The best laptop for military use is the one that fits your needs and budget best, based on how you plan to use it, where you’ll be using it, and what you have to spend on it. There are tons of models out there that claim to be military-grade and ruggedized.
Still, in reality, most are just tough-looking laptops with no fundamental military use features, other than maybe some stickers or big logos on them. By knowing precisely what you need from your military laptop and doing your research, you can find the perfect notebook at the ideal price point!
Table of Contents
Planning for what you need
There are several aspects to consider when planning for what your laptop needs: mobility, durability, and weight. Mobility is a requirement for military personnel; you want to ensure that any laptop can travel anywhere easily. Durability must be considered as well—when on patrol in areas where bullets and explosions are standard, there’s a higher risk of getting your laptop damaged or destroyed.
Weight is significant because it ultimately dictates how portable a computer is—in other words, lighter laptops that don’t break easily are ideal if they come at the cost of processing power or battery life.
Once you have these basics down pat, choose which features you need to get all your work done effectively: high-end processor, high-resolution display, etc. Be sure to include items like price and energy efficiency in your considerations. And finally, think about whether you’ll always use headphones while using a laptop (and if so, how many pairs you might need) since ports can sometimes disappear from newer models of computers.
Best Laptops For Military Use
With challenging requirements for operation, use and durability, it’s not easy to find a laptop that fits military needs.
That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 9 best laptop to use with military that will best suit you in your quest to conquer whatever adversities lay before you.
- Panasonic Toughbook CF-53
- Dell Latitude 5420
- Dell Latitude Rugged Extreme
- Getac V110 Rugged Convertible Laptop
- Apple New Apple MacBook Air
- HUAWEI Matebook X
- Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
- ASUS VivoBook 15
- HP ZBook 17 G2
Read More: 8 Best Laptop for Embroidery Software
How to Buy Best Laptops For Military Use?
When it comes to selecting best laptops for military use, it can get a little tricky. After all, military men and women are often required to travel worldwide with their laptops and other essential devices in tow.
Whether you’re looking for ruggedized PCs that can withstand extreme weather conditions or plan on using your laptop for lightweight tasks around the office, it’s important to remember a few things before you go out and make your purchase.
1-Amount of RAM/CPU/GPU:
When getting a laptop, you need to pay attention to how much RAM it has because it will affect how fast your computer runs, especially if you have multiple tabs open at once. A good amount of RAM would be 8GB because you would have enough space for various programs running at once while still having enough room for internet surfing. However, if speed isn’t essential, 4GB would work fine.
In addition, another factor that affects the rate is how fast your processor runs; 1Ghz is recommended, but anything above 2Ghz should do just fine too but might end up costing more than you wanted to spend on a new computer, however typically, around 2GHz-3GHz should be sufficient.
You will also need a dedicated graphics card with these two necessary features. Therefore, it’s essential to have at least a 2GHz GPU.
2-Battery Life/Lightweight:
If you’re looking for a new laptop for your military career, then you know the importance of reliable battery life of around 6 hours to 10. You’ll need a laptop that can last all day without having to be plugged in. It will also need to be lightweight, so it’s easy to carry around on deployment.
3-Display Size:
Next, you should look at display size, including screen size and resolution. 13-inch computers are optimized for screen size, but if you don’t mind carrying around a more extensive computer, 15-inch screens shouldn’t bother anyone either.
Also, for those who plan on playing games or watching movies, it might be beneficial to purchase a bigger screen such as 17 or 19 inches; however, that option should only be taken after looking into other features such as video cards and make sure they run smoothly on your particular machine before deciding to go bigger just yet.
4-Warranty/Durability:
Last but not least, when choosing between devices, think about durability because depending on where you’re going with your laptop, either outdoors or perhaps through rough conditions, it may require something slightly more robust than an everyday use laptop which could increase your costs quite considerably. (For example, a laptop rated for military use will be significantly more substantial and heavier than your standard laptop.)
As you can see, selecting a laptop can be complicated, but ultimately it comes down to your needs and budget. By keeping track of these 4 main categories, you’ll surely be able to choose a laptop that suits your daily uses.
Breakdown Military Use Laptops Step by Step
1) Panasonic Toughbook CF-53 (best tactical laptop)
- 16 GB RAM
- 14 inch HD (1366×768) Display
- Intel Core i5 Processor i5
- 16GB DDR3 PC3-10600 1333MHz Memory
- 1TB SATA III 6Gb/s SSD 540MB/s R, 520MB/s W
Long-lasting and durable enough to be drop-tested onto a hard concrete floor, these laptops are ideal for military use. Able to withstand weather conditions and rough handling, Toughbooks protect against everyday wear and tear.
Toughbooks also comes equipped with a high-quality camera, making them ideal for document scanning in any situation. Although slightly more expensive than other options on our list, Toughbooks are easy to maintain and work with any wireless network, making them a good choice for those who need a rugged laptop that can stand up under challenging conditions.
2) Dell Latitude 5420 (best military grade computer)
- 16 GB RAM
- Intel Core 8th Gen i5
- 256GB SSD
- 14-inch FHD Anti-Glare
- upto 6 Hours
Dell’s Latitude 5420 laptop has been specifically designed for military users. Its strength and durability have been tested in various climate and weather conditions, ensuring that it is a reliable companion even when you are on duty. It runs on Windows 10 Pro operating system and comes with a long-lasting battery life of up to 6 hours so that you can work uninterruptedly throughout your shift.
Apart from high performance, it also offers striking features like carbon fiber chassis, IP-65 certified sealed keyboard, 14 inches of full HD display, and Corning Gorilla Glass NBT for added protection against all kinds of damage. In short, Dell’s Latitude 5420 is an excellent laptop for any profession or service, including the military!
3) Dell Latitude Rugged Extreme (best military rugged laptop)
- 256GB SSD
- 14-Inch Display (1366×768)
- Intel Core 4th Gen. i5-4310U Processor
- 8GB RAM
- Wi-Fi 802.11ac
- Windows 10 Pro
This laptop comes with a 14 inch HD screen and has a hard drive capacity of 256GB SSD. It is designed to withstand shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. This is one of Dell’s most secure laptops since it features fingerprint scanner security, ideal for military use. Unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a backlit keyboard. However, you can easily purchase one separately if you get it to make it easier to type during low light conditions.
Other notable features include dual-channel wireless support but no Bluetooth technology. Overall, it offers excellent performance when used by active military personnel in harsh conditions and environments. You should expect a rugged design because Dell didn’t create it just for anyone; they made it specifically for those working actively while serving our country.
The price will vary depending on what configuration you get since Dell allows users to pick between different processors and different hardware specifications. If you have particular needs when it comes to your RAM or CPU processor speed, then be sure to select wisely because those specs are expensive!
4) Getac V110 Rugged (best dod approved laptops)
- 4GB DDR RAM
- 11.6inchs screen with a full HD display
- Intel 2.1 GHz Core i7th processor
- weighs 7.75 pounds
- 128GB SSD
- 802.11ac wireless
This is a Laptop designed for military use by Panasonic. This laptop has an 11.6 -inch screen that weighs 4.4 pounds and can withstand drops, moisture, and extreme temperatures. It uses military spec 810G to safeguard against dust, water, shock, and vibration, as well as optional Mil-Spec 810F for immersion in water to one meter for 30 minutes at a maximum operating temperature of 95 degrees F (35 degrees C).
Rugged: Conforms to IP65 standards for protection against dust ingress; fully conforms to MIL-STD-810F standard for defense against corrosion from rain, sleet & other corrosive elements. Waterproof up to 1m depth. Shock/vibration resistant up to 4 G’s…etc
5) Apple New Apple MacBook Air (best mil spec laptop)
- 13-inch Display
- 8GB RAM
- 256GB SSD Storage
- Space Gray
- Tenth-generation Intel Core i3 processor
- Intel Iris Plus Graphics
If you’re looking for a sleek, professional-looking laptop, look no further than Apple’s updated MacBook Airline. Its 13.6-inch screen offers unparalleled mobility, and its 7.4mm thickness makes it one of the slimmest laptops on the market.
It also comes in at a low price (starting at $999), making it an ideal choice for those who want to stay under budget. The Air is equipped with a 256GB SSD, 8GB RAM, and 2 USB ports—all things that would benefit someone serving in a military capacity and anyone who wants to carry around a smaller notebook that doubles as their tablet computer with minimal effort or awkwardness.
6) HUAWEI Matebook X (Best military style laptop)
- 8 GB RAM
- Screen Size 13.9 Inches
- 8th Gen Intel Core i7 8550U processor
- NVIDIA GeForce MX150
- Operating System Windows 10 Home
The Huawei Matebook X is a beautiful and powerful machine. I’ve used a few Windows laptops in my time, but nothing has even come close to competing with this one. The aluminum body provides excellent protection against drops and bumps while making it aesthetically pleasing.
It’s powered by an Intel Core i5 8250U processor and 8GB of RAM, making handling heavy loads of work easy to achieve (even in dual-window mode). It also features fingerprint login, so you don’t have to remember those passwords anymore! All-in-all, I believe that there is no better laptop out there currently than Huawei Matebook X; if you are looking for military use, I would highly recommend giving it a try!
7) Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop (best army laptop)
- 15.6 inches full HD (1920 x 1080)
- Window 10 Operating system
- AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Dual Core Processor
- 4GB DDR4 Memory
- Up to 7.5 hours battery life
- 128GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- Backlit Keyboard
The Acer Aspire 5 Slim is an excellent option for those who want a best laptop for military personnel that won’t weigh them down. The 2-in-1 is ultrathin, weighing in at less than three pounds, and has a 15.6 Inches display. It has four GB of RAM and a 128 GB solid-state drive, which means it can run Microsoft Office while providing hours of video entertainment via Netflix or Hulu.
It also has a touchscreen to make it easy to complete touch-friendly tasks such as checking e-mail or responding to text messages with ease — even when you’re using gloves during deployment, making it one of the best laptops for military use, according to Amazon customer reviews. A full charge lasts up to 8 hours, and you can extend that time by connecting a power cord if necessary.
Finally, despite its petite size, there are two USB ports (one USB 3.0 and one USB 2.0), plus an HDMI output for connection to external devices like monitors or televisions without Wi-Fi access; making it ideal not only as a personal computer but also portable mobile device office deployments of soldiers from combat zones back home!
8) ASUS VivoBook 15 (best laptops with cac reader)
- 8 GB RAM
- CPU: Intel Core i3-1005G1
- Flash Memory Solid State 128 GB
- Operating System Windows 10
- Screen Size 15.6 Inches
- Ergonomic backlit keyboard with fingerprint sensor
- Intel UHD Graphics
These are solid all-around laptops with a built-in fingerprint reader, an anti-glare screen, and a sturdy design. The VivoBook 15 also has USB-C ports (with Thunderbolt 3 support), up to128 GB SSD, and 8 hours of battery life. ASUS also offers their standard one-year warranty on parts and labor with their VivoBook 15 laptops, which is great peace of mind to have if you’re going to be using your laptop regularly in rough conditions. Third-party reviewers highly rated ASUS laptops and consistently received four or more stars out of 5 across online review sites.
And, according to PC Magazine, over 90% of customers who reviewed these computers would recommend them either highly or somewhat highly to friends/family. So durability, long battery life, stability when running various apps/programs, compatibility with multiple accessories (since they’re Windows computers), or simply affordability is essential to you when considering what laptop is best for military use.
Then we’d recommend that you consider purchasing an ASUS VivoBook 15 as it’s likely going to provide good results no matter what situation you find yourself in as best laptop for military cac reader.
9) HP ZBook 17 G2 (super military laptop)
- 32GB RAM
- Screen Size 17.3 Inches
- Operating System Windows 10
- 512GB SSD
- 1th Gen Intel 4-Core i5
- 17.3″ HD+ (1600 x 900) Display
The 17-inch HP ZBook 17 G2 delivers more power than most users will ever need and provides plenty of screen real estate to handle complex applications and massive spreadsheets. Although it’s on the pricey side, its beefy specs, wide range of ports, and rugged construction make it ideal for those who need a computer that can stand up to a beating.
Its high-performance scores in our benchmarks confirm that HP has built a laptop ready to get dirty. Suppose you’re using your computer in challenging environments like field offices or military barracks. In that case, you’ll appreciate how well designed it is to take on extreme conditions.
Common Questions – Best Laptops For Military Use
Q1. What’s the reason if my laptop doesn’t work with the CAC reader?
A common problem amongst military laptops is they don’t work with CAC readers. This can happen because of a driver issue or if you don’t have a CCID reader on your laptop. If you suspect it is not a CAC card problem, try reinstalling your network card drivers and make sure you have at least version 5.1 of those drivers (you can check by right-clicking on My Computer, select Manage, and then Device Manager).
You should see your network card under Network Adapters. If it doesn’t show up, click View and make sure Show Hidden Devices is checked and Show Non-Present Devices. Next, expand Network Adapters, right-click on your adapter name, and choose Update Driver Software.
Q2. What is a military CAC card?
A CAC is a Common Access Card or a military ID. This is one of two photo IDs given to service members. The other is a standard DOD picture ID card. In addition to serving as your identification on base, it’s also used when accessing government computer systems and entering secure facilities (including base recreational facilities). For example, you’ll need it when you visit your commissary or PX stores on base.
Q3. What does military grade mean in laptop?
The term military-grade refers to a whole range of specifications. Essentially, it means that a device can perform well in extreme weather conditions, has been tested to be reliable, and meets all military standards. While armed forces typically use these devices, they’re also helpful for students who need to travel or professionals who work in harsh environments. For example, pilots or construction workers will benefit from laptops that are durable and powerful.
A military-grade laptop is typically priced higher than other models. Still, it is worth its price tag due to its outstanding performance and quality features. Furthermore, just because something is labeled as military-grade doesn’t mean it’s been specifically designed with input from active-duty soldiers; instead, it means that a device has met military specifications.
Q4. Can you bring a laptop to the military?
The short answer is yes, and you can bring a laptop to basic military training and beyond. You’ll need to ensure that it meets your specific branch’s guidelines (each has its restrictions), but laptops are allowed in boot camp.
However, you won’t have much time to use it there, especially if you are a first-timer at military training. There will be far too many things to learn in too little time, so focus on keeping up with what’s going on around you and enjoy your downtime away from the base after boot camp graduation.
As long as your laptop meets weight and size restrictions (not bigger than 17 inches), most branches allow their members to use a laptop while in uniform.
Q5. Can you have a laptop in the Air Force?
Yes, you can take a laptop with you on deployment. The Air Force provides laptops and mobile broadband cards to its personnel who are deployed to stay in touch with family members and make financial transactions.
The military also issues tablets for its personnel when in combat situations where more advanced communication is needed than a phone call or letter home. The tablets have solar charging capabilities and GPS tracking to better coordinate combat missions.
This ensures that military personnel has secure access to communications, whether at home or on a mission overseas. If you are deployed and need tech support or would like a new device while serving your country, reach out to your branch of service directly. They will help you connect with all of your technological needs while serving our nation.
Q6. What is best laptop to use with military cac cards?
Military CAC cards are smart cards issued to military personnel and federal employees. They can be used for identification and authenticating access to a computer and accessing on-base facilities.
Numerous laptops have been designed to work with military CAC cards. These are some of the best laptops that can be used with military CAC cards:
-Dell Latitude Rugged Extreme
-Dell Latitude 5420
-Panasonic Toughbook CF-53
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The Verdict – Best Laptops For Military Use
What makes a good laptop for military use? A high-quality build that can withstand rough handling and endure extreme temperatures, long battery life to ensure you’re never without power, decent processing power to perform basic computing tasks and apps like Microsoft Office, and a sleek design so it can be carried easily in a backpack or on your shoulder.
So which is the best military laptop? There are plenty of options out there and we have listed them all in our guide below. If you’re looking for even more options check out our full list of best laptops overall. Happy hunting!