What is a trading setup? If you are a trader, your workstation is your trading platform, so you need it to be as easy to use and as effective as possible. Taking the time to set up your screen and computer properly will help you take full advantage of the information at your disposal when you start trading. Being a well-prepared trader with an efficient day trading setup is a vital element of trading and can mean the difference between success and failure, so what is the best computer setup for trading?
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This article will guide you through setting up your trading screens and computer for a successful trading journey.
Table of contents
- Top Five Best Desktop Computers for Stock Trading
- How to Set up Your Trading Screens for Day Trading
- Upgrading to a New PC
- Dual Monitor Capabilities on Your Laptop
- Major Benefits of Using Dual Monitors When Day Trading
- Looking to Upgrade Your Old PC?
- Security
Top Five Best Desktop Computers for Stock Trading
A vast range of computers is available to choose from that could help you with your day trading. The machines constantly improve and evolve as technology advances, with more sophisticated models regularly coming onto the market. Here are some models to consider.
- Lenovo AIO IdeaCentre 5i 24 Desktop – A great aspect of this desktop is that multi-tasking is seamless.
- DELL XPS Desktop – The XPS provides a solid balance of speed and reliability.
- Dell Optiplex – This PC is more compact and maybe one to choose if you have limited space.
- Acer Aspire TC 1760 – Another fast PC that is perfect for multi-tasking.
How to Set up Your Trading Screens for Day Trading
Having the best possible computer setup when day trading the world’s markets does not have to be complicated or expensive, and it can certainly help identify the best trading opportunities.
In fact, given that you could spend between 7-12 hours a day in front of your PC, it’s vital for your long-term health to have a dual monitor in place. Dual monitors are essential for day traders or anyone using their PC for more than 3-4 hours a day.
Upgrading to a New PC
Most new PCs come with built-in dual monitor capabilities, requiring you only to plug in an additional monitor, an essential tool for the busy day trader.
As a general rule, make sure you have the required cable to connect to a second monitor. Your new monitor should come with the relevant attachment, but sometimes, you may need to purchase an adapter. If you can’t plug it in (due to having the wrong attachment), you can quickly source an inexpensive converter from your local computer shop or online.
Another benefit for the busy day trader trading forex, CFDs, Options, or futures is to have the new PC stripped of unnecessary programs. If possible, use your new PC for day trading use only to keep it running smoothly.
Dual Monitor Capabilities on Your Laptop
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Running a laptop as your dedicated day trading machine can have advantages, especially if you use your home PC for other activities like running the family budget, downloading emails and watching videos. Your laptop can serve only as your day trading computer, and it’s easy to install a second monitor.
All laptops come with the option to connect a monitor. All that’s required is to head over to the display settings and set the monitor you just plugged in as your second monitor. You can then configure which is to be the primary and secondary display. This facility is plug-and-play, and most laptop users don’t even realise their machine has this functionality. You might want to use this as a second trading machine in conjunction with your main day trading PC.
Major Benefits of Using Dual Monitors When Day Trading
- Access more information at your fingertips
- Adjust the resolution to be comfortable for your eyes
- Have charts on one screen and order tickets on the other
- More screen real estate to make your life easier
If you are serious about your day trading endeavours, running dual monitors is vital to your overall efficiency as a trader. Don’t compromise on the technology front, as once you upgrade, you will be wondering why it has taken you so long to do so. You will be pleasantly surprised at how efficient and effective a day trader it will make you.
What to Look for in the Best Desktop Computer for Day Trading
For trading software to work smoothly, a powerful computer is required.
Requirements for an efficient trading desktop include:
RAM: A minimum of 8GB RAM is needed for your computer to process all the data, though 16GB of RAM is ideal. If you run multiple programs, 16GB or more RAM is required. The higher the RAM, the better.
Processor Speed: While the minimum recommended specs for your processor are dual-core, a Quad-Core 2.8GHz (Intel i5 or i9 are leading options) is preferred. Look for a processor with at least four to six cores (like the i5 Intel Processor) to allow your computer to execute operations quickly.
Hard Drive: A minimum SSD 250GB hard drive is required for data storage. The primary hard drive is more reliable for retrieving information quickly. It helps to have the SSD drive used only for trading purposes.
Display: Dual-screen monitor capabilities are recommended if you’re a busy trader or you need to monitor multiple software options at once. Choose a minimum of 1080P (1920×1080) when buying a monitor. If you have a generous budget, you may consider exploring higher resolutions – 2556×1440 or 4K (3480×2160).
Battery Life: The best trading computers have at least eight hours of battery life.
Internet connectivity: You need to have good internet connectivity to strike on time!
Looking to Upgrade Your Old PC?
If you are a day trader on a budget, you may want to consider upgrading only your video card to make your PC day trader-friendly. You can purchase a dual monitor video card relatively cheaply and install it yourself if you have the technical skills.
If you are unsure what to do, ask for advice or inquire if the supplier can install it for you – they will probably charge a nominal fee.
Once you have the new video card installed and your machine has recognised it, you simply need to plug in your second monitor as above and adjust your display settings accordingly. You can then start implementing your best trading strategy to make profitable trades.
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Security
When it comes to PCs and laptops, especially ones used for trading or any other financial tasks, security is key.
Malicious software, hackers, phishing, and data breaches all pose a threat to your data and finances (money in your trading/investing account). As a result, it is important to make sure you have adequate security on the PC. Here are some options to consider:
Multi-Factor Authentication: This step will require an extra layer of security before granting access to an account.
Firewalls: A strong firewall will block unauthorised access and suspicious connections.
Data Encryption: By encrypting your most sensitive data, you will add a layer of security if a hacker does gain access.
Back-up: It is important to regularly back up your data in case of an incident. This will allow you to quickly restore any lost data.
As well as securing the PC, network security is another factor to consider, so make sure to use a strong WiFi password, and consider a VPN to protect your data.
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Nigel Frithtrader
Nigel has been in the regulated financial services industry for nearly a decade, has previously owned a financial brokerage and has written many times for sites relating to personal finance and trading.
