Best Laptops for Students in 2024, the demand for laptops that blend performance, portability, and affordability has never been higher—especially for students. Whether you’re attending online classes, doing research, or handling heavy tasks like video editing, you need a reliable laptop that won’t break the bank. Here, we’ve rounded up the best laptops for students in 2024, ensuring you get the most value for your budget without compromising on essential features.
1. Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2024)
Price: $999
Why It’s Great for Students:
The MacBook Air (M2) remains a top contender for students, offering a lightweight design, impressive battery life, and the power of Apple’s M2 chip. Whether you’re taking notes, working on projects, or even dabbling in graphic design, this laptop is perfect for students who need both power and portability.
Key Features:
- 18-hour battery life
- Retina display
- 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU
- Silent, fanless design
2. Dell XPS 13
Price: $899
Why It’s Great for Students:
Dell’s XPS 13 has long been a favorite in the laptop world, and 2024 is no exception. Its slim, elegant design, along with robust performance thanks to Intel’s latest processors, makes it ideal for students who need a balance between style and substance.
Key Features:
- 13.4-inch InfinityEdge display
- Intel Core i7 (13th Gen)
- 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Lightweight and durable
3. HP Pavilion 14
Price: $599
Why It’s Great for Students:
For students seeking a budget-friendly yet reliable option, the HP Pavilion 14 is hard to beat. It’s perfect for everyday tasks like research, streaming, and light gaming, without stretching your budget.
Key Features:
- AMD Ryzen 5 processor
- 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- 14-inch Full HD display
- Fast charging support
4. Acer Swift 3
Price: $679
Why It’s Great for Students:
Acer’s Swift 3 offers great performance for the price, making it one of the most affordable laptops with premium features. It’s lightweight and fast, making it ideal for students who need to carry their laptop around campus all day.
Key Features:
- Intel Core i5 (13th Gen)
- 14-inch Full HD display
- 10-hour battery life
- Backlit keyboard
5. Lenovo IdeaPad 3
Price: $449
Why It’s Great for Students:
Lenovo’s IdeaPad 3 is one of the best choices for students on a tight budget. Despite its lower price, it offers a solid build, decent performance, and long battery life—perfect for note-taking, research, and writing assignments.
Key Features:
- AMD Ryzen 3 processor
- 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- 15.6-inch Full HD display
- Budget-friendly
6. Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 3
Price: $749
Why It’s Great for Students:
Compact, light, and equipped with the essentials, the Surface Laptop Go 3 is ideal for students who prioritize portability without sacrificing performance. Its touchscreen feature and excellent display make it a versatile option for both work and play.
Key Features:
- 12.4-inch PixelSense touchscreen display
- Intel Core i5 (13th Gen)
- 8GB RAM, 128GB SSD
- Long battery life
How to Choose the Best Laptop for Your Needs
When choosing a laptop as a student, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Budget: Set a clear budget before starting your search. In 2024, there are excellent affordable laptops that meet various needs without compromising on performance.
- Performance: Whether you’re doing basic tasks like word processing or more demanding activities like video editing, choose a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM and a modern processor.
- Portability: As a student, you’ll likely carry your laptop around all day. Opt for a lightweight model with good battery life.
- Durability: Laptops are an investment, so ensure your choice has a solid build quality to handle daily use.
- Operating System: Decide whether you prefer Windows, macOS, or Chrome OS based on your school’s requirements and your personal preferences.
