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Student Laptops

If you're looking for a student laptop for school, college or university, portability, reliability and budget are all likely to be high on your list of priorities. The best laptops for education are durable, versatile learning tools that offer good value for money. Picking the right student laptop will largely depend on the nature of your studies and your available budget but there are a number of additional considerations to factor before making your selection.

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Which laptop is best for a student?

The "ideal" laptop for a student may vary depending on various factors such as the student's particular needs, budget, and individual preferences. However, there are certain considerations to keep in mind whilst choosing a laptop for a student, such as, the performance, portability, battery life and budget.

A processor is important to the performance of the laptop. A mid-range processor such as the Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5, at least 8GB of RAM (memory), and a SSD (Solid State Drive) for storage should be sufficient for most students.
Most students will require a device that can be easily carried from lecture to lecture, so a laptop that is lightweight (preferably under 1.8 kilograms), thin, with a screen size between 13 to 15 inches should be considered.

Also look for a laptop that has around 8 hours battery life. This will take out the need to lug around any chargers.
Many excellent laptops can perform the necessary tasks even within a constrained budget. Strive to find the best combination of features within your price bracket.

Microsoft Surface products can be an ideal device that covers all of the above. The Surface is lightweight and provides useful features for students such as a touchscreen, making electronic note-taking easier. The touchscreen function is further enhanced when paired with a Surface Pen. It's crucial to do some research or consult an expert on various models so that the laptop you ultimately choose can fulfill your needs and fit your budget.

Which laptop is best for online classes?

When selecting a laptop for online classes, it's crucial to bear in mind factors such as performance, camera quality, microphone quality, screen size, and battery life.

It may be beneficial to opt for a laptop that comes with a built-in webcam, like the Microsoft Surface, as it was designed with video conferencing at the forefront.
An alternative choice could be the Asus Chromebook Flip Cr1, which includes a stylus – a potentially handy tool for taking notes during classes.

Always make certain that the laptop you pick matches your individual needs, whether that's a longer battery life, a superior webcam, or a high-quality microphone. It would also be prudent to check the latest models and reviews to find the laptop that's most suitable for you.

Which brand laptop is best for students?

Choosing a laptop brand for students often hinges on individual preference, budget, and specific needs.

Lenovo: Lenovo laptops, particularly the ThinkPad and Yoga series, are known for their robust build, impressive performance, and top-notch keyboards. They offer models across a range of price points, from high-end to more budget-friendly options.

Asus: Asus offers a wide array of laptops spanning from premium to budget-friendly. The Asus VivoBook and ZenBook series are frequently recommended for students owing to their solid performance, good build quality, and affordability.

Microsoft: Microsoft's Surface line of laptops, including the Surface Laptop and Surface Pro, are lauded for their strong performance, excellent displays, and sleek designs. An added benefit is their touchscreen displays and stylus compatibility, which can be beneficial for note-taking.

It's crucial to understand what you're seeking in a laptop—whether that's long battery life, performance, display quality, or portability—prior to making a purchase. Also, remember that it might be helpful to check reviews to determine which laptop would suit you the best.

What's the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop?

A Chromebook is a distinct type of laptop, but it veers from traditional laptops in several key facets, primarily linked to the operating system, software compatibility, and designed usage.
Operating System: The most substantial disparity between a Chromebook and a traditional laptop lies in the operating system. Chromebooks function on Google's Chrome OS, a streamlined operating system centred around the Chrome web browser. In contrast, typical laptops usually run on Windows or macOS, which are comprehensive operating systems fashioned for a broad range of professional and personal applications.

Software Compatibility: With a Chromebook, you chiefly utilise web-based applications and can download apps from the Google Play Store, similar to an Android phone. Conversely, traditional laptops operating on Windows or macOS can install and run a wide variety of software, ranging from office suites to professional-level creative software.

Storage: Chromebooks typically have less internal storage than conventional laptops as they're designed for primary use with an internet connection, with files stored in the cloud. Traditional laptops usually come equipped with large hard drives for local file storage.

Performance: Chromebooks are designed to be lighter and faster, ideal for users who predominantly require a device for web browsing, media streaming, or working in web-based applications. Traditional laptops are available in a variety of specifications, including high-performance models for resource-intensive tasks like gaming or video editing.

Price: Chromebooks are generally cheaper than traditional laptops, though premium Chromebooks do exist. Their cost-effectiveness and simplicity often make them popular in educational environments.

Offline Use: Chromebooks were originally designed for use with a constant internet connection. While progress has been made to enable Chrome apps to function offline, they're not as offline-friendly as traditional laptops.

Which is better laptop or iPad for students?

Choosing between a laptop or an iPad for a student largely hinges on their individual needs and coursework. Here's a condensed overview:

Laptops are typically better for extensive typing and multitasking, thanks to their physical keyboard and larger screen. If specialised software is required, laptops tend to be preferable due to their broader range of software compatibility and superior file management. Furthermore, they generally offer more storage space.

Conversely, iPads are more portable and usually have a longer battery life, which can be ideal for campus mobility and full days of study. They can be excellent for reading and digital note-taking, with their touchscreen interface and Apple Pencil compatibility allowing easy highlighting, annotation, and note-writing.

In essence, if the student requires heavy typing, multitasking, and specific software, a laptop may be better. If they prioritise portability, battery life, and their workflow involves lots of reading or note-taking, an iPad could be a great match. It's always wise to check the latest models and reviews before deciding.

How much should I spend on a laptop for college or university?

The amount to spend on a university or college laptop depends on your specific needs, budget, and course requirements. Key factors include:

Course Requirements: Higher-spec laptops, often more expensive, may be needed for courses like engineering or design. For basic tasks like word processing or web browsing, cheaper models suffice.

Budget: Set a sensible budget that fits your finances. A laptop should be a long-term investment for your university years, but no need for overspending if a cheaper model serves your needs.

Balancing Specs and Price: Look for a decent processor, minimum 8GB RAM, and a solid-state drive (SSD). If tight on budget, Chromebooks are cost-effective for online-based work.

University or college laptops could range from around £215 to £720 or more, fluctuating based on brand, specifications, and features. Ensure thorough research, compare models, and look for student discounts from manufacturers or retailers before making a decision.

Are refurbished laptops a good option for students?

If you're a student mindful of budget, refurbished laptops can be a cost-effective choice. They offer affordability without compromising on specifications, and undergo rigorous checks to ensure quality, often with comparable reliability to new laptops. They're eco-friendly and often come with warranties, providing a secure investment.
However, consider these factors when choosing a refurbished laptop:

Ensure the seller's credibility, either by buying directly from the manufacturer or a reputable third-party retailer. Look for extensive warranties for better protection. Try to ascertain the laptop's age; newer models tend to have longer lifespans and are more likely to support latest software and updates. Make sure the laptop's specifications align with your needs.
In summary, despite some potential drawbacks, a refurbished laptop from a reliable source that meets your needs can be an excellent choice for a student.