Guidance for purchasing devices with strong security features

Thinking of purchasing a new device and want some guidance on what to look for? Here is some advice, collected from a number of practitioners. (Last updated Dec 2024)

Phones

When it comes to phones, it's best to get a modern phone with advanced protections on the account enabled. Most likely, this means flagship phones from Apple and Google.

Apple is good about providing support with security patches and software updates for about seven years after the device is purchased.

Google Pixel phones are also supported for about seven years.

Phone recommendations (based on internet search in Dec 2024):

• Apple iPhone: The iPhone series, particularly the Pro Max models, are consistently considered one of the most secure smartphones due to Apple's strong security practices and updates.
• Google Pixel: Google Pixel phones are another top choice with excellent security features thanks to Google's commitment to security updates and the Titan M security chip.
• Purism Librem 5: This phone is specifically designed for maximum privacy with hardware kill switches to physically disconnect components like the microphone and cellular network, making it ideal for users prioritizing extreme security.

There are some helpful articles on TechRadar and Cyber Magazine on this topic.

Laptops

Laptop recommendations (based on internet search in Dec 2024):

• Apple MacBook Pro (2023) and MacBook Air with an M1 chip are good options for human rights defenders because it has many built-in security features (full disk encryption, protection from malware, etc). (Mac operating system)
• Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is an affordable option that is secure and easy to use. (Chrome operating system)
• Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (11th Gen) is reliable and secure. (Windows operating system)
• For users of Linux operating systems, Purism Librem 14 is highly recommended. (Linux operating system)