It's no secret that going to college is expensive. Student loans aside, housing costs and everyday expenses require a lot of financial planning. On top of that, it's expected that you own essential items like computers, smartphones, and laptops.

As more of our higher education moves online, getting the best computer for college becomes ever more critical. However, balancing cost and features is a fine art.

Here are some of the best computers for college students today if you're looking for a place to start.

Premium pick

1. Apple MacBook Pro

9.20 / 10
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Apple's computers have long been associated with creative industries. Writers, video producers, and content creators are often seen with the Apple logo embossed on their devices. However, the Apple MacBook Pro makes an ideal choice for all college students, too. This is especially true if you already use an iPhone or other Apple device.

The latest edition of the MacBook Pro features a 16-inch Retina display, 512GB of storage, and an Intel Core i7 processor. The Touch Bar gives you easy access to apps and other shortcuts, while Touch ID means can log into your computer with your fingerprint. It comes equipped with six speakers and has a 11-hour battery life. There are also four Thunderbolt 3 ports which accept Thunderbolt and USB-C connections.

Aside from the hardware, macOS is an easy to use, low maintenance operating system. Software updates are handled automatically, you are at lower risk of malware and viruses than Windows users, and software can be easily installed via the App Store. If you've previously used a Windows 10 PC, you'll be pleased to know that most of your favorite software is cross-platform, and can be installed on a Mac computer.

Key Features
  • Tight integration with Apple software and services
  • Runs Apple's macOS operating system
  • Touch Bar for shortcuts and biometric login
Specifications
  • Operating System: macOS
  • CPU: Intel Core i7
  • Storage: 512GB
  • Battery: 11 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 16-inch, 3072x1920
  • Camera: 0.9MP
  • Memory: 4GB
  • Ports: 4x Thunderbolt 3
  • Weight: 2kg
  • Brand: Apple
Pros
  • Ideal for iPhone or iPad users
  • Long battery life
  • Large capacity SSD for on-device storage
Cons
  • One of the most expensive options
  • Low resolution webcam
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Apple MacBook Pro
Editors choice

2. Microsoft Surface Pro 7

9.00 / 10
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The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is easily the best Windows laptop for college students. Importantly, it is also one of the most versatile devices on this list. The Surface 7 Pro is a two-in-one device that can operate in laptop or tablet mode. Unlike some two-in-one devices, the keyboard is detachable, so you get the productivity gains of a laptop, but the portability and convenience of a tablet.

The laptop comes with Windows 10 Home preinstalled and is available in a range of hardware configurations. This model features 8GB of RAM, 128GB of storage, and an Intel Core i5 processor. The Surface Pro 7 is light, weighing in at just 1.7 pounds. Despite this, the laptop can achieve up to 10.5 hours of battery life on a single charge. The Surface's fast recharge capability can get your device from empty to 80 percent in just over an hour.

Importantly for college students, the Surface Pro 7 also has a Studio mode, where the tablet is laid at a very slight 15-degree angle from the desktop. This makes it easier to use stylus accessories for design work, art and drawing, and, crucially, taking handwritten notes. Although the initial cost is higher than some Windows laptops, the device is easy to use, and you can get direct support from Microsoft when things go wrong.

Key Features
  • Two-in-one laptop and tablet
  • Bloatware-free Windows 10 experience
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i5
  • Storage: 128GB
  • Battery: 10.5 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 12.3-inch, 2736 x 1824
  • Camera: 8MP, 5MP
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Ports: USB 3.0, USB-C
  • Weight: 0.78kg
  • Brand: Microsoft
Pros
  • Detatchable keyboard
  • Touchscreen input
  • Studio Mode for inclined tablet use
Cons
  • Only limited software adapted for touchscreen input
  • Keyboard takes some getting used to
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Microsoft Surface Pro 7

The Acer Chromebook 14 Bundle is one of the best computers for college students. Chromebooks are generally inexpensive as they run Google's Chrome OS operating system, based on the Google Chrome web browser. This bundle includes the Chromebook 14, a wireless mouse, and a protective sleeve. If you don't need specific software and do most of your work online in a browser, then a Chromebook makes an ideal choice.

They also have low maintenance requirements; updates are installed automatically when you restart, and you won't need additional security software. Chrome OS also supports Android apps so that you can install and use your favorite smartphone apps on your laptop. The Chromebook 14 has a 14-inch HD display, 4GB of RAM, and 32GB of onboard storage and an additional 100GB of Google Drive cloud storage.

Importantly this Chromebook can last up to 12 hours on a single charge. Initial setup is a breeze, too; all you need to do is sign into your Google account, and your existing bookmarks, extensions, and saved passwords are automatically synced to your new Chromebook. Chrome OS also has wellbeing features like Night Light and Do Not Disturb that'll help you wind down at the end of the day and step away from your college work for the night.

Key Features
  • Google's Chrome OS operating system
  • Heavy integration with Google account and services
  • 12-hour battery life
Specifications
  • Operating System: Chrome OS
  • CPU: Intel Celeron N3160
  • Storage: 32GB
  • Battery: 12 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 14-inch, 1920 x 1080
  • Camera: 0.9MP
  • Memory: 4GB
  • Ports: 2 x USB 3.0, HMDI, 3.5mm jack
  • Weight: 3kg
  • Brand: Acer
Pros
  • Support for Google Play and Android apps
  • 100GB of Google Drive cloud storage
  • Wellbeing features like Night Light and Do Not Disturb
Cons
  • Chrome OS doesn't support popular Windows and macOS software
  • Not ideal for Apple fans or iPhone users
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Acer Chromebook 14 Bundle

If you don't need something portable like a laptop, but enjoy the lightweight Chrome OS experience, consider the Asus Chromebox 3 instead. This mini desktop computer has slightly higher hardware specifications for the same price. However, this is because it doesn't come with a monitor or any peripherals, so you'll have to provide them separately.

However, if you already have this equipment and are looking for an upgrade, this is a great choice. The Chromebox 3 has 4GB of RAM, 32GB of onboard storage, and can support a dual-monitor setup. The Chromebox 3 also comes with access to the Google Play Store so that you can install your much-loved smartphone apps.

The mini PC comes equipped with an Ethernet port, three USB A ports, an HDMI slot, and a USB-C connection. The USB-C support means you can take full advantage of the cable's data-transfer and power delivery features. As a result, you can charge your compatible devices at full speed using this connection.

Key Features
  • Google's Chrome OS operating system
  • Mini PC for easy storage and minimal desktop clutter
Specifications
  • Brand: Asus
  • CPU: Intel Celeron 3865U
  • Graphics: Intel 4K UHD
  • Memory: 4GB
  • Storage: 32GB
  • Ports: Ethernet, 3x USB-A, HDMI, USB-C
Pros
  • Dual-monitor support
  • Access to the Google Play Store and Android app support
Cons
  • Not portable
  • Chrome OS doesn't support popular Windows and macOS software
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Asus Chromebox 3

In most colleges, space is at a premium, so your dorm may not have much space to spare. In which case, you won't want a large desktop computer tower in the middle of your room. That said, there are still desktop options available to you like the HP All-In-One Computer. This Windows 10 desktop PC combines a monitor and the computer into one space-saving unit.

The computer is equipped with 4GB of RAM, an AMD A4 processor, and a 1TB hard drive. If you have an extensive collection of DVDs, CDs, or other disc-based media, you'll be pleased to see that the HP All-In-One Computer comes with a DVD-Writer drive. The computer has an integrated webcam, which could be a concern for some. However, the HP HD Privacy Camera has a switch that'll cover the camera and disable video when not in use.

You won't need to worry about peripherals either as the computer comes with a wired keyboard and mouse. That said, most people prefer wireless options, so you may want to switch these out for alternatives. Still, their inclusion means that you could easily purchase the HP All-In-One Computer, set it up on your desk, and get going with little effort.

Specifications
  • Brand: HP
  • CPU: AMD A4
  • Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 620
  • Memory: 4GB
  • Storage: 1TB
  • Ports: 2 x USB 3.1, 2 x USB 2.0, HDMI, Media Card Reader
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HP All-In-One Computer

An alternative to the Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is the Lenovo Yoga C740. This laptop is another two-in-one device that you can use as both a laptop and a tablet. The main difference here is that the display folds back against the keyboard, rather than detaching from it. Although most people wouldn't carry the C740 around as they would, say, an iPad, it is still a great laptop for college students.

The 14-inch touchscreen is ideal for taking handwritten notes and quickly interacting with apps from the Microsoft Store. The device comes with an Intel Core i5 processor, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. The laptop has Windows 10 Home preinstalled and is equipped with a built-in HD webcam and a fingerprint reader for convenient security; ideal if your computer is briefly left unattended in lecture halls or the campus library.

The Lenovo Yoga C740 should last up to 13 hours on a single charge, so it may see you through a whole day of classes before needing a top-up. Interestingly, the laptop comes with Amazon's digital assistant Alexa preinstalled. If you already use Amazon's service, this makes the C740 a useful option. For those times you need to listen to audio, the device uses a Dolby Atmos speaker system. It also includes far-field mics for high-quality recordings.

Key Features
  • Two-in-one laptop and tablet
  • Dolby Atmos speakers
  • 8GB of RAM for smooth operation
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i5
  • Storage: 256GB
  • Battery: 13 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 14-inch, 1920 x 1080
  • Camera: 0.9MP
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Ports: USB 3.0, 2x USB-C
  • Weight: 1.4kg
Pros
  • Fingerprint reader for Windows Hello secure login
  • Long battery life
  • Integration with Amazon Alexa virtual assistant
Cons
  • Rotating keyboard makes for an awkward tablet experience
  • Heavier, and therefore less portable, than alternatives
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Lenovo Yoga C740

Linux is an excellent alternative to Windows 10, macOS, and even Chrome OS. The open-source software is free to download and install and is often more secure and customizable than its well-known counterparts. Additionally, the flexibility of Linux lends itself well to Computer Science and Programming majors.

The Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop comes with Windows 10 Home pre-installed and integration with Amazon Alexa built-in. While this makes it one of the best gaming laptops in its own right, it is also compatible with many Linux distributions.

Hardware-wise, the laptop has an Intel Core i7 eight-core processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics, and 16GB of DDR4 RAM. As this is a gaming laptop, there is a backlit RGB keyboard and DTS X Ultra sound system.

Given the hardware on offer, you'll need to check your chosen Linux distro for compatibility with Nvidia drivers. However, these are supported on many of the most popular operating systems, so you shouldn't encounter too much trouble.

Key Features
  • Backlit 4-Zone RGB Keyboard
  • 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms Overdrive response time
  • 4th-generation Aeroblade 3D Fan for cooling
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 10
  • CPU: Intel i7-11800H
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
  • Storage: 512GB PCIe Gen-4 SSD
  • Battery: Up to six hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 15.6 inches, 1920x1080p
  • Camera: 720p
  • Colors: Black
  • Memory: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz
  • Ports: 3x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x Mini DisplayPort 1.4, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x ethernet, 1x 3.5mm headphone/mic jack
  • Dimensions: 14.3 x 10 x 0.9 inches
  • Weight: 5.5lbs
  • Brand: Acer
  • Model: ‎PH315-54-760S
Pros
  • Large air-intake vents for optimal cooling
  • Compatible with the most popular Linux distributions
Cons
  • One of the heaviest choices, so not very portable
  • High-performance gaming laptop may be overkill for most users
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Acer Predator Helios 300

FAQ

Q: Why Do Most College Students Use Macs?

Apple laptops have always been the favored choice of creatives. The high-performance machines are efficient and long-lasting with support offered direct from Apple. The software integrates tightly with other Apple hardware and services, so they are ideal for those already invested in the ecosystem, or those with iPhones or iPads.

MacBooks are a popular choice for students as they are lightweight, have efficent cooling, and long battery life. As a result, they are portable, can last most of the day, and the Handoff feature makes switching between your laptop and iPhone a breeze.

Q: Should You Buy a Chromebook or Windows Laptop?

Microsoft's Windows is the most popular operating system across the globe. As a result, most software is designed with Windows in mind, and you'll be most familiar with how Windows 10 operates.

There is a vast range of Windows laptops to choose from, but, as Microsoft charges a fee to preinstall Windows, they are often more expensive than the alternatives. Chromebooks are lightweight, internet-focused devices running Google's Chrome OS operating system.

Chrome OS is free to install, and has lower hardware requirements, so Chromebooks are typically much more affordable than Windows laptops offering similar performance. Chrome OS is based on the Chrome web browser, and most software is designed to run within the browser. Although they support the Google Play Store and Android apps, this means that you won't be able to access or use traditional computer software.

Q: Should You Buy a MacBook or Windows Laptop?

Windows 10 is the most widely used operating system around the world. Most software is developed for Windows, at least initially, and its popularity means you're likely already familiar with how Windows 10 works.

On the other hand, Apple MacBooks are popular among students for their portability, long battery life, and integration with other Apple services. They are particularly well-suited for iPhone users as there is tight integration between the two, improving your on-the-go productivity.

However, Apple's products are often much more expensive than their Windows equivalents. As Apple is the only MacBook manufacturer, there is a more limited range as well, and all devices have a similar look and feel.

For those who prefer to customize their laptop, save some money, or prefer flexibility, would be better opting for a Windows laptop.