in the UK, 8 out of 10 students own a laptop. In order to make the right choice, you will have to take into account the technical characteristics of these laptops for students, which vary enormously. The important thing is to find the laptop that will suit your needs. Between the brands (Apple, HP, Dell...), Chromebooks, ultrabook or notebooks, it is difficult to choose. Save time by reading this buying guide.
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Our selection
"This is the latest Inspiron laptop from Dell. It should bring a set of necessary improvements in user comfort, usability, as well as performance."
"Compact and easy to use, this Chromebook from Acer has a battery that is just huge. Running on Chrome OS, it has all the useful…"
"The 13-inch MacBook Pro offers the best combination of speed, battery life and display quality at the most reasonable price. And when it comes to…"
"Microsoft embraced the 2-in-1 concept when it designed Windows 8, and has been working to perfect the design ever since. The Surface Pro7 is a…"
"For students looking for a laptop that can replace a desktop computer, the HP Envy 17-ch0039nf presents itself as a credible alternative."
This is the latest Inspiron laptop from Dell. It should bring a set of necessary improvements in user comfort, usability, as well as performance.
999 £ on AmazonIn fact, one of the big selling points of the new generation is Intel's Evo platform. That means it contains extremely well optimized Tiger Lake processors that come with dual channel memory. And for such a small laptop, optimization is paramount. On top of that, this Dell student laptop features a Dolby Vision display with supposedly 100% sRGB color coverage and 300 nits of brightness, finally positioning the laptop towards professional users. Of course, students will find it perfectly suitable.
Dell Inspiron 13 2-in-1 7306 has a 13.3-inch Full HD IPS panel. It is also powered by an 11th generation Intel Core i7 EVO processor, combined with 512GB of SSD and 16GB of RAM. Let's not forget the Wi-Fi 6 support, which is now becoming the standard for many devices on the market
Compact and easy to use, this Chromebook from Acer has a battery that is just huge. Running on Chrome OS, it has all the useful features whether you are a student or a professional.
263 £ on AmazonThe Acer Chromebook CB314-1HT-C9F8 features a 14-inch full HD display nestled in a dark frame with thick bezels at the bottom where the logo is found, 2 thin lines on the sides and a medium border at the top that houses the webcam. It's powered by an Intel Celeron N4020 processor, with an additional 8GB of RAM and 64GB of internal storage. That's a typical configuration on Chromebooks, but a bit better than most base models.
You can use the Acer Chromebook CB314-1HT-C9F8 for a range of tasks including office work, casual browsing and watching your favorite movies. This laptop can handle anything you throw at it, as long as it's not video games or photo editing software. Even the speaker quality is still respectable for a student laptop in this price range.
The 13-inch MacBook Pro offers the best combination of speed, battery life and display quality at the most reasonable price. And when it comes to design, you can't get much better than this, regardless of brand.
1 335 £ on Amazon
Microsoft embraced the 2-in-1 concept when it designed Windows 8, and has been working to perfect the design ever since. The Surface Pro7 is a wonderfully put together machine that supports the latest and fastest Wi-Fi 6 standards.
639 £ on AmazonMicrosoft Surface Pro 7 has a remarkable feature with the built-in kickstand and keyboard that allows you to position the screen at any angle, always present. However, Microsoft has added a USB-C port to its latest version, a long overdue and much appreciated addition. This tablet also stands out especially with its great 12.3-inch screen and 5-hour battery life.
The internal components have also been updated with all configurations of the Surface Pro 7 from the Windows 10 Home operating system hosting tenth generation Intel processors. The model has an Intel Core i5 processor with Iris Plus graphics, 8GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD inside. It is also fully responsive.
For students looking for a laptop that can replace a desktop computer, the HP Envy 17-ch0039nf presents itself as a credible alternative.
1 279 £ on BoulangerAs a desktop replacement model, the HP Envy 17-ch0039nft will get the job done. It has a large 17-inch Full HD display, improved CPU and graphics performance, and plenty of ports to connect all your peripherals. In fact, this laptop packs an Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor running at 2.8 GHz, 16 GB of RAM and an Nvidia GeForce MX450 graphics card.
As with most mid-range and high-end HP laptops, the Envy 17 carries the Bang&Olufsen audio footprint. While the audio quality isn't particularly nuanced, it's loud enough to fill a large family room with volume to spare. Although the HP Envy 17-ch0039nft's 55 watt/H four-cell battery can be charged via the USB Type-C port, HP only includes the old-fashioned barrel-style AC adapter in the box.
Any specific needs?
Best entry-level student laptop
Excellent Apple student convertible laptop
Your guide :
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| TOP OF THE TOP | NOT EXPENSIVE | EXCELLENT | Powerful | ||
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
9/10 |
7/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
8/10 |
| OUR SELECTION |
Dell Inspiron 13 2-in-1 7306
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Acer Chromebook CB314-1HT-C9F8
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MacBook Pro 13
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Microsoft Surface Pro 7
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HP Envy 17-ch0039nf
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This is the latest Inspiron laptop from Dell. It should bring a set of necessary improvements in user comfort, usability, as well as performance.
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Compact and easy to use, this Chromebook from Acer has a battery that is just huge. Running on Chrome OS, it has all the useful features whether you are a student or a professional.
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The 13-inch MacBook Pro offers the best combination of speed, battery life and display quality at the most reasonable price. And when it comes to design, you can't get much better than this, regardless of brand.
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Microsoft embraced the 2-in-1 concept when it designed Windows 8, and has been working to perfect the design ever since. The Surface Pro7 is a wonderfully put together machine that supports the latest and fastest Wi-Fi 6 standards.
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For students looking for a laptop that can replace a desktop computer, the HP Envy 17-ch0039nf presents itself as a credible alternative.
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Screen
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13.3" (1920 x 1080 pixels)
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14" (1920 x 1080 pixels)
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13.3" (2560 x 1600 pixels)
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12.3" (2736 x 1824 pixels)
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17.3" (1920 x 1080 pixels)
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Processor
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Intel Core i7-1165G7 (2.8 GHz )
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Intel Celeron N4020 (2.80 GHz)
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Intel Core i5-1038NG7 (1.4 GHz )
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Intel Core i5-1035G4 (1.10 GHz)
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Intel Core i7-1165G7 (2.8 GHz )
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Graphic card
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Integrated
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Integrated
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Integrated
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Integrated
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Nvidia GeForce MX450
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RAM
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16 GB
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8 GB
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16 GB
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8 GB
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16 GB
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Hard disk
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SSD 512 GB
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eMMC 64 GB
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SSD 512 GB
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SSD 128 GB
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SSD 1 TB
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Lightweight, solid, design, cheap, powerful... Students cite at least 4 of these attributes to describe the ideal laptop for them. Based on this, we have identified 5 criteria for choosing a student laptop.
Few programs are very resource-intensive to use during class, unless you are studying technical subjects such as graphics, architecture, computer science, or the like. However, you should demand a smooth, fast laptop that can run many programs simultaneously.
Multi-core Intel core (i5, i7...) and AMD (A12, Ryzen...) processors are preferred. If you don't have real power needs, an Intel Celeron will do. Graphics students and gaming enthusiasts will also need a powerful graphics card, such as Nvidia or AMD Radeon. But you'll have to shell out the money to go with it.
12
, 13, 14, 15, or 17 inches, manufacturers offer many screen sizes. But widescreen doesn't always mean better display, except maybe for a gaming laptop. Choose according to the quality of the slab and prefer a screen that does not tire the eyes, especially for writing reports.
Also note that a larger screen means a larger laptop, so it's harder to carry around. In addition, a larger screen will tend to drain the battery faster. And in recent years, there have been hybrid or convertible laptops, where the touch screen can be used like a tablet.
A
good student laptop should have enough memory to run the entire hardware configuration properly. Depending on your needs and means, opt for 4, 8, or even 16 GB of RAM. Note that some laptops have memory chips soldered to the motherboard that cannot be replaced.
For storage, you'll need an external hard drive if you buy a Chromebook. The SSD in this type of laptop has a limited capacity of 32 or 64 GB, unless it is a high-end model. For Windows-based MacBooks and laptops, never buy less than 256GB for an SSD. If it's a SATA hard drive, plan on 512GB minimum, with 1TB being ideal.
If
you plan to mainly browse the internet and occasionally take notes or type up reports, a 300-euro Chromebook will do. Be aware, however, that the Chrome system requires an internet connection. The ideal is a Windows-based laptop from 300 to 800 euros that is powerful, has the Office suite and is versatile.
For technical studies requiring heavy programs (graphics, architecture...), the Chromebook is not recommended. Better to choose a laptop for graphics, or even a laptop for gamers. Between an ASUS Vivobook S S712FB-AU300T at 1,250 euros and a MacBook Pro at 2,900 euros, you will find what you need.
Design isn't just about looks. Given the duration of university studies, you need a robust laptop with many ports (USB, RJ45...). Count on 8 hours of battery life, or even more than 10 hours, if your budget allows.
Moreover, class days are often hectic. The student has to juggle between several rooms, i.e. take the computer out of the bag, put it back in once the class is over and carry the bag until the next class! To allow for true mobility, choose a lightweight, space-saving laptop.
Finally, pay particular attention to the comfort of the keyboard and touchpad. The keys should be spaced far enough apart and responsive enough to make typing easier, especially when taking notes. Note that the burner drive tends to disappear and most batteries have become inaccessible from the outside.
In
2020, there are mainly ultraportables or ultrabooks, MacBooks, Chromebooks, laptops for gamers, convertible laptops and of course the classic laptops. Despite this great diversity, there are only 4 operating systems: Chrome, Apple OS, Windows and Linux Ubuntu. For the time being, manufacturers are not producing any Android-based laptops.
Chrome OS is the operating system produced by Google to equip Chromebooks. Despite limited performance and functionality, Chromebooks have quickly conquered a large market share. This is mainly due to their lightness compared to traditional laptops and their ultra-compact dimensions. Chrome OS is a faster and lighter operating system than Windows 10.
Why? It is only composed of the Google Chrome software and runs web processes. You won't find the usual Office Pack or anything else. Here, everything happens online. Yes, you need to be connected to the internet. To touch up your photos or edit your documents, you need to use Drive and the Cloud for more storage. On top of that, you'll be able to watch videos on the web, check your email or just surf.
In addition, Chrome OS allows you to access the Android applications in the Google Playstore. Finally, if you've ever used Drive, you know that it's possible to work without a connection.
To counter the hegemony of Chrome OS, Windows 10 has developed Win 10s which is faster than Win 10. No magic, Microsoft has only focused the activities of its new OS on the Windows environment. You can no longer install new third-party programs; everything happens in the Windows Store. This has unleashed the new OS because all unnecessary processes are eliminated.
If you are used to using Microsoft Edge as a browser and you know the shortcomings on Windows store, choose the notebooks running Win 10 s. But if you are looking for a fast laptop and Drive is enough for your business, Chromebooks are perfect.
The tablet offers more convenience than a mouse or touchpad. Simply tap and drag the icons to navigate through all the content. Some even respond to voice commands, allowing even faster access to information.
More mobile than a laptop, the tablet turns on right away, without waiting, like a smartphone. What's more, it's thin and light, aspects on which the laptop can never beat it. To top it all off, a laptop battery lasts an average of 5 or 6 hours, while a tablet lasts an average of 10 to 12 hours.
In terms of connectivity, the tablet offers a 3G+ connection with Wi-Fi, which is not always available on a laptop. The tablet also offers many location and navigation services, being equipped with a GPS. And reading e-books, PDF courses and documents is more user-friendly on a tablet.
Finally, the price of a touchscreen tablet ranges from 50 to 800 euros. You'll pay more if you want huge storage space and gaming performance.
First major difference, the laptop has a physical keyboard. More comfortable, more responsive and more precise than the virtual keyboard, it is perfect for note taking in class, long hours of typing (dissertations, essays, reports...). Even the optional mini keyboard for tablets can't compete.
Secondly, the laptop offers a larger screen, 14, 15 or even 17 inches. Therefore, the work surface is larger, not to mention the power and multitasking. And when it comes to entertaining yourself by watching videos or playing a game, the larger screen offers greater immersion and obvious visual comfort.
Moreover, a laptop offers 10 times more storage than a tablet. According to statistics, a laptop has an average of 320GB of disk space, while a tablet has only 32GB of flash memory. Add to that the numerous ports to which you can connect various peripherals. Not to mention the clamshell design that protects the screen.
However, a laptop costs more than a tablet. The least powerful machines start at €200 and you'll have to pay €400 to €1,000 to get what you want. On top of that, high-end laptops and gaming laptops can be worth several thousand euros.
The laptop has revolutionized the way we work. Mobile and powerful, it has more than enough battery life for reading, streaming or word processing. Even though it often needs to be plugged in, its storage capacity and easy connection to a printer stand out.
However, if you're looking for mobility above all, the tablet is the best option. It's light, touch-sensitive and perfect for presentations, browsing and reading lectures and documents. Plus, its long battery life and display are still better than a laptop.
8 out of 10 students own a laptop. That's much higher than the general population, for whom the rate varies between 48 and 61%. For study or leisure, here are 5 reasons why a student uses a laptop.
To study and practice
Thanks to its responsive and ergonomic keyboard, the laptop allows you to take notes during class. For long essay, thesis or report writing, it offers the mobility that a desktop computer does not. Moreover, a powerful laptop is an ideal solution for graphics and application development, especially 3D.
For fun and games
A laptop is also an excellent entertainment tool. All users will confirm this. You can stream, watch movies, listen to music, surf the web, use social networks, edit photos and videos and play games. But don't overuse it!
To document and communicate
For group work or research for a thesis, the laptop is an indispensable tool. It stores the data necessary for studies and research while allowing the installation of programs to exploit them. You can also send emails or make video calls with a laptop.
For mobility and ease of transport
For a student, the laptop offers more mobility than a desktop computer. Unlike a desktop computer, a laptop fits easily into a briefcase or purse so you can take it anywhere. Add to that its ability to run for hours on battery power and the ability to connect to the Internet via a Wi-Fi hotspot.
For storage and multitasking capabilities
It's a fact: the laptop offers more storage capacity compared to the tablet. You can keep documents, photos, music tracks, video games and movies by the thousands. And if that's not enough, get an external hard drive. Finally, the power of a laptop makes it a tool that can perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
In our opinion, the best brands of laptops for students in 2022 are :
Taiwan is a computer powerhouse. The CEO of Nvidia, Jen-Hsun Huang, is from the island. So are Asus and Gigabyte, not to mention Acer. Despite criticism of poorly aging machines, the world's fourth largest computer manufacturer does not owe its rank to chance.
The Chinese brand is the world's leading manufacturer and not to see it in this ranking is like cheating. ThinkPad, Ideapad or others, Lenovo laptops are aimed at a very wide audience and cover different types of needs. A student will certainly find what he needs.
Asus is another Taiwanese company breathing reliability, with a low return rate in the world. The world's leading motherboard manufacturer, it also delights its many fans with its laptop ranges: Zenbook and Vivobook Flip.
Everything has already been said about the company founded by Steve Jobs. Its products, which are acclaimed all over the world, illustrate its know-how. iWatch, iPhone, iPad, iMac or MacBook, Apple is a bit like haute couture applied to new technologies. Of course, this comes with high prices!
Who doesn't know HP? The American giant is world famous for its computers and printers. Hewlett-Packard is not the second largest manufacturer in the world for nothing. Its laptops often offer a very interesting price/quality ratio.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Learn how to take notes effectively.
A lot of the criticism of laptops in the classroom has to do with note-taking. Unless you're a stenographer, you'll never move as fast as a professor talking! Be more selective in your notes by abbreviating the most common words and key concepts. And regularly look up from your screen to make sure you understand.
Don't install (too many) distracting programs!
Between TV shows, the Internet, social networks and video games, a student can quickly forget the reason he or she bought a laptop: studying. To regain control, limit distracting programs or delete them. You can also turn off notifications for emails, tweets, Facebook messages, etc., during class time. Or, don't bring the computer to class.
Clean and organize your office.
Sort, organize and file your files. By name, by date, in subject-specific subfolders or any other reason... Avoid concentrating too many shortcuts and files on your machine's desktop. Speaking of which, psychologists have correlated the organization of a workstation with the organizational ability of the user.
Do not place your laptop on your lap.
Not only is putting your laptop on your lap counterintuitive, but it can also make your device heat up. Which is not good for it or you in that it can burn you, slightly admittedly, but burn nonetheless.
Don't forget it on your bed.
You can use your laptop while you're in bed. But make sure you always put it in a safe place before you sleep, or it may fall and break. There's nothing more annoying than having to work on a computer with a cracked screen.
Laptops, like most electronic devices for that matter, do not like liquids! This includes water, coffee, sodas and alcoholic beverages. Always be very careful when handling drinks next to your computer.
The best student laptop depends on your needs and budget. Read our buying guide to find out which products are the best.
Consider the hardware configuration: processor, RAM, graphics card, screen size, storage capacity and connectivity. If you use resource-intensive programs, choose a powerful, and therefore more expensive, computer. For word processing and browsing, a more reasonable hardware configuration will do. Also pay attention to the weight and the operating system (version, presence of Office suite...).
If you limit yourself to browsing and reading (courses, books...), a tablet will suffice. If you regularly do word processing or use powerful graphics or drawing software, it is better to choose a laptop.
On sale, you could find a basic configuration for less than 300 euros. Most students will find what they are looking for between €450 and €1,000. For a graphics or gamer laptop, or even a state-of-the-art MacBook, expect to pay between £1,000 and several thousand.
We recommend Acer, Dell, HP, Lenovo, Apple, Asus or gaming laptop brands.
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