Navigating the world of laptops can be overwhelming, especially for students on a budget. Finding a reliable and powerful machine that won’t break the bank is a challenge, but it’s not impossible. This guide is your ultimate resource for discovering the best laptops for students under $700. We’ve meticulously reviewed and compared top-rated models to help you choose the perfect device for your academic needs, whether you’re a budding writer, a data-crunching programmer, or an avid gamer.
From battery life and portability to processing power and display quality, we’ve considered all the crucial factors that matter most to students. We’ll guide you through the technical jargon, highlighting the key features that make a laptop stand out, and provide expert recommendations based on your specific requirements. So, ditch the stress and unlock your academic potential with our curated list of the best laptops for students under $700 – it’s time to find your perfect study companion.
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Laptops for Students Under $700: A Budget-Friendly Guide
Finding the perfect laptop for school can be a daunting task, especially when you’re working with a limited budget. But don’t despair! There are plenty of great options available for students under $700, offering a balance of performance, portability, and affordability.
This price range encompasses a wide variety of laptops, each designed to meet different needs. Some are geared towards basic tasks like word processing and web browsing, while others offer enough power to handle demanding applications like graphic design or video editing.
When choosing from the best laptops for students under $700, you should consider factors such as battery life, screen size, weight, storage space, and operating system. For those on the go, a lighter and longer-lasting laptop may be preferable. For those who need to work on large documents or creative projects, a bigger screen and more storage might be more important.
Ultimately, the ideal laptop for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Whether you’re a high school student taking notes in class or a college student working on complex projects, there’s a budget-friendly laptop out there that can help you succeed.
By taking the time to research your options and carefully consider your needs, you can find the perfect laptop that meets your budget and enhances your learning experience.
Best Laptops For Students Under $700 – Reviews
Product 1: Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R74Z
The Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R74Z is a solid choice for students on a budget. It boasts a 15.6-inch Full HD display, an AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, and 8GB of RAM. The laptop is also equipped with a 256GB SSD for fast boot times and application loading. The battery life is decent, providing you with up to 7 hours of use on a single charge. The Aspire 5 also features a comfortable keyboard and a responsive touchpad.
While this laptop lacks a dedicated graphics card, it’s more than capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light gaming. Overall, the Acer Aspire 5 A515-46-R74Z is a well-rounded and affordable laptop that’s perfect for students.
Product 2: Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14ITL6
The Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14ITL6 offers a great blend of performance and portability. This laptop is powered by an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. It features a 14-inch Full HD display that is ideal for watching movies and working on documents. The IdeaPad 3 boasts a sleek design and a lightweight build, making it easy to carry around campus.
The battery life is respectable, offering up to 6 hours of mixed usage. While the speakers aren’t the best, you can always connect external speakers or headphones for a better audio experience. Overall, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3 14ITL6 is a reliable and affordable laptop that is a great value for students.
Product 3: HP 15-dw1000
The HP 15-dw1000 is a budget-friendly laptop with decent performance. It’s powered by an AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. The 15.6-inch HD display is fine for everyday use, but the resolution is not as sharp as Full HD. The HP 15-dw1000 also features a comfortable keyboard and a responsive touchpad.
The battery life is average, providing you with around 5 hours of mixed usage. While it’s not the most powerful laptop in this price range, the HP 15-dw1000 is a solid option for students who need a reliable and affordable machine for basic tasks.
Product 4: ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA
The ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA is a stylish and affordable laptop with a sleek design. It features an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. The 15.6-inch Full HD display offers sharp visuals, making it enjoyable for watching movies and browsing the web. The VivoBook 15 also boasts a comfortable keyboard and a responsive touchpad.
The battery life is impressive, offering up to 8 hours of mixed usage. While the speakers aren’t the loudest, they provide decent sound quality for everyday use. Overall, the ASUS VivoBook 15 X515EA is a solid option for students looking for a stylish and affordable laptop with good performance and battery life.
Product 5: Dell Inspiron 15 3000
The Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a reliable and affordable laptop that offers good performance for the price. It features an Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB SSD. The 15.6-inch HD display provides decent visuals for everyday use. The Inspiron 15 also boasts a comfortable keyboard and a responsive touchpad.
The battery life is average, offering around 6 hours of mixed usage. While it lacks a dedicated graphics card, the Inspiron 15 is more than capable of handling everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and light gaming. Overall, the Dell Inspiron 15 3000 is a good choice for students looking for a budget-friendly laptop with reliable performance.
Why Do Students Need Laptops Under $700?
Navigating the world of education in the 21st century necessitates the use of technology, and for many students, a laptop is the essential tool to access learning materials, complete assignments, and stay connected with classmates and teachers. However, the cost of a new laptop can be a significant barrier, especially for students on a budget. Luckily, there are a plethora of high-quality laptops available for under $700, offering the perfect balance of affordability and performance for students’ needs.
Finding the right laptop is crucial for maximizing learning potential. Students need a device that can handle demanding tasks like word processing, web browsing, and basic software applications. Many laptops under $700 are equipped with sufficient processing power and RAM to handle these tasks with ease, making them ideal for coursework, research, and communication.
Furthermore, portability is a key factor for students who are constantly on the move. Laptops under $700 often feature lightweight designs and long battery life, allowing students to take their learning with them to the library, coffee shop, or even class. This mobility enhances productivity and makes studying more convenient.
The availability of affordable and reliable laptops for students under $700 opens up a world of possibilities. By investing in these devices, students can access the technology they need to succeed in their academic pursuits without breaking the bank. Whether it’s researching for a paper, collaborating on a project, or simply staying connected with their peers, the best laptops for students under $700 provide the essential tools for a successful and fulfilling educational journey.
What To Look for in a Laptop for Students
When choosing a laptop for students, it’s crucial to prioritize features that align with their needs and budget. Consider factors like battery life, portability, and processing power. A long-lasting battery is essential for students who frequently use their laptops on the go. A lightweight and compact design ensures easy transportation to and from classes. Powerful processing capabilities are necessary for demanding tasks like running resource-intensive software and multitasking between applications.
Furthermore, the laptop’s display quality plays a significant role in student productivity. A high-resolution screen with vibrant colors and wide viewing angles enhances the overall visual experience, making it easier to read text and view multimedia content. Additionally, consider the laptop’s storage capacity and expandability options. Ample storage space is required to accommodate large files, such as course materials, research papers, and multimedia projects.
Finally, check the availability of essential ports and connectivity features. Students may need to connect external devices like printers, external drives, and projectors. Ensure the laptop has USB ports, HDMI outputs, and reliable Wi-Fi connectivity to facilitate seamless data transfer and network access. By carefully evaluating these factors, students can make an informed decision and choose a laptop that meets their specific academic requirements.
The Best Operating Systems for Student Laptops
Choosing the right operating system (OS) is a crucial decision for students, as it impacts the laptop’s functionality, usability, and compatibility with various software programs. The two most popular OS options are Windows and macOS. Windows is widely used for its versatility and compatibility with a vast library of software, including productivity tools, creative applications, and gaming software. It offers a familiar user interface and is well-suited for students who need to access specific Windows-only applications.
macOS, on the other hand, is known for its user-friendly interface, seamless integration with Apple devices, and strong security features. It provides a clean and intuitive environment, making it an excellent choice for students who value simplicity and efficiency. macOS is particularly well-suited for creative tasks such as graphic design, video editing, and music production, as it offers powerful software like Final Cut Pro and Logic Pro.
Ultimately, the best OS for students depends on their individual needs and preferences. Students who prioritize affordability, compatibility with a wide range of software, and a familiar interface might prefer Windows. Those who value user-friendliness, seamless integration with Apple devices, and strong security features may opt for macOS. By carefully evaluating their specific requirements, students can choose an OS that complements their learning style and enhances their academic performance.
How to Find the Best Deal on a Student Laptop
Acquiring a laptop at an affordable price is a top priority for students. Thankfully, several strategies can help you find the best deal on a quality student laptop without breaking the bank. Start by exploring online retailers like Amazon and Best Buy, known for their competitive pricing and frequent sales. Keep an eye out for seasonal discounts and special promotions offered during holidays like Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
Another effective approach is to consider refurbished laptops. These laptops have been previously owned but are thoroughly inspected, repaired, and certified to meet specific quality standards. They are often available at significantly reduced prices, making them a great option for budget-conscious students. Additionally, consider purchasing used laptops from trusted sources like online marketplaces or local electronics stores. However, it’s essential to ensure the laptop is in good working condition and comes with a warranty to provide peace of mind.
Finally, take advantage of student discounts offered by major laptop manufacturers. Many companies provide exclusive deals and promotional offers specifically for students, often including bundled software and accessories. By combining these strategies and exploring various options, you can find a high-quality student laptop that fits your budget and academic requirements without compromising on performance or features.
Best Laptops for Students Under $700: A Buying Guide
Finding the perfect laptop for your academic journey can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a tight budget. But fear not! You can still find a reliable and capable machine for under $700 that will meet your needs without breaking the bank. This buying guide will help you navigate the sea of options and choose the best laptop for your specific requirements.
1. Performance and Processor
The processor is the brain of your laptop, responsible for handling all your tasks. For students, a solid processor is crucial for smooth multitasking, running demanding applications, and ensuring a responsive experience. Look for laptops with at least an Intel Core i3 or AMD Ryzen 3 processor. These processors offer sufficient performance for general use, web browsing, and basic productivity tasks. If you plan on doing more demanding tasks like video editing or gaming, consider an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor.
Remember, higher clock speeds and more cores generally equate to better performance. However, don’t solely focus on these specs. Look at benchmark scores and user reviews to get a better idea of real-world performance.
2. RAM and Storage
RAM (Random Access Memory) is the laptop’s short-term memory, essential for smooth multitasking. Aim for at least 8GB of RAM for a seamless experience, especially if you’re planning on running multiple applications simultaneously. If you plan on heavy multitasking or using resource-intensive software like video editing, consider opting for 12GB or 16GB of RAM.
Storage is where your files, programs, and operating system reside. Most laptops in this price range will offer a choice between hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). SSDs are significantly faster, providing quicker boot times and application loading. For the best performance, look for laptops with at least a 256GB SSD. However, if you require more storage, consider models with a larger SSD or a hybrid configuration that combines a smaller SSD with a larger HDD for storage.
3. Display Size and Resolution
The size and resolution of the display are crucial for comfortable viewing and visual clarity. For students, a display size between 13.3″ and 15.6″ is generally ideal. Smaller displays are more portable, while larger displays offer more screen real estate for multitasking and consuming media.
The resolution determines the sharpness and detail of the image. Aim for a Full HD (1920 x 1080) display for a crisp and clear viewing experience. Some laptops may offer higher resolutions like 2K or 4K, but these tend to be more expensive and may not be necessary for most students.
4. Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial factor for students who spend long hours on the go. Look for laptops with a minimum battery life of 6-8 hours on a single charge. This will ensure you can use your laptop throughout the day without having to constantly worry about finding a power outlet. Check for reviews that assess the real-world battery life, as advertised battery life may not reflect actual usage.
Some laptops offer features like fast charging, which can significantly reduce charging time. This can be useful if you need to quickly power up your laptop while you’re on the move.
5. Ports and Connectivity
Students often require a variety of ports for connecting peripherals like external drives, printers, and projectors. Make sure the laptop you choose has enough ports to meet your needs. Essential ports include USB-A, USB-C, HDMI, and an SD card reader.
Check for the presence of newer technologies like Thunderbolt 4, which offers faster data transfer speeds and the ability to connect to external displays with higher resolutions. Consider whether you’ll need additional adapters for older peripherals.
6. Design and Build Quality
While performance and features are important, the design and build quality of the laptop can significantly impact your overall experience. Look for laptops with a sturdy and durable design that can withstand the rigors of everyday use.
Consider factors like the material of the chassis (aluminum is typically more robust), hinge quality, and keyboard and touchpad design. A comfortable keyboard and responsive touchpad are essential for efficient typing and navigation.
7. Operating System and Software
Most laptops in this price range come with either Windows or Chrome OS. Windows is the most popular operating system for laptops, offering a wide range of software and compatibility with a vast ecosystem of applications.
Chrome OS is a lightweight and secure operating system that focuses on cloud-based services and web applications. It is a good option for students who primarily use web-based applications and want a simpler and more secure experience.
When considering operating systems, assess whether you need access to specific software programs or whether you’re comfortable using web-based alternatives.
Choosing the best laptops for students under $700 requires careful consideration of your individual needs and priorities. This buying guide provides a comprehensive framework to help you find the perfect machine that will meet your academic requirements and budget.
FAQs
7 FAQs about Laptops for Students Under $700:
1. What are the most important factors to consider when buying a laptop for students?
The most important factors to consider when buying a laptop for students are budget, performance, portability, and battery life. Since students often need to carry their laptops around campus, a lightweight and compact design is crucial. Battery life should be long enough to last through classes and studying sessions without needing to be plugged in frequently. For everyday tasks like browsing the internet, writing documents, and streaming videos, a processor with decent speed and RAM capacity should suffice.
However, if your student is pursuing a field that requires more demanding software, such as graphic design or video editing, they’ll need a laptop with a more powerful processor and graphics card. Make sure to research the specific software requirements of their program to ensure the chosen laptop can handle it.
2. What type of processor is best for a student laptop?
For most students, a laptop with an Intel Core i3 or i5 processor will provide enough performance for everyday tasks like browsing the internet, writing documents, and streaming videos. However, if your student is pursuing a field that requires more demanding software, such as graphic design or video editing, they might need a laptop with an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 processor.
These processors offer more cores and threads, resulting in faster processing speeds and smoother performance for demanding applications. Ultimately, the best processor for a student laptop depends on their individual needs and budget.
3. How much RAM do I need for a student laptop?
For basic tasks, 8GB of RAM is generally sufficient. However, if your student plans on running multiple programs simultaneously, such as a web browser, a word processor, and a video editing software, 16GB of RAM would be a better option.
This amount of RAM ensures smoother multitasking and prevents the laptop from becoming sluggish. If your student plans on using demanding software, consider increasing the RAM further to 16GB or even 32GB for optimal performance.
4. What is the difference between SSD and HDD storage?
SSD stands for Solid State Drive, while HDD stands for Hard Disk Drive. SSD is faster, more efficient, and uses flash memory instead of spinning platters to store data. This translates to faster boot times, quicker application loading, and overall better system responsiveness.
HDDs are slower but offer a higher storage capacity for the same price. However, the difference in speed can be significant, particularly noticeable when working on large files or running resource-intensive programs. Therefore, an SSD is the preferred choice for students, even if it means sacrificing some storage capacity.
5. What is the best screen size for a student laptop?
The best screen size for a student laptop depends on personal preference and how the laptop will be used. A 13-inch or 14-inch screen is perfect for portability, making it ideal for students who carry their laptops around campus frequently.
Larger screens, such as 15-inch or 17-inch, are better for students who need more screen real estate for multitasking or working on demanding software. However, they are bulkier and heavier, which may not be ideal for constant carrying.
6. How can I choose the best laptop for my student’s specific needs?
To choose the best laptop for your student’s specific needs, consider their major, study habits, and budget. If they are pursuing a field that requires demanding software, such as graphic design or video editing, prioritize a powerful processor, a large amount of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card.
For students who mainly need a laptop for browsing the internet, writing documents, and streaming videos, a more affordable model with a decent processor and 8GB of RAM will suffice. Ensure the chosen laptop has a comfortable keyboard, a long battery life, and a good screen resolution for a positive user experience.
7. What are some good brands for student laptops under $700?
Several reputable brands offer good quality laptops under $700, including Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, and Lenovo. These brands are known for their reliability, durability, and user-friendly features.
When choosing a brand, consider factors such as customer reviews, warranty policies, and after-sales support. It’s also important to ensure the chosen laptop meets your student’s specific needs in terms of performance, portability, and battery life.
The Bottom Line
Navigating the world of laptops can be a daunting task, especially when you’re on a budget. But finding the right device shouldn’t break the bank. With careful consideration of your needs and the options presented in this guide, you can confidently choose a laptop that fits your budget and academic demands. From reliable performance to long battery life, these best laptops for students under $700 offer a blend of affordability and quality that won’t compromise your productivity or learning experience.
Remember, the perfect laptop for you is one that meets your specific needs and preferences. Utilize the insights provided in this article to narrow down your choices, compare features, and ultimately find the best value for your investment. With the right laptop by your side, you can tackle your studies, embrace new opportunities, and unlock your full potential.