Selecting the ideal laptops for counselors can be a challenging task, given the vast array of options available.
As the world embraces digital transformation, technology has become an integral part of various professions, including counseling.
Counselors now rely on laptops to enhance their practice, streamline administrative tasks, and provide effective counseling sessions.
Best Laptop for Counselors/Therapists
Here are the top options:
1. The Microsoft Surface Pro LTE: Overall Best
It is a powerful and versatile device for counselors that combines the convenience of a tablet with the functionality of a laptop.
Design and Build Quality
The Microsoft Surface Pro LTE boasts a sleek and premium design, featuring a magnesium alloy chassis that exudes durability and sophistication.
Its slim profile and lightweight build make it highly portable, perfect for professionals on the go.
The detachable keyboard and responsive touchscreen enhance its versatility, allowing seamless transitions between tablet and laptop modes.
Display
It is equipped with a gorgeous 12.3-inch PixelSense display; the Microsoft Surface Pro LTE delivers crisp visuals and vibrant colors.
The high resolution (2736 x 1824 pixels) ensures sharpness and clarity, making it a delight to view photos, videos, and documents.
The touchscreen functionality is highly responsive, enabling smooth navigation and interaction with various applications.
Performance
Surface Pro is powered by the Intel Core i5-7300U processor, it handles all the demanding tasks with ease.
It delivers fast and efficient performance, enabling multitasking and resource-intensive applications to run seamlessly.
Whether you are editing documents, browsing the web, or running specialized counseling software, this device provides the power and responsiveness required for smooth operation.
Storage and RAM
Having a generous 256GB of storage capacity, the Surface Pro LTE offers ample space for storing files, documents, and applications.
This ensures that counselors can keep all their necessary resources and client data conveniently at their fingertips.
In addition, the 8GB of RAM further enhances performance, allowing for smooth multitasking and ensuring that the device can handle multiple applications running with ease.
Connectivity
One of the standout features of the Microsoft Surface Pro LTE is its built-in LTE connectivity, which provides uninterrupted internet access even in areas without Wi-Fi coverage.
There is nothing stopping you from multitasking when you have two USB-C and Thunderbolt 4 ports, WiFi 6 for ultra-fast connectivity, and a dedicated charging connector.
This feature is particularly beneficial for counselors who travel frequently or work in locations with limited Wi-Fi availability.
Battery Life
The Surface Pro LTE delivers respectable battery life, allowing users to work for extended periods without worrying about frequent recharging.
With a battery that can last up to 9-10 hours under regular usage, counselors can go through their counseling sessions, attend meetings, and complete administrative tasks without interruption.
What we like:
- Gorgeous Display.
- Powerful performance
- Long battery life
- Excellent touch screen
- Fantastic design
What we didn’t like:
- Still expensive.
2. Acer Swift 3 Ultraportable Laptop: Best Value
Acer Swift 3 is equipped with a 14″ Full HD IPS display and offers a powerful and portable solution tailored to the unique needs of counselors.
Design and Build Quality
The Acer Swift 3 sports a sleek and modern design that reflects professionalism.
The laptop has an all-metal build and was designed keeping current trends in mind. It has a neat design with a sleek form factor and weighs just 2.6 pounds (1.2 kg).
Its thin and lightweight construction makes it easy for counselors to carry it between sessions or when working on the go.
Display
The 14″ Full HD IPS display of the Acer Swift 3 offers stunning visuals with vivid colors and sharp details.
This high-resolution screen provides excellent clarity, enabling counselors to view client documents, counseling resources, and multimedia content with precision.
Performance
If you are looking for a high-performance laptop for counselors, your search ends here.
The Acer Swift 3 is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 4700U processor, delivering remarkable power with clock speeds of up to 4 GHz.
Additionally, it boasts an AMD Radeon graphics card, ensuring seamless execution of graphics-intensive applications.
Storage and RAM
The Acer Swift 3 provides ample storage capacity, allowing counselors to store and access client files, therapy resources, and other important documents.
The Acer Swift 3 offers onboard memory of 8GB LPDDR4X, providing ample capacity for counselors to handle their computing needs.
Additionally, it features a spacious 512GB NVMe solid-state drive storage, allowing you to store and access your files, documents, and media with ease.
Keyboard
Designed with comfort and precision in mind, the Acer Swift 3’s keyboard offers a pleasant typing experience.
The keys have a good amount of travel, providing satisfying tactile feedback.
The Counselors can effortlessly take notes, write reports, or communicate with clients, thanks to the responsive and comfortable keyboard.
Connectivity
The presence of USB-A ports on both sides of the Acer Swift 3 is a convenient feature, providing versatility for connecting various devices.
Moreover, the USB-C port on the left side serves a dual purpose, functioning as a Thunderbolt 4 port with power delivery support, and offering extensive connectivity options.
The laptop’s ability to use either a barrel adapter or USB-C for power adds to its flexibility.
Notably, Acer goes the extra mile by including a full-size HDMI port, which is not always available on slim and lightweight laptops.
Battery Life
The Counselors often have long workdays and require a laptop with reliable battery life.
The Acer Swift 3 undeniably lives up to that, impressing in terms of battery life performance.
In our Battery Life test, it lasted an exceptional 14 hours and 30 minutes, while in our video playback test, it surpassed the 9-hour mark, showcasing its endurance and reliability.
What we like:
- Lightweight and portable
- Long battery life
- High-resolution display
- Fast processor and ample RAM
- Affordable price
What we didn’t like:
- Limited storage capacity
- No touchscreen option
- Limited upgradability
3. HP 15 Laptop: Classic Pick
HP 15 laptop stands out as a popular choice among counseling professionals, thanks to its impressive performance that exceeds expectations considering its relatively affordable price.
This laptop combines power and affordability, making it an attractive option for counselors who seek a reliable device without breaking the bank.
Design and Build Quality
The HP 15 Laptop boasts a sleek and modern design, reflecting professionalism and style.
Its sturdy build quality ensures durability, allowing it to withstand the demands of everyday use.
The laptop’s ergonomic design provides comfort during extended work hours, making it an ideal choice for counselors.
Display
The HP laptop offers a 15.6-inch, Full HD, IPS, micro-edge display with ultra-wide viewing angles, ensuring a captivating visual experience.
It seamlessly supports multi-monitor setups, allowing you to expand your workspace and enhance productivity.
The anti-glare feature further enhances visibility, even in bright environments.
Moreover, experience a new level of performance with the Intel Iris Xe Graphics integrated into this HP laptop.
It delivers stunning visuals with crisp clarity, bringing your content to life.
Performance
HP 15 laptop is equipped with the 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor, this HP 15 Laptop offers reliable and responsive performance.
The Counselors can effortlessly run multiple applications, utilize counseling software, and handle demanding tasks with ease.
Storage and RAM
The HP 15 Laptop provides ample storage space with its 256 GB SSD storage.
This solid-state drive offers fast data access and quick boot times, allowing counselors to access files and applications without delay.
Also with 8 GB of RAM, multitasking becomes a breeze, enabling smooth transitions between various counseling-related tasks.
Keyboard
The HP 15 Laptop features a responsive keyboard with well-spaced keys. Counselors can enjoy a pleasant typing experience, reducing the risk of fatigue during long hours of work.
The full-size keyboard layout enhances productivity, making it easier to take notes, write reports, or communicate with clients.
Connectivity
The HP 15 laptop offers ample connectivity choices, providing convenience and versatility for various connectivity needs.
On each side of the laptop, you will find a USB Type-A socket, ensuring easy access for connecting peripherals.
Additionally, the left side features a multi-function Type-C connector, enabling versatile connectivity options.
The laptop is equipped with a full-size HDMI output, allowing you to connect external displays with ease.
Furthermore, it includes a built-in microSD reader, simplifying the process of transferring data from compatible memory cards.
Battery Life
The HP 15 Laptop provides reliable battery life, allowing counselors to work for extended periods without the need for frequent charging.
This HP laptop is equipped with a robust Li-ion battery that offers impressive longevity, providing up to 8 hours of runtime on regular usage.
This extended battery life ensures that you can use the laptop throughout your counseling sessions without the constant need for charging.
What we like:
- Decent touchscreen
- Plenty of processor power
- Stylish design
What we didn’t like:
- Little disappointing battery
- No discrete graphics
4. LG Gram 17Z90P: Big Screen Laptop for Counselors
LG Gram with its 17 WQXGA (2560×1600) display and ultra-lightweight design, is specifically crafted to meet the unique needs of counselors.
Design and Build Quality
With its massive 17-inch display size, the LG Gram 17Z90P stands out as the largest among its class of laptops.
Surprisingly, despite its generous screen real estate, it remains one of the lightest and thinnest options available.
Weighing only 2.98 pounds and measuring a mere 0.7 inches in thickness, the LG Gram effortlessly combines portability with an immersive viewing experience.
Display
The LG Gram features a 17-inch IPS display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600, delivering stunning visuals and crisp details.
With an aspect ratio of 16:10, this display provides an immersive viewing experience, perfect for multitasking and multimedia consumption.
It is a non-touchscreen display, designed with a matte finish to minimize glare and enhance visibility even in bright environments.
Performance
It is powered by an Intel Evo 11th gen Core i7 1165G7 CPU, the LG Gram offers impressive performance capabilities.
With its advanced processor, this laptop ensures smooth and responsive operation, allowing counselors to handle demanding tasks effortlessly.
Storage and RAM
The LG Gram 17Z90P provides ample storage and memory capacity for counseling professionals.
With 16GB of RAM, multitasking becomes seamless, enabling smooth transitions between applications and enhancing overall efficiency.
Additionally, the laptop’s 512GB SSD storage capacity ensures that counselors can securely store their files and work documents with ease.
Keyboard
The LG Gram 17Z90P’s keyboard offers a satisfying typing experience. The well-spaced keys and responsive feedback enhance accuracy and reduce typing fatigue during long counseling sessions.
The backlit keyboard further enhances usability, allowing you to work comfortably in low-light environments.
Connectivity
The LG Gram 17Z90P has a redesigned port arrangement, offering a more intuitive and logical layout.
On the left side, you will find a Thunderbolt 4 port that serves multiple functions, including charging, data transfer, and display connectivity.
Additionally, there is a USB-C 4.0 Gen 3 port, a headphone combo jack, and an HDMI port, providing a wide range of connectivity options.
On the right side, you will discover two USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports conveniently placed next to a microSD card slot and a Kensington lock for added security.
Battery Life
The LG Gram 17Z90P’s impressive battery life is truly remarkable, lasting an entire workday and even extending well into the next, approximately 12 hours later.
Whether you have video calls or not, if you’re in search of a laptop that can power through a full day of work without needing to be plugged in, the LG Gram 17Z90P should be on your shortlist.
What we like:
- Lightweight build
- Excellent battery life
- Great performer
- Refined port layout
- Fans run very quietly
What we didn’t like:
- Keyboard layout problems
- Trackpad palm rejection issues
- Little pricey
5. Apple MacBook Air: Powerhouse for Therapists and Counselors
The new MacBook Air surpasses its predecessor with substantial performance improvements and significantly extended battery life.
In this comprehensive review of the MacBook Air with M1, we will explore why this laptop stands among the best in its class.
From remarkable performance gains to impressive battery longevity.
Design and Build Quality
The MacBook Air retains its signature wedge-shaped machined aluminum chassis, available in three elegant colors: gold, silver, and space gray.
In terms of design, the MacBook Air with M1 maintains the same dimensions as its Intel-based predecessor, measuring 12 x 8.4 x 0.6 inches. It also weighs a mere 2.8 pounds, ensuring portability and ease of use.
Display
The Apple 2020 MacBook Air showcases a brilliant 13″ Retina display that captivates with its vibrant visuals, crisp details, and precise color reproduction.
The high-resolution screen ensures a crisp and immersive viewing experience, making it ideal for reviewing client documents, and multimedia content.
Performance
The MacBook Air with the Apple M1 chip is ready to exceed your expectations.
The M1 chip’s 8-core CPU not only provides blazing-fast performance but also operates with exceptional energy efficiency.
With its advanced architecture and optimized software integration, the Apple M1 chip elevates the MacBook Air to new heights of productivity and responsiveness.
The Counselors can handle resource-intensive counseling software, data analysis, and other productivity tools with ease.
Storage and RAM
The Apple 2020 MacBook Air provides ample storage capacity with its 256GB SSD, ensuring quick access to client files, documents, and therapy resources.
Moreover, with 8GB of RAM, counselors can effortlessly multitask, switching between applications seamlessly and maintaining productivity without slowdowns.
Keyboard
The Apple 2020 MacBook Air Laptop with the M1 chip features a refined and reliable keyboard that enhances the overall typing experience.
The keyboard follows Apple’s acclaimed scissor mechanism design, which provides responsive and comfortable key presses.
The MacBook Air features a 4.8 x 3.2 glass Force Touch trackpad, renowned for its precise input recognition and seamless scrolling.
Connectivity
The M1 MacBook Air is equipped with two Thunderbolt 3 USB 4 ports, ensuring seamless connectivity for a wide range of devices.
Additionally, it includes a much-appreciated headphone jack on the side, which remains intact and functional.
The USB-C ports are conveniently positioned on the left side of the laptop, allowing for easy access and efficient cable management.
By having these connectivity options, the M1 MacBook Air offers versatility and compatibility, ensuring that counselors can effortlessly connect their peripherals and accessories without any hassle.
Battery Life
Apple promised all-day battery life with its M1 chip, and it has delivered on that promise.
In our battery test, which involved web browsing at 150 nits, the new MacBook Air impressed with an astounding battery life of 13 hours and 35 minutes.
This remarkable longevity ensures that counselors can confidently work throughout the day without constantly worrying about finding a power source.
What we like:
- Excellent performance with M1 chip
- Good battery life
- Retina Display looks great
- Can run iPad and iPhone apps
- Great keyboard and trackpad
- It’s light and slim
- Silent fanless design
What we didn’t like:
- Awful 720p webcam
- Only two USB-C ports
Things to Look for in A Laptop for Counselors
- Portability:
- Lightweight and slim design for easy transportation between client sessions and workplaces.
- Compact size for enhanced portability.
- Battery Life:
- Long-lasting battery to ensure uninterrupted work during sessions and while traveling.
- Aim for at least 8-10 hours of battery life on a single charge.
- Processing Power:
- A reliable processor (e.g., Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5) to handle multiple applications and multitasking efficiently.
- RAM (Memory):
- At least 8GB of RAM to ensure smooth operation when running various counseling software and multitasking.
- Storage:
- SSD (Solid State Drive) for faster boot times and application loading.
- Aim for 256GB or more of storage capacity to store client files securely.
- Display:
- A comfortable screen size (13 to 15 inches) for both portability and readability.
- At least Full HD (1920×1080) resolution for clear text and graphics.
- Graphics:
- Integrated graphics are sufficient for counseling tasks; dedicated graphics are unnecessary unless the counselor also uses the laptop for gaming or other graphics-intensive activities.
- Connectivity:
- Multiple USB ports (preferably USB 3.0 or higher) for connecting peripherals like external drives and printers.
- HDMI or DisplayPort for external monitor connection during presentations.
- Webcam and Microphone:
- An integrated HD webcam and microphone for virtual counseling sessions.
- Keyboard and Trackpad:
- Comfortable and well-spaced keyboard for extended typing sessions.
- Responsive and accurate trackpad for easy navigation.
Conclusion
When choosing a laptop for counseling, carefully evaluate the pros and cons of each option.
Research performance, features, price, and battery life to find a device that meets your needs and budget.
Considering these factors ensures you select a laptop that enhances your counseling practice.