Finding the right laptop for students can be challenging. With so many options on the market, all claiming speed, performance, and portability, it can be difficult to determine which one is best. As a student, you need a laptop that’s easy to carry, powerful enough for homework and research, reliable enough for long study sessions, and affordable. The good news is that by 2025, there will be many excellent and affordable computers available, giving students more choice than ever before. This review examines the best laptops for students in 2025, including their pros and cons, and the types of students who would benefit most from them. This will help you make an informed decision before purchasing one of the most important learning tools of your academic career.
Which laptop should young people buy?
Before buying a laptop in 2025, consider what’s most important to you. Students have very different needs than professionals or regular users. For many students, portability is crucial, as lugging a large device from class to the library can be cumbersome. Another important factor to consider is battery life, as you might not be able to keep your phone charged during long lectures or group projects. A laptop’s performance is also crucial, especially for students who need to switch between browsers, software, and video lectures. Sufficient storage space to securely store files, projects, and slides is crucial, and the laptop should be durable and robust enough for daily use. Finally, for most students, price is the most important factor. Finding the perfect balance between price and performance is the real challenge. Now that you understand this, let’s take a look at the best computers for these needs in 2025.
Apple MacBook Air M3
Students have always loved Apple’s MacBook Air, and the new M3 model, released in 2025, is even better. This laptop is incredibly compact and lightweight, making it an excellent choice for students who are constantly on the go. The M3 chip is incredibly fast, allowing you to easily handle everything from taking notes to doing extensive design work. It also boasts a long battery life, enough to last an entire day of classes, which is crucial for students who don’t want to constantly search for a charger. The MacBook Air M3 is ideal for creative students such as designers, film students, and digital artists, as it allows them to use macOS and its extensive software community. Its only drawback is its higher price compared to some Windows alternatives, but for many students, the speed and reliability are worth the price.
Dell XPS 13 Plus
The Dell XPS 13 Plus has long been considered one of the best ultrabooks on the market, and the 2025 model continues that reputation. Its virtually borderless display offers an unobstructed view, making it ideal for both work and play. It’s fast and efficient, powered by the latest Intel processors, allowing you to multitask and use productivity apps smoothly. For students seeking a balance between style and functionality, the Surface Laptop 6 is an excellent choice because it’s thin, light, and custom-designed. While the battery life is good, not as long as the MacBook Air, it’s more than enough to get you through a full day. The Dell XPS 13 Plus is also a good choice for students studying business, law, or liberal arts, as it combines durability, speed, and style in a compact package.
Microsoft Surface Laptop 6
Microsoft has always been committed to student-friendly computing, and the Surface Laptop 6 is perhaps the most flexible yet. Its versatility, combined with its stylish design and touchscreen, allows it to be used for taking notes, creating slideshows, and everyday tasks. A key feature of this model is its 20-hour battery life on a single charge, so students never have to worry about charging during those long study sessions. The Snapdragon X Elite chip not only boosts productivity but also adds AI-enhanced features to support multitasking and productivity. For students who prefer Windows but want a sleek, stylish device with battery life comparable to a MacBook, the Surface Laptop 6 is an excellent choice. The only drawback is the limited number of ports, which may require additional accessories. However, the speed more than makes up for this drawback.
Apple Swift X 16
The Acer Swift X 16 is a perfect laptop for the 2025 student who needs a powerful laptop without breaking the bank. It’s powered by an AMD Ryzen processor. This ultrabook laptop is an excellent choice for students who need more than just basic computing performance, as it’s fast and affordable.
Lenovo ThinkPad Slim 7i
Not every student needs a powerful computer. The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 7i is an ideal choice for students on a budget. It’s suitable for everyday tasks like writing papers, browsing the internet, taking online courses, and watching educational videos. It’s surprisingly well-built, affordable, and the keyboard is comfortable enough for extended use. This makes it an excellent choice for students who write a lot. While more expensive models have better graphics and faster processors, this laptop is more than sufficient for most children’s learning needs. If you want a laptop that’s powerful, affordable, and practical, the IdeaPad Slim 7i is a good choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for students: Windows or MacBook?
Both have their advantages. MacBooks are great for creative students because they’re stylish, have long battery life, and run drawing software flawlessly. Windows computers, on the other hand, are available in a wider range of styles and at a lower price. They can also run the software that engineering or business students need.
How much storage do students really need?
A 512 GB SSD is a good choice for most students because it offers a good balance between price and capacity. There’s plenty of room for files, media, assignments, and projects. If you work with large movie files or design projects, a 1 TB capacity might be a good option.
Should students use budget computers for school?
Yes, budget laptops like the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 7i can handle all the tasks needed for school, such as writing, online research, and videoconferencing. However, students who need powerful applications for engineering or design should opt for more powerful models.
A laptop should last a long time?
With proper care, it should last four to five years, which is usually enough to complete your studies. If you choose a reputable brand and model with a good warranty, it can last even longer.
What are the benefits of a 2-in-1 computer for students?
Generally, convertibles or 2-in-1 computers are very convenient, especially for students who enjoy taking notes or drawing. While they are a bit more expensive than regular computers, the extra freedom they offer can be worth it for certain types of study.
Final Thoughts
The best laptop for students in 2025 depends on your program, your preferences, and your budget. The MacBook Air M3 is perfect for creative students. For Windows users looking for a high-quality, flexible experience, the Surface Laptop 6 or Dell XPS 13 Plus are better choices. If you’re pursuing a technical or STEM field, the Acer Swift X 16 offers more powerful performance to help you. If you need a more affordable option, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 7i will meet your needs. Whichever laptop you buy, the right one can make your study life easier, more productive, and more enjoyable. In 2025, there are more choices than ever. It is therefore easy to find a laptop that meets all your student needs in terms of speed, portability and affordability.
