Quick Summary

Startups need reliable technology, but big upfront hardware costs can eat into cash that’s better spent on growth. Leasing business laptops offers a practical alternative, spreading costs into predictable monthly payments, making it easier to scale as teams grow, and giving employees access to better, more current devices without the risk of them becoming outdated. 

This guide covers why leasing suits early-stage businesses, how to choose the right laptops for different working styles, and the flexible leasing options available through HardSoft.

Introduction

In the beginning, every startup faces the same challenge: doing more with less. Cash is tight and priorities shift quickly. Technology is no exception – yet it’s often one of the biggest upfront costs a new business faces, especially when equipping a growing team with laptops capable of handling modern workloads.

Buying hardware outright ties up capital that could otherwise go toward hiring, marketing, or product development. It also locks a business into devices that may not suit its needs a year or two down the line.

So how can startups get the technology they need without draining their cash reserves?

Common Ways to Finance Business Computers

1. Traditional Purchase

Where you simply buy computers from a supplier and own them outright and fully manage them yourself.

2. Business Loans

A financial sum granted by a bank or third-party finance company to allow you to then purchase computer equipment for yourself. Often comes with rising interest rates.

3. Leasing Business Computers 

Your business does not own the computer hardware assets but can use them for the duration of the lease. Rather than a large one-off payment, leasing offers single monthly payments while gaining access to reliable, business-grade technology.

The equipment is typically treated as an operating expense and may be tax-deductible. As a business grows, adds staff, or changes direction, a lease can often flex to meet evolving requirements, helping preserve cash flow while avoiding the burden of large capital investments. 

4. Contract Hiring Agreement

Similar to a rental. You can use an asset for a specific period and then return it. The equipment is not recorded as an asset or liability of the business. It is merely a rental expense. 

5. Hire Purchase

A hire purchase can feel very similar to a lease since it also helps to spread the cost of equipment out over time. The main difference is that in a Hire Purchase, the payments made previously count towards equipment purchase. 

Leasing vs Buying 

While there are several ways to finance business computers, leasing and buying outright are often the two most commonly compared options for startups and growing businesses. 

Both options have advantages, but they suit different business circumstances.

Leasing	Buying
Lower upfront costs	Higher upfront investment
Predictable monthly payments	One-time capital expenditure
Easier to scale as the business grows	Additional purchases required when expanding
Option to refresh technology regularly	Risk of hardware becoming outdated
Often includes support and lifecycle services	Responsibility remains with the business
Can improve cash flow management	Full ownership from day one

For startups, preserving cash flow is often more important than immediate ownership. 

Why Leasing Makes Sense for New Startups

Protects Valuable Cash Flow

Most startups operate with limited budgets during their early stages. Anything spent on technology is money that cannot be invested elsewhere, such as:

• Marketing campaigns
• Product development
• Recruitment 
• Customer acquisition 
• Business growth initiatives

Leasing means no massive bulk purchases draining your finances all at once, just smaller, manageable payments every month.

Reduce The Operational Burden

Depending on your supplier, leasing business computers usually comes with extra services regarding the management, maintenance, repair, replacement and recycling of your devices. This saves your IT department and staff a lot of time and increases your productivity. 

More Technical Support

Receive support for technical upkeep of devices, help with cyber security software, and replacements if anything goes wrong. Hardsoft includes full 3-year warranties with our leases, complete support packages, and optional accidental breakage cover – we explore this further below. 

Or for an even deeper dive, take a look at our full guide on the benefits of IT support packages. 

More Management Support

Suppliers like HardSoft can show you how to add all business devices under a single Mobile Device Management (MDM) platform. This allows you to manage devices, deploy apps, enforce security settings, and control how staff use company devices, even when working from home. You also have the ability to remotely secure or wipe devices if they are lost or stolen. 

Choosing the Right Business Laptops for Your Startup 

Not every startup has the same requirements. The right devices depend on how your team works. 

For Office-Based Teams

Look for: 

• Reliable performance
• Good battery life
• Business-grade security 
• Comfortable keyboards and displays

Popular options include: HP EliteBook,Lenovo ThinkPad, Microsoft Surface 

For Hybrid And Remote Teams

Prioritise:

• Lightweight designs
• Long battery life
• Video conferencing performance
• Portability 

Popular options include: Apple MacBook Air, Microsoft Surface, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

For AI Workloads And Future Growth

As AI tools become more widely adopted, startups should consider devices capable of supporting:

• AI-enhanced productivity tools
• Advanced collaboration applications
• Future software demands and security requirements

Choosing AI-ready hardware today can reduce the need for premature replacements tomorrow. 

HardSoft’s Flexible Leasing Options

HardSoft has supported UK businesses to access the right technology for over 40 years, combining flexible finance, expert support and business-grade devices under one roof. We partner with all the leading computer hardware manufacturers in the industry, including Apple, Microsoft, Samsung, Lenovo, HP, Dell, and more. 

Startup growth can be unpredictable, which is why flexibility matters. We offer a range of leasing solutions so you can choose the right balance of cost, support and scalability for your business. 

Flexi 

Our most popular leasing solution for startups and small businesses, Flexi is designed for organisations that expect their technology requirements to evolve over time. 

Key benefits include:

• Option to change devices after 12 months
• Add devices at any time as your team grows
• Three years’ warranty and support 
• Optional device pre-configuration
• Optional cover against loss and theft

 Learn more about your options at 12 months

Pure

Pure is our most cost-effective leasing solution and can be up to 30% more affordable than Flexi, giving businesses access to the same high-quality technology at a significantly lower monthly cost.

Available on:

• A 3-year term with the option to cancel after 24 months
• A 5-year term with the option to cancel after 36 months 

Pure also includes:

• Lifetime warranty and support
• Optional device pre-configuration
• Optional cover against loss and theft

For startups focused on preserving cash flow and keeping monthly costs as low as possible, Pure can be an excellent choice. However, businesses expecting significant growth, changing requirements or future hardware upgrades may benefit from the additional flexibility offered by Flexi. 

Devices for Teams

Devices for Teams is designed for larger businesses and ambitious scale-ups that need a fully managed, highly flexible device solution.

It’s particularly well-suited to fast-growing organisations that need the ability to add, switch and return devices as their workforce evolves. 

Key benefits include:

• Options to change devices at 12 months
• Add devices whenever required
• Three years’ warranty and support
• Device pre-configuration included
• Optional cover against loss and theft
• Additional lifecycle and device management services available

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Key Takeaways

• Leasing allows startups to access modern technology without large upfront costs
• Predictable monthly payments can improve cash flow and budgeting
• Leasing makes it easier to scale technology as your team grows 
• Sustainable IT strategies benefit from planned device refreshes and lifecycle management
• Flexible leasing options help startups adapt to changing business requirements 
• HardSoft offers device leasing, support, lifecycle services and finance from a single provider

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How to Get Started?

1. Arrange a call with our team to discuss your requirements and the amount of hardware you need.

2. We can conduct an evaluation of your industry and business objectives to match you with the right devices and the right type of lease.

3. HardSoft has our own finance arm and a deep understanding of what makes a good business. We have complete autonomy on who we lease to and we are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority. This makes the paperwork minimal and the approval process very rapid. We handle all of the administration and paperwork in the background through a streamlined process. You’ll be surprised at how quickly you receive your hardware and how little you had to do.

4. We can install or remotely deploy your hardware fully configured and ready to go.

5. We’ll be in contact throughout the lease to offer tech support, management support and strategic support to help you get the best from your devices.

There are several ways to finance a MacBook for your business. Whether you’re a start-up kitting out your first hire, a growing SME, or an established company refreshing an entire office, there’s more than one route to getting Apple hardware into your team’s hands.

If you’re weighing up how to fund a MacBook — or a whole fleet of Apple devices — it’s worth understanding your options before you commit. Below, we run through each one, then explain why leasing with HardSoft is, for most businesses, the clear winner.

Buying outright

Buying is the traditional, obvious route, and plenty of businesses default to it without much thought. You pay the full price up front and the device is yours.

MacBooks are premium machines, and the price reflects the build quality, longevity, and performance that make them so well suited to business use. But that quality comes with a hefty upfront cost, and paying it all in one go can sting, especially when you’re buying in bulk to fit out a whole team or multiple offices.

That single large outlay can eat into cash flow, delay other priorities, and leave you exposed if an unexpected expense comes along. It also means you’re carrying the full risk of the hardware ageing, and in a few years you may be left with a cupboard of outdated laptops you can’t shift.

Also read: Buying vs Leasing

Bank loans

With a bank loan, you still buy and own the hardware outright — the difference is the money comes from an approved loan that you then pay back over time, usually with interest. It spreads the cost, but you’re taking on debt, tying up your borrowing capacity, and still ending up owning kit that depreciates from day one.

Investor funding

Common among start-ups and scale-ups, investor funding works a little like a loan, but the money is usually applied across the whole business rather than earmarked for hardware. Even so, you’ll still need to budget for devices as though you were paying for them yourself — so the underlying question of how to finance them doesn’t really go away.

Buying on finance (and 0% finance)

Buying on finance lets you pay in instalments, usually monthly, and you own the devices once the payments are complete. It softens the upfront hit, though there’s often interest to factor in.

Some retailers offer 0% finance deals, which typically waive interest for a set period or delay the start of your repayments. These can look appealing, but the offers are usually time-limited and tied to specific products, and you’re still buying hardware that’s losing value as you pay it off.

Leasing — the smartest way to finance a MacBook

Leasing is, for most businesses, the most sensible and cost-effective way to get MacBooks into your team’s hands. Instead of a big one-off purchase, you spread the cost into predictable monthly payments — and critically, you’re not sinking capital into an asset that starts depreciating the moment it’s switched on.

The logic is simple, and it’s already how you run most of your life. Your car, your phone, your software, your office space — chances are you pay for all of them monthly. So why not your computers too?

Beyond protecting your cash flow, leasing brings some serious advantages:

• It’s tax-efficient. Lease payments are generally treated as an operating expense, which can be offset against your tax bill — unlike a capital purchase.
• You stay current. Technology moves fast. Leasing means you can refresh to the latest Apple silicon rather than being stuck with ageing kit.
• Support is built in. Your lease isn’t just hardware — it comes wrapped in expert technical support, warranty, and help throughout the life of your agreement.

Why lease your MacBooks with HardSoft?

Not all leasing providers are the same, and this is where HardSoft stands apart. We’ve been doing this for over 40 years, and in that time we’ve grown into the UK’s highest-rated business IT leasing company, with thousands of happy customers and hundreds of five-star reviews.

A few things set us apart:

• We’re our own finance company. HardSoft owns its FCA-regulated finance company, so there’s no mystery middleman or credit broker in the mix. That’s how we approve up to 98% of applications, often within 24 hours — start-ups included.
• A single source for everything. We handle the financing, the pre-configuration, the support, and the security of your devices, all on one simple monthly payment.
• Accredited and trusted. We’re authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, full members of the Finance & Leasing Association (FLA), ISO 27001 certified for information security, and a carbon-neutral, award-winning business.

Choosing the right lease for your MacBook

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all, which is why we offer three distinct leasing solutions. Whichever you choose, expert support and warranty come as standard.

Flexi – our most popular solution

A three-year lease built for evolving businesses and start-ups. What makes Flexi special is the freedom it gives you: if the majority of your kit is Apple, you can change your devices or end your agreement from just 12 months. 

You can add devices whenever you need to, Silver support is included, and at the end of the term you can take full ownership of your MacBook for just £1. If you want to understand exactly why it’s our best-seller, here are 7 reasons to choose Flexi.

Pure – our most affordable solution 

A no-nonsense three- or five-year lease that’s up to 30% cheaper than Flexi. Pure is ideal if affordability and agility are your priorities: you can change, cancel, or refresh your devices from 24 months (on a three-year term), and at the end you can continue, cancel, refresh, or buy your equipment at fair market value. 

Opting for the five-year term keeps devices in use longer, which is kinder to your budget and the planet. (Pure is available to businesses trading for over two years.)

Devices for Teams – our most flexible solution

Our Device-as-a-Service (DaaS) offering, and the UK’s number one for growing SMEs. Ideal for businesses that need 50 or more devices, it lets you switch — and even return — devices without penalty, with premium Gold support included. It’s built for maximum agility as your team scales.

Ready to get started? Build your lease solution online, or give our team a call on 0207 111 1643 and we’ll help you find the right fit.

Introduction: Why AI-Ready Chips Matter

The AI revolution is reshaping business operations—from creative content production to advanced data science. Choosing the right processor is critical for performance and scalability. In 2025, NVIDIA, Intel, and Qualcomm (via Snapdragon) lead the race with cutting-edge chips optimised for AI workloads. This guide compares their strengths and shows how HardSoft’s flexible leasing makes premium AI hardware accessible.

Comparison Table: Key Specs

Feature	NVIDIA DGX Spark	Intel Core Ultra 9 185H	Snapdragon X Elite
Architecture	Grace Blackwell (ARM + GPU)	Hybrid x86 (6P + 8E cores)	12-core Oryon (ARM)
AI Performance	Up to 1 PFLOP (FP4)	~36 TOPS (NPU)	45 TOPS (NPU)
Memory	128GB LPDDR5x Unified	Up to 96GB LPDDR5	Up to 64GB LPDDR5x
Graphics	Blackwell GPU (6,144 CUDA)	Intel Arc Integrated	Adreno X1 (4.6 TFLOPS)
Power Efficiency	High (enterprise)	Balanced (workstation)	Exceptional (ultraportable)
Target Use	AI dev, research	Creative pros, business	Mobile AI, battery life

NVIDIA DGX: The AI Powerhouse

The NVIDIA DGX Spark delivers up to 1 petaFLOP of AI performance, ideal for deep learning and enterprise-scale inference. With 128GB unified memory and advanced connectivity, it’s perfect for AI developers and research teams.

Intel Core Ultra 9: Balanced Performance

The Intel Core Ultra 9 185H combines hybrid architecture with an integrated NPU for AI acceleration. Supporting up to 96GB RAM, it’s a versatile choice for creative professionals and SMEs.

Snapdragon X Elite: ARM-Based Efficiency

• Enterprise AI & Research: Choose NVIDIA DGX Spark Supercomputer for unmatched compute.
• Creative Professionals: Intel Core Ultra 9 offers balanced performance.
• Mobile AI & Battery Life: Snapdragon X Elite leads in efficiency.

Which Chip is Best for Your Business?

• Enterprise AI & Research: Choose NVIDIA DGX Spark for unmatched compute.
• Creative Professionals: Intel Core Ultra 9 offers balanced performance.
• Mobile AI & Battery Life: Snapdragon X Elite leads in efficiency.

HardSoft Leasing Options

Explore AI-ready device leasing with HardSoft:

• Flexible terms and predictable costs
• All-inclusive support and sustainability programmes
• Upgrade or scale as your business grows

Key Takeaways

• NVIDIA DGX Spark: Enterprise-grade AI performance
• Intel Core Ultra 9: Ideal for creative workflows
• Snapdragon X Elite: Best for mobile-first teams

Introduction

The modern workplace is evolving rapidly, and technology choices are at the heart of this transformation. Recent research shows that 60% of employees wish their company offered Mac devices—a clear signal that Apple’s ecosystem is resonating with today’s workforce. With the launch of macOS Tahoe and the latest Apple silicon, businesses have more reasons than ever to consider Mac for their teams.

1. Performance and AI: Supercharged for Business

Apple’s latest silicon—M5, M4 Pro, M4 Max, and M4 Ultra—delivers industry-leading performance per watt, powerful graphics, and unified memory up to 512GB. Macs are architected for AI, with dedicated CPU, GPU, and Neural Engine, making them ideal for demanding business applications and future-proofing your investment. 6x faster performance for LLM inference on MacBook Pro with M5, compared to previous generations. Apple Intelligence brings advanced AI features to macOS, enhancing productivity and automation.

Mac Does That:
Macs are built for multitasking and speed. The unified memory architecture of Apple silicon delivers fast, fluid multitasking, letting teams rip through workflows with ease. Macs start up in a flash and handle demanding business apps like Excel, PowerPoint, Salesforce, and Zoom without breaking a sweat.

2. Productivity That Matters

Macs excel in real-world business tasks:

• Faster spreadsheet calculations in Excel—up to 2.1x faster on the latest MacBook Pro compared to older models.
• Up to 24 hours of video playback for all-day productivity.
• Liquid Retina XDR display and studio-quality mics/cameras for unrivalled video calls and presentations.

Mac Does That:
Mac runs all your favourite business apps, including Microsoft 365, Outlook, Google Workspace, and more. Employees can multitask superfast with the M2 chip, and enjoy seamless integration with iPhone—copy and paste, sync edits, and continue conversations between devices.

3. Seamless Integration and Compatibility

macOS Tahoe is designed to work effortlessly with the apps your employees use every day—Microsoft 365, Teams, Slack, Zoom, Salesforce, and more. Employees can work seamlessly across Mac, iPhone, and iPad, boosting collaboration and flexibility

Mac Does That:
Mac and iPhone work even better together, giving employees the benefit of one seamless work experience. Features like Handoff, AirDrop, Universal Clipboard, and iCloud synchronise data across all Apple devices, ensuring files, photos, and documents are accessible from anywhere.

4. Security and Manageability

Security is built into every layer of Mac:

• Hardware and system security
• Encryption and data protection
• Network and app security
• Comprehensive management controls for IT

Businesses benefit from MDM and endpoint security solutions, reducing risk and simplifying compliance.

Mac Does That:
Mac is super secure out of the box, with features like on-the-fly encryption, Touch ID, and Gatekeeper built in. It’s compatible with the security tools businesses already use, and is easy for IT to manage, with faster setup and fewer support tickets.

5. Real Business Impact

Leading companies are seeing tangible benefits:

• 75% increase in deployment efficiency and 95% decrease in security incidents at Want Want Group, with over 10,000 Macs deployed.
• <1% of devices needed hardware repairs and 50% reduction in power consumption at Inter (Brazil), with 4,000+ Macs.
• $547 savings per Mac compared to PC over a four-year cycle (Forrester Consulting, May 2024).
• 78% of top US companies deploy Mac at scale.

Mac Does That:
Macs are built with high-quality materials, ensuring longevity and reliability. They have higher residual value, meaning users can upgrade more often, and businesses benefit from lower downtime and support costs.

6. Sustainability and Longevity

Macs are built to last, with high trade-in value and energy efficiency. The MacBook Air with M4 chip uses significantly less energy than comparable PCs, helping businesses reduce their carbon footprint.

Mac Does That:
Apple is committed to sustainability, using recycled materials and renewable energy, aiming to be net-zero by 2030.

7. Employee Experience Drives Customer Experience

As Fenna Boomgaard, Head of People at Rituals, puts it:

“Our employee experience directly impacts our customer experience. Working with Mac, iPhone and iPad gives you a really special feeling every day, which is exactly what we want to give our customers”

Ready to Transform Your Business?

Mac isn’t just about hardware—it’s about empowering people, driving productivity, and delivering measurable business results. With macOS Tahoe, Apple Silicon, and a robust ecosystem, businesses can unlock new levels of efficiency, security, and satisfaction.

Empower your team with the latest Mac devices, powered by macOS Tahoe and Apple Silicon. Leasing from HardSoft means you get flexibility, expert support, and cost-effective solutions tailored for your business.

• ✔ Flexible leasing plans for every business size
• ✔ Hassle-free device management and upgrades
• ✔ Expert advice and deployment support
• ✔ High trade-in value and sustainability benefits
• ✔ Dedicated business customer service

Lease Macs from HardSoft Today

Ensuring the protection of your computer hardware is of paramount importance.

Therefore, when it comes to leasing, buying, or managing business PCs, it is important that they are properly protected. So, yes, you should acquire asset protection cover for your leased business PCs.

While it is a sensible idea to protect your business PCs, (and it is also quite often a legal requirement), companies can face some challenges when to comes to finding affordable and suitable cover.

Let’s analyse some of these challenges and provide a Hardsoft solution, but first, let’s be certain that everyone properly understands the vital nature of protective cover for business PCs.

Getting Cover for Expensive Equipment Is ALWAYS A Good Idea

Getting asset protective cover expensive equipment is a smart idea.

This is actually the case for most valuable equipment inside and outside of a business. Even as an individual, it is a smart idea to get cover for expensive items, especially those such as your computer, smartphone, or fridge. These items are expensive and if they become damaged or stolen, cover will help recoup your losses.

In a business, it is even more important to get cover for equipment. You are likely to have many expensive electrical devices. In the case of PCs, they could be used by various staff. If they are laptops, they might even be sent to a staff member’s home.

There are a lot of things that can happen inside and outside of the office that could cause the loss or damage of your business assets.

The Importance of Insurance for Business PCs

Legal Compliance:

From a legal standpoint, having coverage for leased business PCs helps meet certain contractual obligations. Some leasing agreements often require your business to maintain cover to protect the equipment against damage, theft, or loss. This could be a requirement of your office building lease, or legally established by your CEO or board of directors.

Financial Protection:

Getting cover for your leased business PCs safeguards you from potentially substantial financial losses. Accidents can happen unexpectedly, and without cover, the costs of repairing or replacing damaged equipment can be a significant burden on your business budget. Asset protective coverage provides financial protection, ensuring that you can quickly recover from such incidents.

Mitigating Risks:

Leased business PCs are susceptible to a range of risks, including accidental damage, theft, power surges, and natural disasters. Cover helps mitigate these risks, giving you peace of mind and allowing you to focus on your core business operations.

Challenges in Insuring Business PCs

Cost:

Getting cover for computer hardware in bulk can be very expensive. Surprisingly, few third-party companies have decent packages in place tailored to the needs of different sized businesses when it comes to covering a fleet of devices. It can become even more financially complex when you add individual devices to an existing fleet. High premiums can strain your resources.

Time-Consuming Process:

The administrative process of acquiring the cover can be time-consuming. Engaging with third-party providers often means navigating complex policies.

Limited Coverage and Exclusions:

It is essential to carefully review cover policies to understand the extent of coverage provided. Some policies may exclude specific types of damage or limit coverage for certain scenarios, leaving you vulnerable to potential losses.

Claims Handling:

While cover is intended to offer protection, the claims process can sometimes be challenging. Third-party companies may attempt to avoid paying claims or delay the process, causing frustration and potentially hampering your business operations.

Solving The Challenges With SafeGuard By Hardsoft

Luckily, Hardsoft has created one of the best options for business PC coverage on the market. Our product SafeGuard aims to make the protection of business PCs easy and faff-free.

This product can be added to your Devices For Teams computer lease. SafeGuard provides the best protection at affordable prices, and is one of the most cost-effective and competitively priced options for business computer protective cover on the market.

It is incredibly simple in one comprehensive invoice for your whole fleet at reasonable rates. Not only that, but SafeGuard is also very fast to set up. Since you receive the cover product from the same provider as your equipment and other IT services, there are no extra parties involved, which speeds up the entire process.

SafeGuard protects against theft, accidental damage, spills, fire, and flood. Plus, as well as covering devices you receive from HardSoft as part of your lease, you can also cover devices you already own with SafeGuard.

Business-grade laptop models are very different from consumer devices.

When it comes to choosing a laptop, it’s important to understand that business laptops and home laptops serve distinct purposes. While both may share some similarities, there are significant variations in their features and specifications.

In this article, we will explore the key differences between a business laptop and a home laptop and why all companies, even small businesses and sole traders, should lease business-grade equipment.

Cybersecurity

This is one of the most crucial differences between business and home laptops. Most business laptops come with added in-built security features to protect your business data.

Business laptops offer heightened security measures to counteract potential threats, ensuring that critical business information remains secure.

In the realm of cybersecurity, business laptops prioritise enhanced protection to safeguard sensitive data and intellectual property.

They often come equipped with advanced security features such as biometric authentication, TPM (Trusted Platform Module) chips, and encryption capabilities.

Durability and Repairability

Business laptops withstand the rigours of daily use and are built with sturdier materials compared to home laptops. They undergo rigorous testing to meet higher durability standards, making them more resistant to impacts, spills, and other accidents.

Additionally, business laptops often feature modular designs, allowing for easier repairs and component replacements, thereby minimising downtime.

Green Credentials

Everyone is more aware of sustainable living, but businesses are often held to stricter legal standards and benchmarks.

Businesses are, therefore, increasingly conscious of their environmental impact. Many business laptops are certified with energy-efficient ratings such as ENERGY STAR, EPEAT, or TCO.

These laptops consume less power, reduce your carbon footprint, and adhere to environmentally friendly manufacturing processes, aligning with sustainability initiatives pursued by businesses.

End users are also slowly becoming more environmentally aware, and we are starting to see greener builds on home laptops too. That being said, this is not to the same extent as business laptops and not as carefully certified.

Power and Speed

Business laptops often feature more powerful processors and greater memory capacity to handle resource-intensive tasks efficiently. This is vital for demanding applications such as data analysis, virtualisation, and complex software simulations.

The enhanced processing power and memory allow businesses to run multiple applications simultaneously, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted workflow.

Software and Compatibility

Business laptops support a wide range of software and applications commonly used in various industries.

They offer seamless integration with enterprise-grade software, collaboration tools, and cloud-based services.

Business laptops ensure compatibility, enabling employees to work efficiently and access necessary tools and resources with ease.

High-Quality Visuals

For industries involving graphic design, video editing, and content creation, high-quality visuals are essential.

Business laptops often feature high-resolution displays with accurate colour reproduction, allowing professionals to work with precision and deliver visually stunning results. The vibrant and accurate colour representation enables designers and creatives to showcase their work accurately.

Visuals are better on home devices as more people are streaming and watching media on their home laptops, however, the standard will still be much higher on a business device designed for a creative and visual industry.

Collaboration Tools

Business laptops have advanced camera, speaker, and microphone systems to facilitate remote collaborations and video conferencing.

The emphasis on clear audio and video quality enhances communication and productivity, ensuring seamless virtual meetings and collaborations across teams and geographical locations.

Cameras on home laptops are not always HD and the microphones and speakers are much cheaper. However, you can buy superior headsets and cameras that attach to your computer that could be better than in-built options.

Storage and Solid-State Drives (SSDs)

Business laptops typically offer larger storage capacities to accommodate extensive files, databases, and software installations.

SSDs, commonly found in business laptops, provide faster data access, quicker boot times, and improved overall system performance. This enables faster file transfers, reduced loading times, and improved productivity for business users.

However, more home laptops come with SSDs these days and you can ask to view only SSD computers when buying your home laptop. Not all business laptops have an SSD.

With more people and businesses using the cloud for data storage and sharing, you might notice that even business laptops come with less in-built storage space. It is very important to pay attention to the storage capacity of any laptop that you buy for work or home to ensure it meets your needs.

Price Considerations

The price of business laptops is slightly higher due to their advanced features, durability, and performance capabilities.

While the initial investment may be higher, business laptops offer long-term value, improved productivity, and durability, making them a worthwhile investment for businesses. All business laptops might be pricier than home laptops, but you can still find affordable business laptops if you work with a knowledgeable device leader.

CPUs and GPUs

Business laptops often feature more powerful CPUs and dedicated graphics processors (GPUs) to handle intensive computing tasks. The enhanced processing capabilities allow for efficient multitasking, rendering complex graphics, and running specialised software required by specific industries.

The Importance of Leasing Business-Grade Hardware

Business owners should understand the value of investing in business-grade laptops rather than opting for consumer-grade laptops intended for general use.

While it may be tempting to save costs, the enhanced features and specifications of business-grade laptops play a pivotal role in ensuring durability, performance, and security.

Business-grade laptops withstand the demands of professional use, offering greater longevity and reliability compared to their consumer counterparts.

The robust build quality, advanced security features, and optimised performance of business-grade laptops provide a solid foundation for businesses to thrive, safeguard sensitive data, and maintain uninterrupted productivity.

By leasing business-grade hardware, businesses can access top-of-the-line laptops tailored to their specific needs, maximising their investment, and avoiding potential issues associated with consumer-grade devices.

Devices can be expensive – so it’s understandable that you’ll want to get the most from them.

In the past, when most work was office-based, reusing and re-distributing company devices was simple. However, with most modern companies now operating with employees spread across the country, there are numerous expenses and logistical challenges associated with transferring devices between employees and across regions.

Timing can also add to the complexity of re-using company devices. If one employee departs as another joins, it probably won’t create many problems. However, this is rarely the reality. So, you also need to consider storing the devices while they’re not in use, as well as any administrative tasks and potential costs involved.

We are passionate about making your device’s life cycle as stress-free as possible. That is why we have created the solution to your IT Asset Management (ITAM) issues: our Boomerang service.

With Boomerang, our clients can rest easy knowing that their company devices are being stored and redistributed with ease. We take care of everything, from sending the computer out at the beginning of its life cycle, to collecting it from your ex-employee, to storing it and reconfiguring it, and finally, redistributing it.

Our clients are able to maximise device usage, reduce significant costs, and easily transport devices across regions to meet their hiring needs—all with just a few clicks.

Reusing devices of remote workers: Explaining the logistical challenges

Consider a scenario where a software engineer who has an expensive Apple MacBook Pro Laptop leaves after six months. Their device is still in the early stages of its usable life.

Gifting nearly new devices to departing employees is extremely costly. Additionally, it is not as straightforward as it may seem. Gifting devices creates payroll and tax administration for your company and tax implications for the outgoing employees.

From a financial standpoint, it makes sense to reuse these computers, laptops or tablets. However, you will need to find a way to send their laptops back to your headquarters. The associated costs, such as shipping fees, and courier expenses, quickly accumulate.

Moreover, organising the collection requires significant time and effort. You need to locate a reverse logistics provider who can retrieve the device, handle all the necessary administration, provide suitable packaging, and return it to your headquarters. Subsequently, you would need to find storage space and a vendor to sanitize, refurbish, and repackage the device. All the while, you would manually track the device’s movements and handle multiple invoices.

To simplify the process, we have eliminated all the unnecessary hassle through offering Devices for Teams clients our Boomerang service.

How can I reuse my Boomerang devices?

Offboarding team members with Boomerang takes only a few seconds. Simply confirm their details, select their final day, and let us know what you would like to do with their equipment.

Leave all the heavy lifting to us. We will collect the device, manage the cleaning, wiping, and repackaging processes, ensuring the device is in the best possible condition and ready for reuse. We will store it for as long as you need to support your hiring plans.

When it comes to redelivery, we can preconfigure the device with your organisation’s preferred apps and software before shipping it. This way, the device arrives with your new employee ready to use straight out of the box, ensuring a fantastic day one experience.

Boomerang: In Summary

In summary, Devices for Teams’ Boomerang service offers a comprehensive solution for efficiently reusing company devices. By entrusting us with your IT asset management, clients can maximize device usage, reduce costs, and overcome logistical challenges associated with device redistribution. With Boomerang, repurposing company devices becomes a seamless process, enabling organizations to optimize their resources and enhance productivity.

Sadly, filing an insurance claim often results in paying higher premiums the following year.

It might seem unfair. You took the responsible step of getting insurance to protect against any unforeseen circumstances. However, when you use the cover as intended, you end up facing higher rates in the future.

It may not make sense to many, but it’s an unfortunate reality for a lot of insurance policies. Businesses must often accept this in order to properly safeguard their assets. Especially for high-value, productivity-critical items like computer hardware, skipping protective cover or insurance is never a wise choice.

That’s why we offer Safeguard: a comprehensive, affordable asset protection cover that doesn’t penalise your business when you make a claim.

In this blog, we’ll take a close look at the crucial aspects of asset protection coverage for businesses. We’ll also demonstrate how SafeGuard can be a true lifesaver for companies.

What is Asset Protection Cover, and why do you need it?

Asset protection cover is a contract. The policyholder, an individual or entity like a company, pays regular premiums to the asset protection cover company. In return, they get financial protection against specific risks or unforeseen events.

These risks could encompass a wide range of scenarios. These could include accidents, illnesses, property damage, or even liability for causing harm to others.

If the policyholder experiences a covered loss or event, the asset protection cover company agrees to provide compensation or benefits as outlined in the terms of the asset protection cover policy.

Essentially, asset protection cover offers a means of mitigating financial uncertainty. This is achieved by transferring the potential burden of losses from individuals or businesses to the asset protection cover provider. This, therefore, helps to provide businesses peace of mind and stability in the face of unexpected circumstances.

Sometimes, with cheaper items, asset protection cover hardly seems worth it when a business would have the funds to immediate replace the items themselves. However, computer hardware is complex, specialist equipment. It can be easily damaged, which is problematic if the item is vital to the daily operations of a company.

Losing a device used by a skilled employee could cause critical delays, and an accident like a flood or fire that damages all or most of a business’s equipment is a financial disaster. So, asset protection cover does make sense.

The swift processing and pay-out of claims by the asset protection cover company enable accidents to be promptly addressed. This then enables the business to swiftly recover and resume normal operations.

Why is IT device asset protection cover different for businesses Vs end users?

Asset protection cover for computers and IT hardware differs between businesses and end users. This is primarily due to the scale, scope, and specific risks involved.

Businesses often require more comprehensive coverage due to the larger quantity and higher value of the equipment they possess.

End users, on the other hand, generally require less extensive coverage, focusing more on personal devices and potential data loss.

The key distinction lies in the level of complexity and potential impact of hardware and data loss, with business policies designed to address the broader operational and financial consequences that could result from IT-related issues.

Why do insurance premiums usually increase when you make a claim?

In the scenario where a business makes insurance claims for accidental damages, theft, and other incidents involving their computer hardware, several challenges might arise, including a rise in premiums.

A business may also experience disruptions in productivity while waiting for replacements or repairs. This could potentially lead to operational setbacks and loss of profits.

While these scenarios are both frustrating, but one of the most common challenge is the insurance premium rising even if everything else about the claim was straightforward. This is due to the concept of “experience rating” in insurance, where an increase in claims activity suggests higher risk associated with the insured entity.

Insurance companies adjust premiums based on the perceived risk level to ensure they can cover potential future claims. While this practice aims to balance the insurer’s financial stability, it can be frustrating for businesses that utilise insurance as intended. After all, nobody wants to find themselves penalised with higher costs for seeking coverage against unforeseen events.

However, if you choose the right provider and avoid traditional third-party insurance companies, you can find affordable insurance/asset protection cover for computer hardware that does not penalise your business.

One such solution would be SafeGuard Protective Cover by HardSoft.

How is Safeguard Protection Cover different?

HardSoft and Devices for Teams, the creators of Safeguard Protection Cover, are computer hardware lease providers. Our aim is to offer comprehensive IT solutions for companies, enabling them to fulfil all their IT needs in one place.

This includes asset protection cover for devices that you lease from us. SafeGuard Protection Cover is very different from other asset protection cover/insurance options. This is because its primary goal is to help businesses keep working in light of unforeseen issues.

Since our goal is not to make big profits when you make a claim, but rather to make your access to IT hardware smoother, we do not penalise you when you make a claim.

Think of SafeGuard as one item in a family of products designed to make IT easier for companies. Since all your IT services come from one place, from the hardware itself to asset protection cover, repair and recycling, you don’t have to deal with third parties. This strips away many of the delays found with normal asset protection cover firms.

You will experience a fixed-price contract for 3 years with SafeGuard, the full duration of your lease for the hardware. That price is static for the 3 years, which protects companies from inflation prices, as well as no increase on premiums year on year if you made a claim.

Even at the get-go, SafeGuard rates are far more affordable than other insurance/asset protection cover options, despite being so comprehensive –  and this has won SafeGuard large popularity.

SafeGuard Protection Cover – Asset Protection you can trust

When hardware asset protection cover comes from the perspective of computer equipment experts, you will find that it is more affordable, more intuitive and aligns better with your own company goals since it’s coming from the angle of providing great quality devices and IT services.

There’s also only one simple bill for all your IT services, including SafeGuard, so no confusing separate invoices for all the different services. It is easy to manage and simple for your bookkeeping.

Quick Summary 

Shepherd is a specialised Mobile Device Management system; with three solutions tailored to your device environment. It allows business owners and HR managers to easily protect their ‘flock’ of digital devices.

Introduction

What Is Mobile Device Management?

Mobile Device Management systems, or MDMs as they are better known, are software that allows businesses to manage, control, and secure your mobile IT hardware. 

MDMs are instrumental in giving you better management of your IT equipment that does not remain in the office. This includes devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones, or any equipment used by WFH employees. 

What Is Shepherd MDM?

Shepherd is the latest product in HardSoft’s portfolio of IT services. Like all HardSoft services, it has been designed to meet the real challenges faced by businesses. What makes Shepherd special is that it was created with small businesses in mind. 

What Shepherd Solutions are Available?

1. Shepherd Fusion

A comprehensive MDM solution for organisations managing a mix of Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS and Linux devices from a single cloud-based dashboard. 

2. Shepherd for Apple

Designed specifically for Apple-first organisations that need to deploy, secure and manage their MacOS and iOS estate efficiently.

3. Shepherd for Mobile

A simple, cost-effective solution for businesses managing company-owned iPhones and iPads. 

It is very affordable, very intuitive to use, and it makes business operations faster and easier. With a range of prices per week, Shepherd is one of the most cost-effective MDMs on the market. 

At £1.95 per device per week, Shepherd for Apple is 10% cheaper than alternatives like Jamf for Mac, yet with many more features. 

So, How Can Shepherd Actually Help?

1. Built for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses (SMEs)

Shepherd was created to give SME businesses access to powerful, affordable Mobile Device Management without the complexity often associated with enterprise platforms. As device management continues to evolve, many organisations are looking for solutions that combine ease of use, comprehensive features and predictable pricing. 

Small businesses do not always possess the financial resources to invest in every single fancy bit of tech that comes along. Deciding which ones are worth it can be a major headache for business owners. That’s why Shepherd offers a range of solutions designed for different device environments and budgets.

2. Significantly Improves Cybersecurity 

However, in an increasingly digitally dominated world, MDMs aren’t just for big businesses. In fact, MDMs are vital for small businesses. Businesses of all sizes are under increasing threat from cyber breaches and data theft and the problem has ballooned in recent years. According to the UK government surveys published in 2022, 31% of businesses estimate that they suffered cyber-attack attempts at least once a week.

Cyber security is not only a concern for large firms. In fact, small businesses can be especially vulnerable.  Worryingly, Security Magazine reported that 43% of cyber attacks specifically target smaller businesses.  While large companies have the funds on hand to absorb the fallout from a successful data breach, small businesses can suffer far more negative financial consequences due to smaller budgets.

Cybercriminals are aware that small businesses will usually have less cybersecurity in place, and less training of staff to be aware of red flags. That might sound troubling; but by using Shepherd, your small business can avoid these data breaches. Ultimately, investing in Shepherd will save you money and save your reputation.

Similarly, HardSoft’s Shepherd MDM delivers real-time monitoring of device use, so you can automatically reduce the risk of data breaches before they occur. Its functionality allows you to monitor how your business device is being used and even how company data is accessed.

3. Execute Automatic Actions

Another powerful function of your MDM is the ability to push out software updates remotely and automatically to all devices. 

Everyone knows staff hate stopping to download updates, but the threat to this is very real.  The 2022 EY Human Risk in Cybersecurity Survey reported on by PR News Wire reveals some alarming statistics about employee apathy to updates and passwords.

Even younger, more tech-native staff are a major threat when it comes to doing manual security updates. The report showed that 58% of Gen Z and 42% of millennial workers disregard mandatory IT updates for as long as possible. 

Meanwhile, 30% of Gen Z and 31% of millennials admit to using the same passwords across professional and personal accounts and, according to research by 1Password, 43% of employees admit to sharing logins with non-staff.

The automatic push of security and operating system updates by your Shepherd MDM completely resolves this issue. You can also set password policies, encryptions and multi-factor authentication requirements. Shepherd provides so many layers of safety that are easy to implement. 

4. Supplied & Supported By Us

Shepherd is incredibly intuitive to use and comes with expert support. And it integrates perfectly within the HardSoft ecosystem. 

Shepherd MDM, Boomerang, and SafeGuard are among our most popular HardSoft products since they provide business managers with everything that they require to handle employee IT devices. Businesses can have affordable IT equipment insurance thanks to SafeGuard. This includes accidental damage cover on the hardware as well as theft cover. With Boomerang you can easily repurpose devices from former staff to new hires. And of course, you can manage your flock safely and efficiently with Shepherd. 

In fact, the combination of device tracking, locking and data wiping from Shepherd works very well alongside Boomerang for the best chance of device retrieval from ex-staff. Boomerang includes a service where HardSoft will retrieve your company devices from former staff at their homes. We arrange a time slot and provide the packaging service, so they don’t have to lift a finger.

Boomerang, combined with device tracking in Shepherd, makes the rates of device retrieval much higher. So, you don’t lose out on equipment and don’t have to continually replace it.

5. Integration with Apple Business Manager

For small businesses using Apple Business Manager, Shepherd is the perfect companion. 

While ABM lets you order Apple devices, register them as business devices and swiftly deploy them, Shepherd then lets you intricately manage that hardware. 

6. Effortless From Start and Finish 

When it comes to managing your flock of devices, onboarding staff is time-consuming. Yet it doesn’t have to be. Imagine informing your HR department of a new WFH hire starting with little notice. 

What if all their IT onboarding could be sorted remotely with a couple of clicks?

No need for an IT department to handle the hardware. No lengthy setup. The new hire can start working straight away as soon as they open their new business laptop. Shepherd lets you fully set up and preconfigure a device with the profiles, accounts, settings, software, and apps a specific employee needs. 

Devices can be out-of-the-box ready with lightning speed, and you never have to touch the hardware. If you’re already an Apple Business Manager client, you can order and deploy equipment directly to workers’ homes while Shepherd takes care of configuration and ongoing device management.

You can “shepherd” new members of your digital flock by setting up VPNs, passwords, permissions, app restrictions, and customised configuration.

Offboarding staff has different complexities. You might want to repurpose the device for a replacement hire, while also ensuring former employees no longer have access to company data. There is also a chance of workers disappearing with company equipment. 

But not with Shepherd. Thanks to device tracking, hardware locking, and remote data wiping, you don’t have to worry about “lost sheep”. You can offboard an employee with just a few remote clicks instantly removing access to sensitive data. With device tracking, ex-staff are far less likely to keep company laptops. 

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Key Takeaways

• Built for SMEs: Shepherd delivers enterprise-grade Mobile Device Management that’s affordable, easy to use, and designed specifically for small and medium-sized businesses.
  
• Strengthen Security: Protect company data with real-time device monitoring, automated security policies, remote locking, and data wiping capabilities.
  
• Automate IT Management: Remotely deploy software, enforce security updates, manage applications, and apply device settings with minimal manual effort.
  
• Simplify Onboarding & Offboarding: Configure devices remotely for new starters and instantly revoke access, track devices, and protect data when employees leave.
  
• Manage Every Device in One Place: Whether you use Windows, Apple, Android, ChromeOS, or Linux, Shepherd provides a centralised platform to manage and secure your entire device fleet.

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FAQs

How much does Shepherd MDM cost?

Whether you’re managing Macs, mobile devices, or a mixed-device environment, there’s a Shepherd solution to match:

• Shepherd Fusion: £12.35 per user per month (£2.85 per week)
• Shepherd for Apple: £8.45 per user per month (£1.95 per week)
• Shepherd for Mobile: £2.99 per user per month (69p per week)

How does Shepherd compare to other MDM solutions?

View our full comparison guide to see how Shepherd compares with other leading MDM solutions.

Can MDM be integrated with existing cybersecurity solutions?

MDM can be integrated into various cybersecurity frameworks. Most of the popular MDM platforms provide API support and out-of-the-box integrations. Integration enables holistic security since one gets to leverage centralised monitoring, automatic incident response, and comprehensive threat detection across mobile and traditional endpoints. 

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Getting Started with Shepherd

So, you might be asking, what are the next steps?

You’ve decided to move ahead with shepherding your flock of devices and HardSoft are promising a zero-faff transition, so how does it work?

1. All you need to do is arrange a consultation with our Shepherd team at HardSoft.

2. Our MDM experts will chat with you to better understand your business needs. During this short and simple 20-minute assessment, our specialists can best determine what aspects of Shepherd MDM will be most crucial to you, so we can assist in guiding you.

3. Your Shepherd MDM installation is a completely remote setup, so you don’t have to worry about any office disruption

4. Once HardSoft has activated Shepherd MDM for your business, every new device shipped to you will be pre-configured with Shepherd and registered with Apple Business Manager automatically. 

There really are zero worries and zero faff on your end. You’ll be set up and ready to manage your device policies in just a few clicks. 

“How much RAM do I need for business laptops?” This is probably one of the most frequently asked questions that we receive.

This is not surprising since RAM is integral to the speed and performance of your computer hardware. The requirements of devices for business usually outstrip the RAM needs of a personal use device.

What is RAM?

Random Access Memory, commonly known as RAM, is a type of computer memory that temporarily stores data that the CPU (Central Processing Unit) can access quickly.

RAM allows your laptop to read and write data at high speeds, providing the necessary resources for running applications and processes.

Don’t get RAM confused with other storage drives such as hard disk drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs). RAM is different because it does not retain data when the computer is powered off.

Why Does A Business Laptop Require More RAM Than Most Personal Devices?

Business laptops typically require more RAM than personal machines due to the demanding nature of professional applications and multitasking needs.

Business laptops often run resource-intensive software, such as productivity suites, data analysis tools, virtualisation software, and design applications. These applications consume a significant amount of memory, and insufficient RAM can lead to performance bottlenecks, slowdowns, and decreased productivity.

However, the answer to how much RAM your specific business laptop will need it is not a straightforward one.

The answers provided above are ranges and a simplified explanation.

If you want to know exactly how much RAM your business laptop will require you must understand that it is based on several factors:

• Your job role
• Your industry
• Are you relying on cloud storage or storing all your company files on your computer?

How Does RAM Affect Computer Speed and Performance?

RAM plays a pivotal role in determining a computer’s speed and performance.

When you open applications or perform tasks, the operating system loads the required data from storage into RAM.

The more RAM your laptop has, the more data it can store in this temporary memory, reducing the need to access slower storage drives frequently. Consequently, this results in faster application launches, smoother multitasking, and improved overall system responsiveness.

So, now that we fully comprehend what RAM is and how it influences computer performance, we can dig into the business requirements of RAM.

RAM Needs Across Different Business Industries

Different business industries have varying RAM requirements based on the nature of their operations and the software they utilise. For example, industries like graphic design, video editing, engineering, and architecture often work with large files and resource-intensive applications, necessitating higher RAM capacities.

Yet not every industry and its staff job roles will be that demanding of RAM. Sectors focused on administrative tasks, content writing, or financial analysis may require relatively less RAM. Although the modern software involved in FinTech would still vastly outstrip the RAM needs of a basic, personal use laptop.

Assessing the specific software requirements of each industry is crucial to determine the ideal RAM capacity for a business laptop.

Cloud Storage vs. RAM: Benefits and Drawbacks

One other factor in how much RAM you require is how much reliance on the cloud a job role entails.

The advent of cloud storage has significantly impacted RAM needs for businesses. Cloud storage allows businesses to offload storage and processing tasks to remote servers, reducing the reliance on local hardware resources like RAM.

With cloud storage, businesses can store and access files, collaborate in real time, and run applications remotely. This reduces the need for large amounts of local RAM, as data can be fetched on-demand from the cloud.

Businesses can factor this in when selecting laptops to lease for their staff and how much RAM to include. However, you should be aware that relying heavily on cloud storage also introduces potential drawbacks such as internet dependency, security concerns, and potential performance issues in areas with limited connectivity. The best thing to do when choosing device RAM is to speak to professionals in computer hardware, and explain your industry and requirements, and they can help you select the best device and RAM for your staff.

How Much RAM Does Your Laptop Need?

Personal use laptops: 8GB RAM.

Gaming computers: 16GB – 1TB RAM.

Business laptops: 16GB – 32GB RAM.

Personal use laptops – For basic day-to-day home computing, AKA not business work, 8GB of RAM should be sufficient. It should provide good performance for these minimum requirements.

Gaming computers – If your home computer usage includes hardcore gaming and potentially streaming, then this will greatly increase the amount of RAM you require.

Some gamers make do with 16GB but if you want the smoothest experience, with no stuttering on heavy-duty games, then 32GB is the safer option.

If you want to do hardcore gaming, streaming, recording, and multitasking, then it is not uncommon to see these types of gamers opting for 1TB of RAM.

Business laptops – While some very simple and affordable business devices like Chromebooks can be as lean as 8GB, 16GB-32GB is a better recommendation.

16GB will deliver good, reliable results and allows a lot of multitasking, multiple tabs and programmes running. It is also a solid bet if your storage needs will increase over time as some devices are less upgradable in terms of RAM than others.

For any industry where you are using software and programmes than gobble storage, for example, scientific research or video editors, then 32GB is going to make the process much easier when you’re on those time-sensitive deadlines.

The range of 16-32GB is ideal RAM for business laptops.