Dell's announcement to buy storage giant EMC for $67 billion solidifies the largest deal in the history of the IT business, creating a channel behemoth set to dominate the enterprise IT market. The landmark deal transforms the onetime PC maker, created in Dell founder and CEO Michael Dell's dorm room, into a $90 billion computing force. The deal will enable Dell, the No. 2 server maker, to leverage EMC's dominance in the storage market, setting up the Round Rock, Texas-based company to take on rivals Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Cisco and Oracle as well as upstarts such as Nutanix.
The deal, in which Dell will offer EMC shareholders $33.15 per share, includes EMC subsidiary VMware as a tracking stock that amounts to about $9 per share. Partners are calling the EMC acquisition by Dell a "dream deal," with the belief that it will energize sales for partners, up data center IQs and boost bottom lines.
CRN is covering the deal from all sides. Check here for the latest news surrounding this blockbuster, as well as analysis and exclusive takes from Dell and EMC's biggest competitors.
News & Analysis
- Dell Promises 'Seamless' Deal Registration For Partners On First Day After EMC Merger
- 5 Cultural Questions EMC Employees Are Asking About Life At Dell
- Dell Channel Chief On Taking Share From HP And The Plan To Unify The Dell And EMC Partner Programs
- Dell's Cheryl Cook: Still No Decision On Dell-EMC Channel Leadership
- EMC Puts Moratorium On Solution Providers' Switching Distributors Amid Pre-Merger 'Crazy Behavior'
- EMC Shareholder Vote On Dell Deal Set For July 19
- Resurgent VMware Stock Pulls Value Of Dell's EMC Acquisition Higher
- Are Politics Delaying Chinese Antitrust Approval Of Dell-EMC Deal?
- Q&A: EMC's Jeremy Burton On Dell's EMC Buy, VCE, Cisco And NetApp
- End Of An Era: 15 Scenes From EMC World 2016
- VMware CEO Gelsinger 'Categorically' Denies He's Leaving, Says Michael Dell Wants Him To Stay
- Sources: CEO Gelsinger To Step Down After Dell-EMC Deal Closes, VMware Issues Denial
- Q&A: EMC's Chris Riley Talks Sales Strategy And Future In Face Of Looming Acquisition By Dell
- EMC VCE Chief On The Impact Of The Dell Deal, Cisco Networking And The Hyperconverged Battle With Nutanix And SimpliVity
- EMC's Ambulos: No Decision On Who Will Run Dell Technologies' Channel After Merger
- EMC Says Partner-Led Sales Are Booming, But Must Change, In Run-Up To Merger With Dell
- EMC World: Dell Technologies' Channel Program Will Look A Lot Like EMC's, Says EMC Channel Chief
- EMC Exec: Michael Dell Is Avoiding Networking 'Collision Course' With Cisco
- EMC World: David Goulden Lays Out EMC's Private, Public, Hybrid Cloud Strategy
- Michael Dell On Dell-EMC's Storage Overlap, Future Acquisitions And The Blockbuster Deal's Channel Impact
- EMC World: Michael Dell Says Dell-EMC Is Gaining Ground Against Shrinking, Less Innovative HP
- EMC World: Tucci Passes Torch To Dell
- Dell Names EMC Channel Veteran To Software Channel Post
- VMware CEO Gelsinger Sees Dell-EMC Synergies, Shares Jump On $1.2B Share Buyback
- EMC Channel Partners Holding Off On Signing Up With Dell, Risking Future Opportunities
- EMC Q1 Earnings Call: What Partners Need To Focus On
- EMC Partners Face New Competitive Threat From Dell Partners Getting Into EMC Enterprise Game
- EMC Vs. Dell Top Executive Compensation: How Do They Compare?
- Michael Dell: EMC's Elias Will Lead Services, IT After Merger
- EMC Saying Goodbye To 'Federation' Tag, Tries To Reassure Employees Ahead Of Dell Merger
- Partners: Dell's Investing In The Future; Declining Revenue, Loss Are Not Concerns
- Report: Dell Close To Deal To Sell IT Services Business To NTT Data
- Dell Working Capital Program Tops $5B, Partners Use Cash Flow To Drive Growth
- CRN Exclusive: Dell Channel Chief Cheryl Cook On Doubling Enterprise Incentives, Increasing Premier Ranks And EMC Integration
- Partners Cheer Dell's Steady Hand In EMC Exec Integration Effort
- Partners See Big Enterprise Opportunity With New EMC All-Flash VMAX And DSSD
- Report: Banks Close To Finding Investors For Dell-EMC Acquisition Debt
- Dell Warns Investors VMware Share Decline Will Impact Final EMC Deal Price
- Report: Dell Hits Financing Hiccup In Blockbuster $67B EMC Acquisition
- EMC's Howard Elias On Prospects For Winning New Customers After Dell Merger: 'Bingo!'
- Dell's Regional Sales Reorganization Allows Partners To 'Work More Closely' With The Vendor
- Team Players: 7 Things The Execs In Charge Of The Dell-EMC Integration Want Employees To Know
- CRN Exclusive: Dell Revives EMC Sales Pact
- Tucci, Dell Pin EMC Growth Hopes On Virtustream
- Michael Dell Tries To Reassure VCE Partners, Customers As Dell's EMC Acquisition Looms
- Michael Dell And Joe Tucci's Call To Arms For EMC Sales Force: 'The Opportunities Are Massive'
- Michael Dell To Keynote EMC World
- EMC SVP Tries To Convince Employees: 7 Reasons Dell Deal Makes Sense For Us
- Dell Discloses Quarterly Revenue Decline, $7.7 Billion Cash Commitment For EMC Buy
- Dell Partners Say New EMC Reseller Agreement Would Smooth Road To Acquisition
- Dell Partners: Amid EMC Deal Turmoil, We Just Need To Keep Our Eye On The Ball
- Investor Khosla Says Dell-EMC Merger Will 'Set Back Innovation'; Partners Unmoved
- 10 Things EMC Employees Want To Know About The Dell Merger
- Dell And EMC Set Up Merger Management Office To Integrate Teams
- Partners Confident Dell-EMC Deal Will Be Completed, Unfazed By Reported Tax Concerns
- Partners: Dell's Reported $10B Asset Sale Would Help Focus Company After EMC Buy
- Dell Eyes Single Channel Program After EMC Acquisition
- Tucci On Dell-EMC Deal: 'I Am Confident Deal Complexities Will Be Worked Out'
- Scenes From Dell World 2015: What Will Be After The Deal With EMC?
- CRN Exclusive: Dell's Marius Haas Gives The Inside Story Of EMC Deal And Its Impact On Cisco, VMware
- Joe Tucci: 10 Things You Need To Know About EMC, VMware, Virtustream And Dell
- Dell World Preview: Can Partners Expect Answers Around EMC Acquisition?
- Michael Dell: EMC Acquisition Sets Stage For 'Much Stronger' Relationship With Cisco
- 6 Key Takeaways For Partners In Dell's Tech Adoption Index
- CRN Exclusive: EMC's Jeremy Burton Discusses Dell Bid, Cisco Relationship, And Customer Choice
- Dell Compellent Vs. EMC VNX: History Shows Dell Can Manage Multiple Storage Platforms
- Dell's Rory Read: EMC Integration Will Be Done 6-9 Months After Acquisition Closes
- Michael Dell: Dell-EMC-VMware Is A 'Dream Combination' To Drive Growth
- EMC CEO Tucci: Dell 'Had Nothing' To Do With Planning For New Cloud Services Unit
- Forget EMC-VMware Cloud Services, Dell Teams With Microsoft On Azure-In-A-Box
- EMC's Tucci Attempts To Calm Investors As VMware Shares Plummet
- VMware Shares Fall Further, CEO Acknowledges 'Volatile' Time For Investors
- Michael Dell To Partners: EMC Acquisition Would Be Difficult Without You
- Tucci, Top EMC Execs Stand To Collect Nearly $150M When Dell Deal Is Done
- EMC Partners Rush To Dell World, Dell Foes Are Becoming Dell Friends
- Venture Capitalist Says Dell-EMC Deal Spells 'Turmoil' for Channel, Customers
- Partners Embrace Dell-EMC Deal Creating Channel Behemoth, Welcome Enterprise Push
- Done Deal: Dell Buys EMC-VMware In $67 Billion Deal, Partners See New World Enterprise Order
- Michael Dell On EMC Deal: Together We'll Be 'Even More Powerful'
- Cisco, EMC Pledge 'Complete Commitment' To VCE In Wake Of Dell Deal
- Michael Dell: EMC Acquisition Sets Stage For 'Much Stronger' Relationship With Cisco
- VMware CEO Tries To Calm Partners (And Investors), Says Dell-EMC Won't Change Channel Focus
- VMware Shares Hammered After Dell-EMC Deal Unveiled, Analyst Warns Of 'Nightmare' Scenario
- Michael Dell On EMC Deal: Together We'll Be 'Even More Powerful'
- Partners Embrace Dell-EMC Deal Creating Channel Behemoth, Welcome Enterprise Push
- Report: Dell Set To Buy EMC In $65 Billion Deal, Biggest Tech Merger Ever Will Include Go Shop Provision
- Report: Dell Will Offer $33 Per Share For EMC, Deal Could Come As Soon As Monday
- Report: Dell In Talks To Buy EMC, Partners See Potential For New Enterprise Powerhouse
- Dell Buys EMC: Top 10 Partner Takeaways
- What Will A Merged Dell-EMC Look Like?
- Bad Blood' From Storage Sales Divorce Hangs Over Dell-EMC Sales Teams
- Could Dell-EMC Deal Push Lenovo To Acquire IBM's Storage Business?
- Would A Dell-Owned VMware Throw Monkey Wrench Into Dell-Microsoft Relationship?
- How Will Dell-EMC Blockbuster Affect The Public Cloud?
- Partners Predict Big Opportunities From Dell-EMC Deal
The Competition
Power At Every Position: Dell Fills Exec Lineup With Seasoned Channel, Sales Veterans
The new Dell Technologies intends to lean heavily on EMC's channel experts. Here's a rundown of the executives leading Dell Technologies' sales and channel operations.
Dell Adds Systems Integrators To Its IoT Solutions Partner Program
Systems integrators have a 'unique vertical experience,' says a Dell IoT executive, and have expertise in manufacturing, utilities and industrial automation.
Dell EMC Launches First Midmarket-Focused VMAX Solution At Sub-$100K Price Point
The new 250F is 'VMAX for everyone,' says Dell EMC Vice President of Marketing Peter Smails, delivering enterprise capabilities to a new market of midsize customers.
Partners: Cisco And Dell EMC Will 'Inevitably' Hit VCE Architecture And Sales Crossroads
Although Cisco and Dell are playing nice around VCE for now, partners say architectural differences and sales incentives will inevitably lead to a break up.
6 Fun Facts About Dell Technologies You Might Not Know
Ahead of the first Dell EMC World, here are six fun facts about Dell Technologies, including its environmental efforts, sports sponsorships and its high profile in television and movies.
Campaign to Create Tomorrow
Learn more about The Ottawa Hospital's $500-million fundraising campaign, the largest in our city’s history, which will transform the future of healthcare in Ottawa.
The Best Dell Laptop Deals This Week*
*Deals are selected by our commerce team
If you're shopping for a laptop, you have torrent of options to choose among, be it a thin mobile companion or a hefty, rugged notebook, with a vast range of options in between. Where even to start? Sometimes the easiest thing to do is to narrow down your options based on what you know. And sometimes that's a brand you've long used and trusted.
If you're familiar with Dell, you probably have some opinion regarding how reliable the company's products are, how its customer service works, and the general quality of the user experience that those products and services deliver. If you're brand-loyal, it's a reasonable way to whittle down your options, while still helping you zero in on a great product. Picking a brand you trust does half the deciding for you.
Whether you're after a fast laptop for crunching numbers at work, or a laptop for staying productive at home or on the go, there's a good chance that Dell has a model you've considered buying. The company has solid machines at all levels of the market. Read on for a breakdown of our current top tested Dell laptops in a variety of user categories, followed by a guide to Dell's various laptop lines. (There's a bunch!)
Dell Inspiron 16 Plus (7620)
Best Overall Mainstream Dell Laptop
Bottom Line:
Dell's latest Inspiron 16 Plus isn't a perfect desktop replacement, but it offers robust features at a reasonable price, with solid performance from its 12th Generation Intel H-series CPU and Nvidia RTX graphics.
PROS
- Strong all-around performance for the price
- GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU can handle routine graphics tasks
- 1080p webcam
- Long battery life
CONS
- Dull design compared to more premium-feeling competitors
- Middling display quality
- No touch screen or OLED option
Dell Inspiron 15 3000 (3511)
Best Dell Laptop for the Very Tightest Budgets
Bottom Line:
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 (3511) excels as a budget laptop that can handle day-to-day tasks and some very light gaming, and it even comes with Windows 11—all for under $400.
PROS
- Comes with Windows 11
- Large 15-inch full HD display
- Solid build
- Affordable
CONS
- No USB Type-C ports
- Low maximum screen brightness
- Weak speakers
Dell XPS 13 (9315)
Best High-End Dell Ultraportable
Bottom Line:
The latest Dell XPS 13 maintains its classy ultraportable design, but going ever thinner brings some significant drawbacks, leaving this edition short of our typically lofty expectations.
PROS
- Super-thin and light design with premium metal build
- Efficient and quiet new "Alder Lake" CPUs
- Sharp edge-to-edge 13.4-inch display
CONS
- Unimpressive performance
- No headphone jack (adapter included)
- Mediocre 720p webcam
- No OLED screen option
Dell Latitude 9430 2-in-1
Best High-End Dell Convertible
Bottom Line:
It's over three pounds and nearly 3,000 bucks, but Dell's Latitude 9430 2-in-1 is a first-class business convertible.
PROS
- Bright, colorful touch screen
- Solid array of ports
- Available 4G or 5G LTE cellular connectivity
- Long battery life
- Above-average webcam and sound
CONS
- Rather expensive
- No OLED screen choice
- A few ounces overweight
Dell XPS 15 OLED (9520)
Best High-End Dell Desktop Replacement
Bottom Line:
With the latest Intel processors and a stunning OLED touch screen, the latest Dell XPS 15 is as good as desktop replacement laptops get.
PROS
- Lightning performance with Intel 12th Gen CPUs
- Gorgeous 3.5K OLED touch display
- All-day battery life
- Comfortable keyboard and spacious touchpad
- SD card slot
CONS
- USB-C ports require adapters for many uses
- GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU isn't a powerhouse
- 720p webcam is a little disappointing
Alienware x14
Best Thin Dell Gaming Laptop
Bottom Line:
The brand-new Alienware x14 joins the upper echelon of 14-inch gaming laptops, delivering a sound gaming experience and fast overall performance in a super-portable design.
PROS
- Impressively fast Core i7 “Alder Lake” processor
- RTX 3060 unit delivers a consistent 60fps-plus gaming experience
- Compact design
- Long-lasting battery
- Wide range of connectivity, including three USB-C ports
CONS
- Expensive
- 14-inch screen size may be too small for some hardcore gamers
Dell XPS 17 (9720)
Best High-End Dell Desktop Replacement With a Giant Display
Bottom Line:
The updated 2022 Dell XPS 17 adds Intel’s latest 12th Gen "Alder Lake" CPUs to its winning design, amping up this already impressive laptop. It remains one of our top picks among 17-inchers.
PROS
- Maintains earlier version's slim, classy design
- Beautiful 4K touch-display option
- Strong overall performance with new 12th Gen Intel CPU
- Graphics options up to GeForce RTX 3060
- Four Thunderbolt 4 ports
CONS
- Pricey as configured
- No OLED screen option
- Subpar 720p webcam is disappointing for the price
- USB-C ports only
Alienware m17 R5
Best Hardcore Dell Gaming Laptop
Bottom Line:
The Alienware m17 R5 is a powerhouse gaming laptop with the latest and greatest components and configuration options, keeping the brand's unique aesthetic while hitting new performance highs.
PROS
- Standout style
- Sky-high frame rates from our all-AMD test unit
- Display options include 480Hz full HD and 120Hz 4K panels
- Many configuration choices including Nvidia GPUs and satisfying Cherry MX mechanical keyboard
- Impressive battery life
CONS
- Bulky and heavy
- Intel 12th Gen CPUs outpace our Ryzen chip in processing tasks
- Full Speed mode is awfully loud with little performance gain
Dell Chromebook 11 (3100)
Best Dell Laptop for Young Children
Bottom Line:
Designed to withstand the rigors of daily life in the classroom, at home, and in between, the Dell Chromebook 11 hits a trifecta: rugged, affordable, and great for kids.
PROS
- Compact
- Sturdy, kid-friendly design
- Spill-resistant keyboard
- Optional LTE
- Plenty of USB ports
- Reasonably priced accidental damage coverage
CONS
- Poor Wi-Fi signal reception
- Display limited to 1,366 by 768 resolution
- No SD card reader
- Clumsy touchpad
Dell Latitude 7420
Best Dell Enterprise Fleet Laptop
Bottom Line:
Highly customizable and sporting an attractive carbon-fiber chassis, the Dell Latitude 7420 is our new favorite ultraportable for businesses.
PROS
- Excellent performance from 11th Generation Intel Core i7
- Long battery life
- Eminently configurable
- Corporate chic styling with aluminum or carbon fiber
- Optional LTE
- Three-year warranty
CONS
- Expensive as configured
- Heavier and pricier than Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon
- Occasional fan noise
Dell Precision 5560
Best Dell Mobile Workstation
Bottom Line:
The workstation sibling of the celebrated Dell XPS 15, the Precision 5560 is a slim, splendid-screened laptop that can handle all but the toughest professional apps.
PROS
- Quite thin and light for a mobile workstation
- Handsome high-res 16:10 touch screen
- Stiff aluminum and magnesium build
- Thunderbolt 4 ports, SD card slot included
- Excellent multithreaded performance for a thin workstation
CONS
- Expensive
- Short on ports (USB-A and HDMI dongle included)
- No OLED screen option
Dell Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme Tablet
Best Rugged Dell Laptop/Tablet
Bottom Line:
Dell's Latitude 7220 Rugged Extreme Tablet lives up to its name by laughing at drops, splashes, and temperatures that would blow the average slate to smithereens. It's ideal for first responders and factory floors.
PROS
- Supremely sturdy construction.
- Extra-bright display.
- Comfortable keyboard cover.
- Hot-swappable, long-life batteries.
CONS
- Expensive and heavy.
- No HDMI or Thunderbolt 3 port.
- Glove-compatible touch screen and touchpad require extra pressure compared to civilian systems.
Buying Guide: The Best Dell Laptops for 2022
When you're looking at Dell's laptop product line, you'll want to concentrate on which of its six main families of laptop best meets your needs. The ones to familiarize yourself with are Inspiron, XPS, Alienware, G Series, Latitude, and Precision. You'll find both clamshell and 2-in-1 convertible entries in all of these families apart from the two gaming-oriented ones.
Inspiron: The Mainstream Choice
For use in home or school, Dell's Inspiron brand comprises consumer laptops of every stripe: power machines, inexpensive "just enough" machines, big displays, ultracompacts. Whether you're editing photos or managing your home finances, Inspiron's copious options fit both screen-size and budget needs for most buyers. These machines are mostly Windows models; if you want something a little less expensive for simple tasks and browsing online, consider Dell's Chromebooks, which put basic functionality into an affordable package that works great for kids and students.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
Dell breaks its Inspiron line into three gradations or levels: 3000, 5000, and 7000 series. As you go up that stack, you tend to see more premium features, and higher relative pricing. The number between the word "Inspiron" and the series number is typically the screen size of the laptop; an Inspiron 13 5000, for example, would be a 13-inch-screened laptop with middle-field characteristics.
XPS: The Power-User Class
The various guises of the Dell XPS 13 have been our "near-perfect" mainstream and power laptops for some time now. Refresh after refresh, Dell keeps tuning to keep this hardy machine on top. XPS signifies, on both the desktop and laptop side of the fence, a premium-design, fully decked-out machine that bridges demanding consumers and business users. It's Dell's line of power tools that are equally at home in a home office, a coffee shop, a conference room, or a high-stakes business meeting.
(Credit: Zlata Ivleva)
XPS-class laptops also sometimes serve as guinea pigs for introducing futuristic features, such as the new XPS 13 Plus, which ditches a physical touchpad in favor of a haptic feedback mechanism integrated into the palm rest. These experiments aside, you won't find a lot of variety in the XPS laptop line in terms of screen size or stratification, just configurable versions of the 13-inch-screened XPS 13 and 15-inch XPS 15 as both clamshells and swiveling-screen 2-in-1s. The XPS 17, the biggest model, has a 17-inch screen and is only available in a clamshell form factor.
Alienware and G Series: Full-Spectrum Gaming
If gaming is more your style, Dell's Alienware brand delivers, if you're on the market for a serious, blinged-out gaming cruiser. The latest components combine with premium construction and design, earning Alienware a well-deserved reputation as an aspirational brand among PC gamers. The Alienware machines tend to be big, brawny models with heavy graphics firepower and prices to match, though the brand known for its classic Area-51m bruiser has made forays into some leaner machines with its m15 and m17 series models and the even leaner Alienware X-Series.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
Dell also sells gaming laptops under its G Series brand, introduced in 2018. Before this new sub-brand's introduction, this aggressively priced, lower-end line was part of the Inspiron family. Dell split it out as its own animal, and now the G Series is aimed at mainstream and budget-constrained gamers, with more modest designs than the Alienwares and component loadouts that are humbler but still workable for the latest games.
(Credit: Zlata Ivleva)
The G Series models hover above and below the $1,000 mark, while the Alienwares start north of that. Models in the G Series are gradated like the Inspirons, into G3, G5, and G7 classes, with the higher numbers indicating higher-grade builds and feature sets.
Latitude: The Umbrella for Business Machines
Then there's business. Dell's Latitude brand is the mainstay for its business laptops, competing with options from Lenovo (the ThinkPad T series) and HP (the various EliteBook lines). Latitude offers options for workers in the office or in the field, with a mix of thin-yet-powerful laptops and durable systems that can take a beating.
Like the Inspirons and the G Series, the Latitudes make use of the same 3000, 5000, and 7000 nomenclature, with the addition of a top-of-the-line 9000 series. The second number in the four-digit model number signifies the screen size. So a Dell Latitude 7390 is in the second-from-the-top of the four lines, with a 13.3-inch screen; a Latitude 9500 would be a top-grade machine with a 15.6-inch screen.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
Beyond the "simply" durable units, the Latitude line is also home to a few costly, highly ruggedized models that are designed to be used in hostile environments: doused in water, clipped onto an ATV, exposed to cold and wind, and the like. These are branded under the Latitude Rugged Extreme moniker.
Precision: Workstation Laptops for Demanding Professionals
Mobile workstations are a breed of machines that share some traits with business models, but they stand apart for their Independent Software Vendor (ISV) certifications and, in some cases, specialized CPU and GPU options and support for highly precise error-correcting-code (ECC) memory. ISV certifications provide users of demanding professional business apps (in areas such as scientific computing, architecture, and engineering) assurances that the workstation will run up to snuff with a given application. Companies such as Adobe, Autodesk, Avid, Dassault Systemés, and Siemens tend to be the ISVs involved.
(Credit: Molly Flores)
Dell's line of mobile workstations is its Precision line, which comprises both laptop and desktop models. On the laptop side, Precision makes use of the same 3000, 5000, and 7000 series lingo as the other lines, with the screen size indicated within the model number.
A workstation might make use of consumer- or business-grade Intel CPUs, but the mark of a high-end workstation is the presence of a mobile Intel Xeon CPU and a dedicated workstation-grade graphics processor from Nvidia (RTX A-series, formerly Quadro) or AMD (Radeon Pro, much less common). The latter are in contrast to their consumer-GPU counterparts (GeForce GTX/RTX and Radeon RX, respectively) and are designed specifically for the kind of heavy-duty calculations that ISV-class applications require. Dell also offers a few 2-in-1 models in the Precision line; convertible workstations are far less common than their consumer counterparts.
So, What Is the Best Dell Laptop to Buy?
There are plenty of solid Dell systems to choose from, but don't be overwhelmed by the options. We've combed through our many reviews and singled out the best Dell systems in multiple categories. For more (Dell and non-Dell) options, check out our favorite laptops overall (updated constantly), as well as our lists of the best Chromebooks, the best budget laptops, and the best gaming laptops.
Save With Refurbished
Shop a little differently and browse through Dell refurbished laptops, tablets, and more for high-performing technology at a fraction of the original cost. Visually and diagnostically inspected to ensure only the highest quality items are being sold, you can be confident knowing that you are getting like-new products despite the super-low Dell outlet price tag.
Purchase Dell laptops that will let you do more for less; there’s no need to wait for Dell sales when you can find a Dell deal any time of year by shopping refurbished.
Upgrade your device to the latest tech with our Dell coupons and shop for the accompanying computer accessories guilt-free! Never miss out when you browse with a Dell promotion code, for deals on your next Dell gaming laptop, state-of-the-art desktop computers, or monitors. When you use the Dell promo code all you have to do is watch the savings roll in! If you're shopping from the United States and you're looking for a discount, make sure to browse online and search for Dell US coupon. You will be able to view the available US coupons marked as Dell coupon code US or discount code US. Make sure to enter the relevant coupon for country-related discounts and shipping policies.
To redeem your discount, log in to your online account and select the items you want. Then enter your valid coupon code in the provided section during checkout. The discount code will automatically be deducted from your total cost. For more information on how to save and redeem instructions, check out the Dell website or contact customer service via email or live chat.
Join Dell Rewards
It's easy and free to join Dell Rewards! When you shop trending deals on laptops, like the latest Dell XPS 13, XPS 15, or Inspiron 15, you can earn 3% back in rewards with free expedited delivery! Make sure you sign up for their newsletter for your very own Dell coupon or code, so you never have to miss out on another amazing saving.
Once you rack up those Dell premier Advantage rewards, you can select from a wide range of award-winning Dell monitors, PCs, and accessories along with audio and TV essentials. You'll also get early access to Dell sale alerts, exclusive Dell coupon codes, and so much more just by signing up.
Recycle to Save
When you’re shopping for new Dell computers, consider recycling your old devices so they can breathe new life as something different. From unwanted computers to game consoles and ink cartridges, it’s free to recycle your unwanted tech with the Dell trade-in program: just print a prepaid shipping label, box up your items, and drop them off at your local mailing center. Be sure to delete any remaining data and package your items carefully so they stay safe during transportation.
Make room for your new Dell Inspiron, XPS, or Chromebook by recycling your old technology and shop Dell deals or the Dell clearance section to replace them for less. Once you choose the perfect new computer, be sure to check out using one of our Dell promo codes or Dell discounts to shop for the accessories and still stay within your budget.
Excellent Add-Ons
Now that you've picked out the perfect laptop, desktop, or tablet, you'll need some accessories to elevate your experience and make your purchase stretch even further. Shop for Dell diagnostics to help clean up your computer, a Dell laptop docking station for easy charging, or Dell Tech Direct for your business. From an Optiplex 990 to an Inspiron 5000 series, shop Dell desktop sales and choose a few key accessories to keep your system running smoothly for years to come. You may also request a Dell warranty check or a Dell warranty renewal to ensure that your products will last.
Price Match Policy
Wanting you to get the highest discounts on high-performance tech, if you find a lower price advertised elsewhere, Dell will match it. Just call their toll-free phone number, send them an email, or contact them through live chat and they’ll walk you through the process and get you back on track to saving big with our Dell coupons.
If you're looking to upgrade your Dell laptop computer or Dell TV, but can't quite afford a whole new setup, there's no need to worry. With a Dell Preferred Account, you can update your technology with a monthly payment plan that fits you.
Dell Black Friday
There’s never been a better time to save on a brand new Dell home computer, because during Black Friday sales, Dell discounts their most popular and top-rated products to help you save big on the latest tech. Score the lowest prices of the year on Dell laptops and so much more with free shipping on every order and a quality experience from start to finish.
Although their Black Friday ad is usually released far in advance, make sure you look closely at the items you want, as lots of discounts start on specific days and times! Discounts are found on Black Friday, including some with mystery pricing, so you’ll have to set your alarm and visit their website to see exactly what they have planned. From the classic Inspiron laptop to discounted McAfee Antivirus software, it’s easy to see why Dell Black Friday deals are a must!
Previous Dell Promo Codes
| Discount Type | Discount Codes & Deals | Discount Amount | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Online Coupon | $150 off with this Dell coupon | $150 Off | Expired |
| Online Coupon | 10% off with this Dell student discount code | 10% Off | Expired |
| Online Coupon | Dell coupon for $50 off orders over $699 | $50 Off | Ongoing |
| Online Coupon | 10% off computers - Dell coupon code | 10% Off | Expired |
| Online Coupon | 15% off monitors with this Dell coupon code | 15% Off | Expired |
| Online Coupon | 20% off select laptops using this Dell promo code | 20% Off | Expired |
It depends on how you define “worth it.” If you’re looking to advance your career, an associate degree in criminal justice can definitely help you get there. Some students who’ve been passed up for promotions find the academic credential not only looks good on their resumes but opens more doors. Generally speaking, associate degree holders earn 20.1% more than those with only a high school degree.1
If you haven’t yet entered the field, you can expect job opportunities to remain steady. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 3% job growth and more than 95,000 new jobs in protective service occupations through 2029, with a 2020 median annual wage of $43,710. Police officers and detectives occupy the high end of the salary range, with 2020 median annual incomes of $67,290.1
If you’re one of those people, you have many career paths to consider as a criminal justice major, including law enforcement, corrections, forensics, homeland security, private security and legal services such as victim's advocacy. And keep in mind the higher purpose of a criminal justice degree: It can help you make a bigger impact in your community.
Students and active-duty military members like Cody Voye '21 are attracted to the program because of the ability to study online while deployed, and the military-friendly atmosphere.
"I would definitely recommend this program to others because SNHU is a reputable institute of higher learning," said Voye. "It will provide you the knowledge that you will need not just in criminal justice, but in life as well."
It’s almost a week since Black Friday, but Dell is still selling the Dell XPS 13 with a $250 discount that lowers the massively popular laptop’s price to a more affordable $749 from its original price of $999. It’s one of the best offers from the Dell laptop deals during the shopping event, so don’t miss this chance to grab it. Once the Dell XPS 13 returns to its normal price, we’re not sure when’s the next opportunity to buy it for cheaper than usual, so hurry up and take advantage of this limited-quantity deal.
If you’re going to invest in a laptop, the Dell XPS 13 should be one of your top options because it’s been a mainstay in Digital Trends’ list of the best laptops. One of the primary reasons is because of its sleek design, including virtually no bezels surrounding its 13.4-inch Full HD+ screen with a 60Hz refresh rate. The laptop is just 0.55 inches thick and weighs only 2.59 pounds, so you won’t have any trouble bringing it with you as you move around the house, switch desks in the office, or commute to different places.
The Dell XPS 13 doesn’t just look good — it performs well, too, with its 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processor and integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics. The laptop also features 8GB of RAM, which our laptop buying guide says is the sweet spot for most users. With these specifications, you’ll be able to multitask between several apps without worrying about crashes. The Dell XPS 13 also comes with Windows 11 Home pre-installed in its 512GB SSD, so it’s ready to roll as soon as you unbox it.
Don’t tell Dell, but it looks like the computer manufacturer forgot to turn off its laptop deals for Black Friday because the Dell XPS 13 is still available for $749. That’s $250 in savings from its original price of $999, but you need to act fast because the offer may disappear at any moment. The deal’s availability is limited, so we don’t expect it to still be around tomorrow — if you like this price for the Dell XPS 13, and you want to get the laptop before the chaos of the holiday season, now’s the time to buy it.
Editors' Recommendations
Register By: December 31 Classes Start: January 02
Earn a Associate in Accounting Online
- $320/credit (60 credits)
- Program accredited by ACBSP
- Transfer up to 45 credits toward your associate degree
- Stacks seamlessly into BS in Accounting
- No application fee or SAT/ACT scores required
- Increase your earning potential with an associate degree
Online Associate in Accounting Program Overview
Develop the accounting and business skills that employers desire with an online Associate of Science (AS) in Accounting from Southern New Hampshire University. The associate degree in accounting is perfect for professionals who want to enter an accounting-related field or lay the groundwork for continuing their education in accounting or business.
Once you earn your associate degree, you'll be prepared to jump into entry-level roles in your industry. You'll learn how to apply financial, managerial and cost accounting principles to your daily work and become an asset to any company.
You'll get practice with accounting tools including Microsoft Suite, Excel, PowerPoint and Word. You'll also have the opportunity to earn certifications in Wiley Excel for Accountants, and identify how Excel can be used for mission-critical tasks such as calculating profits, losses and margins; doing what-if analysis; and analyzing large data sets.
The credits you earn from your associate accounting degree at SNHU seamlessly stack into our online BS in Accounting. This means you can earn 2 degrees in the same time it takes to get just 1. Plus, if you'd like to become a certified public accountant (CPA), our bachelor's program aligns with the 2024 CPA exam update.
No matter where your education takes you, earning your associate degree could be a good investment. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, median weekly earnings of those with associate degrees were $154 more than those whose education stopped after graduating high school.1
In the associate in accounting program, you'll learn how to:
- Identify organizations that establish accounting standards regulations
- Maintain financial records and statements
- Analyze, interpret and present information to stakeholders
- Identify the steps in the ethical decision-making process
If you're interested in higher-level education, check out our bachelor's in accounting degree online.
Career Outlook
The online associate degree in accounting provides a solid foundation in accounting principles and practices to prepare you for entry-level positions in nearly every industry. And when it comes to office and administrative support, earning your associate in accounting could position you well for many roles.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks made a median annual salary of $45,560 in 2021.1 Similarly, financial clerks were reported to make $44,760 in the same time period.1
With your associate degree in accounting, you'll be qualified for these roles and a number of entry-level jobs including:
- Accounts receivable clerk
- Accounting assistant
- Billing clerk
- Bookkeeper
- Payroll clerk
The technical skills you'll gain from your associate degree in accounting will be integral in these positions. But you might find that being a good candidate for a particular role requires other qualities – like being analytic, inquisitive and proactive.
Earning an associate degree can also make a significant financial impact on your life. In 2020, associate degree holders' weekly earnings were almost 20% higher than those of workers who did not continue their education beyond high school, according to the BLS.1 People with associate degrees also experienced lower unemployment rates in 2020 than workers with a high school diploma.1
If you want to move on to higher-paying roles in accounting, you'll want to continue your education after finishing your associate degree. Our bachelor's in accounting is an obvious next step, but we also provide a myriad of other business degrees – and beyond – that are worth exploring.
That's exactly what Makya Vandiver-Hawkins '21 decided to do after completing her associate degree program.
"I am continuing on to a bachelor’s in business administration with a concentration in accounting because of all of the work that I have completed in obtaining my associate in accounting degree," said Vandiver-Hawkins.
And if the end goal is becoming a qualified accounting professional, a bachelor's degree in accounting can also provide some of the educational requirements necessary to pursue professional certifications such as certified management accountant (CMA) and certified public accountant (CPA). Requirements to sit for the CPA exam vary from state to state. Our licensure and certification disclosure page outlines SNHU's programs and fulfillment of CPA exam requirements by state.
Start Your Journey Towards an Online Accounting Degree
Why SNHU For Your Associate Degree in Accounting
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7.
Affordable
As part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. In fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
Respected
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 100,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report named SNHU the 2021 Most Innovative University in the North and one of the nation's "Best Regional Universities"
- Awarded the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology by The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
96.5% of students would recommend SNHU (according to a 2019 survey of 9,200+ online students). Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials:
- Completed free undergraduate application
- Prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you
- Test scores are not required as part of your application
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going:
If you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email enroll@snhu.edu.
Courses & Curriculum
This 60-credit online accounting degree curriculum can provide you a foundation in essential accounting principles and practices. You’ll understand how to handle a company’s finances, the basics of economics, statistics and how marketing plays a role in the world of accounting. Courses are taught by instructors with professional credentials and experience in accounting, taxation and fraud examination.
Interested in accounting, but afraid of taking math courses? Don't be. According to our instructors, communication skills are more important than being a math whiz when it comes to accounting.
"We have technology to do the math," said Mona Stephens, accounting lead faculty at SNHU. "Accounting is really all about problem-solving and storytelling."
Throughout your studies, you'll gain a foundational understanding of accounting. Some expected courses in your associate in accounting program include:
- Financial Accounting. Study the steps of the accounting cycle and how to prepare financial statements. You'll develop skills in financial accounting information analysis, stakeholder communications and accounting procedures.
- Managerial Accounting. Explore the financial impact of business decisions. Learn how to use accounting and productivity information to Excellerate organizational performance. With new data-gathering skills, you'll be able to plan growth strategies and make informed decisions.
- Intermediate Accounting I. Examine financial statement elements and the interplay of various financial transactions. You'll apply theoretical frameworks and research accounting principles and concepts for the proper preparation and interpretation of financial statements.
- Federal Taxation I. Learn about current U.S. tax laws, the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) and source documents relevant to federal tax returns for individuals. Using the applicable tax laws, you'll learn how to prepare federal tax returns for individuals. Evaluate current U.S. tax laws and the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), as well as the relevant source documents, associated with federal tax returns for individuals. You'll research and apply the appropriate tax laws in relation to the specific circumstances and tax liabilities.
"The instructors at SNHU are remarkable," said Tabitha Paige Tillery '20. "They made sure that you knew they were there for you. Didn't matter the hours I was doing my schoolwork, someone was always there to help."
"My instructors were always one call or email away when I had concerns or questions about my courses," she said. "They guided me on completing my assignments to their expectations and the best of my ability, and shared helpful resources and information that provided additional knowledge and insights about the courses."
No matter the course, our instructors can help equip you with the relevant specialized accounting skills you need to start a career in accounting.
But according to our own faculty, accountants need to be more than just technically proficient in accounting.
"The accountant of the future needs to be intellectually curious, always learning, able to figure out how to solve problems, analyze and visualize data, and effectively communicate with non-accountants," said Stephens. "A great way to start is to hone those intellectual curiosity and problem-solving skills."
That's why the associate accounting curriculum integrates other general education and business-related knowledge. Major courses include some less expected classes such as:
- Business Law I. Examine the background and ethical aspects of the U.S. legal system as it applies to business organizations. Understand how contracts, criminal and cyber law, product liability and torts impact business.
- Managing and Leading in Business. Explore leadership and management theories and how to incorporate them in your own personal style for effective contribution and collaboration in diverse team environments.
- Global Dimensions in Business. Examine the differences between the domestic and international business environments and factors that contribute to market attractiveness and entry.
- Applied Marketing Strategies. Analyze pricing, distribution, product development, and promotional strategies to reach a specific market audience. Discover how communications and distribution channels can lead to successful marketing.
When you graduate with your associate degree in accounting, you can count on having both widely applicable skills and highly specified accounting knowledge. This means you can go on to pursue entry-level jobs or more advanced degrees in any number of fields.
Curriculum Requirements & Resources
- Technology resources: We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to provide you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments.
- Earn math credits for what you already know: Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| AS in Accounting | ||
| ACC 201 | Financial Accounting | Students will learn the steps of the accounting cycle and how to prepare financial statements in accordance with industry established rules and regulations. Students will develop skills needed to analyze financial accounting information, communicate this information to stakeholders, and understand the accounting procedures that produce this information. |
| ACC 202 | Managerial Accounting | Students will explore the financial impact of short-term and long-term business decisions. By learning how accounting and other productivity information can be used to assess and Excellerate performance of an organization, managers will be provided the essential information they need to execute growth strategies and select opportunities that create business value. |
| ACC 317 | Intermediate Accounting I | In this course, students will take an in-depth look at financial statement elements and the interplay of various financial transactions represented on a financial statement. Students will apply theoretical frameworks and research accounting principles and concepts for the proper preparation and interpretation of financial statements. Students will utilize authentic industry tools and technologies to prepare financial statements and connect concepts learned to the importance of financial information for its users. |
| ACC 330 | Federal Taxation I | In this course, students will learn about current US tax laws and the Internal Revenue Code (IRC), as well as the relevant source documents, associated with federal tax returns for individuals. Students will research and apply the appropriate tax laws in relation to the specific circumstances and tax liabilities. Students will prepare federal tax returns and communicate various tax return information to stakeholders. |
| BUS 210 | Managing and Leading in Business | Students will explore leadership and management theories and how to incorporate them in one's own personal style for effective contribution and collaboration in diverse team environments, and learn about the skills necessary to lead in various organizational structures and areas of business. Students will also examine how the functional areas of business are interrelated and work together in organizations. |
| BUS 225 | Critical Business Skills for Success | Students will learn the critical business skills required for successful leadership and management in organizations. By applying business research skills and data analysis, students will solve problems and support business decisions. Students will also explore various techniques and forms of professional communications and their uses in business contexts. |
| Total Credits: 60 | ||
Minimum Hardware Requirements
|
Component Type |
PC (Windows OS) |
Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|---|
|
Operating System |
Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
|
Memory (RAM) |
8GB or higher |
8GB or higher |
|
Hard Drive |
100GB or higher |
100GB or higher |
|
Antivirus Software |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
|
SNHU Purchase Programs |
||
|
Internet/ Bandwidth |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
Notes:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
| Online Undergraduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 30 credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree/Certificates | $960 | $320 | $9,600 |
| Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* | $675 | $225 | $6,750 |
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs No Application Fee, $150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get an associate in accounting?
Yes, you can. An associate degree in accounting is a great way to jumpstart an accounting career and can help you gain professional experience faster.
While many accounting jobs require a bachelor’s degree, an accounting associate degree will provide you the skills you need to succeed in entry-level roles. The credits you earn from an AS in Accounting degree from SNHU can also easily stack into a BS in Accounting – meaning you could earn 2 degrees in the same amount of time it takes to get 1.
With an online associate degree in accounting, you’ll gain a strong foundation of key career skills through general education courses, including communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and decision making.
You’ll also explore accounting, finance and business topics, and learn how to apply this knowledge to daily accounting work. Your accounting associate degree will explore:
- Financial accounting
- Managerial accounting
- Taxation
- Business law
- Business systems analysis
- Marketing
- Human relations
- Information technology
- International business
How much do accountants with an associate degree make?
It depends on your career path. While earning an associate degree in accounting can help you earn more than workers without a college degree, specific salaries will vary.
The median annual salary for bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks, for example, was $45,560 in 2021.1 The highest paid 10% in this field earned more than $61,980.1 Financial clerks earned a median salary of $44,760 and bill and account collectors earned a median salary of $37,700 the same year.1
Continuing your accounting education with a bachelor’s degree, online master’s in accounting, accounting certification or a graduate certificate in accounting can open up more job opportunities and lead to higher pay.
What is the best online college for accounting?
The best online college for accounting is the one that prepares you for the career you want and offers the flexibility to help you achieve your goals, whether you’re working full time or balancing coursework with family obligations.
That's why Akeda Toby-Locke '19 chose Southern New Hampshire University.
"In the beginning, I was very nervous, as this was my first time studying online," she said. "But as time went by, it became my norm, and I really enjoyed the flexibility to study and complete my assignments by the specific deadlines on my time."
At SNHU, the online associate in accounting is designed to provide you the skills you need to get started in entry-level accounting jobs faster. And our innovative online programs ensure you have the support you need to complete your degree.
Online students have access to a wide range of virtual student services, including writing help, tutoring and academic and career advising.
During her associate degree program, Makya Vandiver-Hawkins '21 relied on these resources and the continuous support of her SNHU community to help her earn her degree.
"Studying online was, at times, difficult when there were times that I needed to have someone by my side walking me through something," said Vandiver-Hawkins. "Thankfully there is 24/7 tutoring that I took advantage of during these times."
Online clubs and student organizations are also offered to help you grow your personal network and get hands-on learning experience.
SNHU’s generous transfer policy allows up to 45 credits from a previous institution to be applied to one of our associate degree programs. If you’ve completed some college coursework already, this means you can save money and time, and start your career even faster.
Is an associate in accounting worth it?
If you want to start your accounting career right away, then yes. With an associate in accounting, you can gain the skills you need to kick off an accounting career and start gaining valuable professional experience faster.
“In the current employment market, more students are seeking degrees and credentials on a faster pace to meet the needs of employers," said Dr. Mark Hobson, an associate dean of business.
Earning an online associate degree in accounting can also help boost your long-term earning and career potential.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), associate degree holders earned nearly 20% more each week in 2021 than workers with only a high school diploma.1 Workers with an associate degree also saw lower unemployment rates in 2021, at just 4.6% compared to 6.2% for workers with a high school diploma.1
But there's more to an associate degree in accounting than just earning potential. It's an opportunity to put your goals within reach.
"[This program] helped me get a degree that I can use and helped prove to myself that I could accomplish anything," said Tabitha Paige Tillery '20.
If you want to advance your career even further, earning an associate degree can provide you a head start toward earning a bachelor’s in accounting degree. An SNHU bachelor’s degree in accounting can provide the educational requirements needed to pursue valuable professional certifications, like certified management accountant (CMA) and certified public accountant (CPA).
How much does an accountant with an associate degree make an hour?
It varies based on your specific role and the industry in which you work. For example, the median annual salary for bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks was $45,560 in 2021, or about $21.90 per hour for full-time workers.1
But pay varied for bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks depending on the industry in which they worked. Bookkeepers working full time in finance and insurance earned a median salary of $46,910 in 2021, while full-time bookkeepers working in retail earned a median wage of $37,710 in that same time period.1
Accountants earned a median salary of $77,250 in 2021.1 But these jobs typically require a bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in accounting, and may require a professional certification.
Are online degrees taken seriously?
Yes, they are. As technology evolves and more of our daily lives move online, students and employers alike are recognizing the value of an online degree.
Online learning continues to grow in higher education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, some 75%, or 11.8 million, undergraduate students were enrolled in at least one distance education course in the Fall of 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, while another 44%, 7 million, took exclusively distance education courses. While this number has come down since the peak of the pandemic, some aspects of distance education are expected to stay in schools across the U.S. for the foreseeable future. In many ways, online learning was normalized in a permanent way as a result of the pandemic.2
At SNHU, we have been offering online coursework for over 25 years. Our online accounting courses are taught by faculty with years of experience in the field, ensuring you have access to the most up-to-date information and accounting practices. And while your coursework may be online, you’ll gain key career skills through hands-on learning opportunities, so you can apply your learning to the day-to-day work of accounting right away.
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.
This program and its concentrations are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Student achievement data can be found on College Navigator.
What Can You Do With a Business Management Degree?
Whether you want to start your own business or help existing companies grow, earning a business degree is a great first step toward a career in finance, marketing or business management. Learn more about what you can do with a business degree.
What is Business Administration?
Business administration is a versatile field of study that can be applied to many different career paths. Holders of bachelor's degrees in business enjoy good job prospects and career options.
What Are the 4 Ps of Marketing and Are They Relevant?
The four Ps of marketing refer to the traditional elements surrounding a service or product that a business owner or marketer has to consider and evaluate to succeed. Although the four Ps are still relevant, there's a lot more to consider when developing a marketing strategy.
References
Sources & Citations (1, 2)
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm (viewed July 13, 2022)
- https://www.bls.gov/OOH/office-and-administrative-support/bookkeeping-accounting-and-auditing-clerks.htm (viewed July 13, 2022)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/financial-clerks.htm (viewed July 13, 2022)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/office-and-administrative-support/bill-and-account-collectors.htm (viewed July 13, 2022)
- https://www.bls.gov/OOH/business-and-financial/accountants-and-auditors.htm (viewed July 13, 2022)
2National Center for Education Statistics, Distance Learning Fast Facts, on the internet, at https://nces.ed.gov/fastfacts/display.asp?id=80 (viewed July 13, 2022)
Choosing a new laptop is a big decision, and it's often difficult if you're unfamiliar with laptop benchmarks. The best laptops offer all-around high performance and reliability with a slew of advanced features for work, school or home. Separating the good from the best can be even more challenging, and that's why we've tested them out to provide our expert opinions. CNET's list of the best laptops for 2022 is a great place to start, with our top picks across brands, operating systems, budgets and categories. Many of the models from 2021 have been updated for 2022 with the latest chips from Intel, AMD and Apple's new M2 chips.
What is the best laptop?
The Apple MacBook Air M2 currently tops our list of the best laptops 2022 has to offer, because it is a solid choice for most people. It offers a great combination of everything we look for when we're testing: reliable everyday performance, long battery life and a design that works for a broad range of users. The latest MacBook Air starts at $1,199, which is why we still recommend the 2020 MacBook Air M1 as a lower-cost alternative to the existing Air model, as it's still an all-around excellent laptop. For those looking for a more value-oriented option, HP's Pavilion Aero 13 is an excellent small and light laptop starting at $550, but even fully loaded it's a reasonable $900.
At CNET, our laptop experts have collective decades of experience testing and reviewing laptops, covering everything from performance to price to battery life. This hand-curated list covers the best laptops across various sizes, styles and costs, including laptop computers running on Windows, MacOS and Chrome.
If you want more laptop brands and options for a particular category, we also have specialized lists you can look at, including the best gaming laptops, best 15-inch laptops, best two-in-ones and best Chromebooks, as well as the best laptops for college students, designers and the best MacBook Pro alternatives. If you need to stay as low as possible on the price of a new laptop computer, check out our best budget laptop and best budget gaming laptop picks.
This best laptop list is updated periodically with new models we've tested and reviewed. If you need advice on whether a particular type of laptop or two-in-one is right for you, jump to our laptop FAQ at the bottom of the list and if you're looking to save some money on your purchase, be sure to check out our best laptop deals page.
Best laptops 2022
Despite the availability of the new bigger and better M2 MacBook Air, the M1 MacBook Air (one of the first to switch from Intel to Apple silicon) is staying around and that's a good thing. As Apple's entry-level laptop it is still our go-to recommendation for a MacOS laptop for basic everyday use. It has great performance and long battery life -- up to 18 hours -- and is a solid choice for school or work.
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The Dell XPS 13 is a perennial favorite for its size, weight and performance and just overall good looks. For 2022, Dell made the XPS 13 even smaller and lighter, kept its sub-$999 starting price the same and dropped in the latest 12th-gen Intel processors. The design is still great (though there's no headphone jack; a USB-C adapter is included instead) and the battery life is long.
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HP packed a lot of value into the Aero 13: Eye-pleasing magnesium-aluminum chassis, strong processing performance, long battery life, a bright, colorful display and a weight of just 2 pounds (0.94 kilograms). Amazingly, with all that it offers though, it doesn't break the bank in terms of price. Although it starts at $800, it is regularly on sale for much less. If you want something a bit larger with more to offer when it comes to components, consider the HP Pavilion 14.
Thanks to a new design, a larger display (13.6 inches versus the previous 13.3 inches), a faster M2 chip and a long-awaited upgrade to a higher-res webcam, the 2022 version of the MacBook Air remains our top choice for the most universally useful laptop in Apple's lineup, with one caveat. At $1,199, the $200 increase over the traditional $999 MacBook Air starting price is a disappointment. That's why you'll still find the M1 version of the Air retains a spot on our best laptop list. Still, we like everything else about it and it's our first choice if you're considering an Air and don't mind spending more.
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This thin, 3-pound convertible is a solid choice for anyone who needs a laptop for office or schoolwork. The all-metal chassis gives it a premium look and feel, and it has a comfortable keyboard and a responsive, smooth precision touchpad. Though it's light on extra features compared to its premium linemate, the Yoga 9i, it does have one of Lenovo's sliding shutters for its webcam that gives you privacy when you want it. And it has a long battery life to boot at 12 hours, 45 minutes in our tests. The latest version with 12th-gen Intel processors starts at less than $1,000.
Lenovo Yoga 7i Gen 7 (14-inch) review
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The Dell Inspiron 16 Plus' 16-inch display is a great size since the laptop is barely bigger than a 15.6-inch model, but you get more room for work and a roomier keyboard and touchpad along with it. For this Inspiron, Dell packed in performance parts including a 12th-gen Intel Core i7 processor, Nvidia discrete graphics and the display covers 100% sRGB color gamut, which is good enough if you're getting started with creating web content. Also, the laptop has a more premium fit and finish than we're used to seeing in the Inspiron line.
Although this Microsoft Surface laptop is not the Surface Laptop, the Surface Pro continues to hit all the right notes if you're looking for a do-it-all Windows tablet that doubles as a Windows laptop. Microsoft recently updated it for the Surface Pro 9, but little has changed beyond a processor upgrade from 11th-gen Intel Core processors to 12th-gen chips as well as an option for a Microsoft SQ 3 processor with 5G wireless. If you were contemplating a Pro 8, it's still around but now with a lower price, and is our go-to choice until we see how the Surface Pro 9 tests.
Microsoft Surface Pro 8 review
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Lenovo launched the Yoga line 10 years ago with Windows 8 and now, with Windows 11, the flexibility of the design has only gotten better. The company's flagship 14-inch Yoga 9i Gen 7 has an updated look with comfortable, rounded edges and 12th-gen Intel processors that provide it a big multicore performance jump. A beautiful OLED display and improved audio make it excellent for work, video conferences and entertainment. Lenovo includes an active pen and a laptop sleeve to complete the premium package.
The powerful speakers do add some vibration to the palm rests when turned up and Lenovo has cluttered the laptop with pitches for optional services and software. But, overall, the latest Yoga 9i is the two-in-one convertible laptop to beat.
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HP's Victus 16 is a surprisingly robust and powerful gaming laptop that keeps up with the latest games at a more affordable price. Compared to HP's high-end Omen gaming laptop line, the Victus is more of an all-purpose laptop but still configured for gaming with a price starting at less than $1,000. HP offers several configurations with graphics chip options ranging from Nvidia's entry-level GeForce GTX 1650 up to a midrange RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon RX 6500M. You can also get with AMD or Intel processors (though the AMD chips offer a better value).
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There's a lot to love with the Razer Blade 14, which incorporates one of the fastest mobile CPUs available (for now, at least), the AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX, and top-end mobile graphics with the GeForce RTX 3070 or 3080. Its display can go pixel-to-pixel with the MacBook's. And its high-quality build is up there with the best MacBooks but, like an Apple, it's not necessarily the best laptop deal, even compared to other premium laptops.
New Apple silicon, new display, new design and all the ports we've been asking for: The latest 16-inch Apple MacBook Pro is the best Pro ever. The combination of the larger MacBook Pro's hardware and MacOS extracts the maximum performance from the components while delivering excellent battery life. The new mini-LED high-resolution display is gorgeous. And if an HDMI output and SD card reader were on your shortlist for features, you'll find those here too.
You pay for it, though: Base price for the 16-inch model of this premium laptop is $2,499.
Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch) review
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Acer had one of the best Chromebooks available in 2021 with the Spin 713, and now it's repeated that success with the Chromebook Spin 714. The premium two-in-one doesn't stray far from its predecessor in terms of what it offers, but Acer did make some changes to keep it competitive, like including a USI pen that stores and charges in the 714's body. There are less expensive options, but if you want a Chromebook that'll last for years, this is it. Keep an eye out for a sale on this one: Its normal price is $729, but is frequently on sale for less if you shop at the right time.
Acer Chromebook Spin 714 review
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Samsung's latest big-screen two-in-one doesn't look all too different from its predecessor, but inside is a new, 12th-gen Intel processor that gives it a sizable multicore performance bump. Plus, the other, smaller updates Samsung made to the Pro 360 Excellerate the overall user experience, making it one of the best two-in-ones available right now.
The XPS 17 combines the same slim, premium design of its 13-inch linemate but with increased performance possibilities. It can be configured with up to a 12th-gen Intel Core i9 processor, 64GB of memory and a 6GB Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphics chip. The best part: Dell trimmed up the chassis so much that you get a 17-inch display in a body that's the size of an older 15-inch laptop. You're getting a lot of power and a big screen in the smallest possible package.
Laptop FAQs
How much do good laptops cost?
Setting a budget is a good place to start when shopping for the best laptop for yourself. The good news is you can get a nice-looking, lightweight laptop with excellent battery life at prices under $500. If you're shopping for a laptop around $500 or less, check out our top picks here, as well as more specific buying advice for that price range.
Higher-end components like Intel Core i-series and AMD Ryzen processors and premium design touches like thin-display bezels and aluminum or magnesium bodies have made their way to laptops priced between $500 and $1,000. You can also find touchscreens and two-in-one designs that can be used as a tablet or a laptop -- and a couple other positions in between. In this price range, you'll also find faster memory and ssd storage -- and more of it -- to Excellerate performance.
Above $1,000 is where you'll find premium laptops and two-in-ones. If you're looking for the fastest performance, the best battery life, the slimmest, lightest designs and top-notch display quality with an adequate screen size, expect to spend at least $1,000.
Which is better, MacOS or Windows?
Deciding between MacOS and Windows laptop for many people will come down to personal preference and budget. Apple's base model laptop, the M1 MacBook Air, starts at $999. You can sometimes find it discounted or you can get educational pricing from Apple and other retailers. But, in general, it'll be at least $1,000 for a new MacBook, and the prices just go up from there.
For the money, though, you're getting great hardware top to bottom, inside and out. Apple recently moved to using its own processors, which resulted in across-the-board performance improvements compared to older Intel-based models. But, the company's most powerful laptop, the 16-inch MacBook Pro, still hasn't been updated to Apple silicon.
But, again, that great hardware comes at a price. Also, you're limited to just Apple laptops. With Windows and Chromebooks (more on these below), you get an amazing variety of devices at a wide range of prices.
Software between the two is plentiful, so unless you need to run something that's only available on one platform or the other, you should be fine to go with either. Gaming is definitely an advantage for a Windows laptop, though.
MacOS is also considered to be easier and safer to use than Windows, especially for people who want their computers to get out of the way so they can get things done. Over the years, though, Microsoft has done its best to follow suit and, with Windows 11 here, it's trying to remove any barriers. Also, while Macs might have a reputation for being safer, with the popularity of the iPhone and iPad helping to drive Mac sales, they've become bigger targets for malware.
Are Chromebooks worth it?
Yes, they are, but they're not for everyone. Google's Chrome OS has come a long way in the past 10 years and Chromebooks -- laptops that run on Chrome OS -- are great for people who do most of their work in a web browser or using mobile apps. They are secure, simple and, more often than not, a bargain. What they can't do is natively run Windows or Mac software.
What's the best laptop for home, travel or both?
The pandemic changed how and where a lot of people work. The small, ultraportable laptops valued by people who regularly traveled may have suddenly become woefully inadequate for working from home. Or maybe instead of needing long battery life, you'd rather have a bigger display with more graphics power for gaming.
If you're going to be working on a laptop and don't need more mobility than moving it from room to room, consider a 15.6-inch laptop or larger. In general, a bigger screen makes life easier for work and is more enjoyable for entertainment, and also is better if you're using it as an extended display with an external monitor. It typically means you're getting more ports, too, so connecting an external display or storage or a keyboard and mouse are easier without requiring a hub or dock.
For travel, stay with 13- or 14-inch laptops or two-in-ones. They'll be the lightest and smallest while still delivering excellent battery life. What's nice is that PC-makers are moving away from 16:9 widescreens toward 16:10- or 3:2-ratio displays, which gives you more vertical screen space for work without significantly increasing the footprint. These models usually don't have discrete graphics or powerful processors, though that's not always the case.
Which laptop is best for gaming or creating?
You can play games and create content on any laptop. That said, what games you play and what content you create -- and the speed at which you do them -- is going vary greatly depending on the components inside the laptop.
For casual browser-based games or using streaming-game services like Google Stadia, Nvidia GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming, you don't need a powerful gaming laptop. And similarly, if you're just trimming video clips, cropping photos or live-streaming video from your webcam, you can get by with a modestly priced laptop or Chromebook with integrated graphics.
For anything more demanding, you'll need to invest more money for discrete graphics like Nvidia's RTX 30-series GPUs. Increased system memory of 16GB or more, having a speedy SSD for storage and a faster processor such as an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 will all help you get things moving faster, too.
The other piece you'll want to consider is the display. For gaming, look for screens with a high refresh rate of 120Hz or faster so games look smoother while playing. For content creation, look for displays that cover 100% sRGB color space.
The review process for laptops, desktops, tablets and other computer-like devices consists of two parts: performance testing under controlled conditions in the CNET Labs and extensive hands-on use by our expert reviewers. This includes evaluating a device's aesthetics, ergonomics and features. A final review verdict is a combination of both those objective and subjective judgments.
The list of benchmarking software we use changes over time as the devices we test evolve. The most important core tests we're currently running on every compatible computer include: Primate Labs Geekbench 5, Cinebench R23, PCMark 10 and 3DMark Fire Strike Ultra.
A more detailed description of each benchmark and how we use it can be found in our How We Test Computers page.
