Finding the perfect back-to-school laptop can be a daunting task, with so many options to choose from and various specifications to compare. However, I’m here to help make your search a little easier. As someone who has been reviewing laptops for years, I have extensive knowledge and experience in this area. I have personally tested and compared nearly 20 different laptops, taking into consideration factors such as keyboard comfort, battery life, and overall value.
After careful analysis, I have selected three laptops that I believe are ideal for students. These laptops are not only portable enough to fit into your backpack, but they also offer long-lasting battery life to get you through a full day of classes and more. Whether you’re looking for a MacBook, a Windows laptop powered by Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite, or a traditional Intel-based Windows laptop, one of these options is sure to catch your eye.
1. Microsoft Surface Laptop 7:
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 stands out for its exceptional battery life. In our tests, it lasted an impressive 22 hours and 50 minutes during continuous video playback. This is the longest battery life we have seen for a Windows laptop, thanks to its Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite CPU. The laptop also delivers solid performance, with a multi-core score of 11,875 on the Geekbench 6 performance test. When set to “best performance” power mode, the score jumps to 14,586, providing more than enough power for students. Additionally, the Surface Laptop 7 is lightweight, weighing just 2.96 pounds, and has slim dimensions that make it easy to carry in a backpack. While there may be some compatibility issues with certain apps and games due to its Windows-on-ARM architecture, most students will not be affected by these minor limitations.
2. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9:
If compatibility with Windows apps is a top priority for you, the Intel-based Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9 is an excellent choice. This laptop offers impressive battery life, lasting 14 hours and 21 minutes during continuous video playback. Its touch display with an anti-glare matte finish is perfect for reducing eye strain during long study sessions. The 2-in-1 functionality allows you to use it as a tablet, making it convenient for reading or taking notes. Although the ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9 is a bit pricey, its long battery life, abundance of ports, comfortable keyboard, and excellent speakers make it worthwhile for students.
3. Apple 15-inch M3 MacBook Air:
For those who prefer a MacBook, the Apple 15-inch M3 MacBook Air is the ultimate choice. It offers strong performance with its M3 chip, earning a high Geekbench 6 score of 12,057. This laptop is perfect for creative professionals and students who require robust performance for their demanding workflows. The battery life is equally impressive, lasting 10 hours and 52 minutes during video playback. The MacBook Air excels in every aspect, from its clicky keyboard to its exceptional sound system and vibrant display. The only downside is the lack of port variety, with only two USB-C ports and an audio jack. However, the USB-C ports can be used to connect displays, and many peripherals can be connected via Bluetooth, so this limitation may not be a dealbreaker for most students.
In conclusion, when searching for the best back-to-school laptop, it’s important to consider factors such as battery life, performance, portability, and compatibility with your preferred apps. The Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, Lenovo ThinkPad X1 2-in-1 Gen 9, and Apple 15-inch M3 MacBook Air are all excellent options that meet these criteria. Choose the one that best suits your needs and embark on a successful academic journey with a reliable and efficient laptop by your side.