Discover Top Tested Laptops for Students in 2025

Students in 2025 face an essential challenge: finding the right laptop to meet their academic needs without breaking the bank. With various options available, having a reliable device that can endure a full day of classes and tasks is paramount. TechRadar, a reputable source in technology reviews, has compiled a list of the best student laptops, emphasizing performance, affordability, and durability.

The selection process involved extensive testing and evaluation of over 1,300 laptops over the past 17 years. Each laptop featured in the list underwent rigorous assessments, including battery life, performance benchmarks, and real-world user experiences. The goal is to help students make informed purchasing decisions for their academic journeys.

Top Picks for Student Laptops

Apple’s MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) stands out as the best overall student laptop. With its powerful Apple M3 chip and 14+ hours of battery life, it combines excellent performance with a lightweight design, weighing just 1.24 kg. Though it typically retails around $1,099, savvy shoppers can often find it discounted, with prices recently dropping as low as $699 during sales events.

For budget-conscious students, the Acer Chromebook Plus 514 is an ideal choice. Powered by an Intel Core 3 100U processor, this Chromebook offers great performance for everyday tasks, with a price point that appeals to students. Its efficient battery life and impressive display make it a strong contender for those who don’t require high-end specifications.

The HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch also earns recognition for its premium build quality and solid performance. With an Intel Core i3-N305 processor and a vibrant 15.6-inch FHD display, this model is particularly suitable for students who utilize Google’s cloud-based software suite.

Versatile Options for Various Needs

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 13 is praised for its portability and stunning design. Featuring a Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus processor, it weighs just 1.22 kg and boasts over 17 hours of battery life. This laptop is an excellent choice for students seeking a lightweight device that still delivers robust performance.

For those in creative disciplines, the Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M4) offers exceptional performance with its powerful Apple M4 chip and a stunning 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display. This laptop is designed for students engaged in graphic design or video editing, providing ample processing power while maintaining a sleek and silent design.

The Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 is highlighted as the best 2-in-1 Chromebook, providing flexibility with its 360-degree hinge. Although it has lower specifications compared to others on this list, its lightweight build and impressive display quality make it an attractive option for students who value versatility.

For a solid 2-in-1 Windows laptop, the Dell 14 Plus 2-in-1 is recommended. It offers a blend of performance and affordability, with a price starting at $649. While the display quality may not be exceptional, its productivity capabilities are well-suited for general academic tasks.

Finally, for students interested in gaming, the Acer Nitro 16 strikes a balance between performance and affordability. Equipped with an Intel Core i5-10500H or i7-11800H processor and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, this laptop is ideal for both gaming and demanding academic software.

The variety of laptops available in 2025 ensures that students can find a device tailored to their specific needs and budgets. As educational demands continue to evolve, having the right technology can significantly enhance the learning experience.