Running a small business requires reliable tools to keep your operations seamless and efficient. From managing finances to handling communication and creative projects, the right computer plays a crucial role in keeping everything on track. To help you make a well-informed choice, we’ve evaluated five of the best computers for small business owners in 2025. These options combine power, performance, and features designed for entrepreneurs.

1. Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, M3 Pro) – Best for Creative Professionals

Apple continues to set the gold standard for professionals, and the 2025 MacBook Pro is no exception. With its M3 Pro chip, it delivers incredible power for video editing, graphic design, and multitasking.

Key Features:

• Processor: M3 Pro chip with up to 12 CPU cores and 19 GPU cores.
• Display: Stunning 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, ideal for detailed visuals.
• Battery Life: Lasts up to 20 hours, perfect for working on the go.
• Storage: Configurations starting at 512GB SSD, expandable to 8TB.

Pricing:

Starting at £2,399, this is a significant investment, but it’s well worth the price for those working in creative industries.

Why It’s Ideal:

For business owners in creative fields, the MacBook Pro ensures smooth performance on intensive tasks like 4K video rendering and large-scale design projects.

2. Dell XPS 15 (2025) – Versatility and Performance

The Dell XPS 15 offers a great combination of style, processing power, and flexibility. With its high-performance hardware, it handles general business tasks with ease, making it a fantastic all-rounder.

Key Features:

• Processor: 13th Gen Intel Core i7, delivering speed and efficiency.
• Display: 15.6-inch OLED display with vivid color accuracy.
• Storage: Comes with 1TB SSD, providing ample room for documents and media.
• Connectivity: Includes Thunderbolt 4 ports, an SD card reader, and Wi-Fi 6E.

Pricing:

Prices start from £1,799.

Why It’s Ideal:

Its low weight, sleek design, and excellent performance make the XPS 15 a top contender for professionals who juggle tasks like presentations, financial reporting, and light design work.

3. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11 – Best for Mobility

Small businesses often involve working on the go, and Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Carbon is built for mobility without compromising power. Known for its durability and reliable build, it’s a favorite for business owners on the move.

Key Features:

• Processor: 13th Gen Intel Core i7 for seamless multitasking.
• Durability: Military-grade certification ensures it can handle tough environments.
• Battery Life: Runs up to 18 hours on a single charge.
• Security: Includes a fingerprint scanner and webcam privacy shutter.

Pricing:

Starting around £1,599.

Why It’s Ideal:

With its lightweight chassis and robust security features, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a practical choice for entrepreneurs traveling frequently or managing remote teams.

4. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 – Best for Hybrid Use

If your business involves creativity and presentations, the Surface Laptop Studio 2 is tailored to meet your hybrid working needs. Its flexible design allows it to transition between a laptop and a tablet seamlessly.

Key Features:

• Processor: Intel Core i7 with NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics for demanding tasks.
• Display: 14.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen with 120Hz refresh rate.
• Versatility: Easily switches between laptop, studio, and tablet modes.
• Accessories: Fully compatible with Surface Slim Pen 2 for quick sketches and edits.

Pricing:

Starting at £1,999.

Why It’s Ideal:

Whether you’re brainstorming, designing, or presenting, the Surface Laptop Studio 2 offers flexibility and power to adapt to any situation.

5. Acer Aspire 7 (2025) – Budget-Friendly Power

Not every business needs to break the bank for a reliable computer, and the Acer Aspire 7 offers an affordable yet powerful option. It provides essential features suited for day-to-day operations like accounting, web research, and emails.

Key Features:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 for smooth multitasking.
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD display ensures clear visuals.
• Storage: Comes with 512GB SSD, ample for most business use cases.
• Connectivity: Includes multiple USB ports, HDMI, and Wi-Fi 6.

Pricing:

Starting at an affordable £899.

Why It’s Ideal:

If you’re a small business owner looking for functionality at a budget-conscious price, the Acer Aspire 7 is reliable for handling essential tasks efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right computer comes down to your specific business needs. Whether you prioritize portability, creative performance, or affordability, this list includes options to suit a variety of entrepreneurs.

For creative professionals, the Apple MacBook Pro guarantees smooth, intensive workflows. Those who need versatility can rely on the Surface Laptop Studio 2, while the ThinkPad X1 Carbon is perfect for mobility. Meanwhile, the Dell XPS 15 and Acer Aspire 7 offer excellent performance for general productivity at varying price points.

Take the time to weigh your priorities, and invest in a machine that will empower your business for years to come. After all, the right computer is more than just a purchase—it’s a tool for growth and success.