Question Best laptop choice for motorcycle mechanic? (2021)

[jolag]

Hello, I want to know what kind of laptop and what price range should have to cover the needs of a motorcycle mechanic and keep it for some years? He needs it to process programs like Dynojet power commander, Motec, and Haltech software so he can remap or (create new maps) programming Electronic Control Units (ECU) and dynamometers. In most of these programs min requirements are:
(Minimum System Requirements
Operating System: Minimum Windows 7 32-bit; Recommended Windows 10 64-bit
CPU: Intel or AMD processor; Recommended Intel Core I5 2.5GHz or above
Graphics Card / GPU: Any
RAM/Memory: Minimum 4GB; Recommended 8GB
Available Disk Space: Minimum 1GB; Recommended 10GB
Monitor Resolution: Minimum 1280×800)
I want suggestions to make sure what kind of laptop should I purpose, without being overkill for him and being in a normal price range.

 

[anscarlett]

I wouldn't say anything special from the specs listed, unless there are any physical connectors other than usb required for any hardware interfaces?

A core i5 is fine, bump the RAM to 16gb (8gb min), fast ssd, 1080p or above screen.

How organised is his workspace? Some people might benefit from a rugged machine that can take a few knocks or drops, or a brand with a good service policy.

 

[hang-the-9]

Most mechanics tend to go for ThinkPads, X210 / T420. I have sold quite a few of those models to mechanics. Depends on what the instrument interfaces need.