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Home > Blog > Best Laptops for University Students in 2024/2025; Top Picks

POSTED: 12 September, 2024

Best Laptops for University Students in 2024/2025; Top Picks

Student life is challenging enough. The last thing you would need is a laptop that’s slowing you down. From lectures to late-night study sessions, your laptop should be powerful enough to rely on! 
 
We've rigorously tested thousands of laptops, ensuring you get the best performance for your academic needs. Our expert team reviews all the top models to curate a list of best 2 in 1 laptops for university students
 
Sneak Peek: Our favourite these days, is the ASUS ZenBook S 13 (UX5304), known for its impressive balance of affordability, performance, and stunning display. 
 
If you're managing your university fees and need the best laptop for your studies, don't worry. We've included affordable options that don't skimp on quality. 
 
However, it's not always easy to get the best tech deal on laptops. All you need is market research and comparing specifications of your favourite picks to find the best one! 
 
It might be overwhelming, as the best student laptops could be Chromebooks, Windows laptops, MacBooks, or 2-in-1 laptops. Choosing the right laptop depends on your coursework and daily demands. 

If you're a university student studying graphic design, you'll need a laptop with exceptional processing power and color accuracy. Check out our guide to the best laptops for graphic design students.
 
Let's jump right into finding the best laptop for you! 

Do You Know, What Best Suits You?

Wait! Before you start finding the best laptop for you, make sure to understand what suits you best! 

Subject 
Recommended Specs 
Content Creation (Writing, Blogging, Video Editing, etc.) 
Mid-range laptop with a good processor and sufficient RAM for multitasking. 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a comfortable keyboard are recommended
Architecture   Powerful laptop with a dedicated graphics card. 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and a high-resolution display are essential. 
Web Development or Programming  Mid-range laptop with a good processor and sufficient RAM for multitasking. 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a comfortable keyboard are recommended. 
Graphic Design/   Illustration 
High-performance laptop with a powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, and a large screen. 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD, and a high-resolution display are recommended. 
Business & Economics  Mid-range laptop with a good processor and sufficient RAM for multitasking. 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a comfortable keyboard are recommended. 
Computer Science & Engineering  
Powerful laptop with a dedicated graphics card. 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a high-resolution display are essential. 
Healthcare & Sciences  Reliable laptop with a good battery life. 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and a comfortable keyboard are essential. 
 
 

 

Which are the Best Laptops for University Students in 2024? At a Glance 

Best Overall: ASUS Zenbook S 13 (UX5304)  

What Makes it Unique? 

The Zenbook S 13 features a brilliant 13.3" OLED display, delivering exceptional clarity and vibrant colours. 

Who is This Suited For?

Ideal laptop for university students who need a lightweight, portable laptop with powerful performance for multitasking, media creation, and intense productivity on the go. 
 
Pros: 
  • 13.3" OLED display with deep blacks and vibrant colours 
  • Ultra-thin and lightweight design 
  • Intel Core Ultra 7 processor for smooth multitasking 
  • Long battery life, perfect for all-day use 
  • Premium build quality and sleek aesthetic 
Cons: 
  • Higher price point compared to other laptops 
  • Limited ports due to slim design 
  • Not ideal for heavy gaming 
  • May run hot under prolonged high-performance tasks 
  • No dedicated graphics card for intensive graphical work 
Product Detail: 
 
It stands out as the best overall laptop for its combination of sleek design, powerful performance, and eye-catching display. The Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, paired with 16GB of RAM, ensures that this laptop can handle everything from intensive multitasking to creative tasks like photo or video editing.  Weighing just under 1kg and featuring a premium metal build, it’s incredibly easy to carry around.  
 
The OLED display is a visual treat, making it ideal for those who value high-quality viewing for creative or entertainment purposes.  
 
While it may be on the pricier side, its performance and display quality more than justify its position as the best overall laptop. 

Best Value: Lenovo IdeaPad 3  

What Makes it Unique: 

Combining an AMD Ryzen 5 processor with NVIDIA RTX 2050 graphics, this laptop delivers impressive gaming and multitasking performance at an affordable price. 

Who is This Suited For? 

Ideal for university students who are budget-conscious and enjoy light-gaming, looking for a versatile laptop that handles both. 
 
Pros: 
  • Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor for multitasking 
  • NVIDIA RTX 2050 graphics card for casual gaming and graphical work 
  • Efficient performance across various applications 
  • Affordable price point for the features offered 
  • 512GB SSD for fast storage and quick boot times 
Cons: 
  • Heavier than ultrabooks, making it less portable 
  • Battery life may not last through a full day of heavy use 
  • Display quality is not as vibrant as OLED 
  • Build quality is plastic, less premium compared to others 
  • Not suitable for high-end gaming or intensive creative work 
Product Detail: 
 
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a solid all-rounder that offers fantastic value for money. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 processor, it handles everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, and even some light creative software with ease.  
 
Thanks to the inclusion of NVIDIA RTX 2050 graphics, it also performs well for casual gaming and graphical tasks. The 16GB RAM ensures smooth multitasking, and the 512GB SSD provides fast storage for your files, games, and applications.  
 
With a 15.6" screen, it’s ideal laptop for university students who need a larger display for productivity but still want the performance required for some gaming downtime.  
 
While it lacks the ultra-portability of more premium laptops and its build is less premium, the IdeaPad 3 is a fantastic budget-friendly option. 
 

Best MacBook for Students: Apple MacBook Air M2  

What Makes it Unique: 

The M2 chip brings a revolutionary level of performance and efficiency, offering students a balance between power and battery life in a sleek, lightweight design. 

Who is This Suited For? 

Perfect for students who value portability, performance, and the seamless Apple ecosystem for their tasks and creative projects.  
 
Pros:
  • M2 chip delivers exceptional performance with great power efficiency 
  • Slim, lightweight design, perfect for carrying between classes 
  • Long-lasting battery life, ideal for a full day of university work 
  • Stunning 13.6" Retina display with True Tone technology 
  • Excellent build quality with a premium look and feel 
Cons: 
  • Limited to 8GB RAM, may struggle with very demanding tasks 
  • Expensive 
  • Limited port selection  
  • Not upgradeable 
  • macOS may not be compatible with some specialised software used in certain courses 
Product Detail: 
 
A go-to choice for students seeking a combination of style, power, and portability. Powered by Apple’s M2 octa-core chip, this laptop breezes through everyday tasks like note-taking, research, and video calls, while also capable of handling more demanding workloads like editing videos or running creative software.  
 
The 13.6" Retina display with True Tone technology ensures everything looks crisp and vibrant, making it great for both university work and leisure.  
 
Its ultra-slim, lightweight form makes it easy to carry around campus, while the long-lasting battery ensures you won’t be left searching for a power outlet during lectures.  
 
Although it’s a bit more expensive, the seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem and its high build quality makes it an excellent choice for students who prefer macOS. 

Best Budget Laptop for University Students: Lenovo IdeaPad 3  

What Makes it Unique: 

Affordable yet powerful, this laptop offers excellent multitasking and gaming performance thanks to the AMD Ryzen 5 processor and NVIDIA RTX 2050 graphics. 

Who is This Suited For? 

Best suited for students on a budget who need a best budget laptop that balances study tasks with light gaming or creative work without breaking the bank. 
 
Pros: 
  • AMD Ryzen 5 processor for smooth performance 
  • NVIDIA RTX 2050 graphics for casual gaming 
  • Large 15.6" screen, ideal for productivity 
  • 16GB RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking 
  • Affordable price for the hardware specs 
Cons: 
  • Heavier than most ultrabooks, less portable 
  • Average battery life under heavy use 
  • Plastic build quality, not as premium 
  • Lacks a high-refresh-rate display for serious gaming 
  • Display quality is not as vibrant as OLED or Retina screens 
Product Detail: 
 
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 is a budget-friendly laptop that packs a punch, making it perfect for students who need versatility on a tight budget. Powered by the AMD Ryzen 5, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB SSD it offers snappy performance for day-to-day activities, from browsing and word processing to handling light creative software.  
 
The NVIDIA RTX 2050 graphics card is best for casual gaming or tasks that require some graphic rendering. The large 15.6" screen makes it easy to work on essays or presentations, but it's also great for entertainment.  
 
While it’s not the most portable or premium build, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 offers superb value for the price. 
 

Best 2-in-1 Laptops for University Students: HP Elite x360  

What Makes it Unique:

The Elite x360's 2-in-1 design allows it to transition from a laptop to a tablet, offering flexibility for students who need both touch and typing capabilities. 

Who is This Suited For? 

Perfect for university students who need the versatility of a laptop and tablet in one device, making it ideal for taking notes, sketching, and handling presentations. 
 
Pros: 
  • Versatile 2-in-1 design with touchscreen functionality 
  • Intel Core Ultra 7 processor for smooth multitasking 
  • Lightweight and portable for easy carrying 
  • Excellent battery life for all-day use 
  • High-quality 13.3" touchscreen display 
Cons: 
  • Slightly expensive compared to traditional laptops 
  • Limited port options due to slim design 
  • Touchscreen may attract fingerprints and smudges 
  • Keyboard experience may be compromised in tablet mode 
  • Not as powerful as traditional laptops for heavy-duty tasks
Product Detail: 
 
Designed for students who need a versatile and portable device that functions as both a laptop and tablet. Its 2-in-1 design offers flexibility, allowing students to switch between typing assignments and using the touchscreen for drawing or annotating documents.   
 
 Weighing just over 1kg, this device is highly portable and ideal for students on the go. With a 13.3" touchscreen display, it offers a vivid and responsive experience for note-taking and presentations. It delivers excellent battery life, making it ideal for long study sessions without needing to constantly plug in.  
 
While it's on the pricier side, still a top choice for students who want the best of both worlds in a 2-in-1 laptop. 
 
A Quick Tip: To get the most out of your laptop’s battery, adjust your screen brightness, close unnecessary applications, and use 'battery saver' mode when you don’t need full performance. 

Best AI-Integrated Laptop: ASUS Zenbook S 16  

What makes it unique: 

Equipped with AMD Ryzen AI technology, this laptop offers advanced AI-based features for enhanced performance, user experience, and power management. 

Who is This Suited For?

Ideal for students in fields like AI development, data science, and creative work who need top-tier performance and cutting-edge AI-driven capabilities. 
 
Pros: 
  • AI-enhanced performance with AMD Ryzen AI 9 processor 
  • Stunning 16" OLED touchscreen display with vibrant colours 
  • Massive 32GB RAM for handling demanding applications 
  • 1TB SSD for ample storage and quick access 
  • Sleek and modern design with premium build quality 
Cons: 
  • Higher price point due to advanced AI features 
  • Larger size may limit portability for some users 
  • AI features may be overkill for casual users 
  • Limited ports due to slim design 
  • Runs warm during intensive tasks 
Product Detail: 
 
The ASUS Zenbook S 16 OLED stands out for its integration of AMD Ryzen AI, making it one of the most advanced AI-driven laptops available. This cutting-edge technology optimises everything from performance to battery life, making it perfect for users who require advanced computing power for AI-based applications, video editing, or high-end software.  
 
Its 16" OLED touchscreen display is nothing short of breathtaking, offering rich colours and deep contrasts, making it a joy to use for media consumption or creative work.  
 
While it comes with a premium price tag and is slightly larger than most laptops, its AI-enhanced features and high-performance components make it worth the investment who want to future-proof their devices for the next level performance. 

Specification

ASUS ZenBook S 13 (UX5304) 

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 (AMD Ryzen 5

Apple MacBook Air M2

HP Elite x360 830 G11

ASUS Zenbook S 16 OLED

Lenovo IdeaPad 3 Gaming

Processor

Intel Core Ultra 7

AMD Ryzen 5 5500H

Apple M2 Octa-Core Chip

Intel Core Ultra 7 155U

AMD Ryzen AI 9

AMD Ryzen 5 5500H 

RAM 

16GB 

16GB 

8GB 

16GB 

32GB 

16GB 

Storage Capacity 

1TB SSD 

512GB SSD 

512GB SSD 

512GB SSD 

1TB SSD 

512GB SSD 

Display 

OLED (2880 x 1800) 

Full HD IPS (1920 x 1080) 

Retina IPS Display (2560 x 1664) 

Full HD (1920 x 1080) Touchscreen 

4K OLED (3840 x 2400) Touchscreen 

Full HD IPS (1920 x 1080) 

Screen Size 

13.3" 

15.6" 

13.6" 

13.3" 

16" 

15.6" 

Keyboard 

Backlit Keyboard 

Full-size Keyboard 

Backlit Keyboard 

Backlit Keyboard, Convertible 

Backlit Keyboard 

Full-size Keyboard 

Battery Life 

Up to 12 hours 

Up to 8 hours 

Up to 18 hours 

Up to 12 hours 

Up to 10 hours 

Up to 8 hours 

Connectivity 

Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E 

USB 3.2, USB-C, HDMI, Wi-Fi 6 

Thunderbolt, USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E 

Thunderbolt 4, USB-C, HDMI, Wi-Fi 6 

USB-C, HDMI, Wi-Fi 6E 

USB 3.2, USB-C, HDMI, Wi-Fi 6 

Graphics Card 

Integrated Intel Iris Xe 

NVIDIA RTX 2050 

Apple 10-core GPU 

Integrated Intel Iris Xe 

Integrated AMD Radeon Graphics 

NVIDIA RTX 2050 

Price 

Around £1,400 

Around £600 

Around £1,200 

Around £1600 

Around £1700 

Around £600 

Availability  

Available at Box.co.uk 

Available at Box.co.uk 

 

Available at Box.co.uk 

 

Available at Box.co.uk 

 

Available at Box.co.uk 

 

Available at Box.co.uk 

 

Ready to Buy? Find Your Perfect Laptop Today! 

When it comes to choosing the best laptop for university, the key question remains: how much should you spend? While it's tempting to go all out, the best approach is to balance your budget with your needs. For most students, a budget between £600 to £1,200 will get you a solid, dependable machine that can handle everyday tasks. However, if your coursework demands more power, or you want premium features like high-performance graphics or an ultra-portable design, it might be worth investing a bit more. 
 
If one of the laptops from our recommended list has caught your eye, don’t wait—snap it up right now at Box.co.uk. They've got you covered with fast delivery and competitive pricing. But hey, if our picks don’t quite fit your style or needs, that’s totally fine! Explore other options that you feel are the best choice for you. 
 
Remember, the right laptop is an investment in your academic success, so make sure it’s the perfect fit for your university life! 

For university students balancing academic and professional ambitions, the ASUS ZenBook offers a great mix of productivity and portability. Learn more about the best ASUS ZenBook models.