Best Laptops for Virtualization: Top 5 Laptops for running Virtual Machines

Virtualization is defined as the process of creating computer-based representations or simulations of systems like operating systems, storage devices, servers, computer networks, and computer hardware. Basically, virtualization can be explained as a computer within another computer. Virtualization allows users to run multiple operating systems on a single machine or computer system simultaneously. Any application running on top of the virtualized machines appears as though the application is on its own dedicated machine where the operating system, other programs, and libraries are unconnected and unique to the host operating system sitting below the application.

Although you might think that virtualization is a new concept, the truth is it has been around since 1969.

The concept of virtualization

Normally testers find it an easier option to check different systems in different environments while developers require multiple operating systems to build these different systems in different environments. The concept of virtualization is not only to enable the use of different operating systems on one computer but also for users to use different versions of the same operating system on one computer concurrently.

Benefits of using virtualization software

There are numerous benefits to using virtualization software including data sharing server and networking functions. With virtualization you can access the operating system or applications installed on centralized machine even when both machines are in different locations. For laptop users, virtualization enables them to run those applications that are meant for different operating systems without having to reboot or switch laptops into different systems. For server administrators, on the other hand, it provides them the ability to run different operating systems and most importantly have a way of segmenting larger systems into much smaller parts ensuring that the server can be used more efficiently with numerous applications or users running different tasks. Keep your data safe by utilizing the security options provided by virtualization. Virtualization can be instrumental in reducing the cost of operating your business and increase the scalability and flexibility of the business.

System requirements for some of the most popular virtualization programs:

Generally, you need a computer laptop that is dedicated to run virtualization software. You need a laptop equipped with high performance, can withstand overheating and run virtualization software efficiently without lagging:

• Parallels Desktop

Processor : you need a Mac laptop with an Intel Core 2 Duo, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, Core i9, Intel Core M, or Xeon processor.

RAM : you need a minimum of 4 GB of memory. However, Parallels Desktop recommends 8 GB of RAM for those intending to use resource-heavy tasks.

Storage : for application installation you need at least 600 MB of free disk space. You also need additional disk space for virtual machines depending on the applications installed and the desired operating system. For better performance SSD drive is recommended.

• Oracle Virtual Box

Processor : any recent AMD or Intel processor.

RAM :you need at least 512 MB of RAM depending on the guest operating system you want to run.

Storage :SATA, IDE and SCSI hard drives are recommended. Since Virtual Box requires very little space, however, you will have to plan out how much space you need for the host and guest OS.

• VMware Workstation

Processor:64-bit x86 Processor clocking at 1.3 GHz or faster core speed

RAM :VMware workstation requires a bare minimum of 2GB of RAM. However, 4GB RAM is recommended.

Storage :you need a minimum of 1 GB free hard disk space for guest operating systems.

What to look for in laptop for Virtualization?

It actually depends on what you intend to do. Most personal and home computer support virtualization nowadays, but you’re planning on running multiple virtual machines, you’ll need a powerful laptop that can handle it.  In order to help you make a decision, here are some of the best laptops for When purchasing a laptop, you should ensure that you buy one that can smoothly handle the virtualization available right now.

Best Laptops for Virtualization

Acer Aspire E15 E5-576G-5762

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Without question, the Acer Aspire E15 E5-576G-5762 is one of the best budget laptops for virtualization you can find. The laptop is powered by an 8th Generation Intel Core i5-8250U Processor with a clocking speed of up to 3.4GHz thanks to the turbo boost will run your virtual machine much faster. The laptop is also fitted with a powerful 8GB Dual Channel Memory and 256 GB SSD internal storage that works remarkably with the processor to ensure your virtualization experience is hassle-free.

Acer Aspire E 15 has one best graphics in the market. The laptop’s NVIDIA GeForce MX150 with 2 GB of dedicated GDDR5 VRAM coupled with the 15.6’’ full HD widescreen LED-backlit IPS display and a 1920 x 1080 resolution provides you with high-quality images.

The laptop’s build, and design is well crafted for a clean look without any unnecessary lines. With a battery life running for up to 15 hours and the excellent specs this laptop is ideal for all your virtualization needs.

Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop

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Designed for speed, the Acer Predator Helios 300 is powered by a combination of high-performance NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics and the powerful 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8750H processor to create an unbelievably fast device. The Acer predator Helios 300 features two all-metal AeroBlade 3D fans capable of supporting even the most intense virtualization tasks. Featuring 16 GB DDR4 memory and 256 GB SSD, the laptop has superfast loading speeds with an accelerated boot-up time.

This laptop features 15.6’’ FHD display with sRGB color gamut and IPS technology allowing you to view images with brilliant and consistent colors from wide angles. The processor’s refresh rate speeds up the number of frames per second delivering good quality 2D motion scenes.

The laptop features black chassis and red accents. The geometric lines add a dramatic effect on its design and build. The Acer Predator Helios may have been designed specifically for gaming, but the laptop’s versatility and specifications make it a good choice for a virtualization machine.

Asus VivoBook Pro 17 N705FD-ES76

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The Asus VivoBook N705FD-ES76 is powered by the latest and impressive 8th generation Intel Core i7-8565u Processor clocking up to 4.6 GHz with turbo boost. Get lightning fast and impressive performance with the laptop’s processor and its 16GB DDR4 RAM. The laptop features 256 GB SSD and 1TB HDD combination for all your storage needs.

For better image quality the VivoBook Pro 17 N705FD-ES76 is equipped with a 15.6’’ FHD display and GTX 1050 4GB discrete graphics for flawless visuals. The display has anti-glare technology and a 1920 x 1080 resolution. The anti-glare technology makes it easy work on your laptop for longer hours.

Asus VivoBook Pro 17 features a lighter and slimmer build and design making it portable. With an average of 5-hours battery life and powerful specs this laptop is capable of running your virtual tasks effortlessly.

Lenovo ThinkPad E580

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The Lenovo ThinkPad E580 is fully capable of handling virtualization not only in terms of performance but also durability. The laptop comes with amazingly premium features such as the notably latest and powerful Intel 8th Generation Core i7-8550U Quad-Core (1.8 GHz up to 4.0GHz) processor, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SATA SSD earning this laptop a respectable place when it comes to professional laptops.

Work for hours on your anti-glare, Full HD, Matte, IPS, laptop display without hurting your eyes. The screen has a 1920 x 1080 resolution and the graphics are powered by Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 for better clarity.

The Lenovo ThinkPad E580 features a typical “Thinkpad” design, with a black finish with high-quality components. Known for furiously maintaining its brand name and market standard, this Lenovo ThinkPad E580 doesn’t disappoint. If you’re looking for a powerful laptop, then the Thinkpad E580 is a choice you might consider in order to upgrade your programming skills to the top.

MSI GS65 Stealth THIN-068

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For a virtualization software to run smoothly and efficiently, you need to purchase a laptop with a sufficient RAM, the latest processor and good quality dedicated graphics chips. With a Core i7-8750H Hexa-Core (6 Cores) 3.9 – 4.1GHz, 32GB RAM, 1TB NVMe SSD internal storage and NVIDIA GeForce GTX1070 8G GDDR5 graphics, MSI GS65 is a good quality laptop for virtualization.

The laptop has a 15.6’’ FHD, anti-glare IPS-level 144Hz 7ms widescreen display with 1920×1080 pixels resolution. Giving you a clearer and high-quality display.

The ultra-thin MSI GS65 Stealth is not only powerful but easy to carry. If you need smooth and fast program launch and run this is a perfect choice. With this laptop, you have everything it takes to run just about every virtualization software.