10 Best Laptops Under $1200 In October 2024 [Top Collection]
If you're in the market for a new laptop and you don't want to break the bank, you'll need to check out our list of the 10 best laptops under $1200. We've put together a comprehensive guide that includes some of the best laptops on the market right now.
Whether you're looking for a powerful gaming laptop or a sleek and lightweight machine for work or school, we've got you covered. So, without further ado, here are the best laptops under $1200.
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The 10 Best Laptops under $1200 In 2024
This list of the 10 best laptops under $1200 in October 2024 provides great value for money and reliable performance.
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | BUTTON |
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ASUS TUF Dash 15 |
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HP Pavilion |
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Lenovo ThinkPad E15 |
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Dell Vostro 5620 |
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Acer Nitro 5 |
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MSI Sword 15 |
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Dell Inspiron 3530 |
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HP Envy |
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ASUS Rog Zephyrus |
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Lenovo IdeaPad 3i |
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Whether you're a student or a professional, these machines have enough power to get through any task without breaking the bank. From editing videos to gaming to content creation, these laptops will meet all your needs.
1. ASUS TUF Dash 15
As a confessed laptop nerd, let me tell you, I was more than excited to get my hands on the ASUS TUF Dash 15. With phrases like 'gaming powerhouse' and 'exceptional performance' floating around, the expectations from this geek machine were sky-high. And let me tell you something: it did not disappoint.
The screen, which is a vibrant 15.6" FHD display, sparkles with sharp images and bold colors. One thing that grabbed my attention was the impressive 144Hz refresh rate.
Whether I was playing high-speed games or catching up on Netflix's latest show, it beautifully delivered smooth and lifelike visuals.
Underneath its sleek exterior lies an Intel i7-12650H CPU and an NVIDIA RTX 3060 graphics card. Together, they are like yin and yang – beautifully balanced to deliver amazing performance without any lag or stuttering.
I experienced this power while playing different games like Skyrim and Ark Survival Evolved; these usually demand high computing power but run seamlessly on the TUF Dash 15.
Now let's get to the design - 'robust' is the word that first comes to mind when holding this laptop in your hands. It screams durability thanks to underscoring its place in ASUS’s TUF Series lineup. Specially built for passionate gamers who need reliability, it truly embodies its military-grade heritage.
While the laptop carries good specs for its price bracket, there were a few points that left me wanting more storage space and RAM capacity, two significant ones.
The integrated 512GB SSD and 16GB DDR5 RAM, although respectable figures on their own, may not suffice if you practice intensive gaming or multitasking. Hence, you might want to consider upgrading these components to enhance your laptop's performance.
Additionally, I did notice an abnormal vibration sometime, which seemed to originate from the CPU fan. It happened randomly, not necessarily during high-intensity tasks or gaming. This isn’t a deal-breaker but is indeed worth mentioning.
Our Verdict
Despite these minor setbacks, the ASUS TUF Dash 15 proves itself to be a power-packed performer that delivers fantastic value for its price tag of $1127.
Pros and Cons
2. HP Pavilion Laptop
Jumping right into it, the HP Pavilion, with its remarkable features in a budget-friendly price range, is something that should definitely be on your radar.
Starting with the display, the 15.6" FHD screen is truly impressive. From my own experience, I can compare it to having a mini home theatre right on your lap - from watching movies to editing photos, every detail pops out thanks to its crisp and clear resolution.
Powering this beast is none other than the Intel i7-1255U CPU, working hand in hand with the compelling Intel Iris Xe Graphics.
Let me spell it out for you - gaming was smooth as silk, web browsing was fast and responsive, and multitasking was no issue at all. The laptop's performance certainly lives up to the hype.
For someone fond of music like me, the built-in B&O Audio speakers are an absolute gem! The audio output is rich, clear, and loud enough not to miss even a whisper from your favorite series or music track.
A notable feature is the massive 32GB DDR4 RAM. Remember lagging or sluggishness while switching between applications or opening multiple browser tabs? Those days are long gone with this RAM powerhouse.
There's also a whopping 1TB SSD storage, which provides ample space for all your pictures, videos, games, and whatnot.
I did run across an issue that revolved around heat dissipation. While going about my gaming routines or running heavy-duty applications for an extended period, I noticed that the laptop tended to get quite hot. It's not burning-level hot but enough to feel uncomfortable.
Moreover, there's one other necessity that we all value deeply: battery life. Regrettably, here too, I found myself wishing for better performance.
Our Verdict
Wrapping it up, the HP Pavilion, priced at $1199, is an excellent pick for those hunting for a reliable machine that can serve both work and entertainment needs. However, prepare to compromise on battery longevity if you embark on resource-intensive activities.
Pros and Cons
The HP Pavilion - a decently specced laptop under $1200 that offers strong performance with some minor compromises. Trust me on this; you get a lot of notebooks for your buck.
Also Read: Best Gaming Laptops Under $500 In October 2024 [Tested 52+ Games]
3. Lenovo ThinkPad E15 Laptop
Coming in at $1199 - right on the nose of our budget - the Lenovo ThinkPad E15 packs a punch while providing value for your money.
This machine fitted with an Intel i7-1255U CPU, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, a whopping 32GB DDR4 RAM, and 1TB SSD storage is nothing short of impressive.
The ThinkPad E15 boasts a robust and sturdy build. It's aesthetically appealing, too, with its large 15.6" FHD screen offering crystal clear images for both work and play.
On its side, you'll notice a plethora of ports, including a SuperSpeed USB Type-C (with USB Power Delivery, DisplayPort 1.4, HP Sleep and Charge), two SuperSpeed USB Type-A ports for your peripherals, an HDMI 2.1 port for external displays, and the good ol' reliable 3.5mm jack.
Sound-wise, they've got B&O Audio Speakers that deliver crisp and immersive audio experiences for your presentations or late-night Netflix binges.
Boasting an Intel i7-1255U CPU coupled with 32GB DDR4 RAM under the hood, this machine operates swiftly even when juggling multiple tasks simultaneously.
Additionally, it comes equipped with substantial storage capacity thanks to its fast-operating 1TB SSD drive.
And now, onto one of my favorite parts: The Keyboard! As an avid typist myself (and trust me when I say this), typing on this keyboard is truly delightful - making both long coding hours and quick emails notably easier.
One potential drawback I feel compelled to mention is the machine's weight: At around 3.86 pounds, it does lean toward the heavier side among laptops in this price range.
The unfortunate experience someone had regarding warranty issues suggests that Lenovo's customer service may leave room for improvement. This user reported a faulty battery and had issues with obtaining replacement parts after warranty expiration.
Our Verdict
Despite a couple of caveats, my overall impression of Lenovo ThinkPad E15 remains largely positive. The laptop's sturdy build, efficient performance, sizable storage, and exceptional keyboard make it a worthy option under $1200.
Pros And Cons
Also Read: 10 Best Thin Bezel Laptops In 2024 [Picked By Experts]
4. Dell Vostro 5620
Next on our list is the Dell Vostro 5620. Though it just happens to hit our $1200 limit, this laptop is a solid contender worth considering if you're looking for reliable, efficient performance that can handle both work and downtime.
The Dell Vostro 5620 comes with a large 16" FHD screen that provides vibrant color contrasts and sharp image quality, making both your spreadsheets and Netflix shows a joy to look at.
What I love about this laptop is its abundant ports! It comes equipped with two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, one USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 Type-C port (complete with DisplayPort and Power Delivery), and an HDMI 1.4 outlet.
One RJ-45 Ethernet socket for hardwiring your internet connection, a power jack for keeping your device energized, and even an SD Card Reader that's perfect if you often transfer photos or other files.
When it comes to audio quality, the two MaxxAudio Pro speakers managed to leave me fairly impressed with their decent sound profile. Clear voices for conference calls? You bet! Mellow acoustic tunes while relaxing or studying? Absolutely!
Peek under the 'hood' of the Dell Vostro 5620, and you'll spot an efficient Intel i5-1240P CPU teamed up with a generous capacity of 16GB DDR4 RAM - allowing smooth sailing when managing multiple tasks at once or running resource-heavy applications.
The laptop's storage doesn't disappoint either, thanks to its speedy SSD drive, which is capable of holding up to 512GB or essentially just over half a million megabytes -- of your important data.
On the flip side, though, I found my hands starting to feel fatigued after long periods of typing due to the Vostro 5620's 4.21-pound weight - a tad on the heavier side compared to some other laptops on our list.
Our Verdict
Intriguing amongst its peers, the Dell Vostro 5620 certainly holds its own in this under $1200 price bracket with robust performance, extensive connectivity options, and quality display.
On the slight downside, if portability is your top priority, then you might find the Vostro a little too bulky for your liking.
Pros And Cons
5. Acer Nitro 5
Priced remarkably at just $790, the Acer Nitro 5 offers an excellent balance between cost and performance. With specs including a 15.6" FHD screen, an Intel Core i5-12500H CPU, NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti graphics card, 16GB DDR4 RAM, and a 512GB PCIe Gen4 SSD as storage, it's a steal!
For someone like myself who's always on the go with my job in video editing, this laptop surprisingly fits the bill very well.
The Nitro 5 handles robust tasks like rendering high-quality videos with ease. For instance, it renders a half-hour-long video in less than twenty-five minutes - quite a feat compared to others that take an hour or so.
What pleasantly surprised me was its ability to run three large Dell monitors without any glitches. And speaking of picture quality, the Nitro 5 really triumphs over other offerings in this price range - offering vibrant color reproduction and clear images.
Certainly not to be forgotten is the solid-built keyboard that feels comfortable for typing and gaming alike. Boot-up times are quick - surely something most of us appreciate in our busy lives.
However, no machine is perfect, and there are a few drawbacks worth noting with the Acer Nitro 5, too. If you find Windows 11 as much of a con as I do, then do consider this before purchase. Only adequate storage (512GB) can be another pinch point, but for most people, this should be manageable.
Another element to consider is the weight-tipping scale at around 5.51 pounds. it does feel slightly heavy for a portable device, but then again, it does pack quite the power punch, so that's the trade-off.
Fan noise is noticeable while performing heavy tasks but not intrusively so - something that seems acceptable within gaming laptops, generally speaking.
The most significant drawback, however (and this is a tad disappointing given the other promising features), is its average battery life. You'd be looking at 1-2 hours' usage for heavy tasks or perhaps 3-4 hours under minimal usage.
Our Verdict
In summary, if you are seeking a high-performing laptop within a reasonable budget, then the Acer Nitro 5 could very well be your ideal companion. Remember, though, that battery life can be an issue, so do bear this in mind when making your decision.
Pros And Cons
6. MSI Sword 15
Priced reasonably at $999, the MSI Sword 15 is definitely a steal. Its 15.6" FHD screen, backed by an Intel i7-11800H CPU and NVIDIA RTX 3050 graphics, makes for an immersive gaming experience like no other I've ever had.
There's something about the vibrant colors and crystal-clear detail that leaves me amazed every time I fire up a game on this device. It's not just flashy aesthetics; the built-in functionality is as rock solid as you'd expect from a serious gaming laptop.
Beneath its sleek exterior, the MSI Sword 15 houses a whopping 16GB DDR4 RAM and storage of 512GB SSD - perfect for you if you're planning to have many large games and files at once.
Also, it has diverse port options: two USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, one USB 2.0 port, an HDMI port, one USB 3.2 Type-C Gen1 port, and a Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack.
Now, we need to talk about the sound this baby gives off! It possesses two Stereo speakers that have an output of 2 W each.
Don't be fooled by its astounding performance, though; it weighs just approximately 4.63 pounds, which isn't too much considering all it offers.
However, my experience wasn't all rose-colored glasses with the MSI Sword 15 - there were some setbacks along the way. Like when I initially started using it for video editing but then experienced persistent screen flickering issues, making it difficult to work without interruption.
Even though some basic troubleshooting helped resolve this issue temporarily, it soon started again, rendering laptop use difficult for me at times.
Our Verdict
But would I recommend the MSI Sword 15? This is probably what you're wondering right now. If gaming is your primary concern, then it's a definitive yes. But if you're more into vigorous video editing like me, then perhaps look into other options.
That has been my take on the MSI Sword 15. I've strived to share as much of my experience as possible, focusing on both the good and not-so-good aspects of it.
Pros And Cons
Also Read: 10 Best AMD Ryzen Laptops In October 2024 [Latest 7000-Series]
7. Dell Inspiron 3530
Selling for an impressive $969, the Dell Inspiron comes with an array of features designed for both personal and professional use.
The Dell Inspiron boasts a vibrant 15.6" FHD touchscreen, making it perfect for both work and play. It's powered by an Intel Core i7-1355U CPU, backed by a whopping 64GB DDR4 RAM, ensuring a smooth and robust computing experience.
As for storage, the SSD has a capacity of 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2, which is more than capable of storing vast amounts of data.
Let’s talk about ports; we’re looking at a healthy mix here - one USB-A 2.0 port, one USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 port, one USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C port, one HDMI 1.4 port, and finally, a headphone & microphone audio jack.
Based on my experience and fellow users’ feedback, this model truly is commendable regarding memory and storage capacity.
As an advocate for global warming in my local community, I was able to utilize the ample space efficiently to run numerous applications and store massive data files with no worries about running out of room.
For recreational gamers out there (and I can’t stress this enough), you could game all day long on this laptop! The hardware combined with Intel Iris Xe graphics guarantees you those intense gaming sessions without any hitch!
Not to mention how pleasantly compact and lightweight it feels at just about 3.64 pounds – offering everything you need from screen size to performance without weighing you down too much.
One standout design flaw that professionals like myself might encounter is its front-edge design, which tends to dig into your wrists when rested upon during prolonged usage—especially while using it on the lap. This, unfortunately, leaves a noticeable discomfort.
My expectation of Dell, being a time-long user, was somewhat overshadowed by this unintended feature. It appears other users also share similar experiences from my findings. Suggestions such as sanding down the edges were even brought up as potential solutions.
Our Verdict
Despite this ergonomic hiccup, if your computing needs revolve around power and storage within a budget-friendly package, the Dell Inspiron would still be worth considering, especially with its high-performance specs and compact design.
However, for users who often need to use laptops directly on their laps for extended periods and prefer stellar wrist comfort during usage, you may want to consider looking at other options while bearing in mind this mentioned downside.
Pros And Cons
8. HP Envy
The HP Envy is not just another run-of-the-mill laptop. It's a streamlined, sophisticated package of power and modern technology. Priced at $969, it offers commendable value when tough on a budget.
One glance at the specs tells you that this laptop isn't messing around. Its 17.3" Full HD touchscreen display commands attention and offers stunning visuals. With an Intel Core i7-1260P CPU, you're armed with unprecedented processing power, able to tackle any extensive tasks without hiccups.
Things don't fall short in the graphics department either, thanks to its Intel Iris Xe Graphics chipset offering smooth and immersive visuals. Packing in 16GB DDR4 RAM along with a super speedy 512GB PCIe SSD for storage wraps up a high-performance ensemble.
HP has also taken care of your connectivity needs - housing 2 x Thunderbolt 4 with USB4 Type-C ports, 3 x SuperSpeed USB Type-A ports, and an HDMI port for external displays or projectors.
An SD card reader to unload your photos quickly and a headphone jack for private listening. As for sound? This diamond hosts two Bang and Olufsen speakers, which do justice to any audio played through them.
With all these packed into 5.49 pounds of well-manufactured rigidity, it is quite portable.
From my personal experience, there's a lot to like about the HP Envy, and frankly, I've fallen in love with its performance, features, and build quality - all under $1200.
Who needs any gaudy external storage device when you have got such huge internal space? The touchscreen is also responsive, but it isn’t my thing – probably yours.
The machine boots up instantly from the word go - no lags whatsoever! The build quality feels premium, giving credence to its Envy label. And despite the speakers not being the loudest, they manage to impress in quality.
However, I've run into a few hiccups. Initially, Windows 11 felt like a let-down. The software compatibility issues made me long for the familiar feel of Windows 10. I experienced slower WiFi speeds, significantly impacting my browsing experience. It's frustrating!
There were also minor glitches while booting up and troubles with the Bluetooth connectivity - this needs attention from HP.
Our Verdict
Yes, no machine is indeed perfect, and so is our HP Envy. The few issues I encountered aren’t deal breakers, given the overall performance and value it offers considering its price point.
If you're in need of a well-built laptop with ample power and features without pushing your budget limit over $1200 - then the HP Envy could be your best bet.
Pros And Cons
9. ASUS ROG Zephyrus M16
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus is a powerhouse of a laptop, especially if you're into gaming or multimedia productions. It offers some pretty solid specs paired with the sleek design and portability that most of us crave.
The machine is equipped with a stunning 17.3" Full HD Touchscreen display that gives you an immersive viewing experience. Now let me say this screen is amazing. It's definitely one of the best in its category.
Despite those tiny glare spots around the edge - which are common in most IPS laptop screens - they’re barely noticeable when engrossed in playing a high-intensity game or watching an action-packed movie.
Under the hood, it sports an Intel Core i7-1260P processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics, ensuring smooth performances for even heavy-duty tasks.
In terms of memory and storage, it comes with 16GB DDR4 RAM coupled with a 512GB PCIe SSD for rapid loading and file transfers.
The one area where it fell slightly short for me was the RAM configuration. The 8GB of RAM soldered to the board leaves only one slot to expand the memory, but fear not, unless you intend on running some incredibly data-heavy programs simultaneously, 16GB should be more than sufficient!
Now, let's talk about its body design: unique and thoughtful. The fact that lifting the screen raises the body of the machine, enhancing air circulation is just fantastic – ideal for gaming marathons where your machine might need additional cooling.
And oh! The keyboard - it’s sublime! With each keystroke landing like music on my fingers, it's undoubtedly one of my preferred laptop keyboards out there. And its backlit feature? Absolutely love it!
As useful as this sounds in theory, though, I did hit upon a significant issue – I was unable to use it without being plugged into power. Whenever I unplugged it from the charger, it immediately shut down, which is a monumental inconvenience I honestly could do without.
Our Verdict
Despite some minor quirks and hiccups, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus offers incredible value for its price tag, particularly in terms of screen quality and performance.
Given its impressive features and potential - weighed against glitches with power management that could be an isolated incident - this machine is worthy of your consideration, especially if gaming or multimedia production is your thing!
Pros And Cons
10. Lenovo IdeaPad 3i
As I have clocked in several months using the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i, I can fairly share my insights about it. This model, priced at $1,099, offers outstanding specs for its price point that surely leaves a mark.
Let's start with the basics: the IdeaPad 3i comes with a 15.6" Full High Definition screen display, which is ideal for any casual gaming or video streaming experience.
From personal experience, I can vouch that colors are crisp and clear on this screen and contribute to a delightful viewing experience.
Taking a look at its horsepower, this laptop is powered by an Intel Core i7-12700H CPU and an NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti Graphics card. This combo provides enough power to handle demanding tasks like high-definition video streaming and even some light gaming.
Just remember to complement it with an extra 16GB RAM kit (totaling up to 32GB), which would really wake up this otherwise sleepy beast! Trust me when I say that upgrading is easy — there are loads of tutorials available online to guide you through.
In terms of storage space, it comprises a spacious 512GB NVMe SSD, allowing you to easily store large files and applications without experiencing any sluggishness with data retrieval. It meanders through data-heavy tasks smoothly, further enhancing your productivity levels.
As for connectivity options, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i boasts four USB ports (2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 and two USB-Cs), an HDMI port, and Wireless-AX + Bluetooth functions. It's not exactly light as a feather – weighing in at 5 pounds – but it correlates to its sturdy built quality.
Now, onto the speakers – while they are just regular Stereo speakers firing mere 2Ws, combined with Dolby Atmos software enhancement, they manage to provide immersive audio quality, which was more than ample for my casual media playback use case scenario.
Not everything is sunshine with this device. Battery life, in particular, is one area that's a little disappointing. Even regular tasks such as browsing and using Microsoft Word tend to drain it far too quickly, often ending up at 0% in less than an hour from full charge.
This flaw could really be a deal-breaker for those who need a laptop with solid battery backup for continuous work while on the move.
Our Verdict
So here's my verdict: If you're hunting down a sturdy laptop that provides commendable performance, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i could be your bang-for-the-buck choice.
If you rely heavily on mobility and uninterrupted workflow without being tied to an outlet, the lackluster battery might cause you to second-guess.
Pros And Cons
Buying Guide: Best Laptops Under $1200 In 2024
Understand various features, specifications, and what makes these laptops great picks for those seeking reliable performance without breaking the bank. Weigh these factors to get yourself a machine that provides both value for money and superior performance.
CPU
The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of your computer, which is used for processing all the instructions your computer receives.
A laptop's CPU has a major impact on its overall performance, so it's important to choose one that can handle the tasks you need it to.
We recommend choosing a laptop with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5000 series processor.
GPU
The graphics processing unit (GPU) is responsible for rendering images on your screen. If you're interested in gaming or using demanding creative applications, you'll need a powerful GPU. For most other tasks, an integrated GPU will suffice.
If you are interested in gaming, we recommend choosing a laptop with at least an Nvidia GeForce GTX 3050, or if you don't want to spend too much, then you can go with the integrated Intel Iris Xe or AMD Radeon Vega graphic.
RAM
Random-access memory (RAM) is used for the temporary storage of information that your CPU needs quick access to. The more RAM you have, the more smoothly your computer will run. We recommend choosing a laptop with at least 16GB of RAM.
Storage
Storage is used for the long-term storage of information, such as your operating system, applications, and personal files. If you have a lot of data or you plan on storing large media files, we recommend choosing a laptop with at least 512GB of storage.
Make sure to choose a laptop with an SSD, as they are much faster than traditional hard drives.
Display
The display is one of the most important aspects of a laptop, as it's the main way you'll interact with your computer. We recommend choosing a laptop with at least a Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution display. And the display should be an IPS panel for better viewing angles and color reproduction.
Ports
Ports are used for connecting external devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or storage drive. Make sure to choose a laptop with the ports you need.
We recommend choosing a laptop with at least two USB-A ports, one USB-C port, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack. And if Thunderbolt support is important to you, make sure to choose a laptop that has it.
Connectivity
Connectivity refers to the wireless technologies a laptop uses to connect to the internet and other devices. We recommend choosing a laptop that supports 802.11ax Wi-Fi and Bluetooth version 5 for the best connectivity.
Portability
Portability is an important factor to consider if you plan on taking your laptop with you on the go. We recommend choosing a laptop that weighs no more than six pounds.
Battery Life
The battery life is one of the most important aspects of a laptop, as it determines how long you can use it away from a power outlet. You'll need to make sure it has enough juice to last through the day. We recommend choosing a laptop with at least six hours of battery life.
Price
Of course, price is always an important factor to consider when purchasing a laptop. You'll need to make sure it fits within your budget and that you're getting the best value for your money. We recommend choosing a laptop that costs no more than $1200.
Conclusions
In conclusion, these ten laptops have been deemed the best laptops under $1200 - our top picks. We hope that this guide was helpful in your search for the perfect notebook.
Remember to consider your needs carefully before making a purchase. With so many great options on the market, you're sure to find the perfect fit for you.
Markus Braasch
After growing up in Germany I decided to take a brief break from entrepreneurship to study in the US. This led to meeting my beautiful wife and starting our life together in South Carolina. Written content has transformed my life. I enjoy sharing this passion with others. Please connect with me on social and let me know your thoughts on this article so my next one can be better.