Best portable hardware for translation in 2019?

Jean Dimitriadis wrote:
Specs to look:

- RAM: I would go for 12 GB/16 GB or more. RAM is an easy way to get better performance, especially when having several applications open (as translators tend to). It’s also quite cheap. Realize that you don’t need your laptop to actually have that much RAM installed when first bought. What is more important: look for two RAM slots (no soldered RAM), and a good maximum supported RAM. I’d go for 32 GB or more max supported RAM, since you might need to upgrade it in the future.

- Hard drive: SSDs are noticeably faster than standard HDDs. Absolutely go for an SSD. The trade-off is that they are pricier if you require more storage space. But translation does not call for massive HD space. And again, you can replace a hard drive on your own, so you can always buy a new one with more storage space if needed.

- Screen size/resolution: Pick a screen size you are comfortable working with for extended periods. And pick a screen resolution to take full advantage of it. For example, I would not go for less than a 15-inch laptop, and I’ve found that 1920 × 1080 is my current sweet spot, but I often wear glasses, which makes everything look smaller. You might be able to get away with a smaller screen size (probably not advisable, unless maximum portability is absolutely crucial to you) or take advantage of higher screen resolution (advisable and adjustable). At 1920 × 1080 or more, you can split your computer screen, to have two applications visible at the same time. It might not work for your CAT tools, but you can use it for everything else on your secondary virtual desktops. You do use virtual desktops, right?

Also, I prefer matte, not glossy displays. You get less fingerprints and less light reflections.

- Keyboard: Unless you intend to you use an external keyboard and/or speech recognition, the keyboard is one of the most crucial features (since you’ll be typing all the time!), plus it’s not upgradable. Whenever possible, go to a store and experience the keyboard in person. You can also check online for reviews on laptops which sport good keyboards.

- Processor: higher end (later generation) Intel Core i5/i7 or equivalent is fine. I wouldn’t go lower than that, CPU power is quite important.

- Battery autonomy: more autonomy is always nice, but this is not an essential factor. You can get by with less than impressive autonomy. Depending on your required portability, of course, so your mileage will vary.

- Graphics card: you don’t need anything too fancy, but a GPU with it’s own RAM is nice to have. An integrated graphics card is still OK.

- Trackpad: not that important, you will probably use a mouse anyway (I know I do).

- Other: ports for external monitors and devices, Wi-Fi card, etc.

[Edited at 2019-10-01 06:13 GMT]

Andrzej Mierzejewski wrote:

Display size: my laptop computer display is standard 15.6". This is sufficient off-home but at home I work with a 22" monitor connected and used as the primary display, with the laptop being the secondary display (for the Internet browsing, viewing the original texts in PDF, etc.)

HTH