As the academic year kicks off, students are on the lookout for the best tools to support their learning journey. One essential item that every student needs is a reliable notebook. However, with the wide array of options available, choosing the right notebook can be a daunting task. From pen-to-paper feel to digital integration and battery life, there are numerous factors to consider when selecting the perfect notebook for your academic needs.
In this guide, we will explore the best notebooks for students in 2024, taking into account key features such as writing experience, digital integration, battery life, build quality, and screen resolution. Whether you prefer the traditional pen and paper approach or are looking for a notebook with advanced digital capabilities, we will provide insights to help you make an informed decision. So, whether you're a college student taking notes in lectures or a high school student organizing your assignments, this guide will assist you in finding the ideal notebook to support your academic endeavors.
Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2024): High-Performance, Ultra-Portable Laptop
2024 MacBook Air 13-inch Laptop with M3 chip: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina Di... -- $1399(Amazon)
Apple 2022 MacBook Air M2 Chip (13-inch, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage) (QW... -- $825(Amazon)
Apple MacBook Air 13.6-inch (8gpu, Midnight) 3.5GHz 8-Core M2 (2022) Lap... -- $849(Best Buy)
Why We Picked It
The Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2024) stands out for its exceptional blend of performance, portability, and battery life, making it an ideal choice for students and professionals alike who require a dependable machine for both work and multimedia tasks. Its cutting-edge M3 chip ensures smooth operation across a wide range of applications, from everyday tasks to more demanding software, while its lightweight design and long battery life support a mobile lifestyle without constant recharging.
Who It's For
This MacBook Air is best suited for students and professionals in need of a high-performance laptop that can handle a variety of tasks without compromising on portability or battery life. It's also a great fit for Apple ecosystem users, offering seamless integration with other Apple devices and services. However, its higher price point may be a consideration for those on a tighter budget.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Blazing-fast performance with the M3 chip | ❌ Higher price compared to other options |
| ✅ Up to 18 hours of battery life for all-day use | ❌ Limited to 8GB RAM in the base model |
| ✅ Lightweight and portable design with a 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display | ❌ Only two Thunderbolt ports for connectivity |
Dell XPS 13 (2024): Compact Powerhouse for On-the-Go Users
Dell XPS 13 Laptop - w/ Windows 11 Os & 12th Gen Intel Core - 13.4" FHD ... -- $699(Dell)
XPS 13 Plus Laptop, 13.4" 4K UHD OLED Touchscreen, Intel Core i7-1260P, ... -- $1499(Amazon)
Dell – XPS 13 – 13.4” Fhd+ Laptop – Intel Core Ultra 7 – Evo Edition - 1... -- $1399.99(Best Buy)
XPS 13 Business Laptop, 13.4" FHD+ Display, Intel Core i7-1250U, 32GB DD... -- $1699(Amazon)
XPS 13 Plus 9000 9320 13.4" Touchscreen Notebook - 3.5K - 3456 x 2160 - ... -- $1599(Amazon)
Dell XPS 13 Laptop - w/ Windows 11 OS & Intel Core Ultra 7 - 13.4" FHD S... -- $1399(Dell)
Why We Picked It
The Dell XPS 13 (2024) stands out for its blend of portability, power, and premium design, making it an ideal choice for students and professionals who need a reliable laptop on the go. With its latest 12th Gen Intel Core processors, high-quality display options ranging from FHD to 4K UHD OLED, and a robust build quality, it offers a compelling mix of features for those who prioritize performance and portability. The inclusion of modern connectivity options like Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports further enhances its appeal by ensuring fast data transfer and versatile peripheral connectivity.
Who It's For
This laptop is best suited for students, professionals, and anyone in need of a powerful yet portable computing solution. Its lightweight design and powerful performance make it perfect for those who are always on the move and need a reliable device for work, study, or entertainment. However, individuals who require numerous ports for their peripherals without relying on adapters might find the limited port selection a drawback.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lightweight and compact design for ultimate portability | ❌ Limited port selection may require additional adapters |
| ✅ Powerful performance with 12th Gen Intel Core processors | ❌ Higher configurations can be pricey |
| ✅ High-quality display options, including 4K UHD OLED touchscreen | ❌ Battery life may vary based on usage and display settings |
HP Envy x360 (2024): Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Flexibility and Performance
HP 2024 Envy x360 2-in-1 Business Laptop (15.6" FHD Touchscreen, AMD Ryz... -- $749.98(Amazon)
2024 Envy x360 2-in-1 Business Laptop (15.6" FHD Touchscreen, AMD Ryzen ... -- $749.99(Amazon)
2024 Envy x360 2-in-1 15.6” FHD IPS Touch Laptop 8-Core AMD Ryzen 7 7730... -- $919(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The HP Envy x360 (2024) is a versatile and powerful 2-in-1 laptop that offers a seamless blend of productivity and creativity. Its 360-degree hinge and touchscreen capabilities make it an excellent choice for students and professionals who need a flexible device for note-taking, drawing, and other interactive tasks. Equipped with the latest AMD Ryzen processors, ample memory, and storage, it's designed to handle multitasking and demanding applications with ease.
Who It's For
This laptop is best suited for students, creative professionals, and anyone who values the flexibility of a 2-in-1 design. It's particularly beneficial for those who frequently switch between typing and touch-based interaction, and for users who require a portable device that can adapt to different use cases, such as presentations, media consumption, and content creation.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-performance AMD Ryzen processors with integrated Radeon graphics | ❌ Battery life may be shorter when used extensively in tablet mode |
| ✅ Ample memory and storage options for demanding tasks and applications | ❌ Higher-end configurations can be pricey |
| ✅ Versatile 2-in-1 design with a 360-degree hinge and touchscreen for multiple modes of use | ❌ At 4.04 lbs, it may be heavier than some other portable options |
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (Gen 10, 2024): Best Durable High-Performance Laptop
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 14" Notebook - 21CB000AUS -- $876.41(Amazon)
ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 Business Laptop, 14 Inch WUXGA IPS, Intel Core... -- $1499(Amazon)
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 Intel Core i7-1260P 14" Touch Laptop 16... -- $1499(Walmart - Piety Tech LLC)
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 Business Laptop (14" FHD+ Touchscreen, ... -- $1549.99(Amazon)
LENOVO THINKPAD X1 CARBON GEN 10 - 14" -- $2799.99(A & M Digital Technologies)
Why We Picked It
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (Gen 10, 2024) is a top-tier business laptop that combines high performance with exceptional durability. It's designed to meet the demands of professionals and students alike, offering a robust build quality that can handle the rigors of daily use. With features like a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, up to 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD, it's engineered for serious productivity. Enhanced communication features, advanced cooling technology, and comprehensive security measures, including a fingerprint reader and TPM, make it a reliable choice for those who need a dependable workhorse.
Who It's For
This laptop is ideal for students and professionals who require a durable and secure machine that can keep up with their busy schedules. It's particularly well-suited for those who prioritize a strong build, long battery life, and powerful performance to handle multitasking and demanding applications. However, its premium build and advanced features come at a higher cost, making it less suitable for those on a tight budget.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Robust build quality and durability | ❌ Premium price point |
| ✅ High-performance specs with up to 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD | ❌ May be overkill for users with modest computing needs |
| ✅ Comprehensive security features including fingerprint reader and TPM | ❌ Heavier and less portable compared to some ultrabooks |
Acer Swift 3 (2024): Best Value Performance Laptop for Students
Acer Swift 3 SF314-44 -- $849.99(Best Buy)
2024 Swift 3 13.5” 2256x1504 IPS Laptop 4-Core Intel Core i7-1165G7 8GB ... -- $749.99(Amazon)
Acer - Swift 3 SF314-59-75QC - 14" Notebook - Intel Core i7 1165G7 - Int... -- $538(Amazon)
Aspire 3 A314-23P-R3QA Slim Laptop | 14.0" Full HD IPS Display | AMD Ryz... -- $399(Amazon)
Swift Go 14 Intel Evo Thin & Light Laptop | 14" 1920 x 1200 Touch Displa... -- $999.99(Amazon)
Acer Swift 3 OLED Intel Evo Thin & Light Laptop Gray -- $1120(Walmart - Delight Tech Electronics)
Why We Picked It
The Acer Swift 3 (2024) is a well-rounded laptop that offers a compelling mix of performance, features, and affordability. It's equipped with a powerful 11th Generation Intel Core i7 processor, a high-resolution IPS display, and a range of modern connectivity options including Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6. This combination makes it a smart choice for students or anyone needing a reliable machine for everyday tasks without breaking the bank.
Who It's For
This laptop is best suited for students and budget-conscious users who require a machine capable of handling demanding applications and multitasking with ease. Its portability and solid performance also make it a good option for professionals who need a dependable workhorse on the go. However, those looking for a premium build or the highest-end materials may want to consider other options.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Powerful Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor for demanding tasks | ❌ Build quality may not match premium competitors |
| ✅ Crisp 13.5-inch 2256x1504 IPS display for clear visuals | ❌ Limited to 8GB of RAM which may not be ideal for intensive multitasking |
| ✅ Modern connectivity with Thunderbolt 4 and Wi-Fi 6 support | ❌ No optical drive for users who require one |
Asus ZenBook 13 (2024): Ultra-Portable Powerhouse for Students and Professionals
[2024] ASUS Zenbook S 13 OLED UX5304MA-XS76 (Intel Core Ultra 7 155U, 32... -- $1449.99(Amazon)
2024 Newest Zenbook Business Laptop, 14.5" 120Hz 2.8K Touch Display, Int... -- $910.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Asus ZenBook 13 (2024) stands out for its ultra-slim and lightweight design, making it an ideal companion for students and professionals who are always on the move. Despite its compact size, it doesn't skimp on power or performance, thanks to its advanced Intel Core Ultra 7 processor, ample RAM, and fast SSD storage. Its OLED display offers stunning visuals with vibrant colors and deep blacks, ensuring an immersive viewing experience for both work and entertainment.
Who It's For
This laptop is perfect for students and professionals who prioritize portability without wanting to compromise on performance. It's also a great choice for anyone who appreciates high-quality visuals, whether for creative work, multimedia consumption, or general productivity tasks. However, those who rely heavily on larger keyboards and trackpads for their work might find the compact design a bit limiting.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Lightweight and ultra-slim design for supreme portability | ❌ Compact design may lead to a smaller keyboard and trackpad |
| ✅ Powerful performance with Intel Core Ultra 7 processor and 32GB RAM | ❌ High price point may not fit all budgets |
| ✅ Stunning 13.3" OLED display with 100% DCI-P3 color gamut | ❌ Limited port selection due to slim profile |
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4: Sleek and Powerful Companion for Windows Users
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 13.5-inch Touch-Screen – AMD Ryzen 5 Surface ... -- $399(Amazon)
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 13.5" AMD Ryzen 5 8GB/256GB Touch, Platinum -... -- $627(Walmart - Deal Road Inc.)
Surface Laptop 4 13.5” Touch-Screen – Intel Core i5 - 8GB - 512GB Solid ... -- $620(Amazon)
Surface Laptop 4 13.5” Touch-Screen – Intel Core i7 - 16GB - 512GB Solid... -- $949(Amazon)
Surface Laptop 4 15-inch Touchscreen 256GB SSD AMD Ryzen 7 (8GB RAM, Win... -- $540.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Microsoft Surface Laptop 4 stands out for its sleek design, impressive touch screen, and seamless integration with the Windows ecosystem, making it an ideal choice for students and professionals alike. With options ranging from AMD Ryzen 5 to Intel Core i7 processors, it caters to a variety of needs and budgets. Its lightweight form factor and long battery life ensure productivity on the go, while the high-resolution PixelSense display offers an immersive viewing experience for both work and entertainment.
Who It's For
This laptop is best suited for students and professionals who are deeply integrated into the Microsoft ecosystem and require a reliable, high-performance machine for their daily tasks. It's also a great fit for those who value portability and design without compromising on power. However, it might not be the best choice for users who need extensive connectivity options or prefer a more customizable hardware setup.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution PixelSense touch screen for an immersive experience | ❌ Limited connectivity options compared to other laptops |
| ✅ Lightweight and elegant design, starting at just 2.76 pounds | ❌ Higher configurations can be pricey |
| ✅ Long battery life of up to 11.5 hours, supporting productivity on the go | ❌ Not as customizable in terms of hardware compared to some competitors |
Google Pixelbook Go: Best Lightweight Chromebook for Cloud Users
Google Pixelbook Go GA00526-UK 256GB SSD / 16GB Ram / Intel Core i7 13.3... -- $83.78(Aida Cut Shop)
Google Pixelbook 12-Inch Laptop, Intel Core i7-7Y75, 16GB RAM, 512 GB SS... -- $334.89(Amazon)
Google - Pixelbook Go 13.3" Touch-screen Chromebook - Intel Core M3 - 8g... -- $459(The Phone Guys)
Google Pixelbook Premium Chromebook 2in1 Tablet, 12.3in LCD Touchscreen ... -- $355.7(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Google Pixelbook Go stands out as a sleek, ultra-portable laptop that is perfect for students and professionals who rely on cloud-based tools and services. Its lightweight Chrome OS, impressive battery life, and built-in Google Assistant make it a highly efficient and user-friendly device for on-the-go productivity and connectivity.
Who It's For
This device is best suited for students, educators, and professionals who are deeply integrated into the Google ecosystem and require a lightweight, portable device for web browsing, document editing, and cloud-based applications. It's also ideal for those who appreciate a minimalist operating system and are looking for a laptop with a long battery life for all-day use.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Ultra-lightweight and portable design for easy mobility | ❌ Limited on-device storage, with a heavy reliance on cloud services |
| ✅ Long battery life suitable for all-day use without frequent charging | ❌ Higher price point compared to some other Chromebooks |
| ✅ High-performance specs with options for Intel Core i7 processor and 16GB RAM | ❌ Chrome OS may not support certain applications needed by all users |
Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 360: Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Creatives and Students
Galaxy Book Pro 360 5G LTE 2-in-1 Business Laptop (13.3" FHD AMOLED Touc... -- $1049.99(Amazon)
Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 360 NP930QDB-KE4US 13.3" i7-1165G7 16GB 512GB SSD -- $995(Amazon)
Galaxy Book Pro 360 15.6'' 2-in-1 Touchscreen (i7-1165G7,16GB RAM,512GB ... -- $1198.95(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Samsung Galaxy Book Pro 360 is a versatile and powerful 2-in-1 laptop that offers a seamless blend of productivity and entertainment features. Its standout AMOLED display delivers vivid colors and deep blacks, making it a fantastic choice for media consumption and creative tasks. The inclusion of an upgraded S Pen and various modes for different uses enhances its functionality, catering to a wide range of user needs.
Who It's For
This laptop is ideal for students and professionals who require a device that can adapt to their dynamic work and entertainment needs. It's particularly well-suited for those in creative fields who can take advantage of the high-quality display and stylus for design and art projects. Additionally, its 5G LTE connectivity makes it a great option for users who need to stay connected on the go.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Stunning 13.3" FHD AMOLED touchscreen display with 120% DCI-P3 color gamut | ❌ High-resolution AMOLED screen may reduce battery life |
| ✅ Versatile 2-in-1 design with multiple modes and an upgraded S Pen for enhanced productivity | ❌ Premium price point may not be suitable for all budgets |
| ✅ Robust performance with Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and 512GB SSD | ❌ Soldered RAM limits upgradeability |
Razer Blade Stealth 13 (2024): Best Portable Gaming Ultrabook for Students
Razer Blade Stealth 13 Ultrabook Touch ‎1920x1080 Pixels 60Hz 13.3" Ga... -- $839.99(My Child Parc)
Razer Stealth 13 RZ09-03102E52 - New Electronics | Color: Black -- $1000(Mercari)
Razer Blade Stealth 12.5" Touchscreen i7 Ultrabook -- $688.98(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Razer Blade Stealth 13 (2024) is a compact and powerful ultrabook that bridges the gap between work and play. Its high-performance components and gaming-oriented features make it an ideal choice for students who need a machine that can handle both demanding games and productivity tasks without compromising on portability.
Who It's For
This laptop is best suited for students or professionals who are also gaming enthusiasts and are looking for a device that can seamlessly transition from creating presentations to playing graphics-intensive games. Its sleek design and high-quality display also make it a good fit for those who appreciate a premium visual experience.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-resolution 4K touchscreen display with 100% Adobe RGB color space coverage | ❌ Gaming-oriented design may not appeal to all users |
| ✅ Durable CNC-milled aircraft-grade aluminum chassis with a sleek, professional look | ❌ Premium price point may be prohibitive for some budgets |
| ✅ Powerful Intel Core i7 processor and 8GB RAM for multitasking and gaming | ❌ Limited upgradability due to ultrabook form factor |
Thanks for checking out the best notebooks for students in 2024! If you have any more questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out. Happy shopping!