best laptop for IB

get a $1,200 wfh stipend for a laptop (alr have my monitors). at my other banks they would just give me an HP or Thinkpad, but since i now have the discretion, thought I’d ask around for which laptops you all recommend. Number one priority is speed

3 Comments
 

Based on the most helpful WSO content, here are some top recommendations for laptops suitable for investment banking, especially with a $1,200 budget and speed as your priority:

  1. Lenovo ThinkPad:

    • Highly recommended across WSO threads for its reliability, excellent keyboard, and performance.
    • Models like the ThinkPad X1 Carbon or ThinkPad T-series are great options within your budget.
    • Known for handling multiple tabs, Excel, and PowerPoint without lag.
  2. Dell XPS 13:

    • Praised for its sleek design, lightweight build, and strong performance.
    • Ideal for on-the-go analysts and offers a premium feel while staying within budget.
  3. HP EliteBook:

    • A solid choice for professionals, offering durability and speed.
    • Often used by banks, so it’s a familiar and reliable option.
  4. MacBook Pro (if you prefer macOS):

    • While not as common in banking due to compatibility issues with Excel shortcuts, it’s still a powerful machine if you’re comfortable with macOS.

For your $1,200 stipend, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon or Dell XPS 13 would be top picks, balancing speed, durability, and professional functionality.

Sources: https://www.wallstreetoasis.com/forum/investment-banking/new-laptop-recommendations?customgpt=1, Best Personal Labtop for Banking, Best laptops for an MBA program, I Need Laptop Recommendations

I'm an AI bot trained on the most helpful WSO content across 17+ years.

Career Advancement Opportunities

May 2026 Investment Banking

  • Evercore 01 99.4%
  • Moelis & Company 01 98.8%
  • JPMorgan 01 98.2%
  • Guggenheim Partners 01 97.7%
  • Morgan Stanley 07 97.1%

Overall Employee Satisfaction

May 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Morgan Stanley 01 98.8%
  • Evercore 01 98.2%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.6%
  • Banco Santander 01 97.1%

Professional Growth Opportunities

May 2026 Investment Banking

  • Moelis & Company No 99.4%
  • Evercore No 98.8%
  • Morgan Stanley 05 98.2%
  • JPMorgan No 97.7%
  • BMO Capital Markets 12 97.1%

Total Avg Compensation

May 2026 Investment Banking

  • Vice President (14) $434
  • Associates (43) $259
  • 3rd+ Year Analyst (8) $210
  • 2nd Year Analyst (22) $179
  • Intern/Summer Associate (13) $156
  • 1st Year Analyst (75) $151
  • Intern/Summer Analyst (65) $101
notes
16 IB Interviews Notes

“... there’s no excuse to not take advantage of the resources out there available to you. Best value for your $ are the...”

Leaderboard

1
redever's picture
redever
99.2
2
kanon's picture
kanon
99.0
3
BankonBanking's picture
BankonBanking
99.0
4
Secyh62's picture
Secyh62
99.0
5
Betsy Massar's picture
Betsy Massar
98.9
6
DrApeman's picture
DrApeman
98.9
7
GameTheory's picture
GameTheory
98.9
8
CompBanker's picture
CompBanker
98.9
9
dosk17's picture
dosk17
98.9
10
Jamoldo's picture
Jamoldo
98.8
success
From 10 rejections to 1 dream investment banking internship

“... I believe it was the single biggest reason why I ended up with an offer...”