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The Best Laptops for Students

Laptop

BCDS Student with Laptop (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Technology is an important part of every classroom from elementary to graduate school. Laptops are a necessity for many students. However, parents and students that buy a machine will certainly want it to have recreational features, too. There are many quality laptops, but each student has different needs. Keep that in mind when making this investment.

Laptops for High School Students

Most parents will buy the first student laptop when their child reaches high school. A few common sense factors make this a good time to buy the first machine. More than anything, your student must be mature enough to take care of a portable device. He or she must understand how important it is to keep it secure and how to protect it from damage. As the bigger life responsibilities, such as driving, come into play, kids are old enough to own a laptop.

Since you’re investing in your child’s education, look for the following features:

  • Buy a quality brand so that it is reliable and durable
  • Make sure it has a large hard drive
  • Teenagers want a large screen and good speakers
  • Keep it as light as possible for easy transport

The programs will vary based on the school and personal needs, so quality is the most important factor when buying that new laptop. Although it’s for learning, you’ll have to give in to the fun. Kids love music and games, so big screens and good speakers are very important. The good news is that quality brands, with all the features, are available for a good price.

Laptops for College Students

As students set their college path, and ultimately, their career path, a little more thought will go into the perfect laptop. Where a Mac isn’t recommended for a high school student, some college students will benefit. The downside of the Mac is price. Any student that studies art, graphics or music will find this more expensive machine worth the investment, but those on a budget can definitely find a Windows-based laptop with great art features.

Once again, no student should sacrifice quality for price. Many superior laptops are available for a terrific price. The needs of the student will vary, so look for these features:

  • Experts suggest Windows 7
  • At least a dual core processor
  • At least a 250GB hard drive
  • Ethernet and Wi-Fi connections

A good college laptop will start around $500. Weight is still a factor, too. College students often walk a long way to get from one class to another. If the student has time, it makes sense to get the syllabus from each class before making a laptop purchase. The course study can help dictate the features.

Although a college laptop is more expensive, most universities offer student discount programs on machines and necessary software. Check with the bookstore to see if there are any discounts that will benefit your college student. Manufacturer’s sites often have discounts, too.

With just a little research, finding the best laptop for a student can be easy and beneficial.

4 comments… add one
  • Gisele May 14, 2012, 7:17 pm

    I didn’t know that there are intended laptops just for students.. Anyway, I am sure this is a great help.. Thanks!

  • Johnson Yip May 14, 2012, 8:23 pm

    I think most inexpensive laptops are good in enough for students which are in general studies like English, History, and classes which don’t need a powerful laptop for 3D animation, Photoshop, and design.

  • Jenna Grimes June 18, 2012, 6:01 am

    Thanks for these tips. I am actually considering buying a laptop for my girl who is in high school and the factors you have explained above will help me a great deal.

  • Johnson Yip June 18, 2012, 5:24 pm

    Best of luck picking a laptop for your daughter. Glad this article help you out.

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