How to Choose the Right Laptop for School: A Parent's Guide
Remember lugging around a backpack full of heavy textbooks from class to class? Things look a little different for students today.
Most textbooks are now digital, and students complete and submit much of their schoolwork through online platforms. That makes having a reliable laptop more important than ever to your child’s education.
Kids need a reliable device that can keep up with their daily demands, from completing assignments to being carried around in backpacks all day.
But which laptop is the best fit? This guide covers the three popular options, what each does best, and what to consider before buying, so you can choose the right device for your child’s needs.
First, which device does your student need?
Your school's list comes first. If it names a specific device type, that's your answer, so skip straight to that section. If it leaves the choice to you, here's a quick way to decide:
- Mostly Google Classroom and web-based work? A Chromebook is the simplest, most affordable pick.
- SAT, PSAT, or AP compatibility? Choose a Windows laptop or Mac. Only school-issued Chromebooks can be used for those tests.
- Video editing, design, or other specialized programs? Windows or Mac, depending on what the program runs on.
- iPhone and iPad family? A Mac will feel familiar and works smoothly alongside other Apple products.
- Tight budget? Chromebooks usually cost the least.
Chromebook, Mac, or Windows
| Chromebook | Mac | Windows | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Google Classroom and web-based schoolwork | Apple families and creative classes | Older students and special software |
| SAT, PSAT, and AP on a personal device | No | Yes | Yes |
| Runs special class programs | Some | Most | Almost all |
| Price | $ | $$$ | $$ |
| Feels like | Simple and fuss-free | Familiar if you use an iPhone | The classic laptop |
Chromebook
Best for: Students whose schoolwork happens in Google Classroom and the browser, minimal programs or storage needed
Chromebooks start up fast, are light to carry, and are pretty durable. If they break, they are relatively reasonable to replace. There's very little setup required, and work saves automatically to Google Drive, so forgetting to hit "save" won't mean losing a night's worth of homework.
Keep in mind:
- Google supports each Chromebook model for a set number of years, so a newer model gives you more years of updates. Not sure how long a model has left? Ask us.
- Chromebooks run lighter than other laptops, so don't worry if the memory and storage numbers look smaller. That's by design.
- They mostly run web apps. If a class needs special software, check with the school first.
Mac
Best for: Families who use iPhones or iPads and students heading into creative classes
MacBooks are well built and work seamlessly with other Apple devices, so photos, files, and messages move easily between phone and laptop. They also work for SAT, PSAT, and AP testing.
Keep in mind:
- Look for "M1" or newer in the name. These Macs run on Apple's own chip and will keep getting updates longer than older models.
- For everyday schoolwork, the standard storage is plenty. If your student is into video, music, or photography, a little extra might be worth it.
- Macs cost more up front, and buying refurbished is one of the easiest ways to bring the price down, especially when you consider the wear and tear they may endure going to and from school.
Windows
Best for: Older students, test-takers, and anyone who needs specific programs
Windows laptops offer a little bit of everything. They run almost any program a class might ask for, they're accepted at nearly every school, and they work for SAT, PSAT, and AP testing.
Keep in mind:
- Look for Windows 11. It's the current version and what most schools expect.
- Windows laptops vary a lot from model to model. If your school mentions memory or storage, compare it with the specs on the product page.
- Some education laptops come with a simplified version of Windows. If a listing isn't clear, ask us before you buy.
- Choose a budget-friendly option or refurbished laptop, because kids can be harder on electronics when they're constantly packing, unpacking, and carrying them throughout the school day.
Buying refurbished from EdTech Supply: 3 quick tips
- Condition grades: Our grades (Proven, Good, and Excellent) describe cosmetic wear. Every device functions fully, whatever the grade. View our grading guide.
- What's covered: Every device comes with a 90-day limited warranty for defects. Drops and spills aren't covered, so be sure to use a sturdy case.
- Ready out of the box: Every Chromebook and laptop comes with a compatible charger, so it's ready to use on day one.
Quick answers for parents
Can my student use a Chromebook for the SAT or AP exams?
Only school-issued Chromebooks can be used for these exams. Personal Chromebooks are not allowed. If your student plans to use their own device, they’ll need a compatible Windows laptop or Mac. Some schools provide testing devices, so check with your school before purchasing.
Does my high schooler need a Windows laptop?
Not always. Many high schools accept a Mac or Windows laptop, and some still allow Chromebooks. Your school will specify.
Is a refurbished laptop a good choice for school?
Yes. EdTech Supply devices come from school fleets, so they're made for classroom life. We test each one before it ships, and each includes a 90-day limited warranty. Buying refurbished is always a good idea if you’re worried about your child losing or damaging the device.
What do the condition grades mean?
They describe how the laptop looks, not how it works. Every device functions fully, whatever the condition grade.
Does it come with a charger?
Yes, every Chromebook and laptop comes with a compatible charger.
What if I'm still not sure?
Send us your school's list, and we'll help you find a match.
Shop for the right school laptop for your child
Choosing the right school laptop is a big decision. You never want to choose the wrong device and have your child hit a roadblock when they’re trying to finish an assignment at school. Or worse, get in trouble with the teacher for not being fully prepared.
Study your school’s device requirements, and then search our site to find the best fit. If you need help deciding, our EdTech Supply team can show you our best deals and point you in the right direction.
