This article was published in 2012 and updated in October 2026.
For most students, a laptop is the most important tool for studying — for lectures, research, writing papers, online classes and staying in touch. It’s also a big investment on a student budget. When we first wrote this article in 2012, students were choosing between bulky notebooks and the first tablet PCs. Today the choice is wider than ever. Here’s how to find a laptop that will last you through your degree without breaking the bank.
1. Check your course requirements first
Before you buy, check whether your college or program recommends specific hardware or software. Engineering, architecture, film and design students may need a powerful processor, a dedicated graphics card or Windows-only software, while most humanities and business students can work well with an everyday laptop. Some courses also require specific exam software that only runs on Windows or macOS.
2. Choose the operating system
- Windows offers the widest choice of laptops at every price and runs almost all specialist software.
- macOS (MacBook Air and MacBook Pro) is known for long battery life, good build quality and strong resale value, but costs more.
- ChromeOS (Chromebooks) is cheap, simple and secure — fine if you mostly use the browser and online tools, but it can’t run many desktop programs.
3. The specs that matter
- Memory (RAM): 16 GB is a good choice today for smooth multitasking; 8 GB is the absolute minimum for basic use.
- Storage: choose an SSD with at least 256 GB, better 512 GB, especially if you store photos, videos or large projects.
- Battery life: aim for a laptop that lasts a full day of lectures — check independent reviews rather than the manufacturer’s figures.
- Weight and size: you’ll carry it every day. A 13- to 14-inch laptop weighing around 1.3 kg or less is easy to take to class.
- Screen and keyboard: a sharp, bright screen and a comfortable keyboard make long study sessions much easier.
- Ports: make sure there are enough USB-C ports, or budget for an adapter for USB sticks, monitors and projectors.
4. Save money
- Student discounts: Apple, Microsoft and many laptop makers and retailers offer education pricing — often with extra deals during the back-to-school season.
- Free software: many colleges give students Microsoft 365 or other software for free with their student email address. Check before you pay for it.
- Refurbished laptops: certified refurbished models from the manufacturer or reputable sellers are often much cheaper and come with a warranty.
- Don’t overbuy: a gaming laptop is heavy and has poor battery life — only buy one if you really need the performance.
5. Protect your investment
Consider a warranty or insurance that covers accidental damage — spilled coffee and dropped bags are common on campus. Use a padded sleeve, back up your work automatically to the cloud, and turn on device encryption and Find My Device or Find My Mac in case your laptop is lost or stolen.
For our 2012 hands-on comparison of affordable student laptops, see our laptops for students review on TechCrates.
We wish you all the best for your studies!
Tamela
Nov 06. 2012
Hi everyone, it’s my first visit to Student Life Online and I really like the educational articles! Thanks and keep up the good writing.
Andrew Wilkins
Nov 06. 2012
Loved this article for students laptop and finally decided for the HP Folio 13-1020us series
Susanne Bolt
Nov 08. 2012
My old student laptop crashed and was too old already anyway. Time for a new laptop. yeeeh 🙂
Abel Andrade
Nov 09. 2012
Hi, I am a student in IT and tech geek. The latest laptop models are really great and better than ever. Looking forward to buy me a new laptop for my study at christmas time. Can you prefer any laptop promotions? thank you!
Damian McMurray
Nov 10. 2012
Latest laptops and very affordable for students as well, thanks
Meghan Heckman
Nov 11. 2012
Let me check my budget first. My old laptop is already 5 years old and it’s time for a new one 🙂
Tracy Garcias
Nov 12. 2012
Nice review for student laptops. Planning to buy me a new one for christmas 🙂
Barbara
Nov 14. 2012
My old laptop is very slow now. Time for a new one
Kay Leights
Nov 15. 2012
Laptops for students are a must have for any study and education. Do not save money on your equipment
Ellen Rodriguez
Nov 16. 2012
Excellent blog and a very good article for tips to buy a new laptop as a student! Many thanks
Student
Aug 29. 2013
Thanks guys for commenting. If you have any questions don’t hesitate to communicate 🙂 We’ll answer all comments asap…
Tanya
Apr 26. 2014
Hy,
This article is well-furnished with all the good laptop buying tips. i got my best blog. Thank you….
Susan
Jan 18. 2020
student need good laptops for study an work purpose