Best Laptops for High Schoolers of 2025
We tested 20 laptops for high school students on performance, battery life, durability, keyboard quality, and value.
5 items ranked · Last reviewed January 2025
MacBook Air M2
The best laptop for most high schoolers — period
The MacBook Air M2 is simply the best laptop for most high school students. The M2 chip's performance and efficiency give it battery life that lasts all day, the build quality is exceptional, and the seamless integration with iPhone makes it the natural choice for Apple households.
PROS
- ✓18-hour battery life — lasts all day without charging
- ✓M2 chip handles everything a high schooler needs effortlessly
- ✓Fanless, silent design — never gets hot in class
CONS
- ✕Premium price vs. Windows competitors
- ✕Only 2 USB-C ports requires hub for multiple accessories
Dell XPS 13
The benchmark Windows ultrabook for serious students
The Dell XPS 13 is the gold standard for Windows ultrabooks. Its near-borderless display is gorgeous, the build quality rivals Apple, and the Core Ultra processor handles everything from essays to video editing with ease.
PROS
- ✓Stunning InfinityEdge display with virtually no bezels
- ✓Premium aluminum build that survives backpack life
- ✓Intel Core Ultra chips handle demanding school projects
CONS
- ✕Battery life (10–12 hrs) shorter than MacBook Air
- ✕Gets warm under sustained loads
Lenovo IdeaPad 5
Serious performance at a student-friendly price
The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 delivers performance that punches well above its price. For families who want a capable, reliable laptop for high school without breaking the bank, this is the definitive answer.
PROS
- ✓Exceptional value — Core i5/Ryzen 5 performance at $600
- ✓Good keyboard with comfortable key travel
- ✓Fingerprint reader for quick, secure login
CONS
- ✕Display brightness lower than premium picks
- ✕Build quality not as premium as XPS or MacBook
HP Spectre x360
Premium 2-in-1 that works as laptop and tablet
For creative students or those who prefer handwritten notes, the HP Spectre x360 is the premier choice. Its OLED touchscreen and stylus support make it exceptional for art, design, and STEM classes where sketching matters.
PROS
- ✓360-degree hinge enables laptop, tent, and tablet modes
- ✓OLED touchscreen is stunning for art and note-taking classes
- ✓Included stylus pen for handwritten notes and sketches
CONS
- ✕Premium price for a student laptop
- ✕Heavier than standard ultrabooks at 3.01 lbs
Acer Chromebook Spin 714
Affordable, fast, and built for Google Classroom
For students whose school uses Google Workspace, the Acer Chromebook Spin is the savviest buy on this list. Chrome OS needs no maintenance, the battery outlasts most school days, and the $499 price leaves budget for everything else a high schooler needs.
PROS
- ✓Google Classroom native — instant access to all school tools
- ✓12-hour+ battery life at a fraction of the MacBook price
- ✓Virtually maintenance-free — no virus risk, auto-updates
CONS
- ✕Limited to Chrome OS — can't run Windows software
- ✕Less powerful for locally-installed applications