Owning one of the best student laptops is essential for helping you through your studies. With the cost of course fees in mind, investing in a reliable laptop for creative work is a worthy decision. However, with the plethora of laptop models available on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
At Creative Bloq, our experts have been testing and reviewing laptops for over a decade, using a mix of benchmark scores and hands-on expertise. We have curated a list of top-choice laptops that we believe are perfect for students, without breaking the bank. From laptops for photo editing to laptops for watching movies, we have rounded up options that cater to a variety of students and course types.
When choosing a laptop for your studies, it is crucial to check the exact system requirements needed for your specific course to ensure that your laptop can handle the necessary software. Additionally, taking advantage of student perks such as Apple student discounts and Samsung student discounts can help you save money on your purchase.
The Quick List
Best Overall
- MacBook Air, (M2) 2022
- Screen: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display
- CPU: Apple M2 chip with 8‑core CPU
- RAM: 8GB – 16GB unified memory
The MacBook Air (M2) 2022, while not the newest model, offers excellent performance with Apple’s M2 chip. It is sleek, compact, and affordable, making it a great choice for most students. The larger screen and lighter build make it ideal for streaming and carrying around campus.
Chromebook
- Screen: 14in FHD 16:9 Touchscreen
- CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 3500U processor quad-core 3.7 GHz
- RAM: 8GB
This Chromebook is a value choice for students, offering portability and affordability. With a 14-inch FHD touchscreen and a sturdy metal chassis, it is a robust option for carrying in a school bag.
For Creatives
- Screen: 15.6in FHD (1920 x 1080), 2.8K
- CPU: Up to AMD Ryzen 9 – 7940HS
- RAM: 8GB or 16GB
The ASUS laptop is recommended for students and creative professionals. With a beautiful OLED display, powerful hardware, and gaming capabilities, it is a versatile option for various tasks.
Best Mid-Range
- Screen: 14in FHD
- CPU: Up to 11th Gen IntelCore i7
- RAM: 16GB
The mid-range Windows option offers solid build, portability, and good color coverage. It is a reliable choice that doesn’t break the bank.
Best 2-in-1
- HP Spectre x360 14 (2024)
- Screen: 14in HDR OLED
- CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
- RAM: 32GB
The HP Spectre x360 14 (2024) is a versatile 2-in-1 hybrid laptop that offers a vibrant screen and powerful hardware for productivity. It is ideal for students using their device in various settings.
Best Budget
- Screen: 14in, 1080p, IPS LCD
- CPU: Intel Core i5 / i7 or AMD Ryzen 5
- RAM: 8GB
The Acer Aspire 5 is a budget-friendly option for students. It provides good value for its price, making it a suitable choice for basic tasks and light media work.
The Best Student Laptop Overall
The MacBook Air (M2) 2022 is considered the ultimate laptop for students looking for a balance between price and performance. With exceptional value, a great processor, larger screen, and lighter build, it is perfect for streaming and transporting around campus. The MacBook Air (M2) 2022 offers impressive battery life, portability, and a solid webcam for online lectures and video calls.
In conclusion, choosing the best student laptop depends on your specific needs and budget. Whether you require a powerful laptop for creative work or a budget-friendly option for basic tasks, there are plenty of choices available. By considering factors such as portability, battery life, and affordability, you can find the perfect laptop to support you through your studies.