"College is when most people first get a laptop for themselves. They might have used an old Chromebook in high school or borrowed their parents' PC, but as they're entering their university years, they need something that's their own. It's the device they'll take to classes, coffee shops, club meetings, and libraries-and rely on to achieve their academic dreams. But it's also the device they'll use to binge-watch shows and play games with roommates after hours."
"I've been reviewing laptops for a decade, and after testing dozens of wallet-friendly laptops designed for college students, these are our recommendations on what to purchase before the school year starts. My picks range from traditional clamshell laptops to 2-in-1 computers and even tablets. Be sure to check out our other back-to-school guides, including the Best Laptops, Best Cheap Laptops, Best Tablets, Best Laptop Bags, Best Student Email Discounts, and Best Dorm Gear. Updated August 2025: We've added the Dell 14 Plus."
"Alternatively, you can use a desktop in your dorm room paired with an iPad or some kind of note-taking device in class. However, a laptop is likely a preferable device. It's extremely useful to take your work on the go with you as you're in between classes, studying in coffee shops, or just taking notes in lecture. Dorm rooms aren't known for being spacious, so having a laptop to take your studying to the library or a coffee shop would be a huge benefit."
Most students acquire their first personal laptop for classes, note-taking, studying in cafes or libraries, and after-hours entertainment. Laptops are more convenient than desktops for campus life because they enable mobility between lectures, study spaces, and social settings. Recommended device types include traditional clamshells, 2-in-1s, and tablets, with a focus on display and chassis quality and sufficient performance. Aim for at least 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage to handle coursework and multitasking. Budget-friendly options exist, and recent updates include newer models such as the Dell 14 Plus (August 2025).
Read at WIRED
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