Discover the top-rated laptops for college students in 2022. Find the perfect device that combines power, portability, and affordability to enhance your academic performance. Shop now!

Looking for the best laptops for college students? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of top-notch laptops that are perfect for any student’s needs, whether it’s taking notes in class or working on assignments. Read on to find your perfect companion for your college journey.

Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Peak Performance
HP Latest Stream 14
HP
HP Latest Stream 14″ HD Laptop, Intel Celeron Processor, 8GB Memory, 64GB eMMC Storage
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Bottom Line

The HP Latest Stream 14" HD Laptop offers fast performance with its Intel Celeron Processor and ample storage with its 64GB eMMC. It has a sleek design and long battery life for on-the-go use. However, the limited storage capacity may be a drawback for some users.

Pros
  1. Fast performance with Intel Celeron Processor
  2. Ample memory with 8GB RAM
  3. Long battery life for all-day use
Cons
  1. Limited storage capacity with only 64GB eMMC
  2. May not be suitable for heavy multitasking or gaming
  3. Limited color options available
Maximum Value
HP Notebook Laptop, 15.6
HP
HP Notebook Laptop, 15.6″ HD Touchscreen, Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor, 32GB RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD
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Bottom Line

The HP Notebook Laptop features a large touchscreen display and powerful Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor for seamless multitasking. With its generous RAM and storage capacity, it is ideal for handling demanding tasks. However, the weight of the laptop may be a downside for those seeking portability.

Pros
  1. Large touchscreen display for enhanced user experience
  2. Powerful processor for seamless multitasking
  3. Ample RAM and storage capacity for demanding tasks
Cons
  1. Relatively heavy weight may not be ideal for portability
  2. Limited color options available
  3. Higher price point compared to other models in its range
Elite Choice
Lenovo Ideapad 14 Laptop, 14
Lenovo
Lenovo Ideapad 14 Laptop, 14″ HD Screen, Intel Pentium Silver N5030, 4GB RAM, 128GB PCIe SSD
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Bottom Line

The Lenovo Ideapad 14 Laptop offers a compact design with its 14" HD screen and lightweight build. It is powered by an Intel Pentium Silver N5030 processor and features fast storage with its 128GB PCIe SSD. However, the limited RAM capacity may be a drawback for users requiring more memory for multitasking.

Pros
  1. Compact design with a 14" HD screen
  2. Lightweight and portable for on-the-go use
  3. Fast storage with the 128GB PCIe SSD
Cons
  1. Limited RAM capacity of only 4GB
  2. May not be suitable for heavy multitasking or gaming
  3. Limited color options available

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Why Best Laptops for College Students is Necessary?

In today’s digital age, laptops have become an essential tool for college students. With the increasing reliance on technology in education, having the best laptop for college students is not just a luxury but a necessity. Let’s explore the reasons why investing in a high-quality laptop is crucial for college success.

1. Portability and Convenience

College students are always on the go, whether it’s attending classes, study groups, or working on projects at coffee shops. A lightweight and portable laptop allows students to carry their work with them wherever they go. It eliminates the need for bulky textbooks and notebooks, offering convenience and flexibility.

2. Efficient Note-Taking and Organization

Taking notes during lectures plays a vital role in understanding and retaining information. The best laptops for college students offer features like touchscreen capabilities, stylus support, and note-taking apps that make digital note-taking seamless and efficient. Digital notes can be easily organized, edited, and accessed from anywhere at any time.

3. Research and Study Aid

College coursework often involves extensive research and analysis of academic material. Having a powerful laptop enables students to access online resources quickly, conduct research efficiently, and organize their findings effectively. With the best laptops for college students, multitasking between multiple tabs or applications becomes effortless.

4. Collaboration and Group Projects

Collaboration is an integral part of college life. Whether it’s working on group projects or sharing study materials with peers, having a reliable laptop facilitates seamless collaboration. Laptops equipped with built-in webcams enable video conferencing and virtual meetings with classmates or professors.

5. Software Compatibility

Certain courses or majors require specific software programs for assignments or projects. Investing in the best laptops ensures compatibility with various software applications commonly used in educational settings. This enables students to complete their assignments without any technical limitations.

6. Longevity and Durability

College students rely heavily on their laptops throughout their academic journey. Investing in the best laptops for college students ensures durability and longevity, minimizing the risk of breakdowns or performance issues during crucial moments like exams or project submissions.

7. Entertainment and Relaxation

College life isn’t just about studying; it’s also about unwinding and enjoying leisure time. The best laptops for college students offer high-quality displays, speakers, and graphics capabilities that enhance the entertainment experience. Whether it’s streaming movies, playing games, or listening to music, a reliable laptop can provide much-needed relaxation after a long day of classes.

In conclusion, having the best laptops for college students is not just an option; it is necessary for academic success in today’s digital world. From portability and convenience to efficient note-taking, research capabilities, collaboration tools, software compatibility, durability, and even entertainment options – investing in a high-quality laptop ensures that college students have a powerful tool at their disposal throughout their educational journey.

Our Top Picks

1. HP Newest 14″ Ultral Light Laptop for Students and Business, Intel Quad-Core N4120, 8GB RAM, 192GB Storage

The HP Newest 14" Ultral Light Laptop is designed for students and business professionals alike. With its ultralight build and powerful quad-core processor, it offers both portability and performance. The generous amount of RAM and storage ensures smooth multitasking and ample file storage. However, the limited color options may be a downside for some users.

HP Newest 14

Product Features:

  • 【14″ HD Display】14.0-inch diagonal, HD (1366 x 768), micro-edge, BrightView. With virtually no bezel encircling the display, an ultra-wide viewing experience provides for seamless multi-monitor set-ups
  • 【Processor & Graphics】Intel Celeron N4120, 4 Cores & 4 Threads, 1.10 GHz Base Frequency, Up to 2.60 GHz Burst Frequency, 4 MB Cahce, Intel UHD Graphics 600, Handle multitasking reliably with the perfect combination of performance, power consumption, and value
  • 【RAM & Storage】8GB high-bandwidth DDR4 Memory (2400 MHz), Adequate high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once. 64GB high-speed eMMC Storage for your office and webinar needs
  • 【Ports】1 x USB 3.1 Type-C ports, 2 x USB 3.1 Type-A ports, 1 x HDMI, 1 x Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack, and there’s a microSD slot
  • 【Windows 11 Home in S mode】You may switch to regular windows 11: Press “Start button” bottom left of the screen; Select “Settings” icon above “power” icon;Select “Activation”, then Go to Store; Select Get option under “Switch out of S mode”; Hit Install. (If you also see an “Upgrade your edition of Windows” section, be careful not to click the “Go to the Store” link that appears there.)
Pros
  1. Ultralight design for easy portability
  2. Powerful quad-core processor for enhanced performance
  3. Ample RAM and storage capacity for multitasking and file storage
Cons
  1. Limited color options available
  2. May not be suitable for gaming or intensive graphic tasks
  3. Relatively higher price point compared to other models in its range
Product Info
BrandHP
ManufacturerHP
ColorSnowflake White
Item Dimensions(Height: 0.71 Inches, Length: 8.86 Inches, Weight: 3.24 Pounds, Width: 12.76 Inches)
Size8GB RAM | 192GB Storage

2. Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series 3511 Laptop, 15.6″ FHD Touchscreen, Intel Core i5-1035G1, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 1TB PCIe SSD

The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series 3511 Laptop offers a large Full HD touchscreen display and powerful Intel Core i5 processor for immersive multimedia experience and smooth multitasking. With its ample RAM and storage capacity, it can handle demanding tasks with ease. However, the weight of the laptop may be a drawback for those seeking portability.

Dell Inspiron 15 3000 Series 3511 Laptop, 15.6

Product Features:

  • 【High Speed RAM And Enormous Space】16GB high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive allows to fast bootup and data transfer
  • 【Processor】Intel Core i5-1035G1 Quad-Core Processor (4 Cores, 8 Threads, 6MB L3 Cache, Base Frequency 1.0 GHz, Up to 3.60 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology),with Intel UHD Graphics
  • 【Display】15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) Anti-glare LED Backlight Narrow Border WVA Touchscreen
  • 【Tech Specs】1 x USB-A 2.0, 2 x USB-A 3.2, 1 x HDMI 1.4, 1 x Headphone & Microphone Audio Jack; SD card reader; Webcam
  • 【Operating System】Windows 11 Home – Beautiful, more consistent new design, Great window layout options, Better multi-monitor functionality, Improved performance features, New videogame selection and capabilities, Compatible with Android Apps
Pros
  1. Large Full HD touchscreen display for immersive multimedia experience
  2. Powerful processor for seamless multitasking
  3. Ample RAM and storage capacity for demanding tasks
Cons
  1. Relatively heavy weight may not be ideal for portability
  2. Limited color options available
  3. Higher price point compared to other models in its range
Product Info
BrandDell
ManufacturerDell Computers
ColorBlack
Item Dimensions(Height: 9.27 Inches, Length: 0.74 Inches, Weight: 3.748 Pounds, Width: 14.11 Inches)
Size16GB RAM | 1TB SSD

3. HP 14 Laptop for College Students, School, 14 Inch HD Display, Intel Celeron N4120, 8GB RAM, 192GB Storage

The HP 14 Laptop is designed specifically for college students and school use. With its compact size and HD display, it offers convenience without compromising on visual quality. The Intel Celeron N4120 processor ensures smooth performance while the ample RAM and storage capacity allow for efficient multitasking and file storage. However, limited color options may be a downside for some users.

HP 14 Laptop for College Students, School, 14 Inch HD Display, Intel Celeron N4120, 8GB RAM, 192GB Storage

Product Features:

  • 【Strong Performance】 Powered by the Intel Celeron N4120 processor, this laptop delivers smooth performance for everyday tasks, whether you’re working on spreadsheets, browsing the web, or streaming content.
  • 【Stunning Visuals】 Experience efficient and reliable performance with the HP 14 Business Laptop. Featuring a sleek and portable design, this laptop is perfect for professionals on the go. The 14-inch HD display offers crisp visuals, making it ideal for work and entertainment.
  • 【Efficient Multitasking】 With 8GB of RAM, you can effortlessly switch between applications and handle everyday tasks with ease. The generous storage capacity of 192GB (64GB eMMC + 128GB SD Card) provides ample space for your files, documents, and multimedia.
  • 【1-Year Microsoft Office 365】 Microsoft 365 (1-Year) is pre-installed. The latest versions of: Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook (Publisher and Access are available on PC only). offers convenience, flexibility, and access to powerful tools that can help individuals be more productive and organized.
  • 【Windows 11 and Other Supports】 You may switch to regular windows 11: Press ”Start button” bottom left of the screen; Select ”Settings” icon above ”power” icon;Select Update & Security and Activation, then Go to Store; Select ”Get” option under ”Switch out of S mode”; Hit Install. (If you also see an ”Upgrade your edition of Windows” section, be careful not to click the ”Go to the Store” link that appears there.). 1 Year Warranty.
Pros
  1. Compact size and HD display for convenience without compromising visual quality
  2. Efficient performance with Intel Celeron N4120 processor
  3. Ample RAM and storage capacity for multitasking and file storage
Cons
  1. Limited color options available
  2. May not be suitable for gaming or intensive graphic tasks
  3. Relatively higher price point compared to other models in its range
Product Info
BrandHP
ManufacturerHP
ColorRose Gold
Item Dimensions(Height: 0.71 inches, Length: 12.76 Inches, Weight: 3.24 Pounds, Width: 8.86 Inches)
Size8GB RAM | 192GB Storage

4. HP 2022 Stream 14inch HD Laptop, Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core Processor, 4GB DDR4 Memory, 128GB Storage

The HP 2022 Stream 14inch HD Laptop offers a budget-friendly option with its Intel Celeron N4020 processor and ample storage capacity. It is suitable for basic tasks such as web browsing and document editing. However, the limited RAM capacity may be a drawback for users requiring more memory for multitasking.

HP 2022 Stream 14inch HD Laptop, Intel Celeron N4020 Dual-Core Processor, 4GB DDR4 Memory, 128GB Storage

Product Features:

  • ✔【Processor】 Intel(R) Celeron(R) N4020 processor, dual-core, 1.1 GHz base frequency, up to 2.8 GHz burst frequency
  • ✔【Memory】 4 GB DDR4-2400 SDRAM Storage: 64 GB eMMC + ADATA 64GB microSDXC memory card
  • ✔【Display】 14-inch diagonal HD SVA bright view WLED-backlit display (1366 x 768)
  • ✔【Battery life】 Up to 14 hours and 15 minutes (video playback), up to 11 hours and 30 minutes (wireless streaming)
  • ✔【OS and Office 365 for one year】 Free upgrade to windows 11; Get full access to Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, OneNote, Access, and 1 TB of One Drive storage for 1 year
Pros
  1. Budget-friendly option with decent performance
  2. Ample storage capacity for basic tasks
  3. Lightweight and portable design
Cons
  1. Limited RAM capacity of only 4GB
  2. May not be suitable for heavy multitasking or gaming
  3. Limited color options available
Product Info
BrandHP
ManufacturerHP
ColorSnow White
Item Dimensions(Height: 0.7 Inches, Length: 12.7 Inches, Width: 8.8 Inches)
Size4GB RAM

5. HP Chromebook 14 Inch Laptop for College Students, School, Intel Celeron Processor N4120, 4GB DDR4 RAM, 64GB eMMC

The HP Chromebook 14 Inch Laptop is an ideal choice for college students and school use due to its lightweight build and efficient performance with the Intel Celeron Processor N4120. The long battery life ensures all-day productivity while the compact size makes it easy to carry around. However, the limited storage capacity may be a downside for users requiring more file storage.

HP Chromebook 14 Inch Laptop for College Students, School, Intel Celeron Processor N4120, 4GB DDR4 RAM, 64GB eMMC

Product Features:

  • 【Sleek Design and Powerful Performance】 The HP 14″ Chromebook in Modern Gray combines sleek design with impressive performance, making it a perfect choice for productivity on the go. Powered by an Intel Celeron N4120 processor (1.1 GHz base frequency, up to 2.6 GHz burst frequency, 4 MB L2 cache, 4 cores, 4 threads), this Chromebook ensures smooth multitasking and efficient operation.
  • 【Graphics and Display】 Immerse yourself in vibrant visuals and enjoy crisp details with the 14-inch HD display of the HP 14″ Chromebook. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 600 further elevates your viewing experience, delivering rich and immersive visuals with enhanced color accuracy and sharpness. Get ready to indulge in a visual feast with this Chromebook, as every image and video is rendered with stunning clarity and detail, making your digital experience truly captivating.
  • 【4GB LPDDR4 + 64GB eMMC】 The Chromebook comes equipped with a generous 64GB eMMC storage, providing ample space to store your files, documents, and multimedia. Sufficient high-bandwidth 4GB RAM allows you to smoothly run your programs and browser tabs all at once.
  • 【High Efficiency】 Experience seamless wireless connectivity with the HP 14″ Chromebook. Equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, this laptop ensures fast and reliable connections, keeping you effortlessly connected to the internet and other devices. Stay updated, stream content, and transfer files with ease. With the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6, the latest wireless standard, enjoy lightning-fast downloads, smoother streaming, and seamless file transfers, enhancing your overall browsing experience.
  • 【Google Chrome OS and Other Support】 Chrome OS offers seamless integration with Google Drive, allowing you to access your files from anywhere and collaborate effortlessly.The laptop is covered by 1 Year Warranty
Pros
  1. Lightweight build for easy portability
  2. Efficient performance with Intel Celeron Processor N4120
  3. Long battery life for all-day productivity
Cons
  1. Limited storage capacity of only 64GB eMMC
  2. May not be suitable for heavy multitasking or gaming
  3. Limited color options available
Product Info
BrandHP
ManufacturerHP
Item Dimensions(Height: 0.72 Inches, Length: 12.85 Inches, Weight: 3.35 Pounds, Width: 8.94 Inches)
Size4GB RAM | 64GB eMMC

6. 2022 ASUS 14″ Thin Light Business Student Laptop Computer, Intel Celeron N4020 Processor, 4GB DDR4 RAM, 64 GB Storage

The

2022 ASUS 14

Product Features:

  • 【Processor】Dual Core Intel Celeron N4020 , 2.80GHz Brust Frequency, 6W TDP, 4MB Cache, Featuring true machine intelligence and a newly designed efficient architecture, the groundbreaking processor learns and adapts to your needs so you can achieve more
  • 【Display】14″ HD (1366 x 768) Display with NanoEdge and up to 178 degree viewing angles, narrow bezel design, enables you to focus more on your work and studies
  • 【Memory & Storage】4GB High-Bandwidth DDR4 Memory, 64GB Storage, Smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs at the same time, ensure the smoothness of daily use and improve your work efficiency
  • 【Operating System】 Windows 11 Home | 12Hrs+ Battery Life
  • 【Included in the package】Bundled with Oydisen Cloth
Product Info
BrandASUS
ManufacturerAsus
ColorRose Gold
Item Dimensions(Height: 0.72 Inches, Length: 12.8 Inches, Weight: 2.87 Pounds, Width: 8.54 Inches)
Size14

7. HP Newest Pavilion 15.6″ HD Touchscreen Anti-Glare Laptop, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage, Intel Core Processor up to 4.1GHz, Up to 11 Hours Long Battery Life, Type-C, HDMI, Windows 11 Home, Silver

HP Newest Pavilion 15.6

Product Features:

  • 【Processor】 Intel Core i3-1115G4 (up to 4.1 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology, 6 MB L3 cache, 2 cores, 4 threads)
  • 【Display】 15.6″ diagonal, HD (1366 x 768), touch, micro-edge, BrightView, 220 nits, 45% NTSC, Touch Screen, enjoy your photos, movies, and games with the crisp quality.
  • 【RAM and Storage】RAM is upgraded to 16GB high-bandwidth RAM to smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once; Hard Drive is upgraded to 1TB PCIe NVMe Solid State Drive allows to fast bootup and data transfer.
  • 【Ports】1 SuperSpeed USB Type-C 5Gbps signaling rate; 2 SuperSpeed USB Type-A 5Gbps signaling rate; 1 HDMI 1.4b; 1 AC smart pin; 1 headphone/microphone combo
  • 【Operating System】Windows 11 Home Operation System
Product Info
BrandHP
Manufacturerhp
Item Dimensions(Height: 0.71 Inches, Length: 14.1 Inches, Weight: 3.748 Pounds, Width: 9.53 Inches)
Size16GB RAM | 1TB SSD

Buying Guide: Finding the Best Laptops for College Students

Finding the perfect laptop for college can be a daunting task with so many options available in the market. As a college student, you need a laptop that not only meets your academic needs but also suits your budget and provides long-term value. This buying guide aims to help you make an informed decision by highlighting key factors to consider when searching for the best laptops for college students.

1. Portability and Size

College students are constantly on the go between classes, libraries, and study groups. Therefore, portability is crucial when choosing a laptop. Opting for a lightweight and compact device will ensure it fits easily in your backpack and doesn’t weigh you down during your daily commute.

2. Performance and Processing Power

A powerful processor is essential for multitasking, running demanding software, and handling heavy course-related tasks such as video editing or programming. Look for laptops equipped with at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor to ensure smooth performance without lagging.

3. Memory (RAM) and Storage

As a college student, you’ll likely be juggling multiple tabs, documents, and applications simultaneously. Sufficient RAM (at least 8GB) will allow your laptop to handle these tasks efficiently. Regarding storage, consider opting for solid-state drives (SSD) instead of traditional hard disk drives (HDD). SSDs offer faster boot-up times and improved overall performance.

4. Battery Life

Long battery life is crucial to survive lengthy lectures or study sessions when power outlets might not always be readily available. Look for laptops that offer a minimum of 8 hours of battery life to ensure all-day productivity without constantly worrying about charging.

5. Display Quality and Size

Since you’ll spend countless hours staring at your laptop screen while studying or working on assignments, having a high-quality display is important. Look for laptops with IPS panels and at least a Full HD (1920×1080) resolution, providing sharp visuals and wide viewing angles.

6. Connectivity and Ports

Consider the connectivity options your laptop offers, such as USB ports (both Type-A and Type-C), HDMI, Ethernet, and an SD card reader. These ports will come in handy when connecting to external devices or peripherals like printers, projectors, or additional monitors.

7. Budget

College expenses can add up quickly, so it’s essential to set a budget before searching for a laptop. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and prioritize features based on your needs. Remember that finding the perfect balance between affordability and performance is key.

8. Durability

College life can be tough on electronic devices. Look for laptops with sturdy build quality that can withstand everyday wear and tear. Additionally, consider investing in a protective case or sleeve to extend the lifespan of your laptop.

By considering these factors while shopping for a laptop as a college student, you’ll be able to find an ideal device that meets your academic requirements without breaking the bank. Remember to read reviews, compare specifications from different manufacturers, and make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.

FAQs

What are the best laptops for college students in 2021?

The best laptops for college students in 2021 are those that offer a combination of portability, performance, and affordability. Some top options include the MacBook Air, Dell XPS 13, and HP Spectre x360.

How can I choose the best laptop for my college needs?

To choose the best laptop for your college needs, consider factors such as portability, battery life, processing power, storage capacity, and budget. Additionally, look for features like a lightweight design, long-lasting battery, sufficient RAM and storage space to accommodate your academic requirements.

Are Chromebooks suitable as laptops for college students?

Yes, Chromebooks can be suitable laptops for college students depending on their specific needs. They are affordable and lightweight with excellent battery life. However, they are more suited for tasks like browsing the internet, taking notes, and using cloud-based applications rather than resource-intensive software or gaming.

Which operating system is recommended for college students’ laptops?

For college students’ laptops, both Windows and macOS are popular choices. Windows offers a wider range of software compatibility while macOS is known for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with other Apple devices. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of your courses.

Are touchscreen laptops beneficial for college students?

Touchscreen laptops can be beneficial for college students as they provide an intuitive way to interact with educational apps and take notes directly on the screen. They are especially useful for art or design-related courses where precise touch input is required. However, touchscreen functionality might not be necessary for every student depending on their field of study.

Can gaming laptops serve as good options for college students?

While gaming laptops offer powerful hardware configurations, they are generally heavier and more expensive than regular laptops. Unless you specifically require high-performance computing power for gaming or resource-intensive tasks, it is recommended to opt for a lightweight laptop with good battery life that fulfills your academic needs without breaking the bank.

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