Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Important
Points to Consider
- Recommended
Laptops for Various Types of Students
- Additional
Tips and Advice
Introduction
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the best laptops for
students. In this blog, our team went above and beyond to test and review 15
different laptops, ranging from Apple's MacBook Air to Microsoft Surface
laptops, Asus zenbooks, and Samsung Galaxy books. Our goal is to provide you
with all the information you need to make an informed decision when choosing a
laptop for your studies.
Important
Points to Consider
Portability
As a student, portability is key. You'll be moving from
classroom to classroom and working on group projects in various locations. It's
important to choose a laptop that is small and lightweight, so you don't have
to lug around a heavy machine. Additionally, consider the size of the screen. A
14-inch laptop with a resolution higher than 1920x1200 and a brightness of over
400 nits is ideal for comfortably viewing content.
Performance
and Future-Proofing
Ensure that your laptop has enough performance to last
throughout your years in school. Most modern processors will be sufficient for
most students, but if you have additional software requirements like math
design, video editing, or software development, opt for a more powerful
processor. For Apple laptops or those with AMD processors, you won't have to
worry about performance limitations.
Memory
and Storage
When it comes to memory, aim for at least 16GB of RAM. Some
manufacturers, like Apple, still offer 8GB in their base models, but it's
recommended to go for 16GB for smoother multitasking. In terms of storage,
512GB should be the minimum, unless you're working with storage-intensive tasks
like film editing, in which case you may want to consider 1TB of storage.
Longevity
and Warranty
Purchase your laptop from a reputable brand that offers
extended warranty options. Having a warranty that covers your time at school is
important. Brands like Dell even offer on-site repair services, ensuring that
your laptop is quickly fixed and minimizing downtime. Don't forget to budget
for an extended warranty when making your purchase.
Battery
Life
While most modern classrooms have outlets, it's still
essential to have a laptop with decent battery life. Opt for a laptop that can
last at least eight hours for activities like Netflix video playback. Apple
laptops are known for their exceptional battery life, but some PC laptops also
offer good battery performance.
Avoid
Chromebooks and Tablets
While Chromebooks and tablets with keyboards may work for
basic needs, they can often be limiting when it comes to running certain
applications. A standard laptop offers more versatility and compatibility,
making it a better choice for most students.
Budgeting
and Discounts
Take advantage of any discounts available to you. Reach out
to your school to inquire about student discounts and special offers.
Additionally, consider purchasing a returned laptop from a reputable seller, as
these often come with warranties and return policies. Best Buy, Apple, and Dell
have programs specifically for refurbished or open-box laptops.
Recommended
Laptops for Various Types of Students
After extensive testing, we have narrowed down our top
recommendations for different types of students:
1. Asus
Zenbook 14x
The Asus Zenbook 14x is our top choice for most students.
With its large 14.5-inch OLED display, high resolution, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB
of storage, it offers exceptional value for its price point. The powerful 8th
series processor, combined with its solid battery life and premium feel, make
it an excellent option.
2.
MacBook Air with M2
For those who prefer Apple products, the MacBook Air with
M2 is a lightweight and premium laptop. While it comes at a higher price point,
it offers a lighter build, longer battery life, and better graphics
performance. The MacBook Air is a great choice for students involved in tasks
like video editing.
3.
Lenovo Yoga 9i and HP Spectre X360 13.5
For students who enjoy drawing on their laptops or using
them as tablets, we recommend either the Lenovo Yoga 9i or the HP Spectre X360
13.5. Both laptops offer similar benefits, but the Yoga 9i may have a bit of
fan noise. The Spectre X360, on the other hand, lacks in processing power but
makes up for it with regular substantial sales.
4. Asus
G14 for Gaming
If gaming is a priority, the Asus G14 is an outstanding
choice. This compact laptop offers powerful graphics options, and its
reasonable pricing makes it an attractive option for students who enjoy gaming.
Keep in mind that it can get warm to the touch during intensive gaming
sessions.
5.
MacBook Pro 14 for Video and Photo Editing
The MacBook Pro 14 is the go-to laptop for students
involved in video or photo editing. It offers high performance, little to no
fan noise, and a cool chassis. If the current model is too expensive, consider
the M1 version, which still performs exceptionally well.
6.
Lenovo Slim Pro 9i for Software Development
For students studying software development or other
disciplines requiring high-performance machines, the Lenovo Slim Pro 9i is the
ideal choice. It boasts a gorgeous mini-LED display and quieter fan noise
compared to the Asus G14. Keep in mind that availability may vary.
7.
Budget Pick: MacBook Air with M1
For budget-conscious students, the heavily discounted
MacBook Air with M1 from previous years is still a solid option. Its
performance and overall value make it a great choice for students on a tight
budget. On the Windows side, consider HP's Pavilion Plus for its affordability
and decent specs.
Please refer to our detailed laptop recommendations sheet
for links to the best prices currently available. We will continue to update
this sheet to ensure you have access to the most up-to-date information.
Additional
Tips and Advice
Here are some additional tips to help you make the most out
of your laptop purchase:
- Take
advantage of student discounts offered by reputable sellers.
- Consider
purchasing a returned laptop from stores like Best Buy, Apple, or Dell, as
they often come with warranties and return policies.
- Research
and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal.
- Share
this video and guide with other students and parents to help them make
informed decisions.
Remember, choosing the right laptop is crucial for your
academic success. Take your time, consider your needs, and invest in a reliable
and durable machine that will support you throughout your school years.
Social Plugin