Chances are good you already have a few ideas about what laptops for college need. Great streaming capabilities, a long-lasting battery, and all the tricks or software that you (or your loved one) need for specific classes. But when the time comes to find the right model, the choices can easily overwhelm. That’s why we’re here! We have collected a list of the top laptops for college students around.
When picking out one of these school-oriented laptop computers, several specs are worth taking a look at. The size and weight are surprisingly important, because that laptop will get carried around a lot. The processor and RAM are also key, because that laptop may have to run some demanding software, depending on the college class. The goal, then, is to find something powerful enough, but with all the mobility necessary. If entertainment is particularly important, then dorms rooms will also appreciate a larger, high definition display.
Sounds like a lot to ask for in one computer, right? Take a look at some of our favorite picks to see what models will work best.
Microsoft Surface Book
The Surface Book is one of our newest entries, and comes loaded with all the top specs. We’re talking about up to 512GB of storage, up to an Core i7 processor, and 8GB of RAM, with a 13.5-inch HD touchscreen and, of course, Windows 10. Unless you really need Mac software for your classes, you probably won’t find a better lightweight laptop than this anywhere. But it comes at a cost: The cheapest model is $1,500 on Amazon, and prices get worse from there.
HP Stream 13
HP’s line of ultrabooks is useful for anyone who needs a lot of Windows functionality in an extra portable package. You’ll have no trouble toting this laptop around anywhere, with a 13.3-inch display and small form factor. However, this is nearly at Chromebook levels with 32GB of SSD storage and 2GB of RAM, which means it uses the cloud a lot and cannot handle any demanding software (although, unlike Chrome OS, it can easily handle Microsoft Works as well as cloud computing). If cost is a concern, this laptop is priced at around $200, making it surprisingly affordable.
