Ask HN: Smallest laptop that is decent for coding?

Post by theluketaylor » Tue, Mar 24, 2020, 1:43 PM UTC

drej wrote: post #26

MacOS: check out the latest MacBook Air 13", the one just released - it has a new keyboard, better base disk configuration and it's cheaper than before. Windows: Dell XPS 13 has been the go-to laptop for years, they keep refreshing it, so make sure to get at least the 2019 model (which has a camera on the top of the screen, not the bottom), or ideally the 2020 model, which features a new keyboard and even smaller bez…

Post by sixothree » Tue, Mar 24, 2020, 1:51 PM UTC

qpiox wrote: post #111

undecisive wrote: post #104

Earlier quoted context omitted.

As someone who has bought a OneMix 2s specifically for coding, I'd recommend against it - there are difficulties using it for typing, much less programming. I use it in an emergency for SSH'ing onto a server to fix something, or debug a live issue, as it fits in an inside coat pocket and I can set up an encrypted linux partition on it (with some difficulty, but it is doable) but unless you have excellent eyes and tin…

I do not recommend extensive work (full-time job) on such a small device. In fact I do not recommend doing a full-time job on anything smaller than 14". One can really ruin the finger joints, risk RSI even more on smaller keyboards, ruin the neck, ruin the spine and really ruin the eyes even at 11". In fact you need a proper chair and proper desk and proper keyboard and proper monitor at eye level, to do a full-time…

Post by andrey_utkin » Tue, Mar 24, 2020, 2:23 PM UTC

khafra wrote: post #110

qpiox wrote: post #57

Nearly all comments are completely missing the most important point in the OP question: "The small form factor is important so I can keep it with me like you would keep a physical paper notebook with you". When one says a physical paper notebook, it means something that is small and portable and you can put it in your pocket or a small bag, not a 13" laptop that weighs 2 kilos that you need a special and when you ope…

I wonder what the best compact wearable display + chording keyboard combination for coding is.

Post by leetcrew » Tue, Mar 24, 2020, 2:39 PM UTC

tbrock wrote: post #131

flanbiscuit wrote: post #122

Earlier quoted context omitted.

I am currently typing this on my mid-2013 11" Macbook Air and it's still going strong. It's too bad that Apple is not making anymore 11" laptops anymore because I think it's exactly what OP wants. I had the same exact criteria when looking for a laptop and I work with similar technologies, but I've also done Android/Kotlin (using Android Studio) and C#/.NET (using full Visual Studio) with this laptop without any prob…

Dell makes garbage compared to Lenovo. Why not get an x390/x13 with that delicious keyboard?

Post by generalpass » Tue, Mar 24, 2020, 2:46 PM UTC