Although the M1 MacBook Air from 2020 remains available for those who need the most cost-effective option (starting at $999), the new M2 MacBook Air is a better choice for most people, thanks to its bigger-brighter-better 13.6-inch screen, faster performance, 24 GB memory ceiling, and higher-resolution webcam. It’s Apple’s smallest, lightest, and least expensive laptop, but thanks to its M1 or M2 processor, it has fabulous performance for everyday tasks. Most students: Buy Apple’s MacBook Air.In the past, it was harder to decide which model was best for a given student, but with Apple’s move to the M1 and M2 chips, which significantly outperform the Intel processors used in previous models, the decision is easier. A student who’s accustomed to taking notes on an iPad with a Smart Keyboard and Apple Pencil might be able to use that along with a desktop Mac, but most students should focus on Apple’s laptops. A laptop is much easier to pack during moves, and it can travel to class every day. The same applies to a Mac mini or Mac Studio with an external display. Although the 24-inch iMac is an excellent machine with a gorgeous screen, it’s too big and unwieldy for the transient lifestyle of the typical college student. Second, see if the college provides access to education pricing-most will-to save a few hundred dollars.Ĭolleges often specify-and students usually prefer-laptops instead of desktop machines.

Luckily, current Macs should meet the requirements. Generally, these revolve around processor type, amount of RAM, and storage space.

Many college departments have specific requirements based on the software students use in their classes. If you haven’t been paying close attention to Apple’s Mac lineup, you might wonder which model makes the most sense.įirst, don’t buy anything without first checking with the college. And even if they had their own laptop throughout high school, if it’s old or unreliable, college is a good excuse to bring them up to date. Do you have a child starting college soon? It’s likely that your kid has been relying heavily on a computer throughout high school, but if it was a school-provided laptop or shared family computer, now’s the time to get them something of their own.

Best apple laptop for college students