How to choose a laptop for university
Your course, not the spec sheet, should decide. A step-by-step guide to picking a laptop that lasts four years.
A laptop is often the most expensive thing a student buys. The right one depends far more on your course than on the latest model names.
Start with your course
- Arts, business, social sciences: writing, research and video calls. Almost any modern laptop works — prioritise battery life, keyboard and weight.
- Computer science: programming tools, virtual machines and many browser tabs. Aim for 16 GB of RAM and a fast SSD.
- Engineering and architecture: CAD software is often Windows-only and needs a dedicated graphics card. Check your department's requirements first.
- Design and video: a colour-accurate screen, a strong processor and graphics, and plenty of storage.
The specs that matter
RAM. 8 GB is the minimum for comfortable use today; 16 GB keeps a laptop useful for four years.
Storage. Choose an SSD, never a hard drive. 256 GB fills up quickly — 512 GB is safer if you can afford it.
Processor. Recent mid-range chips are plenty for most students. Pay for more only if your course needs it.
Battery. Look for independent tests of real-world battery life. A laptop that lasts a full day of classes saves you hunting for sockets.
Screen. At least full HD (1920 × 1080). A brighter screen helps in sunny classrooms.
Build and comfort
You will carry it every day. Weight under 1.5 kg, a comfortable keyboard and a solid hinge matter more than a thin design. Check the port selection too — a USB-A port and HDMI save you buying adapters.
Warranty and service
Find out whether the brand has an authorised service centre near you and how long the warranty lasts. Accidental damage cover can be worth it for a device that travels daily.
The bottom line
Buy for your course, get 16 GB of RAM if you can, never skip the SSD, and choose a laptop you will not mind carrying for four years.