Latest Product Recommendations for 2024 Academic Year by Gizmodo
Refresh and Update: Top Tech Picks for Students on a Budget
Get set for a new academic year with these killer tech deals, tailored to your wallet! Here's our latest list of dependable devices that'll elevate your learning experience, whether you're in grade school, high school, college, or even beyond.
Best Durable Laptop for Years: Apple MacBook Air
Splashing out a bit more, but worth every penny, the 2024 model of the MacBook Air comes in at $1,099 and is a reliable choice for long-term use. Its stellar Apple M3 chip performance, lightweight design, and exceptional battery life set it apart. Both 13-inch and 15-inch screen options are available, and if you're looking to save, the M2 version is equally fantastic!
Price Conscious Pick: Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus
If you'd prefer a cheaper option or aren't fussed over Apple devices, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus retails for under $500. This bad boy offers a high-quality 14-inch touchscreen display, a bendable screen for versatility, and superior performance within the Chrome browser.
Best Value Windows Laptop: Dell Inspiron 15 3530
For Windows enthusiasts, the Dell Inspiron 15 3530 delivers more bang for fewer bucks. Its sub-$700 price point means some compromises, but features like an Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and a 15.6-inch screen make this a solid investment.
Top Budget Smartphone: Google Pixel 8a
Don't break the bank on a phone! The Google Pixel 8a costs less than other Pixels yet packs similar power, respective to its Gemini AI, Google-exclusive features, and impressive camera capabilities.
Unbeatable Budget Tablet: Apple iPad (Latest Model)
Never one to disappoint, the Apple iPad remains the go-to tablet for any student. With a starting price of $349 and supporting accessories like the Apple Pencil and keyboard cover cases, it's the perfect all-around device for school.
Quick, Quality Webcam: Logitech C920s Pro HD
Enhance your video calls with the Logitech C920s Pro HD, available for $69.99. Its stellar HD video, wide field of view, and automatic light correction make this an ideal choice for clear and vibrant webcam chats.
Sound On: Soundcore by Anker Space Q45 Headphones
For a musical learning experience, put on the Soundcore by Anker Space Q45 headphones! Offering active noise cancelation, robust audio, and an impressive battery life, these mid-range headphones prove you don't need to pay top dollar for great sound.
Study-Savvy Printer: Brother HL-L2405W
Don't forget the importance of good old-fashioned paper! The Brother HL-L2405W monochrome laser printer, priced at $120, boasts speed, reliability, and a lack of color printing capabilities-ideal for the majority of student printing needs.
With these top-notch tech essentials, your upcoming school year will be filled with productivity and academic success. Happy learning, and let technology be your personal academic assistant!
- In the future, especially for long-term use, the MacBook Air, available for $1,099, could be a workhorse for students due to its stellar Apple M3 chip performance, lightweight design, and exceptional battery life.
- If you're looking to save but still want a reliable device, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus, priced under $500, offers superior performance within the Chrome browser and a high-quality 14-inch touchscreen display.
- For Windows enthusiasts on a budget, the Dell Inspiron 15 3530, with a sub-$700 price point, delivers solid performance with features like an Intel Core i5 processor and 16GB of RAM.
- The Google Pixel 8a, costing less than other Pixels, offers similar power with Google-exclusive features, respective to its Gemini AI, and impressive camera capabilities, making it an ideal budget-friendly smartphone for students.
