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to scale as teams grow, and giving employees access to better, more current devices without the risk of them becoming outdated.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.

Quick Summary

Choosing between NVIDIA DGX Spark and Apple M5 chip can define your success in AI development or creative workflows. This guide compares both platforms on AI performance, speed, energy efficiency, and enterprise deployment, while showing how HardSoft’s leasing solutions make cutting-edge hardware accessible for every business.

NVIDIA DGX Spark – The AI Powerhouse

The NVIDIA DGX Spark is a “personal AI supercomputer” designed for developers, data scientists, and research teams. It brings data centre-level AI capabilities to your desktop.

Key Features

• Grace Blackwell GB10 Superchip: 20-core Arm CPU + Blackwell GPU with 5th-gen Tensor Cores.
• Unified 128GB LPDDR5x Memory: Enables fine-tuning of models up to 200B parameters.
• NVFP4 Precision: Accelerates LLM inference for generative AI.
• Pre-installed AI Stack: Includes CUDA, cuDNN, PyTorch, TensorFlow, and NVIDIA NIM.

Performance Highlights

• LLM Training & Inference: Handles models up to 200B parameters locally.
• Energy Efficiency: 170–240W under load, compact and quiet (<40 dBA).
• Enterprise Ready: Scalable deployment, encrypted storage, and NVIDIA support.

Apple M5 Chip – Creative Workflow Champion

The Apple M5 chip is built for designers, video editors, and SMEs who need speed, efficiency, and seamless macOS integration.

Key Features

• 10-core CPU + 10-core GPU with Neural Accelerators.
• Unified Memory Architecture: Up to 128GB with 546 GB/s bandwidth.
• Thunderbolt 5 Clustering: Scale performance for large AI models.
• Creative Optimisation: Hardware-accelerated ProRes, Metal shaders, and CoreML.

Performance Highlights

• Creative Dominance: Perfect for video editing, 3D rendering, and design.
• AI Inference: Runs quantised models up to 72B parameters.
• Energy Efficiency: Consumes 90–200W in clusters—ideal for hybrid work.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Feature	NVIDIA DGX Spark	Apple M5
Target User	AI developers, data scientists	Creative professionals, SMEs
Memory	128GB LPDDR5x (273 GB/s)	Up to 128GB Unified (546 GB/s)
AI Performance	1,000 AI TOPS, 200B params	Up to 72B params
Power Consumption	170–240W	90–200W
Best For	AI training, inference	Video, design, creative

Which Chip Fits Your Business Needs?

• Choose NVIDIA DGX Spark if:
  You need maximum AI throughput, CUDA-optimised frameworks, and a personal AI lab for research and prototyping.

• Choose Apple M5 if:
  Your workflow is creative-first, you value energy efficiency, and need local AI inference with macOS integration.
  

HardSoft Leasing Options

Investing in high-performance hardware doesn’t have to mean high upfront costs. HardSoft’s flexible leasing solutions make both NVIDIA and Apple devices accessible.

Why Lease with HardSoft?

• Predictable monthly costs
• 100% tax-deductible
• Extended warranty & accidental damage cover
• Upgrade flexibility
• Sustainable trade-in options

Key Takeaways

• NVIDIA DGX Spark: Best for AI research, model training, and enterprise-scale inference.
• Apple M5: Ideal for creative professionals and energy-efficient workflows.
• HardSoft: Your partner for affordable, AI-ready device leasing.

FAQs

Q: Which chip is better for AI workloads?
A: NVIDIA DGX Spark leads for large-scale AI training; Apple M5 excels at creative tasks and local AI inference.

Q: Can I lease both devices from HardSoft?
A: Yes! HardSoft offers flexible leasing for both NVIDIA and Apple hardware.

With the rise of remote work, businesses are re-evaluating their approaches to equipping their remote workforce. Instead of purchasing computer equipment outright, an alternative option gaining popularity is computer device leasing or renting.

Advantages Of Leasing Or Renting IT Equipment Over Buying

OpEx vs. CapEx: Operating Lease for Tax Purposes

When businesses purchase equipment, it typically falls under capital expenditure (CapEx), requiring upfront investment.

However, with computer device leasing, some arrangements are considered an operating lease for tax purposes. This means that the leasing costs classify as operating expenses (OpEx), that business owners deduct as a business expense. By shifting from a CapEx to OpEx model, businesses can allocate their financial resources more efficiently. DaaS (Device as a Service) is one such leasing model that is an OpEx for tax purposes.

Tax Benefits and Monthly Payments

Renting computer equipment offers tax benefits through its monthly payment structure. As the lease payments are made monthly, businesses can claim tax benefits continuously over the duration of the lease. This provides financial flexibility and can help manage cash flow more effectively compared to a one-time purchase. By spreading out the expenses over time, businesses can optimise their budgeting.

Auto Upgrades and No Obsolescence in DaaS Leases

Device as a Service (DaaS) style leases provide an additional advantage – auto upgrades and protection against obsolescence. With rapid advancements in technology, computer equipment can quickly become outdated, resulting in decreased efficiency and productivity.

However, with a DaaS lease like a Devices For Teams package, businesses can ensure that their remote workers will always have access to up-to-date equipment.

These leases often include provisions for regular hardware upgrades, enabling employees to enjoy the latest technology without additional costs or concerns about device obsolescence.

Choice of Lease Styles

When opting for computer device leasing, businesses have various lease styles to choose from based on their requirements. They can opt for purely renting, allowing them to have access to the equipment without the intention of ownership.

Alternatively, businesses can choose a lease structure that gradually works towards ownership, allowing them to eventually own the equipment at the end of the lease term.

The flexibility of lease styles enables businesses to align their leasing arrangements with their long-term goals and financial strategies.

DaaS style leases are becoming the most popular owing to all the extra support and IT services. Devices For Teams is a one-stop-shop for all business IT needs, including insurance, MDM management and cyber security.

Reduced Risk of Misclassification

Classification of freelancers is a critical consideration for businesses. Using company-owned equipment for contractors can potentially lead to misclassification issues, as it may blur the line between an independent contractor and an employee.

By renting equipment, the lease provider retains ownership, reducing the risk of misclassification. As the freelancer is not using company-owned equipment, and the rental expense can be treated as a business expense, the risk of misclassification is significantly mitigated. Renting equipment provides a clear separation between the business and contractors, helping businesses maintain compliance and avoid potential legal complications.

IT Support Services

In addition to the benefits of computer device leasing, it is crucial to consider the IT support services offered by a leasing provider like Devices For Teams. We provide comprehensive support services, including device setup, maintenance, and technical assistance. Having access to reliable IT support ensures that remote workers can address any hardware or software issues promptly.

Renting computer equipment for remote workers offers numerous advantages over traditional purchasing models. It improves cash flow, boosts productivity, and minimises operational chores for your business.

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.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has existed for decades, but its recent surge in popularity is unprecedented, leading to innovative new software such as Microsoft 365 Copilot. With technological advancements, AI has become more accessible and efficient, integrating into various industries and daily life.

One of the most popular AI services is ChatGPT, a large language model developed by OpenAI, which understands natural language and generates human-like responses.

While AI revolutionises many businesses and industries, concerns about its impact on employment and privacy persist. These concerns are valid, but AI undeniably resolves numerous efficiency issues and streamlines workflow processes. Recognising this potential, Microsoft developed an AI service called Copilot, now integrated into Microsoft 365 apps.

Let’s explore the exciting world of Microsoft 365 Copilot!

What is Microsoft 365 Copilot?

Microsoft Copilot is a new AI digital assistant developed with ChatGPT version 4 and Microsoft Graphs. Integrated into Microsoft 365, Copilot provides businesses with a powerful AI solution that inherits all their valuable security, compliance, and privacy policies and processes. Copilot is a trusted AI assistant that streamlines workflows without compromising security and privacy.

Copilot integrates into Microsoft 365 in two ways. Firstly, it embeds in the Microsoft 365 apps you use daily, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, and more. This integration helps users unleash creativity, boost productivity, and improve skills, making it easier to complete tasks and achieve goals.

Secondly, Business Chat works across all your business data and apps, including your calendar, emails, chats, documents, meetings, and contacts. It uses natural language prompts to generate status updates, simplifying team communication and ensuring everyone stays on the same page.

Business Chat also surfaces essential information and insights from vast data, promoting knowledge flow across the organisation and saving valuable time. Access Business Chat from Microsoft365.com, Bing when signed in with your work account, or Teams.

How do you use Microsoft 365 Copilot?

Now that you know Microsoft Copilot is a productivity game-changer, how do you use this innovative integration? Here’s how Copilot can improve your workflow.

To start, select the Copilot icon from your chosen Microsoft 365 app’s ribbon menu. A sidebar appears where you can enter your desired action (such as “write a first draft” or “send an email”) and receive Copilot’s recommendations. Copilot makes it easy to use the many commands available in Microsoft 365, regardless of your experience with the software.

In Word, Copilot jump-starts your creative process. You’ll never start with a blank slate again. Copilot provides a first draft to edit and build upon, saving hours of writing, sourcing, and editing time. Sometimes Copilot will be right, other times usefully wrong — but it always propels you forward. You control the content, driving your unique ideas and prompting Copilot to shorten, rewrite, or give feedback.

In PowerPoint, Copilot creates stunning presentations with a simple prompt, adding relevant content from a document you made last week or last year. Or, if you want to streamline your work in Excel, Copilot analyses trends and creates professional-looking data visualisations in seconds.

In Outlook, Copilot summarises long email threads, quickly drafts suggested replies, and clears your inbox in minutes, not hours. If you’re too busy to answer an email, ask Copilot to write a response. It understands the context and generates the reply; all you need to do is read and hit send.

Microsoft Copilot also extends to Power Platform, allowing anyone to automate repetitive tasks, create chatbots, and go from idea to working app in minutes.

Microsoft Copilot enhances your strengths and lets you quickly master new skills. It unlocks rich functionality using natural language, so you can focus on your ideas instead of the software.

Conclusion

Microsoft 365 Copilot is a game-changing AI digital assistant that significantly boosts productivity and efficiency in most workplaces. Integrated into Microsoft 365, Copilot helps you master new skills quickly and focus on your creativity, leaving tedious tasks to the AI assistant. Whether using Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Teams, or any other 365 app, Microsoft 365 Copilot is there to assist. If you’re seeking an innovative solution to boost productivity, Microsoft 365 Copilot is your answer.

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.

Regularly upgrading IT devices is far more crucial in a business setting than when it is your home laptop.

While repairing and repurposing is important for the environment, business hardware must stay relevant and deliver a competitive edge.

The rise of remote work has amplified the importance of robust device security programmes for organisations. Upgrading devices every handful of years can ensure that they are compatible with the latest business-grade cybersecurity technology.

Yet, regularly updating hardware and software is not just about enhancing security. It actually encompasses several other advantages as well, including optimising employee experience and staying competitive in the market.

How Often Should You Upgrade A Business Laptop?

The frequency of device upgrades depends on various factors, such as the type of equipment, whether it’s personal or business-related, and the specific model.

Business devices are built with robustness in mind, ensuring durability and fewer issues compared to personal devices. However, personal devices tend to be held onto for longer periods of time because it matters less if these devices are working at peak performance.

Ideally, business equipment should be refreshed every 3-5 years due to heavier use, the need to stay ahead in the competitive landscape, and security compatibility concerns.

On the other hand, desktops generally last longer than laptops, thanks to their larger size, accessible replaceable parts, and superior cooling systems.

It isn’t just whether the device is a laptop, desktop, tablet, or smartphone that affects how frequently you need to upgrade. It is also down to the make and model.

For instance, Apple devices tend to have longer lifespans, with software and operating system updates supported for several years, even for vintage machines.

It takes approximately 7 years for an Apple device to become obsolete.

PCs, on the other hand, offer greater repairability options.

Additionally, the longevity of a device is influenced by its initial specifications, including speed, power, and cost. Industries that require the latest technology advancements may necessitate more frequent upgrades to powerful models.

Why Regular Device Upgrades Matter

Staying Ahead in the Digital Era

The latest tech brings faster and more powerful laptops with new functionality and abilities. This can provide an advantage in the digital era of competition between businesses. Regular upgrades can actually result in keeping an edge over the competition and, therefore, drive superior profits.

Enhancing Security: A Paramount Concern

Outdated technology poses significant security risks in the business world. Companies must prioritise staying up to date to protect against cyber attacks.

Running old operating systems, that no longer receive patches, leaves systems vulnerable to exploitation.

In fact, more than four in 10 organisations in the US are using outdated technology and they experience nearly 50% more financial losses during data breaches compared to those with updated software and hardware, as revealed by a recent Kaspersky report.

Outdated equipment may lack access to the latest security features, such as advanced encryption standards and biometric authentication methods like fingerprint scans. Updating devices to the latest models with robust security features becomes imperative in minimising security risks.

Maximising Productivity: The Key to Success

Ensuring optimal productivity among employees is a shared goal for employers and staff alike.

Slow and outdated devices not only hinder productivity but also have a negative impact on employee morale.

According to an article by Work Place Insight.net citing research by Curry’s PC World, just booting up a computer wastes 8.8 days of work time per year for the average British worker, costing businesses approximately £1,009 per employee annually.

Waiting for outdated systems to start, coupled with unexpected crashes and data loss, results in significant time wastage.

The report also cited other worrying consequences of outdated tech in the business sphere, including:

• A third of UK workers lose motivation when they have to wait on slow technology.
• 28 % of Brits work extra hours to account for the time lost to tech delays throughout the day.
• 1 in 10 say tech hold-ups at work make them want to quit their job.

Providing employees with fast and responsive hardware and software fosters satisfaction, reduces frustration, and boosts overall productivity.

How Can You Regularly Upgrade Your Device Without Purchasing All New Equipment Every 3 Years?

When you lease your computer equipment in a DaaS (Device as a Service) style solution like Devices For Teams, your lease includes automatic upgrades to the latest technology. These upgrades are built into your lease, and you can be automatically swapped to the latest tech when it becomes available. Not only that, but Devices For Teams can advise your business and pair you with the most suitable devices for each department and staff member role. You don’t have to worry about a big expenditure every three years, since you pay in smaller, manageable amounts each month as part of your subscription.

SafeGuard is a specialist type of asset protection for businesses’ IT hardware.

It has been developed specifically to meet the necessities of companies who are bulk leasing IT equipment.

Do Businesses Really Need Asset Protection?

Imagine the moment when a power surge fries your servers overnight, rendering your vital data inaccessible. Picture the chaos that ensues when a sudden flood inundates your office, drowning not only your valuable hardware but also your dreams of uninterrupted operations. These scenarios might sound extreme, but they happen to businesses all the time.

Without proper insurance coverage, they could become expensive realities for your company.

Asset protection for business IT isn’t just a precaution; it’s the armour that shields your operations against unforeseen disasters. Insurance provides peace of mind and quick, inexpensive resolutions when things go wrong.

According to claims by Aviva Risk Management Solutions, which refer to data they have garnered from the Government’s Business populations estimates report for 2021; “10% of SMEs wouldn’t survive if they had to pay up to £10,000 towards a claim that wasn’t fully covered by insurance.” That equates to more than half a million businesses.

Why Do Businesses need Computer Hardware Insurance?

Insuring office products can sometimes feel like one of those unnecessary cost burdens. To you as a manager, CEO, or CFO, when everything is running well, it seems unnecessary. It psychologically feels like paying for an unreal eventuality.

However, while you can occasionally risk rolling the dice on insurance for cheaper products when it comes to expensive equipment that your staff require to do their jobs, insurance is a necessity.

Everyone in your firm is likely to require their desktop, laptop or tablet, and smartphone to perform their job adequately. Whether their job is creating a product, shipping and logistics, providing a service, marketing, or even merely communication and collaboration, the business world is now a digital animal. We use digital tools in almost everything we do, so computer equipment is essential.

This essential nature should be the first clue that insurance is not something you cannot take lightly.

The second clue is that business-grade computer equipment is not cheap. It is still a substantial investment. When you are looking at hardware in bulk, it becomes an even bigger investment.

Like all things, computers can break, and accidents can happen. It can affect one device or many at once, depending on the situation. This could not only be very costly to replace, but also, the downtime incurred by the company could be significant too, which means you are losing money in two ways.

It is, therefore, vital that businesses have adequate insurance for their computer equipment.

What Type Of Protection Will SafeGuard Offer Business IT?

Hardsoft has created SafeGuard to match the requirements of our clients. It has been carefully crafted to ensure it provides adequate protection against all likely eventualities.

SafeGuard can insure your IT fleet against:

• Theft – by internal or external forces (e.g., theft by staff or by break-ins from outside parties)
• Accidental damage (this includes spillages on devices or hardware being dropped accidentally)
• Fires
• Floods
• Storms
• Vandalism
• Electrical disturbances
• Objects falling onto devices

This is highly comprehensive cover compared to many other options on the market.

Many times, businesses will find that there is excessive fine print on insurance policies. This will often result in not being covered for a whole raft of normal incidents. It helps insurance companies to make a profit if they can wheedle out of paying at the time of a claim. This is a very common eventuality with third-party insurance companies. Yet Hardsoft is not an insurance company or a third party.

Hardsoft is a computer equipment lease provider and have built an insurance solution so that clients don’t have to shop around with third-party insurers.

Not only does this make everything much more efficient and straightforward for our clients since it cuts out going through a third party, but it also means that the cover is comprehensive with no tricks or jargon. We want to help you keep equipment safe and your business running smoothly.

However, comprehensive, intuitive cover, is not the only advantage of choosing SafeGuard. Its biggest claim to fame is how affordable it is.

Is SafeGuard Truly A Cost-Effective Option For Device Insurance?

Yes, it is, and for the same reason that it manages to be such comprehensive cover. Since we are not a third-party company that is merely offering insurance alone, our interest is not to make high profits on the insurance cover.

Our goal is to provide a truly all-in-one IT solution for our clients, which includes insurance, the IT hardware itself, the finance of your lease for that equipment, as well as repair, support, maintenance, management, customisable solutions, MDM, data backup, carbon offsetting and more.

Our objective is a full IT service that is simple and straightforward with no third parties. Owing to this, our SafeGuard insurance is extremely affordable and scalable with your lease compared to other options on the market, and this has made it extremely popular and gained us many new SafeGuard clients.

Rising inflation is resulting in businesses being squeezed tighter than ever when it comes to your budgets. While many CEOs are looking to make cuts and trim the fat on unnecessary expenditures, one feature you should never skip is computer hardware insurance.

Other Benefits Of SafeGuard

Easily Scalable

Luckily, SafeGuard will aid businesses on a variety of budgets to effectively insure their computer equipment regardless of the size of your hardware lease. It will also be easily flexible to add insurance as your number of devices fluctuates with your needs. SafeGuard was designed to work with leasing styles like DaaS, which are highly customisable and change the number of devices leased, according to your actual business requirements.

Contact your Hardsoft, or your Devices For Teams account manager to get a quote for SafeGuard tailored to your equipment lease.

Ideal For Businesses With Remote Workers

Another major benefit to remember about SafeGuard, beyond its affordable price, is that we are fully able to insure devices even if they are with WFH staff or remote staff working abroad. So, if your remote, freelance digital nomad disappears with the business laptop you gave them, we have you covered.

Keeps You Running Smoothly & Productively

If your computer is stolen, Hardsoft will replace it with lightning speed. If a device has suffered accidental damage, Hardsoft are swift to arrange collection and complete a rapid turnaround on repairs. Best of all your team will be given a replacement temporary device while you await repairs.

Choosing the right laptop is crucial for any role within a company.

Not every business laptop is equal or even similar. Some models will be far more suited to the tasks of a particular role or industry.

Engaging with experts, such as HardSoft’s consultants, is a great way to ensure you receive a laptop that is ideal for your role.

Let’s look at an example; what would be the best laptop for a business analyst?

What Is A Business Analyst?

First, we must understand an overview of the business analyst role.

A business analyst assesses how companies are currently performing and then identifies strategies for improvement in their operations and systems.

They might be hired temporarily as a consultant to take the business to the next level of profit and success.

Business analysts frequently act as a bridge between stakeholders, project managers, and technical teams. They ensure that business objectives align with the implemented solutions.

The role utilises data analysis, modelling techniques, and industry knowledge to identify opportunities for enhancement and then recommends strategies for optimising business operations.

Their business laptops must be able to handle the software that they use for data analysis and modelling.

Role and Day-to-Day Tasks of a Business Analyst

So, we now know that the best laptop for a business analyst is going to need to handle some potentially power-hungry software.

Now, let’s take a deeper look at the day-to-day tasks of a business analyst to get more insight.

Business analysts engage in a wide range of activities, including:

• Gathering and documenting business requirements
• Conducting stakeholder interviews
• Facilitating workshops
• Analysing data
• Creating process models
• Designing solutions

Business analysts must regularly collaborate with cross-functional teams to define project scope, create project plans, and assist in the implementation and testing of business solutions. Additionally, business analysts play a crucial role in change management and ensuring successful project delivery.

From these tasks, we can tell that the best laptop for business analysts will facilitate them with plenty of multitasking and good communication.

What Functionality Is Required For A Business Analyst’s Laptops?

A business-grade laptop for a business analyst should possess specific functionality to support their tasks effectively.

We already know they are going to need power to use that heavy software and multi-tasking, as well as good communication and collaboration features. Let’s break it down into specific functionality:

1. Processing Power: Business analysts often work with complex data sets and perform resource-intensive tasks, so they will require a powerful processor and ample RAM to handle these tasks efficiently and provide a seamless user experience.
   
2. Software Compatibility: The best laptops for business analysts should be compatible with industry-standard software such as Microsoft Excel, SQL databases, data visualisation tools, and project management software.
   
3. Storage and Memory: The ability to store and access large volumes of data is crucial for business analysts. Sufficient storage capacity, preferably with solid-state drives (SSDs), allows for quick data retrieval, faster application launches, and improved overall performance.
   
4. Display Quality: A high-resolution display with accurate colour reproduction is beneficial for business analysts working with detailed data visualisations, process diagrams, and reports. A larger screen size and an anti-glare coating can enhance productivity and reduce eye strain during prolonged usage. However, they might not need visual display specs quite as sharp as a graphic designer.

We now know what functionality and attributes are important for a high-quality business laptop for a business analyst. So, what are some of the best business-grade laptops on the market today that would meet these criteria?

Best Laptops For A Business Analyst

Here are some top laptop choices for business analysts, which possess all of the above features:

Dell XPS 15

Dell has excellent laptops in its business-grade collection. Most people are familiar with Dell, but their business models are very reliable and durable. The XPS range is particularly impressive for a balance of power and durability. The Dell XPS 15 would actually be suitable for a wide variety of roles as it is a decent all-round laptop.  This laptop offers a powerful processor, ample RAM, excellent display quality, and SSD storage. A data analyst would be able to achieve their goals easily and comfortably with this device. It is powered by a 4th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GT 750M graphics card.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon

The Lenovo ThinkPads have a strong reputation for quality among business devices, but the X1 Carbon is especially impressive. It is consistently rated as one of the best business laptops on the market currently.  The X1 Carbon is known for its durability, performance, and portability. The TPM 2.0 chip and a fingerprint reader are some nice standout security features. The 14-inch IPS Anti-glare 6:10 display with choices of HD or Ultra HD + is a great touch. However, it’s the Intel Core i7 that gives the laptop its power. It is also a superior model for collaboration and communication thanks to the High-Def Dolby Atmos speakers, quad array microphone and HD IR webcam.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 5

The Surface Laptop 5 from Microsoft is one of the best laptops for a wide range of roles that include using plenty of business software and multi-tasking. It is, therefore, ideal for a business analyst. It comes in choices of 13 inch or 15 inches and i5 or i7 Intel Core processors depending on your power requirements. We recommend the i7 if you are going to be using a lot of heavy-duty software at once. It is a very efficient business laptop with a sleek design and up to 18 hour battery life making it highly portable.

Microsoft Surface Pro 9

his provides something a bit different from the Surface Laptop 5 in that it is a 2-in-1 device. Generally, 2-in-1s tend to be less powerful than a traditional laptop but their power capabilities have been rapidly growing more ambitious. Now, these hybrid devices can be a very good option if you are presenting on the go, as they can shift seamlessly between tablet and laptop mode.

MacBook Pro

The MacBook Pros are far better at compatibility than they were a few years ago. They can handle nearly all of the specialist software that a PC business-grade laptop can, and this makes them a strong contender as the best laptop for a business analyst. Along with better compatibility, the new Apple Silicon chips make MacBooks powerful, fast, and efficient, in fact, some of the most efficient business laptops that you can buy. MacBooks are designed for creative professionals and so provide some of the best calibre in crisp visuals and advanced displays. If you are a business analyst who does a lot of presenting of visualised data, then the MacBook Pro should definitely be in your business laptop shortlist.

“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.