the features of multiple OS on a single machine. The VM software will not just stop working after loading the second OS, but will also perform some functions that will require strong computational resources.

Many tech freaks in the World want to enjoy the experience and features of different operating systems, so, I am going to highlight all necessary devices that people need to consider while buying their laptops to run VM’s. Does your job demand to use a virtual machine? Let’s have a look at the best laptops for running virtual machines.

best laptop for running virtual machines

10 BEST LAPTOP FOR RUNNING VIRTUAL MACHINES

  • OEM Lenovo ThinkPad P52s
  • CUK ASUS ROG Strix Scar GL703GE
  • Dell XPS 15 9570 15
  • Dell Inspiron 15
  • Acer Predator Helios 300
  • Acer Aspire 5 GeForce MX150
  • Acer Aspire E 15
  • Newest HP Zbook 15V G5
  • Newest Lenovo Thinkpad T480
  • Apple 16″ MacBook Pro

BEST LAPTOP FOR RUNNING VIRTUAL MACHINES

1. OEM Lenovo ThinkPad P52s

OEM Thinkpad P52 is an incredible laptop for running virtual machines. The device is bit pricery but justifies its price tag and provides long term stunning results with the Intel Quad-Core i7-8550U processor. This processor is a powerful machine with a fast speed.

It is the best laptop for running virtual machines with massive 32GB RAM that supports a stable performance. Further, a storage unit of 1TB is fitted inside to run virtual machines in the system all day long.

In terms of graphics, it has NVIDIA Quadro P500 which is powerful enough to get the job done. This GPU provides a picture-perfect view for running virtual machines on a single screen. To provide uninterrupted screen sharing, a widescreen of 15.6 inches is integrated into the laptop with full HD display.  

Some amazing specs fitted into Lenovo Thinkpad P52s are a fingerprint reader for advanced security, a backlit keyboard that supports smooth typing, a memory upgrade facility, and superb sound quality. The connectivity options are also decent. With all these specifications it is the best laptop for virtualization.

The device has ratings of 4.3 out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameOemgenuine
SeriesThinkPad P52s
Item model numberThinkPad P52s
Operating SystemWindows 10 Pro
Product Weight4.93 Pounds
ProcessorIntel Quad-Core i7-8550U
RAM32GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size1 TB
Screen Resolution1920×1080
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA Quadro P500 2 GB
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Thin and lightweight
  • Good quality touchpad
  • Smooth keyboard
  • Removable battery
  • Memory upgradability
Cons
  • Subpar battery life
  • Gets pricey with add-ons
  • Cooling fans are noisy
  • Chassis gets hot under loads

2. CUK ASUS ROG Strix Scar GL703GE

This laptop is a next generation laptop with stunning looks that deliver high-end performance for running multiple VM’s. It is a gaming notebook that is armed with an Intel Core i7-8750H processor. It is a 6 core CPU with a 9MB cache that supports clocking speed up to 4.1GHz.

It is a very high-end gaming laptop that is a perfect fit for running virtual machines with smoothness. this laptop does wonders with 32gb ram with a dual storage unit of 500gb SSD and 1tb HDD. this combo is well suited for running hassle free VM’s. All these specifications make it to serve also as the best laptop for data science.

An incredible NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti GPU with 4GB GDDR5 VRAM is placed inside the laptop that gives visually clear graphics. A huge display screen of 17.3 inches is provided here for immersive viewing experience. It supports full HD display with a wider view.

The stunning feature here is the ASUS Aura Sync customizable RGB gaming keyboard that increases the fun of gaming and working with smooth typing and lighting.

It has 3.2 stars out of 5, as per reviews.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameComputer Upgrade King
SeriesROG STRIX Scar
Item model numberGL703GE
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight6.72 Pounds
ProcessorIntel Core i7-8750H 6 Core Processor
RAM32GB DDR4 2400MHz
Display Size17.3 Inches
Flash Memory Size256 GB
Battery1 Lithium-ion battery required.
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Solid built
  • Attractive chassis
  • Comparatively lightweight
  • Great gaming performance
  • Plenty of ports
  • Good keyboard
  • Thin optimal panel
  • Hardware runs at full throttle even under loads
Cons
  • Exterior body gets hot
  • Below-average battery life
  • High backlit-bleed in unit
  • Lackluster touchpad

3. Dell XPS 15 9570

Dell XPS 15 is an amazing laptop to run virtual machines with a stunning display. An 8th Generation Intel Core i7-8750H processor is integrated into the laptop that provides overwhelming system performance. This system performance is boosted up to 4.2GHz that is incredible to run virtual machines.

A surpassing spec is placed here, which is ultra HD touchscreen Infinity-Edge display with 4K technology. This display panel is wonderful with 15.6 inches screen that gives a stunning view with better viewing angles.

A 32GB RAM is integrated inside the laptop to run virtual machines with incredible smoothness. To add more power, a 1TB SSD is fitted here that is more than enough to save the bulk of data. It can also work as the best laptop for data scientists because the hardware specs placed in XPS 15 are very powerful that can render data with ease.

Another, stunning specification in the spec list of Dell XPS 15 is NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 graphics that provide a working charm and gives a wonderful working experience. Further, Stereo speakers with Maxx Audio provide great sound output. A backlit keyboard is also fitted here that is very comfortable to work with. The port selection is also pretty good with Thunderbolt 3, headset jack, and HDMI port.

It has 4.3 stars as per customer ratings.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameDell
SeriesXPS
Item model number9570
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight4 pounds
Processor8th Generation Intel Core i7-8750H
RAM32GB DDR4
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size32 GB
Battery1 Lithium-ion battery required.
Screen Resolution3840×2160
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti
Chipset BrandIntel
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Double as a strong gaming performance
  • Good value for money device
  • 4K display
  • Up to 32GB RAM
Cons
  • Pricey

4. Dell Inspiron 15

Dell Inspiron 15 is a powerful machine packed with exceptional specifications that are capable to handle virtual machines under a single window with smoothness. It is the best laptop for running virtual machines because it is a 2-in-1 laptop that is ideal for home use, professional worling, and business machine.

The laptop has 8th Generation Intel Quad-Core i7-8550U processor that is the best choice to run VM’s. the graphics are NVIDIA GeForce MX that supports a great graphical experience. The device has a beastly combo of 32GB RAM along with 1TB SSD that can run high-end programs and software within no time with efficiency.

The spec list of Dell Inspiron 15 has an amazing feature that is 4K UHD touchscreen display with 15.6 inches screen. This display panel is the one anyone could dream of in their PC. Also, it has a ingertouch multi-support and an HD 720p webcam.

Further, the Maxx Audio Pro sound system is integrated here for outstanding sound quality. If you are a high audio lover then this machine is for you. It also contains a backlit keyboard for efficient typing. Port configurations contain USB Type-C, HDMI, and USB Type-A port.

This Winows 10 laptop is also the best PC for virtual machines with powerful specifications.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameDell
SeriesDell Inspiron i7573 Notebook PC
Item model numberDell Inspiron 7000 Series 7573 Laptop
Operating SystemWindows 10
Product Weight4.8 Pounds
Processor8th Generation Intel Quad-Core i7-8550U
RAM32GB DDR4
Display Size15.6 Inches
Battery1 Lithium-ion battery required. (included)
Screen Resolution3840×2160
Graphics CoprocessorMX130
Chipset BrandIntel
Pros
  • Good price to performance ratio
  • Acceptable battery runtimes
  • Fan behavior is consistent
  • HDMI port
  • Good configurations
  • Solid built quality
  • Cheap device
  • Respectable battery life
Cons
  • Feeble glare panel
  • No VGA port
  • Slow hardware drive
  • Glossy plastic chassis

5. Acer Predator Helios 300

If you want to run multiple virtual machines on a laptop than this device is for you. It is a gaming laptop so for professionals who are also high-end gamers, this device can be their premium pick. People who like to work and play games from dawn to dust, Acer Predator will not disappoint them.

From high-quality graphics to fast processing and battery backup, this machine is a beast and the best laptop for virtual machine lovers.

This device contains 15.6 inches full HD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate and this widescreen is enough to serve users with good viewing angles.

16GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD are fitted inside this machine that compatible with the 9th Generation Intel Core i7-9750H processor to serve a lag-free experience. Also, the customization settings available on this laptop are amazing that helps the user to keep control over the system. So, you’ll be the ole controller of the device while running virtual machines.

It is a portable laptop with a responsive touch screen and a smooth keyboard. A backlit keyboard is mounted on this laptop that supports a smooth typing experience.

Even a user can control lighting and fan speeds. The audio quality is also stunning that is audible even in noisy places. Even if the laptop starts running slow, still the issue can be fixed with a control mechanism provided in the system. An Aeroblade 3D cooling fans are placed in this machine to keep the temperature low. Acer Predator 300 provides 7 hours of battery backup after a charge.

It is rated 4.5 out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameAcer
SeriesAcer Predator Series
Item model numberPH315-51-78NP
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight5.51 Pounds
Processor8th Generation Intel Core i7-8750H 6-Core
RAM16GB DDR4
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size256
Battery1 Lithium Polymer battery required. (included)
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080 Pixels
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Fast SSD
  • High system performance
  • Comfortable keyboard
  • Good battery life
  • Good price for a GTX GPU
Cons
  • Average sound system
  • Poorly designed cooling system
  • No Thunderbolt or USB Type-C support

6. Acer Aspire 5

Acer Aspire 5 is one of the most efficient and prominent creations of Acer, an amazing laptop with all quality specs. Among business circles this device is popular and it is capable of handling virtual machines with ease.

The device offers a very high-speed 8th Generation Intel Core i7-8550U processor that provides very smooth, fast, and lag-free performance. It has a RAM of 8GB with an internal storage of 256GB SSD, which can store necessary files and documents.

Acer Aspire 5 has a strong battery that can work smoothly for hours. This amazing battery timing is required to run a virtual machine with higher efficiency. This laptop is so efficient, attractive, and durable.

Another highlight of this device is the backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader. It is one of the best laptops for virtualization that can assist in working with speed and high computing powers.

The machine has a broad HD IPS display of 15.6 inches that provides very rich and sharp graphics with a comfy view widescreen. This thin screen provides you easy and clear readability. Also, This windows 10 laptop a fingerprint reader as well.

It has a rating of 3.8 out of 5 according to customer reviews.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameAcer
SeriesAcer Aspire A515-51G-85EX
Item model numberA515-51G-89LS
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight4.41 pounds
Processor8th Generation Intel Core i7-8550U
RAM8GB DDR4
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size256
Battery1 Lithium-ion battery required. (included)
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080 Pixels
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce MX150
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Fast processor
  • Elegant design
  • Luminous display
  • Low power consumption
  • Good battery life
  • USB Type-C included
Cons
  • Mediocre interface
  • Dismal display
  • Performance of the AC adapter is average

7. Acer Aspire E 15

For people desirous to run lag-free virtual machines on a single device, Acer Aspire 15 is a wonderful choice for them because the device is one of the best laptops for running virtual machines. It’s a budget-friendly laptop with all the necessary features so, if you re on a budget and want to buy a laptop for running VM’s then think about this laptop. NVIDIA GeForce graphics are featured here to give a great view of VM’s.

The laptop has good sized a full HD display of 15.6 inches with a widescreen backlit LED display that works well to provide high-quality graphics. Viewing angles and color schemes are also improved in this device but not much accurate. Also, the device is protected with the Acer Blue-light shield feature so it’ll not harm users’ eyes.

It is equipped with an 8th Generation Quad Core Intel Core i3-8130U processor along with 6GB RAM and 1TB HDD that hard drive allows the user to streamline day-to-day working making itthe best laptop for home use as well. The device operates with windows 10 home and has a battery life of 13.5 hours on average.

This laptop has 4 stars out of 5 according to reviewers.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameAcer
SeriesAspire E series
Item model numberE5-576-392H
Operating SystemWindows 10
Product Weight5.27 Pounds
Processor8th Generation Intel Core i3 8130U
RAM6GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Battery1 Lithium Metal battery required. (included)
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080 Pixels
Graphics CoprocessorIntel HD Graphics 620
Chipset BrandIntel
Card DescriptionIntegrated
Pros
  • Huge touchpad with solid keyboard
  • Wide port range
  • Fast processor
  • Good battery life
Cons
  • Poor viewing angles
  • Thick
  • Dim and dull display

8. Newest HP Zbook 15V G5

The newest HP Zbook 15V is grabbing the market with decent specs and great price points. This HP laptop offers a great feature selection that is well suited for running multiple operating systems on a single machine.

Smooth performance experience is featured by HP Zbook 15V with Intel 8th Generation Intel i7-8750H 6-Core processor with 32GB RAM and 2TB SSD. this memory unit is more than enough to work on a virtual machine. You’ll observe huge storage and fast loading here without a glitch.

The design of this Windows 10 laptop looks premium. It has a premium HP logo on the back that makes this laptop look professional. Also, it has 15.6 inches full HD touchscreen with a glossy display that has good resolution along with a high refresh rate.

Also, to support smooth typing for several hours even in low light, this machine has a backlit keyboard. Cool! This laptop can be used for Microsoft Office for several hours.

Some amazing highlights of this laptop are the fingerprint reader, Thunderbolt 3 and USB Type-C ports, headphone jacks, and integrated microphones. Overall it is a workstation in your hands that will provide incredible powers to run VM’s.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameHP
SeriesHP Zbook 15v G5 workstation
Item model numberHP Zbook 15v G5 workstation
Operating SystemWindows 10 Pro
Product Weight3.94 pounds
ProcessorIntel 8th Generation Intel i7-8750H 6-Core
RAM32GB DDR4
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size32GB
Battery1 Lithium-ion battery required. (included)
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
Graphics CoprocessorNvidia P600
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Good quality audio
  • Stunning display
  • Fast quad-core performance
  • Strong security options
Cons
  • Heavy device
  • Bulky device

9. Newest Lenovo Thinkpad T480

Lenovo Thinkpad T480 is one of the fastest business laptops in the market. It comes up with a good design aesthetic that is quite acceptable but not so fancy. It is not so different from ancestors in terms of design.

It is very durable that can handle rigors easily. It has passed the MIL-SPEC test in which it was subjected to extreme humidity, temperature and dust. So, it is very travel-friendly as well.

Its display is great for productivity with a 4K resolution. The viewing angles are very solid with strong brightness and good color reproduction. The screen size is 14 inches. The panel is antiglare which will protect users’ eyes from strong radiations. The contrast is very balanced also.

It features 8th Generation Intel Core i5 Quad-Core processor with a max turbo boost of 3.40GHz. this is a well-known processor for powerful working capabilities os you can easily run VM’s on this laptop. Further, it offers 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD.

This device has every port that the user could ever need. Also, it offers an optional fingerprint reader and ID camera. It is capable of connecting other digital monitors with HDMI or USB Type-C port. T480 sounds pretty good as well with built-in Dolby software.

This laptop is battery king as it lasts for almost 17 hours with continuous working depending upon the usage. Cool!

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameLenovo
SeriesThinkPad T480 Commercial Notebook PC
Item model numberThinkPad T480 Business Laptop
Operating SystemWindows 10 Pro
Product Weight3.68 pounds
Processor8th Generation Intel Quad-Core i5-8250U
RAM32GB DDR4
Display Size14 Inches
Flash Memory Size1 TB
Battery2 Lithium-ion battery required. (included)
Screen Resolution1366×768
Graphics CoprocessorIntel UHD Graphics 620
Chipset BrandIntel
Card DescriptionIntegrated
Pros
  • Good system performance
  • Diverse port selection
  • Great input devices
  • Snappy keyboard
  • Fingerprint scanner
Cons
  • Lower CPU performance when compared with T480’s
  • Gets hot under loads
  • Heavy device
  • Standard design

10. Apple 16″ MacBook Pro

16 inches MacBook Pro has reinvigorated the Apple brand because this mahine is the best so far. It is one of the powerful devices from Apple. The device is pricy but justifies the price because of its strong price to money performance.

This device comes up in the market with a touch ID that is very precise and fast. With this touch ID, you dnot have to enter passwords. This touch-button works quickly. Great!

It is the best laptop for running virtual machines with 9th Generation Intel Core i7 processor that is a 6 core CPU to support strong computing powers. It is equipped with AMD Redon GPU with 4GB memory.

It is quite steep with 32GB RAM and 512GB SSD that is a plenty good deal for users out of the box. This combo is well suited for running virtual machines.

Apple has opted for a scissor mechanism in its keyboard to improve the typing capabilities. This keyboard comes up with anew keycap design and fast typing with stability and comfort.

This machine has 16 inches immersive view with retina display. Here you get a resolution of 3072 x 1920 with 226 PPI.

It look slimmer with thin bezels and the design is quite modern. Although, it is a slightly thicker and bigger device the weight is so balanced that makes it quite handy. The Port decision is very sensible here with a Thunderbolt support. You can enjoy full-day battery life while using MacBook Pro for running virtual machines.

It has 5 stars out of 5 as per reviews.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameApple
Operating SystemMacOS
Processor9th-Gen 6-Core Intel Core i7
RAM32GB
Display Size16 Inches
Graphics CoprocessorAMD Radeon Pro 5300M 4GB
Chipset BrandAMD
Pros
  • High performance
  • High-quality speakers
  • Premium design
  • Good battery life
  • Great keyboard
Cons
  • Reparability is low
  • High price tag

CONCLUSION:

All the mentioned laptops are the best laptops to run virtual machines, that are curated after careful testing analysis, by keeping in mind all the necessary factors to run VM’s. Just list down your needs and make a wise decision to choose the fit pick.

If you feel that we have missed some good laptops on the list then do not hesitate and write us down in the comment section.