The Best Laptops for Students


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.