There has never been a better time to buy a laptop. The best tablets and phones are all well and good, but some tasks need a proper keyboard, excellent storage, and a large, high-resolution screen. 

There are hundreds of laptops out there, from dozens of manufacturers. As storage and AI features become better than ever before, the performance of the best laptops is much better than it was even half a decade ago. But which is actually best?

Before comparing machines, consider what you need from a laptop. If you want to do creative work like video editing, you need a good graphics card as a bare minimum. If you travel a lot, a great keyboard and battery life are a must. Alternatively, if you just need something for shopping and the odd bit of life admin, something simple like a Chromebook might be just the thing for you.

Read more: https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/gadgets-tech/laptops-tablets/best-laptop-b2554358.html

Hey everyone, Since a lot of juniors have been DM’ing me about which laptop to buy for college, I thought I’d drop a quick guide here. I also wrote a full detailed breakdown on my blog (with specs, pros/cons, and price ranges) — link at the end.

When you’re starting out in college, your laptop choice really depends on what you’ll actually use it for:

For notes, assignments, and basic coding → A thin & light laptop without a GPU (like HP Pavilion 14 or Dell Inspiron 15) is more than enough. They’re lightweight, have good battery life, and usually come with MS Office pre-installed. Perfect for non-tech branches or if you don’t plan on doing heavy stuff.

For gaming, video editing, 3D modelling, or ML model training → You’ll need a dedicated GPU. Options like HP Victus or ASUS TUF Gaming A15 are solid budget gaming laptops. They’re heavier but way more powerful, so if you see yourself working on projects involving AI/ML, simulations, or CAD software, a GPU laptop will save you headaches later.

For students who want something super portable & reliable → MacBook Air M1 is still one of the best picks. Insane battery life, very lightweight, and perfect for CSE/IT students who are into programming, app development, or design work. Downside: not ideal for AAA gaming.

Balanced options → Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 and Acer Aspire 5 give you the best of both worlds — good performance, portability, and fair pricing for students.

💡 General advice:

If you’re in CSE/IT/ECE → consider something with at least 16GB RAM + SSD.

If you’re in Mech/Civil → go for a GPU laptop if you’ll use AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or simulations.

If you’re in non-tech branches → save money and get a thin & light laptop without GPU.

For a more detailed breakdown with prices, weight, and full specs comparison table, I’ve written a complete blog post here: 👉 Best laptops for college students

Hope this helps freshers make a smarter choice before investing!

Total budget (in local currency) and country of purchase. Please do not use USD unless purchasing in the US:
$800–$1,200, US

Are you open to refurbs/used?
Prefer new, but open to refurbished laptops if they’re a great value for students

How would you prioritize form factor (ultrabook, 2-in-1, etc.), build quality, performance, and battery life?
Battery life and build quality are top priority for college use, followed by performance; ultrabook or slim laptop style preferred

How important is weight and thinness to you?
Very important — I’ll be carrying it between classes and around campus daily, so a lightweight laptop is a must

Do you have a preferred screen size? If indifferent, put N/A.
13–15 inches for portability and comfort

Are you doing any CAD/video editing/photo editing/gaming? List which programs/games you desire to run.
Primarily note-taking, research, online classes, and streaming, plus light Adobe Photoshop and Premiere work

If you're gaming, do you have certain games you want to play? At what settings and FPS do you want?
Not a gaming laptop priority, but light indie or casual games at medium settings would be fine

Any specific requirements such as good keyboard, reliable build quality, touch-screen, finger-print reader, optical drive or good input devices (keyboard/touchpad)?
Reliable build, comfortable keyboard for long writing sessions, responsive touchpad; touchscreen optional

Leave any finishing thoughts here that you may feel are necessary and beneficial to the discussion.
I’m looking for the best laptop for a college freshman that can last through all four years without constant repairs. Strong battery life for all-day use, portability, and durability are essential. I’ve seen student laptop recommendations like the MacBook Air, Dell XPS, and Lenovo ThinkPad, but I’d love to hear from people who’ve used them in real college settings.

If you’re starting college in 2025 and looking for a budget-friendly laptop that won’t slow you downor break the bank here’s an expert breakdown based on real-world performance, verified user reviews, and the latest specs. Whether you're a CS major, business student, or just need a solid device for lectures and late-night essays, this guide’s got you.

Top Budget Laptops for College Students in 2025

Laptop	Best For	Price (Approx.)	Why It’s Great
Acer Aspire 5 (2025)	All-around use	$499	Great balance of performance, portability, and price
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5	Writing, browsing, streaming	$469	Lightweight with a bright 16:10 screen
ASUS Vivobook Go 15 OLED	Multimedia & visuals	$529	OLED screen at budget price, solid keyboard
HP Pavilion 14 (2025 model)	Everyday school work	$479	Reliable build, decent battery life
Dell Inspiron 14 5000	Multitasking	$529	New Intel Core Ultra chip, responsive performance
Framework Laptop 13 (DIY Edition)	Tech-savvy students	$599	Modular, repairable, eco-conscious choice

What to Look for in a 2025 Budget Laptop for Students

1. Processor: Aim for at least an Intel Core i5 (13th gen+) or AMD Ryzen 5 7000 series.
2. RAM: 8GB minimum (16GB if you can swing it).
3. Storage: SSD only. 256GB+ is the sweet spot.
4. Battery Life: Look for 8+ hours on real-world usage.
5. Display: 14–15.6” with at least Full HD (1080p); OLED if available.
6. Weight: Under 4 lbs is ideal for carrying around campus.

Expert Advice by Use Case

Computer Science / Engineering Majors

• Go for the Dell Inspiron 14 5000 with Intel Ultra or Lenovo Slim Pro 7 if you can stretch the budget a bit. You’ll need more power for coding, VMs, and simulations.

Liberal Arts & Humanities

• Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 – Light, reliable, long battery life. You’ll appreciate the comfortable keyboard during marathon essay sessions.

Visual Arts / Media Majors

• ASUS Vivobook Go 15 OLED – Crisp colors and affordable OLED. Pair with a cheap USB-C hub for peripherals.

DIY or Eco-conscious Students

• Framework Laptop 13 DIY – Upgrade-friendly, long-lasting, and sustainable. Costs a bit more up front, but pays off in the long run.

Reddit-Verified Student Tips

• “Don’t buy a Chromebook unless it’s for very light use.”
• “Avoid laptops with only 4GB RAM or eMMC storage.”
• “Battery life on specs ≠ real world. Check YouTube reviews!”
• “Get a laptop stand and external keyboard for ergonomics, it’s a game changer.”

Where to Buy Safely in 2025

• Best Buy (student discounts available)
• Amazon (check recent reviews & seller ratings)
• Micro Center (great in-store deals)
• Framework’s website (for DIY model)
• Lenovo and HP official stores (often run student sales)

Choosing the best budget laptop in 2025 comes down to your major, workload, and daily habits. All the models listed here are under $600, meet current student needs, and are based on real-world use, not just marketing specs.

Hello po. Planning to get a Laptop worth 30k-40k. Suggestions would be highly appreciated 🥰

• For school purposes mainly, main reason yung storage of files talaga (kaya I opted for laptop kaysa tablet w keyboard kahit mas madali yun dalhin anywhere) + With a little bit of Netflix n chill (good graphics is 🤩)
• Smooth and can do good with multitasking
• Will last long 3+ years (awa na lang po, di ko keri bumili ulit in a year or so lalo I have enough savings lang for this purchase)
• If possible lightweight??

Kung may masuggest po kayo na slighter higher price okay lang din po pero kung around 30-40k much better hehe

Salamat po!

Are you a student gearing up for the 2025 academic year and feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of laptops out there? Don't worry, this post is your ultimate guide to finding the best laptop for students in 2025, with recommendations for every budget and major! 

Whether you're a coding whiz, a design guru, a future engineer, or a literature enthusiast, we've got you covered with top-rated laptops that will help you ace your studies and beyond. Let's dive in!

Top Picks for Every Student:

1. The Power User: If you need a laptop that can handle demanding tasks like video editing, 3D modeling, or running complex simulations, the Thinkpad P16s with AMD Ryzen 7 7840U processor, 64GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD is a beast! It even has a 16" 4K OLED display for stunning visuals.  - If need more details, visit here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E_0HuwYgYbc

2. The Budget-Conscious: Need a reliable workhorse without breaking the bank? The HP EliteBook 840 G8 is a solid choice. It features an Intel Core i5-1145G7 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD, all for a reasonable price.   

3. The Ultra-Portable: For students who are always on the go, the Lenovo 100e Gen 4 is a lightweight and compact option with an 11.6" display. It's perfect for taking notes, browsing the web, and working on assignments between classes. - If need more details, visit here - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6elrN8qGFzs

4. The Gamer: Can't resist squeezing in some gaming sessions after a long day of studying? The AMD R9 9955HX3D (85W) with an RTX 5090 (175W) is a killer combo for gaming performance in a laptop. 

Details and further discussion can be found in communities like r/laptops and r/SuggestALaptop.     

Factors to Consider:

• Major/Field of Study: Engineering and design students need powerful processors and dedicated graphics, while humanities students might prioritize portability and battery life.
• Budget: Set a realistic budget and stick to it. There are great laptops available at various price points.
• Operating System: Choose between Windows, macOS, or Chrome OS based on your needs and preferences.
• Portability: Consider the size and weight of the laptop, especially if you'll be carrying it around campus.
• Battery Life: Look for a laptop with long battery life to get you through those long lectures and study sessions.

Tips for Choosing the Right Laptop:

• Read Reviews: Check out reviews from other students and tech websites to get an idea of real-world performance.
• Compare Specs: Pay attention to the processor, RAM, storage, and display specifications to ensure they meet your needs.
• Consider Future Needs: Think about how your needs might change over the next few years and choose a laptop that can adapt.

Don't forget to ask questions and share your own laptop recommendations in the comments below!  Let's help each other find the perfect laptops for a successful academic year!

With 2025 here, I figured it’s time to share a student-specific laptop guide. Whether you’re in college, tackling STEM projects, pursuing creative arts, or on a budget, this guide is packed with options to fit your needs. Let’s jump in! 

Who Is This Guide For?

This guide is for students of all kinds:

• STEM majors who need powerful machines for programming or CAD software.
• Creatives working on graphic design or video editing.
• Note-takers who need portability and battery life.
• Budget-conscious students looking for reliable options without breaking the bank.

 Categories: From Affordable to Premium

I’ve sorted laptops from budget-friendly to premium models, covering everything from basic Chromebooks to powerhouse MacBooks. Let’s dive in!

What Makes the Perfect Student Laptop?

Choosing a laptop depends on these essential factors:

1. Portability & Note-Taking: Lightweight and versatile for taking to class and working on the go.
2. Performance for STEM/Programming: Powerful enough for coding, simulations, or engineering software.
3. Creative/Design Needs: High-resolution displays and strong GPUs for editing and design tasks.
4. Budget-Friendly: Affordable without compromising on quality.
5. Battery Life: Long-lasting battery for all-day use.

Top 5 Laptops for Students in 2025

Here are the best laptops for students, categorized by key needs:

1. Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i (2024 Model)

 Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel 14th Gen Ultra 9 185H
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
• Memory: 32GB RAM
• Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
• Display: 16” 3.2K Mini-LED, 165Hz, 1200 nits brightness

 Why It’s Great:
The Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i is a powerhouse for students needing portability and versatility. Its 2-in-1 design allows seamless switching between laptop and tablet modes, making it ideal for note-taking and presentations. The 3.2K Mini-LED display offers incredible brightness and clarity, perfect for studying or creative tasks in bright environments.

The Intel 14th Gen Ultra 9 processor and RTX 4060 GPU handle demanding workloads effortlessly, making it suitable for light creative tasks, multitasking, and even occasional gaming. If you want a balance of performance and portability, this is the ultimate student companion.

 Best For: Students who need a versatile, high-performance device for multitasking, note-taking, and presentations

2. Microsoft Surface Go 3

 Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Pentium Gold/Core i3
• Graphics: Integrated Graphics
• Memory: 4GB–8GB RAM
• Storage: 64GB–128GB eMMC
• Display: 10.5” Touchscreen

 Why It’s Great:
The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a lightweight, budget-friendly 2-in-1 device that’s perfect for basic student needs. The compact 10.5-inch touchscreen makes it ideal for note-taking during lectures, while the detachable keyboard transforms it into a full laptop when needed.

It’s designed for basic tasks like browsing, Google Docs, or streaming classes, and its lightweight build means you can carry it all day without feeling weighed down. While it’s not built for heavy-duty work, it’s an affordable choice for students prioritizing portability and flexibility.

 Best For: Budget-conscious students needing a lightweight, portable device for basic productivity.

3. Acer Chromebook Spin 714

 Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i5/i7
• Graphics: Integrated Graphics
• Memory: 8GB RAM
• Storage: 128GB SSD
• Display: 14” Full HD Touchscreen

 Why It’s Great:
The Acer Chromebook Spin 714 is a reliable choice for students who rely on cloud-based tools like Google Workspace. With its 14-inch touchscreen, you can take notes, collaborate, or study comfortably. The 360-degree hinge allows you to use it in various modes—laptop, tablet, or tent—making it versatile for different learning environments.

ChromeOS ensures fast performance and seamless updates, while the Intel Core i5/i7 processors give you enough power for multitasking and light productivity. It’s a great option if you prioritize simplicity and flexibility.

 Best For: Students who work primarily with cloud-based apps and need a simple, responsive device.

4. Lenovo Legion 5 Pro

 Key Specs:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
• Memory: 16GB RAM
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 16” WQXGA, 165Hz

 Why It’s Great:
The Lenovo Legion 5 Pro is a beast for STEM students who need serious power for software like MATLAB, CAD, or simulations. The AMD Ryzen 7 processor and RTX 3060 GPU ensure smooth performance even for demanding technical tasks.

The 16-inch WQXGA display with a 165Hz refresh rate delivers sharp visuals and fluid performance, making it great for both work and occasional gaming. It’s a robust laptop designed to handle multitasking and heavy workloads with ease.

 Best For: STEM and engineering students who require strong performance for demanding software.

5. ASUS ROG Strix G16

 Key Specs:

• Processor: Intel Core i7
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060
• Memory: 16GB RAM
• Storage: 1TB SSD
• Display: 16” Full HD, 165Hz

 Why It’s Great:
The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a high-performance laptop perfect for coding, simulations, and gaming. Its Intel Core i7 processor and RTX 4060 GPU provide more than enough power for multitasking, rendering, and running intensive applications.

The 16-inch Full HD display with a 165Hz refresh rate makes it a joy to use for both professional and recreational activities. It’s a solid pick for students who need serious hardware for STEM work but also enjoy gaming in their downtime.

 Best For: Students balancing STEM workloads with gaming or creative hobbies.

6. Acer Aspire 3 A315

 Key Specs:

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 7520U
• Graphics: Integrated Graphics
• Memory: 16GB LPDDR5 RAM
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6” Full HD IPS

 Why It’s Great:
The Acer Aspire 3 A315 is an excellent budget-friendly option for students who need reliable performance for everyday tasks. Its AMD Ryzen 5 processor and 16GB RAM ensure smooth multitasking, whether you’re writing papers, streaming lectures, or doing light browsing.

The 15.6-inch Full HD display provides crisp visuals for studying or entertainment, while the 512GB SSD offers enough storage for assignments and files. It’s a dependable choice for students who want great value without sacrificing functionality.

 Best For: Students needing a cost-effective, reliable laptop for general use.

7. Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M2)

 Key Specs:

• Processor: Apple M2 Chip
• Graphics: Integrated Graphics
• Memory: 8GB Unified RAM
• Storage: 256GB SSD
• Display: 15.3” Liquid Retina

 Why It’s Great:
The MacBook Air 15-inch (M2) is perfect for students who value portability and long battery life. The Apple M2 chip ensures fast performance for light productivity tasks, while the 18-hour battery life keeps you going through long days without charging.

The 15.3-inch Retina display offers sharp, vibrant visuals, making it ideal for note-taking, presentations, or watching lectures. It’s lightweight and sleek, making it easy to carry around campus.

 Best For: Students looking for a lightweight laptop with all-day battery life and smooth performance.

 Comparison Table: Best Laptops for Students in 2025  

|| || |Category|Laptop|Processor|Graphics|Memory|Storage|Display|Best For| |Portability & Note-Taking|Lenovo Yoga Pro 9i (2024)|Intel 14th Gen Ultra 9 185H|NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060|32GB RAM|1TB NVMe SSD|16” 3.2K Mini-LED, 165Hz, 1200 nits|Students needing a versatile 2-in-1 device for note-taking, multitasking, and presentations.| |Portability (Budget)|Microsoft Surface Go 3|Intel Pentium Gold/Core i3|Integrated Graphics|4GB–8GB RAM|64GB–128GB eMMC|10.5” Touchscreen|A lightweight, budget-friendly option for portability and basic tasks like note-taking.| |Cloud-Based Portability|Acer Chromebook Spin 714|Intel Core i5/i7|Integrated Graphics|8GB RAM|128GB SSD|14” Full HD Touchscreen|Students using Google Workspace for online learning and simple tasks.| |STEM/Engineering|Lenovo Legion 5 Pro|AMD Ryzen 7|NVIDIA RTX 3060|16GB RAM|512GB SSD|16” WQXGA, 165Hz|Engineering students requiring a powerful machine for CAD, MATLAB, and simulations.| |STEM (Alternative)|ASUS ROG Strix G16|Intel Core i7|NVIDIA RTX 4060|16GB RAM|1TB SSD|16” Full HD, 165Hz|High-performance option for coding, simulations, and gaming.| |Budget-Friendly|Acer Aspire 3 A315|AMD Ryzen 5 7520U|Integrated Graphics|16GB LPDDR5 RAM|512GB SSD|15.6” Full HD IPS|A reliable, affordable laptop for general student use like assignments, research, and streaming.| |Battery Life|MacBook Air 15-inch (M2)|Apple M2 Chip|Integrated Graphics|8GB RAM|256GB SSD|15.3” Liquid Retina|Students prioritizing lightweight portability and all-day battery life for productivity.|

Have you used any of these laptops? Let us know in the comments below which one fits your needs or if you have additional recommendations for the best laptops for students in 2025. 

This guide was designed to be your one-stop shop for finding the perfect student laptop. Save it, share it, and use it to ace your laptop hunt! 

I’m looking for recommendations for a new laptop in 2025, and I have two needs: one for study and productivity and another for gaming. Ideally, I’d love to find one that can handle both, but I’m open to separate suggestions.

For a student laptop, I need something lightweight with great battery life (8+ hours) and strong enough to handle tools like Microsoft Office, Google Docs, and light creative work. My budget is around $800–$1200.

For a gaming laptop, I’m looking for good performance with a dedicated GPU (RTX 4060 or better) and a high refresh rate screen. My budget here is around $1500–$2000. Portability is a bonus, but cooling is important for long sessions.

Some models I’ve been considering:

Student: MacBook Air (M3), Dell XPS 13 Gaming: Asus ROG Zephyrus G16, Alienware x14 Does anyone have experience with these or other suggestions? Any models that balance both study and gaming would also be awesome.