In the same way that gaming communities invest in various accessories to enjoy their preferred form of entertainment in the best way possible, traders also have to acquire the right hardware needed in order to be as effective as possible at navigating the markets. In fact, if a trader has a shoddy workstation, then their chances of success lessen dramatically.
Traders, of course, will also need specialist software to conduct their business. Leading online trading platforms like MetaTrader 4 and MetaTrader 5 will help them execute their trades and strategies, as will data from leading platforms like Bloomberg and Trading View. Yet, hardware should not be overlooked either, particularly given the advantage a slick setup can provide. With a solid trading haven, an ambitious trader can have immediate access to an array of useful information while also having the efficiency required to conduct various trades. Investing in the right devices is, therefore, a necessity.
The main devices traders require
When it comes to trading hardware, professionals in this arena typically have three devices at their disposal: a desktop computer, a laptop, and a smartphone. While a desktop computer is ideal for office-based work, the portable nature of trading in the modern environment means that snapping up a suitable smartphone and a powerful laptop are also vital tools for any trader to have. The more devices a trader has in their arsenal, the more technical analysis they can conduct.
Additionally, many traders look to run dual monitors as they enable them to have more information at their fingertips, thus making their lives a great deal easier. Dual monitors essentially contribute to a trader’s overall efficiency, with the enhanced technology-based products of today helping immensely.
One minute, a trader can use a particular screen to read up on the latest news from the finance world before turning their attention to another screen that showcases the fluctuating markets. So many modern-day traders create this setup, all with the aim of shining in what is a highly competitive area.
A desktop is the first piece of equipment you’ll need
If you’re keen to become a professional trader, then a desktop is the main option you’ll need to start with. As mentioned, although purchasing a smartphone and a laptop can assist you here, they tend not to contain too many features on trading software. As such, while you’ll need to buy a smartphone and a laptop eventually, starting off with a computer specifically for trading is a good place to begin. Thankfully, for aspiring traders, there are some trusted desktop computers to mull over.
For starters, you need to invest in a desktop that has the required specifications to assist you with your trading efforts. Whether you’re a scalper or a swing trader, a stock trading computer needs to offer a reliable CPU, such as Intel, at least 32GB RAM, a Solid State Drive or SSD for storage, suitable graphics cards from the likes of NVIDIA and AMD, and impressive cooling systems and fans given the long hours traders typically work.
The leading options include the likes of the Lenovo AIO IdeaCentre 5i 24 Desktop, the DELL XPS Desktop, the Dell Optiplex, and the Acer Aspire TC 1760. These trusted machines are ideal for multi-tasking; they boast impressive speed and reliability, while they also look the part and are capable of lasting for a long time, given the reputation of these respected brands.
A monitor or two is next on the list
Once you’ve decided on the very best desktop for you, then it’s important to add a monitor or two so you can keep tabs on the ever-changing financial landscape. Dual monitors are particularly important for day traders. It doesn’t need to cost an arm and leg here, either. It’s certainly worth splashing the cash if you have it, though, largely because every second counts when it comes to trading, and having clear information can really make or break your trades.
For many traders, the best monitors include the likes of the Samsung Odyssey OLED G9, the Gigabyte AORUS FO48U 48″ 4K OLED Gaming Monitor, the Alienware AW3423DW Curved Gaming Monitor, and the LG 45″ UltraGear 45GR95QE-B OLED WQHD Curved Gaming Monitor.
The leading laptops traders trust
A laptop is the next piece of hardware that traders typically require. You can even make the most of dual monitor capabilities on your laptop and connect a monitor to give you the two screens that traders employ. This can be achieved by visiting display settings and by setting your new monitor as the second monitor. First, though, you’ll obviously need to snap up a laptop that can meet your needs. Laptops in this area ideally have powerful processors, 32GB RAM or higher, an SSD card of 512GB, a strong graphics card, a high-resolution display, excellent battery life, and as many ports as possible.
The best laptops for the job includes the likes of the Dell XPS 15, the Acer Nitro 5, the Apple MacBook Pro 16in, the Asus ZenBook Pro Duo 15 UX582, and the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Mobile Workstation.
The smartphones traders use in 2024
With traders everywhere requiring a smartphone device to conduct various aspects of their trades, investing in a suitable smartphone device should be next on the agenda. Here, you’ll want a phone with an efficient processor, at least 6GB of RAM, a minimum internal storage capacity of 64 GB SSD, and excellent all-round display, either with AMOLED or OLED display. Additionally, a beastly battery is required, given the demands of the job.
In terms of smartphones that fit the bill, there are plenty of viable options given the sophisticated devices of today. For example, the iPhone 15 is a phone traders trust, while on Android the Samsung Galaxy S23 is a superb option. Other smartphones to look at includes the OnePlus11, the Samsung Galaxy A14, and the Note Ultra Galaxy Z Flip.
