Kali Linux Laptops: The Top 10 Best Laptops For Kali Linux And Pen-testing

Kali Linux is a Debian-derived Linux distribution designed for digital forensics and penetration testing. It is a successor to the popular BackTrack penetration testing Linux distribution.

Kali Linux is pre-installed with over 600 penetration-testing programs, including Armitage (a graphical cyber attack management tool), Nmap (a port scanner), Wireshark (a packet analyzer), John the Ripper (a password cracker), Aircrack-ng (a software suite for penetration-testing wireless LANs), Burp suite (an integrated platform for performing security testing of web applications), and many others.

When it comes to Kali Linux and pen-testing, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you’ll want a laptop that can handle the demands of running Kali Linux. This means you’ll need a powerful processor and plenty of RAM.

You’ll also want a laptop with good battery life, as you’ll likely be running Kali Linux for long periods of time. And finally, you’ll want a laptop with a good quality display, as you’ll be doing a lot of work in Kali Linux’s command-line interface.

Kali Linux can be installed on a wide variety of hardware platforms, including laptops, desktops, netbooks, ARM devices, and virtual machines. In this article, we will focus on the best laptops for Kali Linux and pen-testing.

Moreover, it is also used for highly-secured things on the internet. We hope you may know that you can run Kali Linux through the dual boot or using virtualization software such as Virtualbox or VMware.

Now it’s up to you which method you choose to run kali Linux. As it is a powerful operating system and for that, you must need an ultimate pen-testing laptop that is capable enough for running it without any lag issues.

Also, read our latest guide about Best Laptops For Revit

Best Laptop For Kali Linux & Pentesting in 2021

So, if you’re looking for the ultimate pentesting laptop, then you’re going to love this post. Because in this post, we’ve reviewed one of the best laptops for cybersecurity students, including their features, performance, user reviews, pros, and cons.

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS
LAPTOP FOR A CYBERSECURITY COURSE	ASUS Vivobook k571	ASUS Vivobook k571	Intel Core i7 processor NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphic cards 16GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB Extremely thin	Check On Amazon
CHEAPEST LAPTOP FOR HACKING	2020 ASUS Vivobook 15	2020 ASUS Vivobook 15	7th Gen Intel Core i7 processor Windows 10 operating system 256 SSD and 1TB hard drive	Check On Amazon
BEST LAPTOP FOR PEN-TESTING 2020	New Alienware 17 R5	New Alienware 17 R5	Intel Core i9 processor 17.3-inch QHD display Windows 10 operating system Processor Count 6	Check On Amazon
BEST LAPTOP FOR KALI LINUX	Alienware AW17R4	Alienware AW17R4	7th generation Memory Speed 2400 MHz Processor Count 4 Operating System Windows 1	Check On Amazon
BEST LAPTOP FOR RUNNING KALI LINUX	Dell Vostro	Dell Vostro	10th generation Intel Core i7 processor Graphics Card Ram Size 2 GB Hard Drive Rotational Speed 5400 RPM	Check On Amazon

1- ASUS Vivobook k571

 

As well know that ASUS is a very well-known computer manufacturing company that offers one of the best laptops for Kali Linux to its loyal customers. So, if you’re a travel blogger, then this ASUS Vivobook K571 is a perfect choice for you.

It has wrapped with all the latest and powerful sets of specifications in just a 0.9-inch thin profile which weighs just 4.7 pounds. Moreover, the outer body of this refurbished Linux laptop finished in a star black with a silver ASUS logo on the lid gives it a premium look. We highly recommend this best laptop for cybersecurity students.

2- 2020 ASUS Vivobook 15 

 

Here is another amazing laptop for Kali Linux from the house of ASUS. It is powered by the 7^th Gen Intel Core i7 Quad-Core processor for great computing and speed. With this powerful processor, you’ll perform most of the tasks quickly and efficiently.

Moreover, it is highly durable and lightweight. We highly recommend this best & cheapest laptop for hacking.

3- New Alienware 17 R5 

 

Alienware is an American company. Their products are designed for gaming and can be identified by their Alien themed design.

This New Alienware 17 is one of the best laptops for Kali Linux ever. Moreover, this model not only has a muscular build and but also offers ample storage options.

4- Alienware AW17R4 

 

Here is another great product from the house of Alienware. It is probably one of the best laptops for Kali Linux in almost every situation of its specifications & features.

It is powered by the 7^th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, which is one of the best options in this category. Moreover, it also gives an incredible speed and performance to the system and the applications you’re using.

5- Dell Vostro 

 

When it comes to offering immense value to the customers, Dell knows best. From low-end models to high-end laptops, Dell makes sure that the value users deserved isn’t compromised in any way. This is certainly true with this Dell Vostro.

This laptop covers all the essentials aspects, including performance, features, build quality, and portability.

Acer Predator Helios 300

If you’re a professional enthusiast and looking for a high-end laptop for handling demanding tasks, then this Acer Predator Helios 300 is an ideal option to consider. It features a fully rugged, compact, and lightweight design, which makes it the top-notch choice of many customers.

Generation: This laptop is powered by the latest 8^th Gen Intel Core i7-8750H 6-Core processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.1GHz. Besides, it is also powered NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card with 6GB GDDR5 graphic memory.

Performance: When it comes to performance, this laptop is equipped with 16GB DDR4 RAM, which allows you to open several chrome tabs, folders, and applications at once. While the 256GB SSD for storing a large amount of data quickly & efficiently. What’s more, it comes with an ergonomic keyboard for a comfortable typing experience. Not just this, it also comes with several USB ports, including 2 USB 2.0 ports and 2 USB 3.0 ports.

Features: The laptop features a large 15.6-inch FHD WLED IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate. Additionally, it also features a rechargeable battery which provides up to 7-hours of runtime on a single charge. Furthermore, it has 3D fan cooling, which keeps your system cool while enhancing the overall performance of the system.

User reviews: This model contains a 69% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.3 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is perfect for kali Linux, Solidworks, and gaming.

Pros:

• Compact & lightweight
• FHD display
• High build quality
• Backlit keyboard
• Worth money

Cons:

• Battery life

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New Apple Macbook Pro

As we all know, Apple is a trendy brand that offers one of the best laptops, smartphones, and smartwatches. This laptop features an extremely slim, lightweight, and good-looking design for maximum durability and performance. Moreover, it is available in different colors for added versatility.

Generation: It is powered by Apple’s special M1 chip, which makes this laptop extremely fast and powerful. Its 8-Core processor rips through complex workflows & heavy workloads with up to 2.8x faster-processing performance.

Performance: This Macbook will surely deliver an excellent performance as it is equipped with 8GB of unified memory, so everything you perform on this laptop is fast and quick. While the 256GB SSD is more than enough for storing huge files and high-quality images & videos. What’s more, it has a FaceTime HD camera with an advanced image signal processor for clearer and sharper video calls.

Features: This laptop features a 13.3-inches Retina Display with 500 nits of brightness for vibrant colors and excellent image details. Additionally, it also features a rechargeable battery which provides up to 17-hours of runtime on a single charge. Furthermore, it also has Touch Bar and Touch ID for added protection.

User reviews: This model contains an 89% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.8 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is perfect for photo & video editing and Kali Linux.

Pros:

• Slim & lightweight
• Screen quality
• Innovative cooling system
• Battery life
• Value for money

Cons:

• None

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MSI GV62

MSI is also a trendy brand that offers one of the best gaming laptops and gaming motherboards to its loyal customers. And this MSI GV62 is one of them. This laptop is made up of premium-quality materials for maximum durability and performance. Moreover, it comes with pre-installed Windows 10 for maximum versatility.

Generation: This laptop is powered by an Intel Core i5-8300H processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.0GHz. Besides, it is also powered by an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050Ti graphics card with 4GB GDDR5 graphic memory.

Performance: This machine is equipped with 8GB DDR4 RAM for better speed and an advanced multitasking experience. While the 256GB NVMe SSD provides you fast data transfer speed. What’s more, it has a full-size Red RGB backlit keyboard for comfortable typing. When it comes to cooling, it has 2 fans, 2 exhausts, and 6 copper heat pipes for an innovative cooling system.

Features: This laptop features a 15.6-inches FHD eDP IPS-level display for a high-quality viewing experience. Not only this, it also features a rechargeable battery, built-in HD webcam, and digital microphone for enhanced performance. In terms of connectivity, this device comes with 1 USB 2.0 port and 3 USB 3.0 ports.

User reviews: This model contains a 56% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 3.8 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is perfect for heavy-duty applications and intensive gaming.

Pros:

• Highly-durable
• FHD IPS display
• RGB keyboard
• Innovative cooling system

Cons:

• Battery life

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DELL G5 15

If you’re looking for a high-quality, durable, powerful, and affordable laptop from a popular brand, then this Dell G5 15 would be perfect for you. It is available for under $1200 and packed all the necessary features that you expect from a high-end laptop. Moreover, this machine comes with pre-installed Windows 10 Home, which is the most versatile version of Windows.

Generation: This model is powered by the latest 9^th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H 6-Core processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.5GHz. Besides, it is also loaded with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card with 4GB GDDR5 graphic memory.

Performance: This best budget laptop for gaming will surely deliver an excellent performance as it is equipped with 16GB DDR4 RAM. This high-bandwidth RAM will smoothly run heavy applications and high-end games at once. It is also equipped with 256GB SSD and 1TB SATA to fulfill your storage needs. What’s more, it comes with a full-size ergonomic keyboard for comfortable typing. For extensive connectivity, it comes with 1 USB 2.0 port and 3 USB 3.0 ports.

Features: This gaming laptop features 15.6-inch FHD anti-glare LED-backlit non-touch narrow border IPS display for high-definition images & videos. Additionally, it also features a rechargeable battery which provides up to 7-hours and 33-min runtime on a single charge. Furthermore, it is also equipped with an innovative cooling system, which keeps your system cool while enhancing the overall performance of the system.

User reviews: This model contains a 73% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.5 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is ideal to use for both working and gaming.

Pros:

• Durable & lightweight
• FHD display
• Battery life
• Doesn’t overheat
• Value for money

Cons:

• We didn’t find any cons yet!

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OEM Lenovo Thinkpad X1 Extreme

If you’re ready to invest in a high-end laptop without worrying about the price point, then this OEM Lenovo is perfect for you. This Lenovo laptop features an extremely thin, lightweight, and eye-catching design for maximum portability and performance. Moreover, one of the best things about this laptop is that it comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty for customer’s peace of mind.

Generation: This machine is powered by an Intel Hexa Core i7-10750H processor with a maximum clocking speed of 5.0GHz. Besides, it is also loaded with NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics card with 4GB graphic memory for high-quality graphic visuals.

Performance: This model is equipped with 16GB DDR4 RAM for maximum speed and advanced multitasking experience. While the 256GB NVMe SSD is there for fast data transfer. What’s more, it comes with a 6-row spill-resistant backlit keyboard with a keypad for comfortable typing. Not just this, it also comes with several USB ports, including 2x USB 3.2 Gen1, 2x USB Type-C 3.2 Gen2, HDMI 2.0, SD card reader, and slim Tip AC Adapter.

Features: This machine features a 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with a maximum resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. Additionally, it also features an integrated Li-Polymer 80WHr, 702p HD webcam with ThinkShutter camera privacy for video calling. Furthermore, this laptop features Dolby Atmos sound system with 3-magnet speakers for a high-quality listening experience.

User reviews: This model contains a 72% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.4 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is ideal for home and office use.

Pros:

• Durable & lightweight
• FHD display
• Battery life
• 1-year warranty
• Fingerprint reader

Cons:

• Expensive

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ASUS ROG Zephyrus 15

If you’re a budget user and looking for a high-quality, powerful, and yet affordable laptop from a trendy brand, then this ASUS ROG Zephyrus 15 is perfect for you. As it comes with pre-installed Windows 10 Home, Wi-Fi 6,  and Bluetooth 5.0 for next-generation connectivity. Moreover, it also comes with a Delca 32GB Micro SD card.

Generation: This laptop is powered by the latest 2^nd Gen AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.0GHz. Besides, it is also loaded with NMDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Graphics card.

Performance: In terms of performance, this model is equipped with 8GB DDR4 SDRAM for better speed and enhanced multitasking experience. While the 512GB SSD is more than enough for storing huge files and heavy applications. What’s more, it has a full-size ergonomic backlit keyboard for comfortable typing. For extensive connectivity, it has 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 ports, 3x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports, and 1x HDMI port.

Features: This model features a 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate for a high-quality viewing experience. Additionally, it also features a rechargeable battery and high-quality audio speakers for amazing performance.

User reviews: This model contains an 80% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is perfect for gaming, office, and programming.

Pros:

• Good-looking
• Affordable price
• Backlit keyboard
• FHD IPS display
• Value for money

Cons:

• None

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Newest ASUS ROG Zephyrus G

Here is another extremely thin, lightweight, durable, and affordable laptop from the house of ASUS. This laptop features an appealing to eyes design which makes it a top-notch choice of many consumers. Moreover, it also comes with a pre-installed Windows 10 operating system, Bluetooth 4.2, and 802_11_AC for added performance.

Generation: This best budget gaming laptop is powered by the 2^nd Gen AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.0GHz. Besides, it is also powered by an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660Ti Graphics card for high-quality graphics visuals.

Performance: It is equipped with 16GB DDR4 SDRAM, which allows you to perform multiple tasks at once without any lagging. While the 512GB PCle NVMe SSD provides you ample of storage for storing your important data. What’s more, the RGB backlit keyboard offers you a comfortable typing experience throughout the day. In terms of connectivity, it comes with 1x USB 3.1 Gen1 Type-C ports, 3x USB 3.1 Type-A ports, and 1x HDMI port.

Features: The laptop features a 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Additionally, it also features a 4-cell lithium-ion battery which provides up to 7-hours of runtime on a single charge. Furthermore, it also has a built-in HD webcam and stereo speakers for high-quality audio.

User reviews: This model contains a 100% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 5.0 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is business, gaming, professional working.

Pros:

• Slim & lightweight
• Affordable price
• RGB backlit keyboard
• Long-lasting battery life
• HD webcam & Stereo speakers

Cons:

• None

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2021 ASUS TUF

If you’re looking for an affordable laptop for both home and office use, then this ASUS TUF would be an excellent option to consider. This best laptop under $1000 is made up of high-quality materials for maximum durability and performance. Moreover, it comes with pre-installed Windows 10 Home, Wi-Fi 802.11AX, and Bluetooth for next-generation connectivity.

Generation: This laptop is powered by the latest 10^th Gen Intel Core i5-10300H processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.5GHz. Besides, it is also powered by an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650Ti graphics card with 4GB GDDR6 graphic memory.

Performance: It is equipped with 16GB high-bandwidth substantial RAM that will smoothly run high-end games and heavy applications at once. Additionally, the hard drive of this model is upgraded to a 1TB PCle SSD that allows you fast boot-up and data transfer. What’s more, it has a fully ergonomic RGB backlit keyboard. For extensive connectivity, it has 2x USB 3.2 Type-A ports, 1x USB 3.2 Type-C ports, 1x USB 2.0, and 1x HDMI port.

Features: The machine features 15.6-inch FHD LED-backlit non-touch display with a 60Hz refresh rate. So that you can enjoy your movies, photos, and games with a crisp quality. Furthermore, it also features a 48WHr 3-cell lithium-ion battery, HD webcam, stereo speakers, and built-in digital microphones for video calling.

User reviews: This model contains a 69% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.4 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is perfect for Kali Linux and pen-testing.

Pros:

• Durable & compact
• Affordable price
• FHD display
• RGB backlit keyboard
• Multiple USB ports

Cons:

• We didn’t find any cons yet!

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Acer Nitro 5

If you love playing games when you have finished your office work or any other project and looking for an affordable laptop for both gaming and working, then this Acer Nitro 5 is perfect for you.

Moreover, one of the great thing about this laptop is that it is Amazon’s recommended laptop which means you won’t have to worry about the quality, performance, and price point. Because Amazon only recommends high-quality and well-priced laptops.

Generation: This gaming laptop is powered by the latest 10^th Gen Intel Core i5-10300H processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.5GHz. It is also equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650Ti graphics card with 4GB dedicated GDDR6 graphic memory.

Performance: This cheap laptop gaming is equipped with 8GB DDR4 RAM for maximum speed and advanced multitasking experience. While the 256GB NVMe SSD is there for storing huge files, applications, and games. Additionally, it has a fully ergonomic Red RGB backlit keyboard for added performance. And also comes with several USB ports for extensive connectivity.

Features: The laptop features 15.6-inch FHD widescreen IPS LED-backlit display with a 144Hz refresh rate. Additionally, it also features Acer CoolBoost technology with Twin Fans and Quad Exhaust ports for design for maximum performance. Furthermore, it has a rechargeable battery which provides up to 9-hours of runtime on a single charge.

User reviews: This model contains a 78% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.6 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is perfect for gaming, browsing, and working.

Pros:

• Compact & durable
• Low price
• FHD display
• Long-lasting battery life
• RGB backlit keyboard

Cons:

• Brightness

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HP OMEN X 2S

Lastly, we have another high-quality, slim, and powerful laptop for Kali Linux. This laptop comes with an Omen command center that easily turns up your performance with built-in software that enables full control over your CPU overclocking settings and prioritizes your gaming traffic to minimize latency. Moreover, you can play the latest games, including PUBG, Fortnite, and many more.

Generation: This laptop is powered by the latest 9^th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H processor with a maximum clocking speed of up to 4.5GHz. Besides, it is also loaded with NVIDIA RTX 2080 graphics card for an amazing gaming experience.

Performance: It is equipped with 16GB DDR4 RAM with 2 upgradable memory slots. So, you can experience maximum and advanced multitasking. While the 1TB PCle NVMe SSD allows you fast bootup and data transfer. What’s more, it also has a full ergonomic backlit keyboard for comfortable typing. Not only this, it comes with 3 USB 3.1 Type-A ports, 1 HDMI, and 1 USB 3.1 Gen2 Type-C ports for maximum connectivity.

Features: The laptop features 15.6-inch 4k IPS anti-glare micro-edge WLED backlit multi-touch edge-to-edge display with a 60Hz refresh rate. Additionally, it also features a rechargeable battery which provides up to 2-hours of runtime with video playback and 2-hours with wireless streaming. Furthermore, one of the best features is that it comes with a 1-year limited manufacturer’s warranty for customer’s peace of mind.

User reviews: This model contains a 59% 5-star rating from its customers.

Overall rating: 4.1 out of 5.0

Best use: This laptop is ideal for professional gamers.

Pros:

• Slim & lightweight
• Touch screen display
• Backlit keyboard
• 1-year warranty

Cons:

• Battery life
• Expensive

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Conclusion:

We think that ASUS Vivobook K571 is the best laptop for Kali Linux and pen-testing as it is equipped with the Intel Core i7 processor for great speed and computing. It also has a thin and lightweight design making it ideal for carrying anywhere.

Second, we’ve 2020 ASUS Vivobook; this laptop is also equipped with the Intel Core i7 processor and offers a Full HD display for high-quality pictures and videos.

Last but the least, we’ve Alienware R5; this laptop has a powerful Intel Core i9 processor for a superior gaming experience. It also has NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 for flawless graphics.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Laptop For Kali Linux and Pen-testing

Which is the best laptop for Kali Linux?

• ASUS Vivobook K571
• 2020 ASUS Vivobook 15
• New Alienware R5
• Alienware R4
• Dell Vostro

How much is required to run Kali Linux?

1GB RAM and 20GB hard drive is the minimum requirement for Kali Linux. However, if you want to run it smoothly, then get at least 2GB of RAM.

Why hackers use Kali Linux?

It is used by hackers because it is a free OS and has over 600 tools for penetration testing and security analyzes. Moreover, kali has multi-language support that allows the user to operate in their native language.

And it is completely customizable according to their comfort all the way down the kernel.