What Is The Difference Between A Laptop And A Computer?

College students know their computer is where the bulk of coursework is created and completed and where tons of research happens.

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Choosing the Best Laptop

Gone are the days when a computer was an option for a college student. All college students would agree: choosing the right computer is a big decision. College students know a computer is not just a tool to keep up with email or surf through social media. College life is demanding and academic reliance on computer technology is only growing.

Students know their computer is where the bulk of coursework is created and completed and where tons of research happens. There is no clear replacement of the computer for serious word processing, required for essays and term papers.

Having a fast computer is not a luxury anymore, it is a necessity. For all the things that phones and tablets can do, the need for a computer is still a must. Luckily, college students have a plethora of computer options, more today than ever before. From small, lightweight little notebooks to fully-loaded laptops, options abound.

Having a solid computer is also necessary for the ever-growing trend of online courses, and for interacting with professors and classmates.

Data storage on the hard drive or a cloud gets saved through the computer. Security features protect data and even the student’s identity and personal information. This is all before even mentioning the things that college students use their computer for in their free time: from gaming to streaming movies, surfing the web, or just keeping up with social media.

Whether you are looking for a convertible laptop that can also become a tablet, a low-budget powerhouse, or a brand that you trust and are familiar with, this list can help you narrow down your options and find what is best for your specific usage, based on your school and major.

Some students care more about memory, storage, and tech specs like the processor or display. Others value what sort of programs come preloaded on the machine or the kind of battery life it offers. Another thing not to be overlooked is the overall value of the machine and keeping within a student’s tight budget.

This list was created to help make the decision a bit less stressful. Plain-spoken descriptions help narrow down the pros and cons in easy to understand language.

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What Are the Best Laptops for College?

The methodology for our ranking is based on a weighted score from aggregated ratings from high-quality consumer site and rankings such as Laptop Mag, CNET, Macworld UK, PC Mag, Laptop Mag, Tech Radar, WIRED, PC World, Laptop Ninja, Digital Trends, and more.

We went through multiple computer review sites and took an aggregate of the scores by standardizing them to a scale from 0-100. We then took an aggregate of those scores to come up with our rankings.

1

Lenovo Yoga 920

The Lenovo Yoga 920 offers incredible versatility and style for college students. Lenovo is lauded as an innovator in the 2-in-1 convertible computer market, consistently offering laptop and tablet options with premium features. The Lenovo Yoga 920 is no exception and its 360-degree hinged design is a perfect compliment to the multi-faceted needs of a student. The 13.9” wide-angled Multitouch screen pops with 4K resolution and vibrant clarity. An Active Pen stylus is included with the Yoga 920, adding even more flexibility for users. The Dolby Atmos sound package on the Yoga 920 offers 360-degree audio and rich soundscape.

The Yoga 920 is ready to go with options for up to an 8th Generation Intel Core processor, up to 1 TB of storage, and up to 16 GB of memory. Loaded with Windows 10 Home and Lenovo’s personal App Explorer, users can get started using their technology safely and with a small learning curve. Over 10 hours of battery life give you plenty of time to get things done without having to power-up. The USB 3.0 never powers off – giving charging capabilities anytime.

Pros of the Lenovo Yoga 920 include 2 additional Thunderbolt 3 USB-C ports, Windows Hello fingerprint reader, and the choice of bronze or silver color choices. Cons include a keyboard design that is somewhat uncomfortable.

Retail Price: $1,999.99 CollegeChoice Score: 100 Shop on Amazon
2

HP Spectre X360

The HP Spectre x360 comprehensively offers technology and innovative features that every college student craves in a computer. Available in two sizes (either 13.3 inches or 15.6 inches) this ultra-thin and ultra-light machine comes with an HP Pen and endlessly creative, collaborative options through the Windows Ink system. Crafted from a single piece of aluminum, the HP Spectre x360 is a combination laptop and tablet. So whether you want to read, type, write, draw, watch, or present –this machine can do it all.

Featuring the 10th Generation Intel Core I Processor and up to 16 GB of LPDDR3 memory space gives ease of use and ample space. Touting a battery life of up to 16 hours depending on the model, the HP Spectre x360 works seamlessly with an active, on-the-go lifestyle. Don’t trust your roommate? The privacy and security features available on Spectre x360 models can include a fingerprint reader, and the HP Sure View integrated privacy screen, which only allows you access.

Pros of the machine include incredible, vivid definition thanks to the 4K Micro Edge display, stellar Bang & Olufsen audio package, and a durable, Corning Gorilla Glass NBT display. Cons include the Mac-feeling pricepoint (around $1100-$2000).

Retail Price: $1,149.99 CollegeChoice Score: 99.34 Shop on Amazon
3

Dell XPS 15

A mega-power option from Dell is the XPS 15. If you are looking for a slim (11-17 mm) and lightweight model (starting around 4 pounds), the Dell XPS 15 is worth considering. With a zippy configuration of up to 32 GB of memory, and the 10th Gen Intel Quad Core processor this machine will deliver whether you are working on a research project or downloading. XPS 15 machines come equipped with Windows 10 Home 64-bit English and limited McAfee LiveSafe and Microsoft Office packages.

The Dell XPS 15 features the signature Killer 1535 Wireless-AC adapter. This not only gives you a smooth delivery of online content but also prioritizes your applications. Need to pull an all-nighter or take notes in a dark classroom? A backlit keyboard helps you to keep up. A 15.6-inch InfinityEdge screen showcases the UltraSharp 4K Ultra HD display, giving an incredible visual punch. EnergyStar efficiency only adds to this machines top-tier features.

Pros to the Dell XPS 15 include its overall power, attractively packaged in a slim, compact aluminum design. The Thunderbolt 3 multi-use port set-up gives unique flexibility that matches a college student’s unpredictable lifestyle. A 56-97WHr battery will keep you powered-on. Cons include its high price tag.

Retail Price: $999.99 CollegeChoice Score: 98.82 Shop on Amazon
4

Apple 16-inch Macbook Pro, Retina, Touch Bar

The Apple 16″ MacBook Pro combines efficiency and user-ease, creating a dynamic notebook option for college students. So many features make this a machine worth getting to know. The 16-inch Retina Display and 9th generation Intel Core processor delivers the output that users expect from MacBook Pros. Offering 16GB of memory and Radeon Pro graphics make any project, assignment, or hobby just that much easier to accomplish. 1TB of SSD storage keep everything saved.

Apple’s eye-catching Touch Bar and Touch ID are intuitive extras that allow your machine to make your life easier. Apple Pay, intelligent typing features, and automatic adjustments make this a laptop that truly works for you. Up to 10 hours of battery life, means you won’t have to worry about charging for an early morning class to an evening lecture. Four reversible Thunderbolt 3 ports are included in the Apple 15″ MacBook Pro. Mac OS High Sierra gives you incredible options, that make using this machine perfect for college’s challenges.

Pros to the Apple 16″ MacBook Pro include a vivid display, the Turbo Boost feature, and Apple’s simple syncing of devices, allowing a streamlined, easy experience. Cons can include the steep price tag.

Retail Price: $2,399.99 CollegeChoice Score: 97.65 Shop on Amazon
5

Apple Macbook Pro with Apple M1 Chip (13-Inch)

The Apple 13″ MacBook Pro combines efficiency and user-ease, creating a dynamic notebook option for college students. So many features make this a machine worth getting to know. The 13-inch Retina Display and Apple-designed M1 chip delivers the output that users expect from MacBook Pros. Offering 8GB of memory and an 8-core GPU makes any project, assignment, or hobby just that much easier to accomplish. 256GB of SSD storage keep everything saved.

Apple’s eye-catching Touch Bar and Touch ID are intuitive extras that allow your machine to make your life easier. Apple Pay, intelligent typing features, and automatic adjustments make this a laptop that truly works for you. Up to 10 hours of battery life, means you won’t have to worry about charging for an early morning class to an evening lecture. Four reversible Thunderbolt 3 ports are included in the Apple 15″ MacBook Pro. Mac OS High Sierra gives you incredible options, that make using this machine perfect for college’s challenges.

Pros to the Apple 13″ MacBook Pro include a vivid display, the Turbo Boost feature, and Apple’s simple syncing of devices, allowing a streamlined, easy experience. Cons can include the steep price tag.

Retail Price: $1,199.99 CollegeChoice Score: 96.86 Shop on Amazon
6

Microsoft Surface Laptop

The Microsoft Surface Laptop is not one to skip over when looking for the perfect computer to take to campus. This surprisingly luxe feeling machine touts a 13.5-inch PixelSense Display with a touchscreen, giving users the best worlds of both a notebook and table style configuration. Weighing just 2.79 pounds, its mighty Intel Core processor handily accomplishes bigger class projects, but also speedily keeps you up-to-date with daily browsing and communicating online. 11.5 hours of battery life give it additional strength compared to similar machines and add constant charging as one less thing to worry about.

The Microsoft Surface Laptop uniquely offers color personalization, giving users a chance to stand out with hues like Graphite Gold, Cobalt Blue, Platinum, and Burgundy in a sea of dominantly silver machines. Easily cleanable Alcantara material covers the keyboard, creating a nice feel and a comfortable typing experience. The Microsoft Surface Laptop is equipped with Windows 10 S, which was designed specifically for students and teachers.

Pros to the Microsoft Surface Laptop continue with its top of the line Omnisonic speakers, its slim design, moderate price point, and vivid display. Cons include the relatively unknown long-term durability of the material covered keyboard.

Retail Price: $999.99 CollegeChoice Score: 95.69 Shop on Amazon
7

HP Chromebook 14

The HP Chromebook 14 has features and unique sensibilities that could make it the perfect machine for a college student. The HP Chromebook 14 stands out with its slim appeal (17.78mm) and anodized aluminum aesthetic. 13.5 hours of battery life match-up with the strength of competitors in the market and ensure that whether you are working in the library, outdoors, or a lab, sitting next to an outlet is not required. B&O PLAY audio with dual speakers gives incredible depth and nuance in sound.

The HP Chromebook 14 has a Full HD IPS BrightView display, in which 5.76 million pixels vividly pop images and text. 32 GB eMMC storage comes standard on all HP Chromebook 13 and up to 16 GB memory is available depending on customization. 6th Generation Intel Core or Intel Pentium processors are available to choose from.

Pros of the HP Chromebook 14 include its Energy Star efficiency, budget-friendly price point, and Chrome OS, which is incredibly easy to work with. USB-C ports are also included, adding another user-friendly feature. Some cons include issues with its long-term performance and durability and its lack of a touchscreen.

Retail Price: $300.00 CollegeChoice Score: 95.49 Shop on Amazon
8

Apple Macbook Air 13.3-Inch

Apple’s MacBook Air 13.3-Inch notebook could be the machine to put you at the top of the class. Its reputation for durability, strong performance reviews, and dynamic features make it a worthy candidate to consider. An option for either a 1.8GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 or 2.2GHz dual-core Intel Core i7 processor and either 128GB, 256GB or 512GB SSD2, give it the specs to meet college life’s unique demands. The LED display punches with vivid detail and works fantastically whether live-streaming a lecture, creating a document, or just keeping up with daily communications.

The MacBook Air 13.3-Inch keeps you charged with up to 12 hours of battery and is a slight 2.96 pounds, making it an easy addition to any backpack or tote bag. The MacOS High Sierra gives users the ability to accomplish so much with their notebook from iMovies and GarageBand to Pages and Photos. A 3.2GHz Turbo Boost and Bluetooth 4.0 wireless capabilities are just a few other features which add to the litany.

Pros to the machine also include the Thunderbolt 2 port and Two USB 3 ports, HD camera, and helpful backlit keyboard. Cons include the limited aesthetic customization and Mac price-point.

Retail Price: $899.99 CollegeChoice Score: 95.29 Shop on Amazon
9

Microsoft Surface Book

The Microsoft Surface Book is a champion machine that may offer everything a college student needs in a laptop. A laptop and a tablet, the Microsoft Surface Book can amplify your presentations when using its included Surface Pen. 12-16 hours of battery life depending on model make it a longevity leader in the marketplace and ensure that the one less thing to worry about is constantly charging your computer.

A 13.5-inch screen complements the Intel Core i7 or i5 processor options available on a Surface Book. Surface Book’s Performance Base option allows even stronger graphic and speed delivery. The Surface Book is designed to be used with professional grade software applications like Adobe Premiere Pro 5 and Revit. It also seamlessly works with iPhone, iTunes, and iCloud applications.

Pros the Microsoft Surface Book include its extreme versatility as a tablet and laptop and included Surface Pen. The 8-16 GB RAM depending on configuration offers a strong overall performance – whether you need it for big projects or daily tasks. Cons include the relative long-term durability of the machine.

Retail Price: $1,499.99 CollegeChoice Score: 95.1 Shop on Amazon
10

Asus Vivobook L203MA

Built with a student in mind, the ASUS VivoBook L203MA is a lightweight (2.2 pounds), sleek (1.78 cm) powerhouse. A tough, durable machine this notebook has passed drop, high-pressure, and vibration tests and has rubber-lined edges and a spill-resistant keyboard in case of a small accident. The strong battery allows up to 10 hours before having to recharge. Featuring Windows 10 S, which has been specifically tailored for students and teachers, security is prioritized and there are no worries about unknown app downloads.

Additional features of the ASUS VivoBook L203MA that make it a top contender for students include the nicely sized touchpad, fast-paced 802.11ac Wi-Fi, a USB Type-C (Gen 1) port, and a USB Type-A port. Although small and compact, the sound output on this machine dazzles, thanks to ICEpower technology and embedded mics. The 11.6-inch anti-glare display is another feature that helps keep this machine easy to use, whether in a busy student lounge or at a lecture.

Pros of the ASUS VivoBook L203MA include it’s easy to use HDMI port, ergonomic keyboard, and incredible value, priced at just a few hundred dollars. Cons include its relatively basic set of features.

Retail Price: $279.00 CollegeChoice Score: 94.12 Shop on Amazon
11

Microsoft Surface Pro

The Microsoft Surface Pro combines sleek design with stand-out versatility, making it a well-suited match to the dynamics of college life. Storage can be selected in 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB SSD making it adaptable to a variety of needs. Both a dynamic laptop and tablet, the 12.3″ PixelSense Display offers vivid 2736×1824 resolution and a 3:2 aspect ratio. The Intel Core 10th-generation processor can be chosen in either i5 or i7 options. 10.5 hours of video playback make the battery life of the Microsoft Surface Pro outstanding to its competitors.

The Microsoft Surface Pro is easy to grab and go through a busy day with, as it weighs between 1.69 and 1.73 pounds. Memory runs in 8 GB or 16 GB RAM and the Bluetooth Wireless 4.1 technology is another fantastic feature. Windows Hello face authentication heightens security for the machine, so users should feel confident having it on campus.

Additional pros are the full-size USB port, quiet running volume, Alcantra fabric covering, and comfortable ergonomic keyboard. Cons include the Surface Pen and a cover is an additional expense.

Retail Price: $799.00 CollegeChoice Score: 93.92 Shop on Amazon
12

Asus F556UA-AB32

The Asus F556UA-AB32 delivers quite a few features that make it an attractive option for college students. A reasonable price point doesn’t mean that you forgo style, as the Asus F556 has a high-end look, with its slim frame and overall polished aesthetic. A 15.6-inch high definition screen and Intel i3 Core processor add to its appeal. Windows 10 comes already installed, making it ready-to-use right off the bat. The Asus F556 has 802.11ac WiFi which gives students a fast internet connection. Its 4 GB RAM and 1TB HDD creates a quick response that won’t slow you down.

Connectivity with the Asus F556 is easy. Options include the 3 in 1 card reader, 802.11 WiFi, USB 3.1 Type-C, VGA or HDMI port. The F556’s excellent Li-Polymer battery is mighty, lasting 2.5 times longer than typical Lithium-ion batteries. No one likes working on a computer that feels warm, but with the ASUS IceCool Technology, this machine regulates its temperature so your palm never feels uncomfortable.

Additional pros to the Asus F556 include its intuitive Smart Gesture multi-touch pad, SonicMaster audio performance, and 1-year Accidental Damage Protection program. Cons include its lack of touch screen and limited battery compared to competitors.

Retail Price: $700.00 CollegeChoice Score: 93.41
13

Dell Chromebook 3189 Education 2-in-1

The Dell Chromebook 3189 Education 2-in-1 is a versatile machine, ready for the demands of the classroom. Whether using it in a lab, researching outdoors, or just getting some work done while grabbing a bite to eat, this machine’s spill-resistant keyboard, Drop Protection, Corning Gorilla Glass screen, and rubber buffered edges put you at ease. Combo laptop and tablet, the 11.6″ HD Dell Chromebook 3189 can be tented for presentations or group work and also lays flat, adding flexibility to its many perks. 4GB of memory with the Intel Celeron N3060 Processor and the choice between 16 or 32GB SSD make it a strong campus contender.

Weighing just over 3 pounds, the machine is loaded up with the kind of tech features college students need. The Dell Chromebook 3189 Education 2-in-1 comes with 2 USB ports, a USD card reader, 1 HDMI (full-size) and a combo mic and headphone jack. Its battery lasts around 10 hours and it also comes with a Touch LCD cover.

Additional pros to the Dell Chromebook 3189 Education 2-in-1 include its Energy Star efficiency, and clear audio delivery, and variety of configurations. Cons include its somewhat low screen resolution (1366 x 768) and weak webcam.

Retail Price: $349.00 CollegeChoice Score: 92.94 Shop on Amazon
14

Acer Aspire E 15 (E5-575-33BM)

The Acer Aspire E 15 is a sharp looking notebook with some stand-out features that make it a worthy consideration for college students. The Acer Aspire E 15 has an Intel Core i3-7100U CPU and Windows 10 Home built in. 4GB of RAM comes with the machine, but you can customize your Acer Aspire E 15 by adding up to 32GB of DDR4 RAM thanks to the uniquely removable upgrade panel. A 15.6″ offers a vibrant Full HD 1920×1080 resolution display, a real difference from many similar sized competitors.

Touting an attractive budget-friendly price point, the Acer Aspire E doesn’t cut corners on features. Offering 1 USB 2.0’s, 2 USB 3.0’s, and a Network, VGA, HDMI, and USB-C port, most any connector needs can be met. A DVD player and SD card reader are also included. Battery life on the Acer Aspire E 15 is around 8 hours, giving you a decent amount of time before you need to recharge.

Pros of the Acer Aspire E 15 include the easy to use Precision Touchpad, speedy wireless transfers, and unique numeric keypad. Cons include its bulky weight (5.27 pounds) and somewhat limited battery compared to similar models.

Retail Price: $349.99 CollegeChoice Score: 92.75 Shop on Amazon
15

Asus Chromebook C202SA-YS02 11.6

The ASUS Chromebook C202 is a sturdy little powerhouse of a machine that has ample features college students can appreciate. Weighing just 2.2 pounds, the ASUS Chromebook C202 is super easy to throw in a backpack and haul around campus all day. Extra durable rubber-wrapped edges, traction grips, and spill-resistance features help the machine withstand active use. The ASUS Chromebook has an 11.6″ resolution with anti-glare display. Need to present for class or work on a group project? The ASUS Chromebook has a 180-degree hinge that allows stellar visibility and flexibility for your needs.

The ASUS Chromebook C202 has an Intel Celeron 1.6 GHz processor, 4GB of memory, and 16GB of storage. 802.11ac wireless and the 360-degree WIFI antenna allow you to be rapidly connected whether you are on campus, video conferencing in for an online class, or studying in the dorms. Around 10 hours of battery life keeps you going, and built-in Bluetooth is another nice touch.

Pros of the ASUS Chromebook 202 are its tough, durable features and comfortable keyboard. The laptop is easy to fix if needed. Cons include its lack of touchscreen option and mixed performance reviews.

Retail Price: $229.00 CollegeChoice Score: 91.86 Shop on Amazon
16

Acer Swift 1

The Acer Swift 1 has a high-end look and some notable features with a budget-friendly price tag that should catch the eye of college consumers. Its thin (.7 inches) and sleek aesthetic gives it a high-end appeal, but for a significantly reduced price, at around $300.00. The Acer Swift 1 comes with a 13.3″ HD IPS display that has a 1920×1080 resolution and the 1.1GHz Intel Pentium N4200 quad-core processor. 64GB of flash drive storage and 4GB of memory come with the laptop. Windows 10 Home is and ready to go.

The Acer Swift 1 is a fantastic option for college students who need a basic machine. With two speakers that offer a solid audio experience, 802.11ac wireless connectivity, and an intuitive TouchPad, users may be surprised that this laptop comes at such a low price point. Two USB 3.0’s, one USB 2.0, and a USB-C give a plethora of options for ports, along with HDMI. Battery life is solid on the Acer Swift 1, lasting around 10 hours.

Pros include the Acer Swift 1’s lightweight (2.9 pounds), Bluetooth 4.0 capabilities, and fingerprint reader – creating an easy login for users. Cons include its somewhat uncomfortable keyboard for extended use and limited storage.

Retail Price: $288.99 CollegeChoice Score: 90.98 Shop on Amazon
17

Lenovo Ideapad Miix 320

A great option from Lenovo is the IdeaPad Miix 320. A combo tablet and laptop, this machine gives you the flexibility to accomplish so much, but also at a bargain price. An Intel Atom processor and Windows 10 Home give you the platform and user-friendly programs to work with, along with 4GB of memory. Weighing around 1kg, the Miix 320 is light to carry and has a cool, slim aesthetic making it a stylish choice to have on campus or where ever your studies take you.

Notable features of the Lenovo Miix 320 are its two ports and a precision touchpad, and 802.11 ac WiFi which keeps you connected and working efficiently. The 10.1″ FDH MultiTouch display screen gives a vivid view and Dolby Advanced Audio helps deliver a full-bodied sound. 64GB of hard drive space is another nice perk.

Pros to the Lenovo Miix 320 are its 10-hour battery life, a front and second rear-facing camera, and the inclusion of a USB-C port. Cons include its somewhat cramped keyboard and mixed reviews for overall performance.

Retail Price: $299.99 CollegeChoice Score: 90.39 Shop on Amazon
18

HP Stream 11-Y010NR

The HP Stream 11-y010nr is a mighty powerhouse of a machine that is a worthy option for college students. Equipped with an Intel Celeron processor and TurboBoost Technology, this 11.6″ HD display gives a clear view, whether you are working on a term project or streaming a movie. Anti-glare and backlit features are included. 4GB of memory, a 32 GB hard drive, 2 USB’s (including a USB-C) and an SD port gives plenty of options for users.

The HP Stream keeps you connected wherever you may be with the 802.11 ac WiFi antenna. This machine weighs just 2.57 pounds and has a full-size island keyboard, keeping it portable, and comfortable to use. A one-year subscription to Windows 10 Home 64 comes with the HP Stream, offering a user-friendly access to Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and more. Its punchy blue color makes it a stand-out even before you realize its many other attractive features.

Pros to the HP Stream include that it is slim and easy to carry around, and has an EnergyStar efficiency rating and over 10 hours of battery life. An incredibly low price point (under $200) makes it a machine to consider. Cons include a spotty performance with the touchpad and issues with construction durability.

Retail Price: $199.00 CollegeChoice Score: 88.24 Shop on Amazon
19

Dell Inspiron 13 7000 (7378)

Looking for a dynamic laptop, that has plenty of options? Try the Dell Inspiron 13 7000. 4 modes (tent, tablet, laptop, or stand) means that you can flexibly configure it to whatever your needs may be – from independent work to presentations. A full HD 13.3″ screen is bright and crisp the Intel Core i5 processor powers you through your academic or personal needs. The Dell Inspiron 13 features a USB-C port, DC-in, and DisplayPort. 8GB RAM is also included.

The Dell Inspiron 13 7000 gets high praise for its audio performance with two bottom-facing speakers that provide a lush, full sound. The aluminum body has a stylish brushed finish, that gives the Dell Inspiron 13, an overall high-end appearance. Durably built to sustain jostling and short-term heat, the Dell Inspiron 13 performed well.

Pros to the Dell Inspiron 13 7000 include its face-recognizing camera, strong audio, and overall performance. Cons include its weight (3.4 pounds), limited battery life (around 5 hours), and overly glossy touchscreen.

Retail Price: $799.99 CollegeChoice Score: 85.49 Shop on Amazon
20

Acer Chromebook R 11 Convertible, 11.6-Inch HD Touch Screen

The Chromebook R 11 Convertible is another outstanding, value-driven product from Acer. A Chromebook that opens with a 360° hinge, becoming a tablet with multi-touch IPS technology and an 11.6″ screen. The Chromebook 11 can also be used in a stand-up position or “tent mode,” giving students tons of flexibility. A stylish look featuring aluminum paneling, the Acer Chromebook R 11 is also thin (19.2 mm) and light, weighing only 2.76 pounds. An Intel Celeron N3150 Quad Core processor with 32GB SSD and 4GB of memory offers a solid machine for a student lifestyle.

The Acer Chromebook R 11 will keep you connected with its featured MIMO 802.11ac wireless. A superior webcam provides a vivid picture, making images pop and video chats even better. With 2 full-size USB ports, an SD reader, and surprisingly strong audio features, the Acer Chromebook R 11 delivers a lot of features for such a moderate price-point. A strong battery life of around 10 hours adds to the appeal.

Pros of the Acer Chromebook R 11 are its dual functionality as laptop and tablet, sturdy construction, and long-lasting battery life. Cons include the Chromebook R 11’s somewhat shaky long-term performance reviews.

Retail Price: $336.54 CollegeChoice Score: 84.31 Shop on Amazon

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