8 Best Laptops for Students

As you begin your search for the perfect laptop to support your academic journey, you're likely overwhelmed by the numerous options available. You're not alone – with so many factors to weigh, from processor power to storage capacity, it's hard to know where to start. From HP's student-focused range to offerings from Acer and Lenovo, the choices seem endless. But which laptops truly stand out from the crowd? You're about to find out – let's take a closer look at the top contenders that'll help you stay on top of your coursework and beyond.

Key Takeaways

• Consider laptops with at least 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage capacity for smooth multitasking and storing files.

• Look for laptops with a battery life of at least 10 hours to ensure all-day use without worrying about running out of juice.

• 14-inch laptops offer a good balance between portability and productivity, making them an ideal choice for students.

• Intel Core i3 or i5 processors are suitable for most students, but those in resource-intensive fields may require more powerful processors.

• Chromebooks are a great option for students who primarily use web-based applications and need a lightweight and easy-to-use device.

HP 14 Ultralight Laptop for Students and Business

We consider the HP 14 Ultralight Laptop an excellent choice for students and business professionals who need a reliable, portable, and easy-to-set-up device.

We love that it's lightweight and features a sleek design, making it perfect for those always on-the-go.

The laptop's 14-inch HD display and Intel Quad-Core N4120 processor provide a seamless performance for everyday tasks.

With 8GB of RAM and 192GB of storage, we can store our files and multitask with ease.

Plus, the battery life of up to 11 hours and 30 minutes allows us to work or study all day without worrying about running out of juice.

Overall, we think the HP 14 Ultralight Laptop is a great option for anyone seeking a reliable and portable laptop.

Best For: students and business professionals who need a reliable, portable, and easy-to-set-up device.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable design makes it perfect for those always on-the-go
• 14-inch HD display and Intel Quad-Core N4120 processor provide a seamless performance for everyday tasks
• Long battery life of up to 11 hours and 30 minutes allows for all-day use without worrying about running out of juice

Cons:

• Limited storage capacity may not be sufficient for users with large file needs
• Slow processing time may hinder performance for resource-intensive tasks
• Issues with keyboard and mouse functionality have been reported by some users

HP Stream 14-inch Laptop for Student and Business

For students and business professionals seeking a reliable and portable laptop, the HP Stream 14-inch Laptop stands out as an excellent choice, boasting an impressive 11-hour battery life and a compact design that weighs just 3.24 pounds.

We're impressed by its Intel Quad-Core Processor, 16GB RAM, and 320GB storage capacity, which makes it perfect for multitasking and storing files.

The 14-inch micro-edge anti-glare HD display with 1366 x 768 resolution provides clear visuals, and the Intel UHD Graphics 600 facilitates smooth performance.

With 1-year Office 365, a webcam, and Wi-Fi connectivity, this laptop is an excellent value for its price.

Best For: Students and business professionals seeking a reliable and portable laptop for multitasking and storing files.

Pros:

• Impressive 11-hour battery life for all-day use
• Compact design and lightweight (3.24 pounds) for easy portability
• Powerful Intel Quad-Core Processor, 16GB RAM, and 320GB storage capacity for smooth performance

Cons:

• Some reviewers mention issues with battery life and mouse functionality
• Limited storage capacity with only 64GB eMMC and 256GB Micro SD Card
• Lower resolution display (1366 x 768) may not be suitable for heavy graphics or video editing

Hp Everyday Essential 14 FHD Laptop

With its lightning-fast 12th Gen Intel Core processor and ample 16GB RAM, this laptop is the perfect fit for students who need to juggle multiple assignments and projects simultaneously.

We love that it can smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs, making it easy to multitask.

The fast bootup and data transfer with the 512GB SSD are also major pluses.

Plus, the Intel UHD graphics guarantee excellent performance, and the 14-inch FHD display with anti-glare and narrow bezel provides crisp visuals.

We think this laptop is ideal for business, college students, or anyone who needs a reliable and portable laptop for all-day use.

Best For: Business professionals, college students, or anyone who needs a reliable and portable laptop for all-day use.

Pros:

• Lightning-fast 12th Gen Intel Core processor and ample 16GB RAM for smooth multitasking
• Fast bootup and data transfer with the 512GB SSD
• Excellent Intel UHD graphics performance and crisp visuals with the 14-inch FHD display

Cons:

• Some reviewers mention minor issues with the screen and mouse
• No specific information on battery life
• No additional features beyond the standard ports and design

HP Notebook Laptop

What makes the HP Notebook Laptop an attractive choice for students is its exceptional speed and smooth multitasking capabilities, thanks to its Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor and 32GB DDR4 SDRAM.

We appreciate how quickly it boots up, transfers files, and launches apps, making it perfect for juggling multiple tasks and deadlines.

The 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD provides ample storage for our files, documents, and media.

We also appreciate the built-in webcam for video calls and online meetings.

The Type-C and HDMI ports make it easy to connect to external devices, and the Wi-Fi capability facilitates stable and fast internet connectivity.

Overall, the HP Notebook Laptop is a solid choice for students who need a reliable and efficient laptop for their academic pursuits.

Best For: students who need a reliable and efficient laptop for their academic pursuits.

Pros:

• Lightweight and touchscreen features make it easy to use
• Exceptional speed and smooth multitasking capabilities
• Ample storage space for files, documents, and media

Cons:

• Lack of keyboard lighting
• Shorter battery life than expected
• Display can be washed out and with poor resolution

HP Portable Laptop

We've found the HP Portable Laptop to be an excellent choice for students who need a reliable and portable device, boasting a 14-inch HD display and 16GB DDR4 SDRAM to handle tasks with ease and speed.

This laptop is designed to make multitasking a breeze, thanks to its Intel Celeron N4120 Processor and Intel UHD Graphics 600.

We appreciate its sleek design, lightweight build, and impressive battery life, making it easy to take to class or work.

The keyboard is comfortable to type on, and the vibrant display is perfect for streaming YouTube videos in crystal-clear quality.

While some users have reported issues with the laptop, such as caps lock key problems and pixilation, overall, we believe the HP Portable Laptop is a great option for students who need a reliable and portable device.

Best For: Students who need a reliable and portable device for school or work.

Pros:

• Exceptional performance and multitasking capabilities with 16GB DDR4 SDRAM and Intel Celeron N4120 Processor
• Impressive battery life and comfortable keyboard for easy typing
• Sleek design and lightweight build make it easy to carry around

Cons:

• Some users have reported issues with the laptop, such as caps lock key problems and pixilation
• Keys can be hard to see in certain lighting conditions
• No SD card slot is included with the laptop

HP Chromebook 14 Laptop

If you're a student seeking a reliable laptop for online classes, streaming, and general tasks, the HP Chromebook 14 Laptop is an excellent choice, thanks to its impressive 13.5-hour battery life and robust performance.

We particularly like its lightweight and portable design, making it easy to carry around campus.

The 14-inch HD display provides a decent viewing experience, and the Intel Celeron N4000 processor facilitates smooth performance for everyday tasks.

Furthermore, the Chrome operating system is easy to set up and use, with good parental controls for added peace of mind.

Overall, we think the HP Chromebook 14 Laptop is a great option for students who need a reliable and portable laptop for online learning and general use.

Best For: Students seeking a reliable laptop for online classes, streaming, and general tasks.

Pros:

• Long-lasting battery life up to 13 hours and 30 minutes
• Lightweight and portable design
• Easy to set up and use, with good parental controls

Cons:

• Limited capabilities for work-from-home use
• Restocking fees may apply for returns
• Limited storage capacity with 32 GB eMMC storage

Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop

The Acer Aspire 3 Slim Laptop is an excellent choice for students who need a reliable device to handle academic tasks with ease.

With its AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core Processor and 8GB of LPDDR5 Onboard Memory, it effortlessly handles tasks like writing essays and conducting research online, thanks to its powerful processor and ample memory.

The laptop's 15.6 Full HD IPS display with narrow bezels provides an immersive viewing experience, while its Wi-Fi 6 and 2×2 MU-MIMO technology guarantee seamless connectivity.

We appreciate its long battery life, which supports uninterrupted work sessions, making it an ideal companion for students.

Best For: Students who need a reliable device to handle academic tasks with ease.

Pros:

• Acceptable screen quality with a 15.6 Full HD IPS display
• Good USB and NVMe speeds for efficient data transfer
• Decent build quality and sufficient CPU/GPU performance for general use

Cons:

• No keyboard backlight for typing in low-light environments
• No upgrade options for RAM or storage, limiting future customization
• No ethernet or SD card ports, limiting connectivity options

Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Student Laptop

For students seeking a reliable laptop that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, the Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Student Laptop stands out with its impressive 20GB RAM and 1TB SSD + 128GB eMMC storage combination, making it an excellent choice for those who need to multitask efficiently.

Its Intel Dual Core Processor and 15.6 FHD display provide a seamless viewing experience.

The laptop also features Wi-Fi 6, a webcam, and Bluetooth connectivity, making it easy to stay connected.

Furthermore, its lightweight design and good streaming quality make it an excellent choice for students who need a reliable laptop for working on-the-go.

Best For: students who need a reliable laptop for multitasking, working on-the-go, and staying connected.

Pros:

• Good storage capacity with 1TB SSD + 128GB eMMC
• Sleek design and lightweight making it easy to travel with
• Features a card slot and USB-C port for added convenience

Cons:

• No disc tray and minimal ports available
• Preinstalled bloatware can be a nuisance
• Not suitable for gaming or heavy usage

Factors to Consider When Choosing Laptops for Students

When selecting a laptop for school, you'll want to think carefully about several key factors to guarantee you get the right one for your needs.

You'll need to ponder the processor power, screen size, and memory and storage capacity to handle your coursework.

Furthermore, you'll want to weigh the importance of operating system options and battery life to make the most of your laptop investment.

Processor Power

When it comes to processor power, you'll need to examine the type and speed of the processor. For most students, a mid-range processor from a reputable brand like Intel Core i3 or i5 will suffice. However, if you're studying a resource-intensive field like engineering, computer science, or video production, you may need a more powerful processor like an Intel Core i7 or i9.

When checking the processor specs, look for the clock speed, measured in GHz. A higher clock speed generally means better performance. You should also bear in mind the number of cores and threads. A dual-core or quad-core processor with multiple threads can handle multitasking more efficiently.

Furthermore, check for features like turbo boost, which can temporarily increase the processor's speed when needed. By choosing a laptop with sufficient processor power, you'll be able to complete tasks quickly and efficiently, giving you more time to focus on your studies.

Screen Size Matters

Considering your lifestyle and academic requirements, you need to determine the ideal screen size that balances portability and productivity.

As a student, you'll likely be carrying your laptop frequently, so a smaller screen size can be beneficial. A 14-inch laptop is a popular choice among students, offering a good balance between portability and productivity, with many models weighing around 3 pounds or less.

However, if you prioritize multitasking, gaming, or video editing, a larger screen size above 15 inches might be more suitable. Keep in mind that larger screens can compromise on portability.

When choosing a laptop screen size, consider your specific needs, including the type of coursework, mobility requirements, and personal preferences. Furthermore, consider the screen resolution, as a higher resolution like Full HD or 4K can enhance the visual experience, but may increase the price and drain the battery faster.

Memory and Storage

With a multitude of tasks and applications to juggle, you need a laptop that can keep up with your multitasking habits, making sufficient memory and storage capacities essential components of your academic arsenal.

You'll want to look for a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM to guarantee seamless performance, especially when working on multiple projects simultaneously. Furthermore, consider a laptop with a solid-state drive (SSD) as its primary storage device, as they offer faster loading times and improved overall performance compared to traditional hard disk drives (HDD).

When it comes to storage capacity, aim for at least 256GB to store your files, projects, and assignments. If you plan on storing larger files, such as videos or high-resolution images, consider a laptop with expandable storage options or a higher capacity SSD.

Operating System Options

When selecting a laptop, one key factor to weigh is the operating system, as it can greatly impact your academic experience.

You'll want to choose an OS that aligns with your coursework requirements and personal preferences.

If you need to use specific software for your studies, a Windows laptop might be the way to go, thanks to its compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware.

On the other hand, if you're a fan of web-based applications and Google Drive, a Chrome OS laptop could be the perfect fit, offering a lightweight and easy-to-use operating system.

If you're already invested in the Apple ecosystem, a macOS laptop might be the best choice, providing seamless integration with your other Apple devices.

Alternatively, if you're comfortable with open-source operating systems and crave customization, a Linux laptop could be the way to go.

Ultimately, bear in mind your specific needs, including the type of software required for your coursework, compatibility with other devices, and personal preferences when choosing an operating system.

Battery Life Importance

As you narrow down your laptop options, you'll want to think about how often you'll be on the go, since a laptop that can't keep up with your busy schedule can quickly become a liability. As a student, you're likely to be moving between classes, studying in different locations, and working on group projects. You need a laptop that can keep up with your active lifestyle.

A long-lasting battery is vital to guarantee you can focus on your studies without worrying about running out of power. Look for laptops with at least 8 hours of battery life, but ideally 10 hours or more. This will give you the freedom to work on assignments, stream lectures, or study for exams without needing to constantly search for a power outlet.

When researching laptops, pay attention to the battery life ratings and read reviews from other users to get a sense of how well a laptop performs in real-world use. Don't settle for a laptop that can't keep up with your demands – your productivity and sanity depend on it. By prioritizing battery life, you'll be able to stay focused on your studies and achieve your academic goals.

Portability and Weight

Carrying a heavy laptop around campus can be a real burden, so you must prioritize portability and weight when choosing the right laptop for your student lifestyle.

You'll want a laptop that's light enough to carry comfortably, yet durable enough to withstand daily use. Look for a laptop that weighs between 2.5 to 3.5 pounds, which is considered portable and suitable for students.

A lightweight laptop with a compact design will fit easily into your backpack or messenger bag, making it ideal for your on-the-go lifestyle.

When choosing a laptop, consider a model with a durable and sturdy construction to withstand the rigors of daily use and transport.

A smaller laptop with a 13-inch or 14-inch screen is often more portable and easier to carry than a larger 15-inch or 17-inch laptop.

Furthermore, opt for a laptop with a battery life of at least 8 hours, so you can use your device throughout the day without needing to recharge.

Budget-Friendly Options

Budget-friendly laptops that meet your needs as a student can be found by considering devices with lower-cost processors, smaller storage capacities, and alternative operating systems.

For instance, Intel Celeron or Pentium processors can provide reliable performance for basic tasks like browsing and word processing at a lower cost. You can also opt for laptops with smaller storage capacities, such as 64GB or 128GB, which are more affordable and suitable for students who primarily use cloud-based storage and streaming services.

Another cost-effective option is Chromebooks, which run on Google's Chrome OS and are often more affordable than Windows or macOS laptops. They're ideal for students who primarily use web-based applications.

If you're on a tight budget, consider refurbished or open-box laptops, but make sure to purchase from a reputable seller and check the warranty and return policy. Additionally, consider previous year's models or previous generations of devices, which can often be found at a lower price point than the latest releases.

Durability and Build

When shopping for a laptop, you'll want to weigh the device's durability and build quality, as a well-constructed laptop can withstand the rigors of daily use and handling that come with student life.

A laptop's durability is vital, as it will be subject to constant transportation, accidental bumps, and frequent use.

You should consider the material used in the laptop's construction, such as aluminum or plastic, as it affects its durability and resistance to scratches and damage.

The laptop's weight and size are also important, as lighter and smaller laptops are more convenient for you to carry around.

Additionally, the hinge and lid design play a significant role in the laptop's overall build quality.

Sturdy hinges and a secure lid closure are essential for withstanding daily use.

In addition, the quality of the keyboard, touchpad, and screen can also impact the laptop's durability, as these components are prone to wear and tear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Laptop for Online Classes if I Have Slow Internet?

You can use a laptop for online classes with slow internet, but it won't be ideal.

You'll need a minimum internet speed of 1 Mbps for standard video conferencing.

If your internet is slower, you'll experience lag, buffering, or disconnections.

However, you can still try to make it work by closing other apps, using a wired connection, and optimizing your laptop's settings for low-bandwidth use.

Are Laptops With Touchscreens Better for Note-Taking in Class?

Imagine yourself scribbling notes furiously in class, your hand moving swiftly across the page.

Now, imagine that ease with a laptop – but is a touchscreen really the way to go?

While it might seem appealing, touchscreens can be distracting and drain your battery faster.

Plus, you'll likely end up with fingerprints all over the screen.

If you're set on a touchscreen, look for one with a stylus for more precise note-taking.

Do Student Laptops Come With Microsoft Office Software Pre-Installed?

Typically, laptops don't come with Microsoft Office software pre-installed, unless you're buying a business or enterprise model.

You'll likely need to purchase a subscription or license to use Office apps like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.

However, many schools offer discounted rates for students, so be sure to check with your university for potential deals.

Can I Play Games on a Laptop Meant for Schoolwork and Studying?

Imagine trying to fit a sports car engine into a bicycle – it's not meant for speed, right?

Similarly, laptops designed for schoolwork aren't built for gaming. But, you can still play casual games like Minecraft or Solitaire.

If you want to play graphic-intensive games, consider a gaming laptop.

However, if you're looking for a laptop for school, prioritize processing power, RAM, and storage for efficient multitasking and productivity.

Are Laptops With Smaller Screens Better for Carrying Around Campus?

When it comes to carrying a laptop around campus, you'll want something lightweight and portable.

Laptops with smaller screens, typically 11-13 inches, are a great option.

They're not only easier to carry but also tend to be more energy-efficient, making them perfect for long days on campus.

You'll appreciate the convenience of a smaller laptop that slips easily into your backpack, allowing you to focus on your studies rather than worrying about lugging a heavy device around.