Businesses planning their next laptop upgrade face an expensive question: Are AI-powered PCs worth the additional investment, or are companies paying more for features their employees may never use?
As organizations prepare their 2027 hardware budgets, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, and ASUS are offering laptops with dedicated AI processors, enhanced security, and productivity features. But the growing selection of AI PCs makes choosing the right device increasingly complicated.
For IT buyers, MSPs, and channel partners, the challenge is identifying laptops that deliver measurable business value without unnecessarily increasing hardware costs.
- Best AI laptops for business in 2027: At a glance
- How we chose the best AI laptops for business
- 1. Dell Pro 14 Premium: Best for enterprise deployments
- 2. HP EliteBook X G1i: Best for security-conscious businesses
- 3. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition: Best for mobile professionals
- 4. Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business, 8th Edition: Best for Microsoft-centric workplaces
- 5. ASUS ExpertBook P5: Best for small businesses
- What should businesses look for in an AI laptop?
- What AI laptops mean for MSPs and channel partners
- The bottom line: Choose business value over AI hype
Best AI laptops for business in 2027: At a glance
These five laptops were selected based on their AI capabilities, business security features, manageability, and suitability for different workplace needs.
| Laptop | Best for | Key features |
| Dell Pro 14 Premium | Enterprise deployments | Intel Core Ultra, Intel vPro options, 14-inch display |
| HP EliteBook X G1i | Security-conscious businesses | Intel Core Ultra, HP Wolf Security, 14-inch display |
| Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition | Mobile professionals | Lightweight design, Intel Core Ultra, 14-inch display |
| Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business, 8th Edition (Intel) | Microsoft-centric workplaces | Intel Core Ultra Series 3, up to 64GB RAM, touchscreen |
| ASUS ExpertBook P5 | Small businesses | Intel Core Ultra, up to 47 NPU TOPS in listed US configurations, 14-inch display |
Specifications vary by configuration. These are existing models to consider for 2027 purchasing cycles, rather than unreleased 2027 laptops. These recommendations are based on published specifications and intended business use. They are editorial selections, not rankings established through independent benchmark testing or comprehensive price comparisons.
How we chose the best AI laptops for business
We selected these five AI laptops based on their processing capabilities, enterprise security features, device manageability, portability, and suitability for different business needs.
We reviewed manufacturer specifications, including processor options, dedicated neural processing units (NPUs), memory configurations, and available security technologies. We also considered how each laptop could serve businesses of different sizes and what value it could offer MSPs and channel partners managing customer hardware deployments.
Our recommendations are based on published specifications and practical business use cases rather than independent hands-on testing or comprehensive pricing comparisons.
Because configurations vary, buyers should verify the exact features, pricing, and availability before purchasing.
1. Dell Pro 14 Premium: Best for enterprise deployments
The Dell Pro 14 Premium is designed for organizations that need AI performance alongside enterprise security and centralized management.
According to Dell’s product specifications, available configurations offer Intel Core Ultra processors, Intel vPro options, and business-focused support services.
Key advantages:
- Dedicated AI acceleration for supported workloads.
- Enterprise management and security options.
- Portable 14-inch design.
- Commercial warranty and support services.
The laptop’s biggest strength is its suitability for standardized deployments. Businesses replacing hundreds of devices need consistent configurations, reliable support, and predictable maintenance.
Businesses should verify the exact processor, NPU capabilities, and Intel vPro management status before purchasing. Dell offers configurations with vPro-capable processors in which vPro management is disabled, making it important to confirm which features are included in each system.
Best for: Medium and large businesses prioritizing centralized IT management.
Channel Insider previously compared Dell’s XPS 16 Creator Edition with Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Ultra, examining pricing, specifications, and enterprise purchasing considerations.
2. HP EliteBook X G1i: Best for security-conscious businesses
AI performance matters, but businesses handling sensitive information may prioritize security over processing power.
The HP EliteBook X G1i combines Intel Core Ultra processors with HP’s commercial security and management capabilities.
According to HP’s product documentation, the EliteBook X G1i is available with a 14-inch display, Intel Core Ultra processor options, and business security features.
Key advantages:
- HP Wolf Security technologies.
- Dedicated NPU acceleration.
- Enterprise security and management options.
- Portable business-focused design.
Organizations in healthcare, finance, and other regulated industries should examine the device’s firmware protection, encryption, and recovery capabilities when evaluating it.
Businesses should select their processor and memory configurations carefully. The EliteBook X G1i is available with 16GB and 32GB of onboard memory, and its memory cannot be upgraded after purchase. Buyers should verify the processor and RAM included in their selected model, particularly when planning deployments for demanding applications.
HP Wolf Security capabilities vary by product and configuration, and some services require additional licensing. Businesses should compare the specific security features and support terms included with their selected model.
Best for: Businesses prioritizing endpoint security and the protection of sensitive data.
3. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition: Best for mobile professionals
For employees who frequently travel, portability can matter just as much as performance.
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 Aura Edition combines a lightweight design with Intel Core Ultra processors and business-oriented features.
However, not every configuration delivers the same AI performance.
According to Lenovo’s official specifications, configurations with the Intel Core Ultra 7 258V offer up to 47 NPU TOPS and qualify as Copilot+ PCs. Other configurations, including the Core Ultra 7 255U, deliver approximately 12 NPU TOPS.
Key advantages:
- Lightweight 14-inch design.
- Intel Core Ultra processor options.
- Available Copilot+ PC configurations.
- Business security and connectivity features.
Buyers should verify the exact processor before purchasing, particularly if they require specific Windows AI capabilities.
The ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 13 uses soldered, non-upgradeable memory, so businesses should select the appropriate RAM capacity when purchasing.
Best for: Executives, consultants, and employees who frequently work outside the office.
4. Microsoft Surface Laptop for Business, 8th Edition: Best for Microsoft-centric workplaces
Businesses already using Microsoft 365, Windows 11, and Microsoft Intune may find the Intel-based Surface Laptop for Business, 8th Edition particularly appealing.
The laptop features Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors, dedicated NPUs, and Copilot+ PC capabilities. Buyers should distinguish these configurations from Snapdragon-powered Surface laptops, which use different processors and AI hardware.
According to Microsoft’s technical documentation, configurations include 13.8-inch and 15-inch touchscreens, up to 64GB of memory, and removable SSD options.
Key advantages:
- Intel Core Ultra Series 3 processors delivering up to 47 NPU TOPS with Core Ultra 5 or up to 50 NPU TOPS with Core Ultra 7 and Ultra X7.
- Windows 11 Pro and Microsoft management integration.
- Touchscreen and removable SSD options.
- Up to 64GB of memory in supported configurations.
The 8th Edition offers a more current hardware platform than the previous generation, making it a strong candidate for businesses planning 2027 deployments.
One important consideration is licensing. Purchasing a Copilot+ PC does not automatically include every paid Microsoft 365 Copilot feature.
Best for: Businesses heavily invested in Microsoft’s software and management ecosystem.
For buyers considering a different class of AI hardware, Channel Insider has also covered Microsoft’s Surface Laptop Ultra preorders, including its focus on more demanding local AI workloads.
5. ASUS ExpertBook P5: Best for small businesses
Small businesses may want AI capabilities without committing to the most expensive enterprise hardware.
The ASUS ExpertBook P5 offers Intel Core Ultra processors, business security features, and a portable design.
According to ASUS’s US specifications, listed configurations include Intel Core Ultra processors delivering up to 47 NPU TOPS, depending on the processor. The laptop also offers up to 32GB of memory and a 14-inch display.
The Core Ultra 7 258V configuration provides up to 47 NPU TOPS, while the Core Ultra 5 226V provides up to 40 NPU TOPS.
Key advantages:
- Dedicated AI acceleration.
- Up to 32GB of memory.
- ASUS AI ExpertMeet features.
- Portable 14-inch design.
The ExpertBook P5 could appeal to smaller organizations focused on collaboration and productivity.
However, buyers should compare warranty coverage, support services, and device management capabilities with competing enterprise models.
Best for: Small businesses, consultants, and mobile teams.
What should businesses look for in an AI laptop?
An AI laptop’s branding doesn’t guarantee better performance in everyday business applications.
Before purchasing, organizations should consider four factors:
- AI processing: A dedicated NPU can accelerate supported local AI workloads, but higher TOPS figures don’t automatically translate into better performance across every application.
- Memory: 16GB RAM is a practical starting point for many employees, while 32GB provides additional flexibility for demanding workloads.
- Security: Hardware protection, encryption, remote management, and firmware updates are particularly important for enterprise deployments.
- Total cost: Businesses should consider warranties, software subscriptions, deployment, and ongoing support in addition to the purchase price.
Organizations should also determine whether employees actually need local AI processing.
Many popular AI services perform their processing in the cloud, meaning a more expensive AI laptop may offer limited benefits for those workloads.
A small pilot program can help businesses evaluate whether premium AI hardware delivers meaningful productivity improvements.
What AI laptops mean for MSPs and channel partners
The AI PC market creates opportunities for managed service providers, resellers, and IT consultants. However, the biggest opportunity may extend beyond selling more expensive laptops.
As Channel Insider previously explored in its coverage of AI PCs and hardware refresh cycles, partners can help customers navigate changing hardware requirements and purchasing decisions.
Turn hardware upgrades into consulting opportunities
Many customers may struggle to determine which employees need AI-capable devices.
Partners can offer assessments that identify suitable workloads, evaluate existing hardware, and determine whether an upgrade makes financial sense. Rather than recommending premium AI laptops across an entire organization, MSPs could segment employees by their actual requirements.
For example, developers and creative professionals may need more powerful configurations, while employees using primarily cloud-based productivity tools may not.
Build recurring revenue beyond hardware sales
Partners can also package AI laptop deployments with ongoing services.
| Service | Revenue opportunity |
| AI readiness assessments | Consulting fees |
| Hardware procurement | Resale and procurement revenue |
| Deployment and configuration | Implementation fees |
| Endpoint security and management | Recurring managed services |
| AI software training | Training and support services |
| Device lifecycle management | Ongoing support contracts |
These services can help partners generate revenue throughout a device’s lifecycle rather than relying solely on the initial sale.
Protect margins by focusing on business outcomes
Premium AI laptops may carry higher prices, but that doesn’t necessarily guarantee better margins for resellers.
Partners should focus on helping customers achieve measurable improvements, including reduced downtime, stronger security, and more efficient device management.
Before recommending large deployments, MSPs should consider testing devices with different employee groups. A pilot can reveal whether employees actually use AI-specific features and whether those capabilities justify additional spending.
For example, a business replacing 500 laptops could face substantial unnecessary costs if it purchases premium AI configurations for employees whose workloads don’t benefit from them.
Partners that help customers avoid those expenses may strengthen relationships and create opportunities for additional managed services.
The bottom line: Choose business value over AI hype
Dell, HP, Lenovo, Microsoft, and ASUS offer compelling AI laptops, but the right choice depends on each organization’s applications, security requirements, and budget.
Businesses should prioritize practical performance, manageability, and long-term costs rather than assuming the newest AI features will automatically improve productivity.
For channel partners, the opportunity is even broader.
Customers preparing for 2027 need help determining which devices are worth buying, which employees need them, and how to deploy them efficiently.
The partners that can answer those questions with evidence will be better positioned to turn AI PC interest into long-term customer relationships and recurring revenue.
Related reading: For businesses weighing whether to replace existing PCs, Channel Insider also examines Microsoft’s latest Windows 11 performance improvements and what they could mean for MSPs making hardware upgrade recommendations.