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A good laptop is the backbone of your college life. It serves countless benefits, from jotting lecture notes to researching and collaborating in-person or remotely. It also doubles as an all-in-one entertainment source of movies, games, and more when uni life gets a little too stressful.
Moreover, different students have unique needs based on their specific courses of study. This is why a quality laptop is no longer a luxury. You need one that offers performance that meets your academic demands. This guide will explore this year’s best-recommended laptops to get you through college.
Before you jump on the technical criteria or specs of what laptop to buy, here are things you need to look into:
How much are you willing to spend? If you have a bottomless budget, feel free to skip to the next parts. But if you’re treading on a tight budget like most college students, take a pause. This should be your top consideration.
The average cost of a laptop goes from $600 to $700. But some models can go as high as $1,000 to $3,000. Rather than pushing beyond your means, choose to work around your budget. Your unit of choice should offer the best value for your money.
You can also look for refurbished options or previous-generation models, as they can often provide excellent performance at a lower price point.
The type of laptop you will get should serve your course of study. If you use your laptop mainly to take notes, access eBooks, and make presentations, you can free your mind of certain specifications. You’ll do well with something that’s fairly fast and has decent storage.
It’s another issue if you have heavy-duty course activities such as animation, video and photo editing, and programming. These tasks include tools that significantly take up a huge chunk of storage. And while they’re running, they take longer to process, which can cause downtimes and device crashes when your laptop can’t handle these tasks.
For example, graphic design or video editing majors need a laptop with a powerful processor and a dedicated graphics card. Meanwhile, for computer science students, programming, or data analysis, a laptop with ample RAM and processing power is essential.
While your course should give you enough details on what laptop to get, think about your everyday uni life. Will you primarily use it for note-taking or browsing? Will you bring it everywhere? Will you run resource-intensive software or multitask frequently?
These factors should add to your technical considerations. Understanding your usage patterns helps you nail the specifications, such as CPU, RAM, storage capacity, and display quality.
Here are essential tech-savvy factors that you need to consider:
1. Processing power: The CPU (central processing unit) is the mind behind your computer. It determines your device’s speed at executing tasks. The more demanding your needs are, the more processing power you need. Tasks like video editing and 3D rendering entail next-level CPUs like an AMD Ryzen 7 or an Intel Core i7.
2. RAM: RAM (random access memory) affects your laptop's multitasking capabilities and performance. For basic tasks like web browsing and word processing, you’ll do well with 8GB of RAM. But if you're running high-end applications or working with large datasets, go higher for 16GB or even 32GB of RAM to avoid lag.
3. Storage: Your storage lets you keep files and applications. The bigger your storage, the more space you have to save different file types and install tools to amp up your laptop’s functionality.
If you’re looking for a specific type, solid state drives (SSDs) offer faster read and write speeds and improved durability than hard disk drives (HDDs). Opt for at least 256GB of SSD storage to accommodate your operating system, software, and files. If you need more for media files or projects, get an external hard drive or a laptop with higher storage capacity.
4. Battery life: If you’re constantly on the move, having a long-lasting battery is a must. Look for laptop models with a minimum 8-hour battery life. This ensures you can get through the day without scrambling for an outlet between classes or activities.
5. Screen size and resolution: The screen size should be up to you. If you want a balance between portability and usability, a 13- or 14-inch screen can give you those. Larger screens with 15- to 17-inch sizes are best for tasks requiring ample screen real estate. This includes tasks like designing and programming. Opt for a full HD (1920x1080) resolution if you want crisp visuals and comfortable viewing.
6. Portability: As a student, you'll be carrying your laptop around campus, so weight and size are important considerations. Look for lightweight and compact models that fit easily in your backpack and won't strain your shoulders during long days of classes.
7. Operating system: There are usually three operating system (OS) options: Windows, MacOS, and ChromeOS. Your choice of OS will depend on preference and compatibility with your software.
Windows is compatible with almost any software, MacOS seamlessly integrates with Apple devices, and ChromeOS offers simplicity and affordability, particularly for web-based tasks.
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Starting price: $899
There’s a good reason why the Apple Macbook Air M1 remains a great choice. Its M1 chip provides impressive speed and efficiency. This makes it capable of multitasking between demanding applications or heavy-duty software. It's also known for its long battery life, lasting up to 15 hours on a single charge.
It weighs just under three pounds and is incredibly thin. So, if you want a laptop that you can easily carry around and slip into most bags, this is it. Its 13.3-inch Retina display also offers vibrant colors and sharp details, ensuring an immersive visual experience whether you're watching lectures or working on design projects.
While its starting price point can be a dealbreaker, it’s a great buy for its performance. And compared to other Macbook units, it’s the most affordable one you can get.
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Excellent performance Long-lasting battery Lightweight Great display Comfortable keyboard |
High price Limited ports (it only has two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports) Limited customization options |
Recommended: Macbooks are great for students who value portability and reliability. It is particularly suitable for those in design, media, or computer science fields who require a powerful machine for demanding tasks.
Starting price: $729.99
If you’re looking for a Chromebook to be your campus companion, the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is your best bet. You have Intel 12th Gen CPUs from Core i3 to i7-1260P options. But the i5 coupled with 8GB RAM should be more than enough to cover your everyday workloads.
It has a 360-degree hinge which lets you convert the Chromebook into a laptop, a tablet, or tent mode, providing versatility for various tasks and study environments. Its 14-inch full HD touchscreen display leaves you ample room to multitask.
It also features a generous 265 GB storage. Additionally, the Chromebook comes with Google Drive integration, providing an extra 100GB of cloud storage. This is perfect for keeping important documents securely backed up. It’s unlikely you’ll run out of space for your files.
Taking into account all these features, the Asus Chromebook Spin 714 is competitively priced in the market. Its powerful processor, ample storage, and flexible design provide excellent value for students seeking a good and versatile laptop within a reasonable budget.
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Pros Fast and efficient performance Versatile 360-degree hinge design High-quality touchscreen display Large storage capacity Long battery life |
Cons Limited software compatibility compared to traditional laptops Needs internet connectivity for some applications |
Recommended: It suits a variety of students. It has enough power and storage to support demanding workloads for engineering, graphic designers, and others. Meanwhile, its unique hinge makes it ideal for art students to draw, sketch, and more. They are highly recommended for those who heavily rely on Google’s suite of tools.
Starting price: $899
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop that doesn’t scrimp on quality, consider Lenovo’s Ideapad 5i. Its 12th Gen Intel Core processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD allow you to juggle tasks, run productivity software, and even light creative work without hiccups.
Similar to Acer Chromebooks, its 2-in-1 convertible design transforms your device from a traditional laptop to a handy tablet. Flex 5i’s touchscreen display and comfortable keypad also boost user experience and provide flexibility for various tasks. When it comes to size, its compact and lightweight design makes it highly portable.
Considering its performance, flexible design, and impressive specs, it’s a great offer for its price.
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Pros Affordable Flexible style Compact and lightweight Solid performance and specs |
Cons Shorter battery life than average Can’t handle intensive workloads |
Recommended: It’s an all-around good laptop for budget-conscious students pursuing different courses. It’s a practical pick for everyday study needs.
Starting price: $649
Larger screens allow you to complete tasks simultaneously and work on complex projects. Unfortunately, desktops lack the portability you need.
HP Laptop 17 addresses this need by offering a 17-inch display, providing ample space for productivity on the go. The large screen isn’t the only best part. It has an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, guaranteeing excellent performance.
It comes at a reasonable price considering its large screen size and capable specifications. It offers good value for students who prioritize screen size and require a powerful and reliable laptop for their academic needs.
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Pros Large 17-inch screen for enhanced productivity Powerful performance for multitasking Sharp display Large storage |
Cons Less compact because of the screen size May not be suitable for students with limited desk space |
Recommended: This is a great option for those who prioritize larger screens such as engineering, graphic design, or any major that works with complex software or detailed visuals.
Starting price: $2,499
College doesn’t seem like a place to have a gaming laptop. But you’d be surprised at how efficient it can be, productivity-wise. Gaming laptops’ powerful specifications can handle intensive workloads. And when it comes to a great gaming laptop for college, the Razor Blade 15 is a top contender.
This sleek and powerful laptop offers a winning combination of performance and versatility. It comes with high-performance processors, ample RAM, and generous storage options—the Razer Blade 15 is a beast when it comes to handling demanding tasks.
It’s perfect for editing videos, coding complex programs, or running heavy software. Plus, its dedicated graphics card ensures smooth gaming experiences during your well-deserved study breaks. Considering its top-notch performance and premium features, the Razor Blade 15 offers excellent value for its price.
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Impressive technical specifications High-quality and vibrant display Sleek and stylish design Solid build quality for durability |
Limited battery life under heavy usage Can get warm during extended gaming sessions |
Recommended: It’s a great investment for students that need a reliable laptop for their academic and gaming needs. This includes architecture students using CAD software, IT majors working on complex coding environments, and esports aficionados.
Here are five essential tips to keep your laptop in tiptop shape:
Dust and debris buildup on your laptop can cause damage and heating issues. Use a soft lint-free cloth to wipe the screen and the keyboard. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents that may damage the surface. For dirt trapped on the keyboard keys and ports, use compressed air.
Stay on top of software updates, including the operating system, antivirus software, and driver updates. These updates often contain bug fixes, security patches, and performance improvements, keeping your laptop in optimal performance and security.
Protect your device from malware and security issues with safe browsing habits. Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading files from untrusted sources. Your best move is to invest in robust antivirus software. This performs regular system scans to detect and uproot potential threats before they can cause any damage.
Declutter your hard drive by regularly removing unnecessary files and programs. Consider using cloud services or external storage devices to keep important files and free up internal storage space. Don’t forget to create a backup of your important files in case of hardware failure or accidental data loss.
Most times, laptop damages are due to mishandling. No matter how durable your unit is, constant physical stress significantly diminishes its life span.
Use a sturdy bag or case for transport and place it on a stable surface. Close the lid gently, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of it. Also, avoid overcharging your laptop’s battery, which can reduce battery life. Once it's full, make sure to unplug it.
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Encountering issues with your laptop is inevitable. This shouldn’t keep you up at night. Instead, know where to ask for help and advice. Here are some reliable resources that can give you troubleshooting guides and support:
Reach out to your manufacturer’s support channels. They can guide you through common troubleshooting steps, offer software updates, and provide warranty assistance if needed. Also, check out their website for articles, guides, FAQs, and user forums specific to your model.
You’d be surprised at how willing people on the internet are at offering support. Engage with online communities and forums dedicated to laptop troubleshooting and support. Websites like Reddit and Tom's Hardware allow you to seek advice, share experiences, and connect with fellow users who may have encountered similar issues.
A simple YouTube search will give a long list of video tutorials on how to solve your specific issue. You can find step-by-step guides on fixing common software issues, hardware upgrades, or optimizing performance. They often provide visual demonstrations that make troubleshooting easier to follow.
If you're lucky, you may be able to find personal support right on your campus. Check out if your school’s IT department can assist students with technology-related problems. They can help you with software installation, network connectivity issues, and general laptop troubleshooting.
For the entirety of your college education, you might be spending more time with your laptop than with anyone else. And if you have to choose your friends wisely, you must also make the right one with your laptop as well.
We’ve rounded up the best models to help narrow down your options. But ultimately, the decision is up to you. Remember to consider your ideal specifications, course demands, budget, and other crucial factors. Best of luck!
References:
Acer Chromebook Spin 714 (CP714-1WN) | 2-in-1 High-Performance Evo Chromebook | Acer United States. (n.d.). Acer United States. https://www.acer.com/us-en/chromebooks/acer-chromebook-spin-714-cp714-1wn
Buy MacBook Air. (n.d.). Education - Apple. https://www.apple.com/us-edu/shop/buy-mac/macbook-air
HP Laptop 17-cn3097nr. (n.d.). https://www.hp.com/us-en/shop/pdp/hp-laptop-17-cn3097nr
IdeaPad Flex 5i (14" Intel) - Arctic Grey | Lenovo US. (n.d.). https://www.lenovo.com/us/en/p/laptops/ideapad/ideapad-flex-series/ideapad-flex-5i-gen-8-(14-inch-intel)/82y0000kus
Spezzy. (2023). How Much Should You Spend on a Laptop in 2023? LeagueFeed. https://leaguefeed.net/how-much-should-you-spend-on-laptop/
Still the Best 15 inch Gaming Laptop - Razer Blade 15 | Razer United States. (n.d.). Razer. https://www.razer.com/gaming-laptops/razer-blade-15
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