Best Laptops under £400 for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS Vivobook 14" X1404VA-I38128 Quiet Blue 2026

41.8 Developers Score
14" Intel Core i3 1315U 8GB RAM 128GB SSD
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ASUS 11.6" BR1102FGA-YS14T Gray

23.7 Developers Score
11.6" Intel Celeron 4GB RAM 128GB SSD
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ASUS CX1 15.6" CX1500CKA-DH44F

15.3 Developers Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 5 4500 4GB RAM 64GB SSD
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ASUS Chromebook ASUS 14" Touchscreen Chromebook Gray

14.7 Developers Score
14" AMD Ryzen 5 4500 8GB RAM 160GB SSD
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ASUS Chromebook Plus 15.6" Star Blue

12.1 Developers Score
15.6" Intel Celeron 4GB RAM 128GB SSD
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Best Laptops under £800 for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS Zenbook A14 14" UX3407QA-DS52-CA Zabriskie Beige

71.1 Developers Score
14" Qualcomm Snapdragon X X1-26-100 16GB RAM 512GB SSD AMD Integrated Graphics
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ASUS Vivobook 14" 2025 Ultra Portable Business Quiet Blue

56 Developers Score
14" Intel Core i3 1315U 24GB RAM 512GB SSD
Why we recommend this

With 24GB of RAM and a combined 1TB of solid-state storage, this 6-core Intel i3-1315U laptop delivers strong multitasking in a sub-1.4kg chassis. It bundles a lifetime Microsoft Office 2024 license and offers four USB-A ports, a rare find in ultraportables. Best suited for business travelers and students prioritizing memory, legacy connectivity, and pre-installed productivity software over graphics performance.

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ASUS Vivobook Go 15.6" E1504FA-AS52 Mixed Black 2023

36.4 Developers Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 5 7520U 8GB RAM 512GB SSD AMD Radeon Graphics
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ASUS ROG Strix Flare II Animate 90MP02E6-BKUA01 Gunmetal

8.3 Developers Score
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Best Laptops under £1,500 for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS Vivobook S 14 14" M5406WA-DS76 Neutral Black 2024

72.4 Developers Score
14" AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 24GB RAM 512GB SSD AMD Radeon 880M
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ASUS ROG Strix 16" G16 2025

70.4 Developers Score
16" Intel Core i7 14650HX 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
Why we recommend this

The 16-core Intel 14650HX processor and RTX 5060 graphics deliver strong 1080p gaming performance with ray tracing on a smooth 165Hz display. Its 16:10 aspect ratio screen provides extra vertical space for productivity, while Wi-Fi 7 and a full port selection offer robust connectivity in a 2.64kg chassis. This laptop is best for competitive gamers and streamers who prioritize high frame rates and a large screen over portability.

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ASUS TUF Gaming F16 16" FX608JHR Jaeger Gray 2025

67.8 Developers Score
16" Intel Core i7 14650HX 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050
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ASUS Zenbook 14.5" Q420VA-EVO.I7512 Inkwell Gray 2023

67.1 Developers Score
14.5" Core i7 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Why we recommend this

A 14.5-inch 2.8K OLED 120Hz display with 550 nits peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color, and VESA DisplayHDR 500 True Black certification anchors this 1.58kg laptop, backed by a 90Wh battery and 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700H processor. Its Intel Evo certification ensures consistent responsiveness, while the full set of Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and USB-A ports in a 0.66-inch-thin chassis offers desktop-grade connectivity without sacrificing portability. Best suited for students and business users who prioritize immersive visuals and all-day battery life for streaming, productivity, and light creative tasks.

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ASUS TUF 15.6" FX507VV-BH74-CB Mecha Grey

66.5 Developers Score
15.6" Intel Core i7 13620H 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
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ASUS TUF Gaming 14" FA401WV-WB94 2024

66.5 Developers Score
14" AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU
Why we recommend this

The ASUS TUF Gaming A14 packs an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 with 50 TOPS NPU and an RTX 4060, paired with a 165Hz 100% sRGB display and durable 89-blade dual-fan cooling. Its AI acceleration via Copilot and a free SSD slot for upgrades make multitasking flexible for the price. Best for gamers seeking a compact, bombproof 14-inch machine with AI-powered productivity extras.

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ASUS Vivobook S16 16" S5606MA-DS96 Black 2025

66.4 Developers Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 9 185H 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

The Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor with integrated Intel Arc graphics and an 11 TOPS NPU drives a 16-inch 3200x2000 OLED 120Hz display, delivering deep contrast and smooth on-device AI performance. Despite its 1.80kg weight, the full port set—Thunderbolt, HDMI 2.1, and USB-C—offers strong connectivity for a portable 16-inch chassis. This laptop is ideal for entertainment streamers and developers who need a color-accurate, high-refresh screen for media and AI-accelerated coding, not gaming.

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ASUS TUF Dash 15.6" FX517ZR-F15.I73070 Off Black 2022

64.1 Developers Score
15.6" Intel Core i7 - 16GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Laptop GPU
Why we recommend this

A 10-core Intel Core i7-12650H processor and GeForce RTX 3070 GPU drive a 144Hz 1080p display inside a thin 2.00kg chassis. With 16GB of DDR5 RAM and a 144Hz refresh rate, it provides strong value for its budget-friendly design. This laptop is ideal for budget-conscious gamers who prioritize portability and high-frame-rate 1080p gaming.

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ASUS Vivobook S 14 S5406 14"

63.6 Developers Score
14" Intel Core Ultra 7 258V 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD Integrated
Why we recommend this

Equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and a 27-hour battery life, this laptop delivers seamless multitasking and all-day endurance. Its 14-inch 1920x1200 OLED display and 1.30kg weight provide vibrant visuals in an ultraportable chassis with Wi-Fi 7 and Thunderbolt 4. It’s best for students and business travelers who need long battery life and a high-quality screen for productivity, but not for gaming.

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ASUS ExpertBook 14" P5405CSA-XH54 Misty Grey

62.7 Developers Score
14" Intel Core Ultra 5 226V 16GB RAM 512GB SSD Intel UMA
Why we recommend this

Its 14-inch 2560x1600 display with 144Hz refresh, 400 nits brightness, and full sRGB coverage makes for a sharp, fluid viewing experience, powered by Intel's Core Ultra 5 226V processor with integrated graphics. The laptop's comprehensive port selection—including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and Wi-Fi 6E—complements its heavy 2.61kg chassis, suggesting a desk-bound workstation build rather than an ultraportable. It's best for business users and students who value a crisp 144Hz display for extended document work and media streaming, but not for graphics-intensive tasks.

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ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 15.6" G533QS-DS94 Black 2022

60.3 Developers Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
Why we recommend this

Powered by an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 and AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX, the 15.6-inch 300Hz FHD IPS display ensures minimal motion blur in fast-paced titles. Its opto-mechanical per-key RGB keyboard provides tactile, clicky feedback rarely found in gaming laptops. This machine suits esports competitors who need 300Hz refresh rates and responsive mechanical inputs above 4K resolution.

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ASUS TUF Gaming F15 15.6" FX507ZC-ES53 Mecha Gray

58.6 Developers Score
15.6" Intel Core i5 12500H 16GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Laptop GPU
Why we recommend this

The 12-core Intel Core i5-12500H and RTX 3050 GPU deliver solid 1080p gaming at 144Hz, backed by a durable MIL-STD-810H certified chassis. Its 16GB of RAM and Thunderbolt connectivity offer strong multitasking and peripheral expansion at an entry-level price point. This laptop is best for budget-conscious gamers and students who need a rugged, reliable machine for esports titles and everyday workloads.

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ASUS TUF Gaming A15 15.6" FA506NC-DS53 Graphite Black 2025

55.8 Developers Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS 16GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050
Why we recommend this

Equipped with a Ryzen 5 7535HS and RTX 3050 graphics, the 144Hz display pushes smooth frame rates in esports games. Its MIL-STD-810H certified chassis handles knocks and drops, while 16GB of DDR5 memory keeps background tasks fluid. Budget-conscious gamers wanting a durable machine for 1080p competitive play get a reliable pick.

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ASUS ROG Strix G15 15.6" G513IE-PH74 Gray 2022

55.4 Developers Score
15.6" AMD Ryzen 7 4800H 16GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
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ASUS ExpertBook P1 14" P1403CVA-P516512-CB

51.4 Developers Score
14" Intel Core i5 13420H 16GB RAM 512GB SSD
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ASUS Chromebook CX34 Flip 14" CX3401FBA-YZ388T-S 2025

16.7 Developers Score
14" Intel Core i3 1215U 8GB RAM 128GB SSD
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Premium Laptops for programming and development

Best Pick

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 14" G14 2025 Platinum White

87.9 Developers Score
14" AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU
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ASUS ROG Zephyrus 16" GU605CW-XS98 Platinum White 2025

86 Developers Score
16" AMD Ryzen 5 1600 64GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop GPU
Why we recommend this

Packing an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H and RTX 5080 with 64GB of LPDDR5X RAM, it drives a 240Hz OLED panel that hits 500 nits and 100% DCI-P3 for exceptionally fluid, color-accurate visuals. Its 1.95kg CNC aluminum chassis with customizable Slash lighting delivers a rare blend of high-end portability and rigid build quality without sacrificing a full-size keyboard. This machine is best for 4K video editors and competitive gamers who need workstation-class rendering and a 0.2ms response display in a travel-friendly 16-inch design.

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ASUS ZenBook Duo 14" UX8406CA-PS99T Gray 2025

85.3 Developers Score
14" Intel Core Ultra 9 285H 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

Dual 14-inch 2880x1800 OLED 120Hz touchscreens with 500 nits peak brightness and 100% DCI-P3 color expand to a 19.8-inch workspace, powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor and 32GB RAM. Its 0.57-inch thin, 3.64-pound chassis integrates a detachable Bluetooth keyboard, built-in kickstand, and military-grade durability for flexible multi-screen use and effortless portability. Best for multitasking students and professionals needing a portable dual-display setup with up to 16 hours of battery life for productivity and media consumption.

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ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 16" GU605 Black 2025

84.5 Developers Score
16" Intel Core Ultra 9 285H 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti
Why we recommend this

The Intel Core Ultra 9 and RTX 5070 Ti (120W TGP) deliver strong gaming and creative performance, paired with a 240Hz OLED display that reaches 500 nits and covers 100% DCI-P3. The 1.95kg chassis and advanced cooling system keep it portable yet thermally capable for sustained workloads. Best for gamers who want high-refresh OLED visuals and creators needing a 2TB SSD, 32GB RAM, and local AI model support.

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ASUS ROG Strix 16" G16 Eclipse Grey

82.7 Developers Score
16" AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti
Why we recommend this

The 16-core Ryzen 9 8940HX and RTX 5070 Ti 12GB GDDR7, backed by a vapor chamber and tri-fan cooling, sustain high frame rates on the 165Hz, 100% sRGB panel. Tool-less internal access, an anti-glare ACR film, and full connectivity with Thunderbolt and HDMI 2.1 add desktop-replacement versatility. Best for competitive gamers and streamers editing 4K video who need esports responsiveness and color accuracy in one machine.

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ASUS ExpertBook P5 P5405 14"

78.3 Developers Score
14" Intel Core Ultra 7 258V 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Arc Graphics
Why we recommend this

The Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor and 32GB of RAM drive seamless multitasking in a 1.27kg chassis that meets MIL-STD 810H durability standards. The 14-inch 2560x1600 IPS display stands out with a 144Hz refresh rate for smooth visuals, complemented by on-device AI meeting tools like transcription and noise cancellation. This laptop is best for mobile professionals who need a lightweight, durable machine for all-day productivity and frequent video conferencing.

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ASUS TUF 16" TUF F16 Black 2025

78 Developers Score
16" Intel Core i7 14650HX 32GB RAM 2048GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
Why we recommend this

An Intel Core i7-14650HX and RTX 5060 with 145W TGP drive a 16-inch 165Hz IPS display with 100% sRGB and G-SYNC, backed by 32GB DDR5 and a 2TB SSD. The chassis offers Thunderbolt 4, dual M.2 slots for easy storage expansion, and robust cooling, though its 2.2 kg weight and large footprint sacrifice portability. Best for gamers chasing high frame rates and video editors processing 4K timelines who can accept a stationary setup.

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ASUS TUF Gaming 16" TUF Gaming A16 Black 2026

76.8 Developers Score
16" 3.5 GHz ryzen_7 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
Why we recommend this

With an AMD Ryzen 7 7445HS and RTX 4050 6GB driving a 144Hz IPS display, this laptop delivers smooth 1080p gaming in a MIL-STD-810H-tested durable chassis. Its 16:10 screen with a 90% screen-to-body ratio creates an immersive viewing experience, while 32GB DDR5 RAM and USB4 connectivity handle heavy multitasking. It’s best for budget-conscious gamers and students who want a robust 16-inch machine for competitive play and occasional content creation.

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ASUS Zenbook 14" UX3405CA-U93WC Jasper Gray 2024

74.4 Developers Score
14" Intel Core Ultra 9 285H 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD Intel Arc 140T Graphics
Why we recommend this

Powered by an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H 16-core processor and Intel Arc 140T integrated graphics with 16GB of dedicated-like VRAM, it handles demanding workloads with a vivid 14-inch OLED touchscreen. It pairs 32GB of LPDDR5 memory and a 1TB SSD with modern connectivity like Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 7. Best for entertainment enthusiasts and developers who value a high-contrast OLED touchscreen and raw CPU power for 4K video streaming and code compilation.

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ASUS Vivobook S16 16" M5606 Neutral Black

73 Developers Score
16" AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 24GB RAM 1024GB SSD AMD Radeon
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ASUS TUF F16 16" TUF F16 Gray 2025

72.4 Developers Score
16" Intel Core i7 14650HX 32GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050 Laptop
Why we recommend this

The 16-core Intel i7-14650HX and RTX 5050 with a MUX switch drive fluid 165Hz visuals on the 16-inch 1200p display. A generous 32GB of DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD complement VR-ready capability and an RGB backlit keyboard for daily flexibility. This laptop is ideal for gamers wanting high-refresh esports titles and creators handling 3D rendering or video editing workloads.

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ASUS TUF A18 18" TUF A18 Black 2025

72.2 Developers Score
18" Intel Core i9 13905H 64GB RAM 4096GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060
Why we recommend this

Combining an AMD Ryzen 7 260 processor that outpaces the Intel i9-13905H with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 graphics, this 18-inch laptop drives smooth, high-FPS gameplay on its 144Hz G-SYNC IPS display. The pre-configured 64GB DDR5 RAM and 4TB PCIe SSD eliminate multitasking limits and storage bottlenecks immediately, while its upgraded thermals keep sustained loads stable. It’s best for video editors and 3D artists who need a desktop-replacement workstation to handle 4K timelines and GPU-accelerated renders on a large screen.

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ASUS ROG Strix SCAR 15 15.6" G533ZW Black 2022

71.3 Developers Score
15.6" Intel Core i9 12900H 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti Laptop GPU
Why we recommend this

Its 14-core i9-12900H and 150W RTX 3070 Ti power a 240Hz QHD IPS display with 100% DCI-P3 coverage, delivering fluid visuals and color accuracy. The per-key RGB keyboard and MUX switch add personalization and performance gains, backed by Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6E. Ideal for competitive gamers and video editors needing one device for high-refresh gaming and precise 4K content creation.

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ASUS ROG Strix G16 16" G614JV Gray 2023

68.6 Developers Score
16" Intel Core i7 13650HX 16GB RAM 512GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
Why we recommend this

The 14-core Intel Core i7-13650HX and 8GB RTX 4060 GPU drive a 16-inch 165Hz G-Sync display with Dolby Vision HDR, delivering smooth visuals for gaming and creative tasks. The professionally upgraded configuration ships with Windows 10 Pro and a 32GB USB drive, supported by a 12-month warranty. This laptop is best for desk-bound gamers and content creators who value the 165Hz G-Sync panel, accurate 100% sRGB color, and RTX 4060 graphics over portability.

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ASUS ROG Strix G18 18" G814PP-DS94 Eclipse Gray 2026

68.2 Developers Score
18" AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Laptop GPU
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ASUS ROG Strix G17 17.3" G713PV-WS94 2023

58.2 Developers Score
17.3" AMD Ryzen 9 7845HX 16GB RAM 1024GB SSD NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Laptop GPU
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