10 Best Back-to-School Laptops

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By Taylor Casti2013-07-29 12:00:56 UTC

A laptop is undoubtedly at the top of most student’s back-to-school wish list. From writing papers and posting online discussions to sharing party photos and playing games, your laptop should be tailored to your lifestyle.

No model is one-size-fits-all, and students come with a particular set of needs when it comes to choosing a laptop. However, keeping a few factors in mind will help to ensure you don't end up with buyer’s remorse by the time finals week rolls around.

See also: Tiny Tech: 10 Space-Saving Gadgets for Dorm Rooms

Check out these tips and then see our top picks for students in the above gallery.

1. Price

While costs are alway on a student’s mind, sometimes spending a little extra up front will ensure that your laptop lasts the four years until graduation. Remember that this is a device you’ll be using every single day, so it better hold up or you'll be shelling out money again before you graduate. That said, there are plenty of affordable options out there, and many brands offer student discounts. Check them out here:

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  Apple Education Store

  
  


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  Microsoft Student Store

  
  


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  Lenovo Student Discount

  
  


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  HP Academy

  
  


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  Dell Academic Discount

  
  

2. Weight and Size

Whichever model you purchase, remember that you'll have to tote it across campus and balance it on small classroom desks. Despite what you think now, size and weight will determine how often you use your laptop outside of your dorm room. Don't purchase a laptop that weighs more than 5 pounds (in fact, it’s best to aim between 3 and 4 pounds), and stick to small screen sizes when possible.

3. Battery Life

Much like weight, battery life is crucial in making a laptop purchase. Opt for a model that offers all-day power to avoid carrying a bulky charger around, or buy an extended battery.

4. Dual Band Wireless Card

Wi-Fi on college campuses is notoriously bad, especially at peak usage hours. A dual band wireless card will connect to the fastest Wi-Fi speeds, giving you the fastest connection possible. When shopping for wireless cards, look out for keywords such as “5GHz” and “supports 802.11a or wireless N b/g/n/a.”

5. Don’t Buy Software

Your school probably offers software like Microsoft Office and Adobe products, along with an antivirus software, for free or at a great discount.

6. Durability

Finally, you're going to want something that’s durable. College students aren't always known for their unwavering sense of responsibility, and if your laptop isn’t built to last, there’s a good chance it may not survive even long enough for you to gain your freshmen 15.

Now that you’ve taken our crash course in laptops, check out our picks for college students this year. Tells us your favorite in the comments below.

Image: Flickr, CollegeDegrees360

Topics: back to school, Back to School Series, college, Gadgets, gallery, laptop, Tech, Travel & Leisure, Work & Play