Are you a student looking for an affordable laptop that can meet your academic needs? With so many options on the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. The good news is that the best cheap laptops for students are getting better and better. But what features are most important to you, and what are you willing to sacrifice?
So, whether you’re a high school or college student, stay tuned to learn more about the best cheap laptops for students.
We believe that providing valuable and trustworthy information to our readers is essential. That’s why our picks for the best cheap laptops for students are based on extensive research and expert opinions.
We’ve consulted with subject matter experts in the field of technology to ensure that our recommendations are up-to-date and reliable.
So, you can rest assured that you’re getting the most accurate and helpful information possible. Without further ado, let’s dive into the world of cheap laptops and find the perfect one for you.
If you’re a student or a worker, having a laptop is essential these days. But not everyone can afford a high-end laptop that costs over $1,000. Luckily, there are many budget-friendly laptops available that are perfect companions for students returning to school or folks who just need something that’s a little more capable than an iPhone. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at the best cheap laptops for students that cost $600 or less. We’ll be discussing what to look for in a laptop for students, what you might be missing out on by getting a cheap laptop, and the differences between Chromebooks and Windows laptops.
Table of Contents
What are the most important things to look for in a Laptop for Students?
Before we dive into the best cheap laptops for students, let’s take a look at what’s important to consider when buying a laptop. For any cheap laptop, things like ports and memory are more important than fancy displays and processing power. If you want to record audio with a microphone or use a mouse, you’ll need USB ports; casual photographers or videographers should emphasize microSD card readers and an HDMI port goes a long way if you like streaming your favorite content on a TV.
Above all else, you want as much RAM and storage as you can get. More RAM means the computer can handle more applications at once, and more storage means less hard drive management.
What am I losing by getting a cheap Laptop for Students?
Laptops in the $600-or-below price range are not going to be good for PC gaming. You won’t get a 4K resolution display or a refresh rate higher than 60Hz. RAM is going to max out around 8GB, which isn’t bad but also isn’t spectacular. In this price range, laptops are going to be best for web browsing, word processing, Zoom calls, checking emails, and streaming. As long as you don’t expect more than that, you’ll be fine.
You’re also unlikely to get more than 500GB of storage space at this price point. In fact, you’ll find that most cheap laptops probably won’t give you more than 128GB of storage these days, opting to offer you cloud storage instead. This is especially true if you’re looking to get a Chromebook; these laptops run Google’s Chrome OS, so they have a strong tie-in with Google Drive, the personal cloud storage and file-sharing platform.
What’s the difference between a Chromebook and a Windows laptop?
When it comes to cheap laptops, you’re bound to find yourself at the crossroads of Chromebook vs. Windows. Here’s the difference between the two operating systems (or OS) and how can you decide which one is best for you:
- Chromebooks run on the Google Chrome OS, a simplified, web-based operating system that’s great for light web browsing and low-demand streaming. You won’t find a ton of RAM on these little machines, and the storage space will likely be quite small as well, as Google wants you to opt for Google Drive cloud storage instead. Many different laptop brands make Chromebooks, and overall, they tend to be a great entry-level machine for students and a nice, cheap secondary device for frequent travelers.
- Windows-based laptops are the more traditional choice, especially if you’re looking for something that runs more like a desktop computer or a more premium laptop model. They come with a full-fledged Windows operating system, which means you can install traditional desktop apps like Microsoft Office or Adobe Creative Suite. You’ll find laptops with more RAM and storage in this category, which means you’ll be able to do more on these machines.
The Best Cheap Laptops for Students
So, now that we’ve talked about the differences between Chromebooks and Windows laptops, let’s dive into the list of the best cheap laptops for students:
- Microsoft Surface Go 3
- HP Pavilion x360
- Asus Chromebook Flip CX5
- Acer Swift 1
- Acer Aspire 5
- Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3
- Asus Vivobook
- HP Pavilion Aero 13
- Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2
- Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3
1. Microsoft Surface Go 3
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent compact 2-in-1 laptop that is perfect for students. Although it may not have the same technical specifications as the more expensive Surface Pro 8, it is still a reliable and cheap option. With a 10.5-inch PixelSense display, Surface Pen support, Windows 11 pre-installed, USB-C, Surface Connect, a 3.5mm headphone jack, and your choice of an Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y or 10th gen Intel Core i3 processor, this device can handle all your basic needs.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Storage | 64GB/128GB |
| RAM | 4GB/8GB |
| Display | 10.5-inch PixelSense |
| Processor | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y or 10th gen Intel Core i3 |
| Features | Surface Pen support, Windows 11 built-in, USB-C, Surface Connect, 3.5mm headphone jack |
Pros:
- Affordable option
- Compact and portable design
- Comes with Windows 11 pre-installed
- Features a USB-C port and Surface Connect port for charging
- Includes a 3.5mm headphone jack
- Supports Surface Pen for easy note-taking and drawing
- Up to 11 hours of battery life
- WiFi 6 compatibility for fast internet speeds
Cons:
- Keyboard attachment is sold separately
- Limited storage options
- May not be powerful enough for advanced tasks
Why should you buy this?
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a great option for students or anyone who needs a reliable, portable device for basic tasks like web browsing, note-taking, and streaming media. It’s compact size and long battery life make it perfect for on-the-go use, and it comes with all the essential ports and features you need. While it may not be powerful enough for advanced tasks like video editing or gaming, it is a great value for its price point.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Microsoft Surface Go 3 is an excellent 2-in-1 laptop that is perfect for students and anyone who needs a reliable, affordable device for basic tasks. With its compact size, long battery life, and essential features, it is a great value for its price point. However, if you need a more powerful device for advanced tasks, you may want to consider a higher-end model.
2. HP Pavilion x360
The HP Pavilion x360 is an excellent budget-friendly hybrid laptop that is perfect for students. With an 11th Gen Intel Core i3 processor, Intel UHD Graphics, 1366 x 768 touchscreen display, two USB 3.1, one USB-C, HDMI port, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB of storage, this laptop is a great value for its price point.
One of the standout features of the HP Pavilion x360 is its convertible 2-in-1 design, which allows you to switch between notebook mode, tent mode, and tablet mode with ease. This makes it a versatile device for viewing movies, TV shows, and other media content. Additionally, the laptop has impressive audio quality, making it an excellent choice for music lovers.
While the storage capacity may be limited compared to other laptops, the 8GB of system memory is enough to help you multitask with ease. Overall, the HP Pavilion x360 is a great affordable option for everyday use.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Storage | 128GB |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Display | 1366 x 768 touchscreen |
| Processor | 11th Gen Intel Core i3 |
| Features | Intel UHD Graphics, two USB 3.1, one USB-C, HDMI port |
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Convertible 2-in-1 design for versatile viewing modes
- Impressive audio quality
- Touchscreen display for easy navigation
- USB-C port for fast charging
- 8GB of RAM for multitasking
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity
- Display resolution may not be the best for some users
- Intel UHD Graphics may not be powerful enough for advanced tasks
Why should you buy this?
The HP Pavilion x360 is a great choice for students or anyone who needs a budget-friendly hybrid laptop for everyday use. Its convertible 2-in-1 design and impressive audio quality make it a versatile device for watching movies and TV shows, while its 8GB of RAM and USB-C port make it a reliable option for multitasking and fast charging. However, if you need more storage capacity or advanced graphics capabilities, you may want to consider a higher-end model.
Conclusion:
Overall, the HP Pavilion x360 is a great budget-friendly hybrid laptop that is perfect for students and anyone who needs a reliable device for everyday use. With its convertible 2-in-1 design, impressive audio quality, and essential features, it is a great value for its price point. While it may not be the best choice for advanced tasks, it is a versatile and reliable option for basic needs.
3. Asus Chromebook Flip CX5
The Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 is the perfect cheap laptop for students. It is not only sturdy but also has a unique velvety texture that makes it pleasant to hold. With a wide range of port selections and a comfortable keyboard, it can compete with mid-range Windows laptops. The display is vibrant and sharp, delivering an excellent viewing experience.
The performance of the Chromebook Flip CX5 is impressive, with no fan noise even when dealing with heavy workloads. The battery life is satisfactory, lasting for a whole day. The audio is also exceptional, making it one of the best audio experiences on a Chromebook. Although it may not be perfect, it is one of the best cheap laptops under $700 that we have ever tested. In conclusion, if you don’t mind using Chrome OS, then the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 is a great option for budget-conscious students.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Core i3/i5 |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| Display | 14-inch FHD IPS touchscreen |
| RAM | 4GB/8GB |
| Storage | 64GB/128GB eMMC |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours |
| Weight | 3.1 lbs |
| Operating System | Chrome OS |
Pros:
- Affordable
- Excellent build quality
- Good port selection
- Comfortable keyboard
- Vibrant and sharp display
- Great audio quality
- Long battery life
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Limited storage
- Not suitable for heavy workloads
- Chrome OS may not be suitable for everyone
Why should you buy this?
If you are a student on a budget and want a reliable laptop that is portable and easy to use, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 is an excellent choice. Its lightweight, sturdy build quality, long battery life, and good port selection make it an ideal laptop for everyday use. It also has an excellent display and audio quality, making it perfect for watching movies or listening to music during your downtime.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 is a great cheap laptop for students who want a reliable and affordable device. While it may not be suitable for heavy workloads or users who prefer Windows OS, it has a lot to offer, including a vibrant display, excellent audio quality, and long battery life. If you’re in the market for a budget-friendly laptop, the Chromebook Flip CX5 is definitely worth considering.
4. Acer Swift 1
The Acer Swift 1 is a great choice for students who prioritize security. With a 13.3-inch IPS display and 1920×1080 resolution, it offers plenty of space for comfortable typing and viewing, and excellent color quality from multiple angles. Its standard port options include one USB 2.0, two USB 3.0, one USB-C, and an HDMI port, as well as an SD slot. The laptop is equipped with an Intel Core 1.10 GHz processor and Intel HD Graphics 505, along with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, depending on the model.
One of the best features of the Acer Swift 1 is its fingerprint sensor, which adds an extra layer of security and ensures that only authorized users can access the laptop. The laptop also offers about 9.5 hours of battery life, which is decent for its price range.
Specs:
| Model | Acer Swift 1 |
|---|---|
| Storage | 64GB |
| RAM | 4GB/8GB |
| Processor | Intel Core 1.10 GHz |
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 505 |
| Display | 13.3-inch, 1080p with 1920×1080 resolution, IPS |
| Ports | 1 x USB 2.0, 2 x USB 3.0, 1 x USB-C, HDMI port, SD slot |
| Security | Fingerprint sensor |
| Battery Life | Up to 9.5 hours |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home |
| Dimensions | 14.95 x 9.99 x 0.59 inches |
| Weight | 2.87 pounds |
Pros:
- Impressive security features, including a fingerprint sensor
- Large IPS display with excellent color quality from multiple angles
- Multiple standard port options, including USB-C and HDMI
- Decent battery life for its price range
Cons:
- Limited storage capacity at 64GB
- Processor may not be powerful enough for some intensive tasks
Why should you buy this laptop?
If you’re a student who needs a laptop with strong security features and a large, high-quality display, the Acer Swift 1 is a great choice. It’s multiple ports and decent battery life make it a versatile option for everyday use, although its limited storage capacity may be a drawback for some users.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Acer Swift 1 offers a solid combination of security features, display quality, and port options at an affordable price point. While it may not be the most powerful laptop out there, it’s a great option for students who prioritize security and value a large, high-quality display.
5. Acer Aspire 5
The Acer Aspire 5 is a consistently reliable and cheap laptop that is a great choice for students. Although it is not the newest model available, it is still an excellent option for light multitasking, word processing, web browsing, and email checking. With 4GB of memory and 128GB of storage, it has enough space to store your most important files. The laptop also features a backlit keyboard, one USB 3.1 port, two USB 2.0 ports, and 1 HDMI port with HDCP support. While it may not have all the latest bells and whistles, it is a great Windows-based alternative to a Chromebook.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Storage | 128GB |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Display | 1920 x 1080 widescreen Full HD IPS display |
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 3 3200U |
| Graphics | Vega 3 Graphics |
| Keyboard | Backlit keyboard |
| Ports | One USB 3.1 port, two USB 2.0 ports, 1 HDMI port |
| Battery life | Up to 8 hours |
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Reliable performance
- Backlit keyboard
- Full HD IPS display
- Multiple ports for connectivity
- Great battery life
Cons:
- Limited RAM and storage capacity
- No USB-C port
Why you should buy this?
If you are a student or someone looking for a cheap laptop for light multitasking, word processing, web browsing, and email checking, the Acer Aspire 5 is a great choice. With its full HD IPS display, backlit keyboard, and multiple ports for connectivity, you can work comfortably and efficiently. Additionally, its affordable price and great battery life make it an excellent value for the money.
Conclusion:
The Acer Aspire 5 is a great traditional cheap laptop for students and anyone looking for an affordable and reliable option. Although it may not have all the latest features, its full HD IPS display, backlit keyboard, and multiple ports make it a great value for the money. Additionally, its great battery life and reliable performance make it a solid choice for anyone in need of a basic laptop.
6. Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3
The Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3 is an excellent choice for students who are looking for a cheap detachable. With a 10.5-inch 16:10 Chrome OS tablet, a fabric cover, a kickstand, and a detachable screen, it has similar features to the popular Duet, but with a more upscale feel. The CM3’s kickstand folds in multiple ways, allowing you to stand the tablet up like a laptop or horizontally, depending on your preference. It also comes with a built-in USI stylus and roomy keys with a surprising amount of travel, making it an ideal device for taking notes and studying. Battery life is impressive, with close to 13 hours of continuous work on a single charge.
However, the CM3 falls behind some of its competitors when it comes to power. Its MediaTek processor can be a bit sluggish compared to more expensive options. Despite this, the CM3 offers several benefits for its sub-$400 price point, making it an excellent secondary device or student driver.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Chrome OS |
| Processor | MediaTek MT8183 |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 64GB |
| Display | 10.5-inch touchscreen, 1920 x 1200 resolution |
| Battery Life | Up to 13 hours |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 4.2 |
| Ports | 1 USB-C, 1 headphone jack |
Pros:
- Affordable price for a detachable device.
- Comes with a built-in USI stylus and roomy keys.
- Impressive battery life of up to 13 hours.
- Multiple ways to use the kickstand, making it a versatile device.
Cons:
- Slower processor compared to more expensive options.
- Limited storage capacity.
Why should you buy this?
The Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3 is an ideal device for students or anyone looking for a secondary device. It has several features that make it an excellent choice, including a detachable screen, a built-in stylus, and a long battery life. It is also relatively affordable, making it an excellent option for those on a budget.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Asus Chromebook Detachable CM3 is a great choice for anyone in the market for a cheap detachable device. While it may not have the same power as more expensive models, it offers several perks, including a versatile kickstand and a built-in stylus. If you’re looking for an affordable device for studying, note-taking, or as a secondary device, the CM3 is definitely worth considering.
7. Asus Vivobook
The Asus Vivobook is a versatile laptop that is ideal for a little bit of everything. The laptop features a 15.6-inch HD NanoEdge bezel display that is stunning at a low price point. With 128GB of storage and 8GB of RAM, you have ample space to store all your files and programs. The Intel Core i3-8145U processor provides the necessary power for a seamless on-the-go user experience. The backlit chiclet keyboard with a fingerprint sensor is also a great addition. However, some users have reported issues with the keyboard backlight not working properly.
Specifications:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storage | 128GB |
| RAM | 8GB |
| Display | 15.6-inch HD NanoEdge bezel display |
| Processor | Intel Core i3-8145U Processor |
| Keyboard | Backlit chiclet keyboard with fingerprint sensor |
Pros:
- Stunning full HD NanoEdge bezel display
- Ample storage and RAM
- Intel Core i3-8145U processor for a seamless user experience
- Backlit chiclet keyboard with a fingerprint sensor
Cons:
- Some users have reported issues with the keyboard backlight
Why you should buy this?
If you are looking for a versatile laptop that is great for a little bit of everything, the Asus Vivobook is a great choice. With its stunning full HD NanoEdge bezel display, ample storage and RAM, and Intel Core i3-8145U processor, you can work comfortably and efficiently. Additionally, the backlit chiclet keyboard with a fingerprint sensor is a great feature for added security.
Conclusion:
The Asus Vivobook is a great choice for anyone in need of a versatile laptop. While some users have reported issues with the keyboard backlight, the laptop’s stunning full HD NanoEdge bezel display, ample storage and RAM, and Intel Core i3-8145U processor make it a great value for the money. Additionally, the backlit chiclet keyboard with a fingerprint sensor is a great feature for added security.
8. HP Pavilion Aero 13
The HP Pavilion Aero 13 is a great cheap Windows laptop that is perfect for students. It is thinner and lighter than the Envy x360 but still delivers top performance in its category. The laptop features a powerful eight-core Ryzen processor, which is one of the fastest processors for thin and light laptops. Additionally, it is incredibly lightweight, weighing only 2.1 pounds, and has a stunningly bright 16:10 screen. The battery life is also impressive, lasting almost 11 hours of continuous work. Although there are a few compromises, such as subpar audio and cheap bloatware, the HP Pavilion Aero 13 still delivers excellent value for its price.
Specification:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Processor | AMD Ryzen™ 5 5600U Processor (up to 4.2 GHz max boost clock, 16 MB L3 cache, 6 cores) |
| Operating System | Windows 10 Home 64 |
| Display | 13.3-inch diagonal, WUXGA (1920 x 1200), IPS, micro-edge, anti-glare, 400 nits, 100% sRGB |
| Memory | 8 GB DDR4-3200 MHz RAM (onboard) |
| Storage | 512 GB PCIe® NVMe™ M.2 SSD |
| Graphics | Integrated: AMD Radeon™ Graphics |
| Wireless Connectivity | Realtek Wi-Fi 6 (2×2) and Bluetooth® 5.2 Combo |
| Ports | 1 SuperSpeed USB Type-C® 10Gbps signaling rate, 2 SuperSpeed USB Type-A 5Gbps signaling rate, 1 HDMI 2.0, 1 AC smart pin, 1 headphone/microphone combo |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours and 45 minutes (mixed usage) |
| Weight | Starting at 2.1 lb (0.97 kg) |
| Dimensions (W x D x H) | 29.13 x 20.38 x 1.57 cm |
Pros:
- Powerful eight-core Ryzen processor
- Incredibly lightweight and portable
- Stunningly bright 16:10 screen
- Impressive battery life
- Plenty of ports for connectivity
Cons:
- Subpar audio quality
- Cheap bloatware pre-installed
Why should you buy this?
The HP Pavilion Aero 13 is an excellent option for students or anyone who wants a cheap Windows laptop that delivers top-notch performance in a thin and light design. With a powerful processor, lightweight body, and impressive battery life, this laptop is perfect for on-the-go work or school. Additionally, the multiple ports make it easy to connect to other devices, and the stunningly bright screen is perfect for multimedia use.
Conclusion:
Overall, the HP Pavilion Aero 13 is a fantastic cheap laptop that delivers great value for its price. While there are a few compromises, such as subpar audio quality and cheap bloatware, the laptop’s excellent performance, lightweight design, and stunningly bright screen make it a top choice for students or anyone looking for a functional and affordable Windows PC.
9. Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a cheap laptop for students that boasts a unique and bold design. With its fiery “fiesta red” color, this Chromebook is sure to stand out in a crowd. It is a touchscreen convertible that supports stylus use, although the stylus is not included. Additionally, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 features an exceptional QLED panel, which offers one of the best displays we’ve ever seen on a Chromebook. Along with its impressive display, the laptop comes equipped with a solid keyboard and offers a decent battery life, averaging 7 hours and 21 minutes of continuous work. The port selection is also noteworthy, including two USB-C ports, a microSD slot, and a headphone jack. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a top-tier Chromebook and an excellent choice for students looking for a cheap and visually striking laptop.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Price | $549 |
| Color Options | Fiesta Red, Gray |
| Display | QLED, Touchscreen |
| Stylus Support | Yes, stylus not included |
| Keyboard | Solid |
| Battery Life | Average 7 hours 21 minutes |
| Ports | 2 USB-C, MicroSD slot, Headphone jack |
Pros:
- Bold and unique design
- Excellent QLED display
- Solid keyboard
- Decent battery life
- Includes useful port selection
Cons:
- Stylus not included
- Higher price point compared to some other Chromebooks
- May not be suitable for heavy processing tasks
Why should you buy this?
The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a good cheap laptop for students who are looking for a visually appealing and affordable Chromebook. It offers an exceptional QLED display, a solid keyboard, and a useful port selection. Although the stylus is not included, the laptop does support stylus use, which can be beneficial for note-taking and other tasks. Additionally, the Galaxy Chromebook 2 is highly portable and offers decent battery life, making it an ideal choice for students who need a reliable and versatile laptop for on-the-go use.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 is a top-tier Chromebook that offers a unique design, exceptional display, and useful features. While it may be pricier than some other Chromebooks, it provides excellent value for the cost, especially for students who need a reliable and visually striking laptop. If you’re in the market for an affordable and high-performing Chromebook, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 should definitely be on your list of considerations.
10. Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers great value for money. It is an ideal choice for students who need a reliable and affordable device for everyday use. With a magnetically detachable keyboard and kickstand, it is a tiny laptop that is easy to carry around. The 11-inch screen is sharp and bright, and the keyboard and touchpad are surprisingly comfortable. Although it is not recommended for work use, it is great for social media, leisure, and multimedia viewing. It weighs only 2.09 pounds, making it an excellent option for those who need to carry it around in a backpack or purse.
Specifications:
| Feature | Specs |
|---|---|
| Processor | MediaTek Helio P60T |
| RAM | 4GB |
| Storage | 128GB eMMC |
| Screen | 11-inch IPS LCD, 1920×1200 resolution |
| Operating System | Chrome OS |
| Battery Life | Up to 15 hours |
| Weight | 2.09 pounds |
| Ports | 1 USB-C, 1 headphone/mic combo |
Pros:
- Affordable and budget-friendly
- Magnetic detachable keyboard and kickstand included
- Sharp and bright 11-inch screen
- Comfortable keyboard and touchpad
- Lightweight and portable design
- Long battery life of up to 15 hours
Cons:
- Not recommended for work use
- No stylus included
Why should you buy this?
The Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is the right choice for students and budget-conscious individuals who need a reliable and affordable device for everyday use. Its lightweight and portable design, long battery life, and comfortable keyboard make it a great option for those who need to carry it around with them. Additionally, the included magnetically detachable keyboard and kickstand make it even more versatile and user-friendly.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Lenovo Chromebook Duet 3 is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable and reliable laptop for everyday use. While it may not be suitable for work use, it offers excellent value for money with its lightweight and portable design, long battery life, and comfortable keyboard. If you’re a student or on a tight budget, this is definitely a device worth considering.
Comparison Table of Best Cheap Laptops for Students
| Feature | Microsoft Surface Go 3 | HP Pavilion x360 | Asus Chromebook Flip CX5 | Acer Swift 1 | Acer Aspire 5 |
| Storage | 64GB/128GB | 128GB | 64GB/128GB eMMC | 64GB | 128GB |
| RAM | 4GB/8GB | 8GB | 4GB/8GB | 4GB/8GB | 4GB |
| Display | 10.5-inch PixelSense | 1366 x 768, touchscreen | 14-inch FHD IPS touchscreen | 13.3-inch, 1080p with 1920×1080 res | 1920 x 1080 widescreen Full HD IPS |
| Processor | Intel Pentium Gold 6500Y or 10th gen Intel Core i3 | 11th Gen Intel Core i3 | Intel Core i3/i5 | Intel Core 1.10 GHz | AMD Ryzen 3 3200U |
| Graphics | Integrated | Intel UHD Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 505 | Vega 3 Graphics |
| Features | Surface Pen support, Windows 11 built-in, USB-C, Surface Connect, 3.5mm headphone jack | Intel UHD Graphics, two USB 3.1, one USB-C, HDMI port | Chrome OS | Fingerprint sensor | Backlit keyboard |
A laptop is an essential tool for every student, from taking notes during lectures to completing assignments and research papers. However, to maximize the utility of your laptop, you need to invest in the right accessories that can make your experience better. Whether you are a freshman or a post-graduate student, the right accessories can help you stay organized, efficient, and productive.
Essential Laptop Accessories for Students
- Laptop Bag or Backpack: A good-quality laptop bag or backpack is essential to protect your laptop from accidental drops, scratches, and other damages while carrying it around campus. Look for bags that have dedicated compartments for your laptop and other essentials such as textbooks, notebooks, and pens.
- Laptop Stand: A laptop stand can help you maintain good posture while working on your laptop for extended periods. It raises the laptop screen to eye level, reducing strain on your neck and back.
- Wireless Mouse: A wireless mouse can provide better accuracy and control than the touchpad on your laptop. It can also reduce the risk of developing repetitive strain injuries (RSI) from using the touchpad for extended periods.
- External Hard Drive: An external hard drive can provide additional storage space for your files, photos, and other media. It is especially useful if you have a laptop with limited storage capacity.
- Headphones or Earbuds: Headphones or earbuds can help you focus on your studies by blocking out external noise. They are also useful for attending online classes and virtual meetings.
Laptop Accessories for Students: Nice to Have
- USB Hub: A USB hub can expand the number of USB ports on your laptop, making it easier to connect multiple devices at once.
- Portable Charger: A portable charger can provide emergency power for your laptop and other devices when you don’t have access to a power outlet.
- Screen Protector: A screen protector can protect your laptop screen from scratches, smudges, and other damage.
- Webcam: A webcam can be useful for attending online classes and virtual meetings, especially if your laptop doesn’t have a built-in camera.
- Laptop Cooling Pad: A laptop cooling pad can help prevent your laptop from overheating, especially if you use it for gaming or other resource-intensive applications.
Laptop Accessories for Students: FAQs
Do I need a laptop bag or backpack?
Yes, a laptop bag or backpack is essential to protect your laptop from accidental damage while carrying it around.
What is the best laptop stand for students?
There are many good laptop stands available in the market. Look for one that is lightweight, portable, and adjustable.
Do I need an external hard drive?
If you have a laptop with limited storage capacity, an external hard drive can be useful to store your files and media.
What is the best wireless mouse for students?
Look for a wireless mouse that is ergonomic, comfortable to use, and has good battery life.
What is the best laptop cooling pad for students?
Look for a laptop cooling pad that is compatible with your laptop size, has good airflow, and is quiet.
Do I need a webcam for online classes?
It depends on your course requirements. If your classes involve video conferencing or virtual meetings, you will need a webcam to participate.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Laptop for Students
A laptop has become an essential tool for students in today’s world. From taking notes to conducting research, completing assignments, and collaborating with peers, a laptop serves multiple purposes in a student’s academic journey. Choosing the right laptop can significantly impact a student’s productivity and performance. A good laptop not only facilitates seamless multitasking but also provides an excellent learning experience. Therefore, it is essential to invest in a laptop that caters to your educational needs and fits within your budget.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Laptop for Students
When selecting a laptop for students, several factors come into play. Here are some key features that you should consider before making your purchase:
Portability
As a student, you are always on the go, and you need a laptop that is lightweight and easy to carry around. A portable laptop with a long battery life can help you stay productive even when you are not near a power source.
Performance
The performance of a laptop plays a crucial role in determining its overall functionality. A laptop with a fast processor and adequate RAM can handle multiple tasks simultaneously without lagging.
Storage Capacity
As a student, you may need to store a large amount of data, including notes, assignments, and research papers. A laptop with sufficient storage capacity can help you keep your data organized and easily accessible.
Display
A laptop with a high-resolution display can enhance your learning experience, especially when you need to view multimedia content such as videos, images, and graphs.
Keyboard and Touchpad
A comfortable keyboard and responsive touchpad are essential for students who spend long hours typing and navigating through their laptops.
Price
Last but not least, the price of the laptop is a crucial factor to consider, especially for students on a tight budget.
Leave a comment