Laptop Expert Reveals Top Picks for College Students in 2025

The WIRED website recently featured an article by a seasoned reviewer who has spent the past decade evaluating laptops for college students. The reviewer's picks for 2025 include the Apple MacBook Air (M4, 2025), Dell 14 Plus, Microsoft Surface Laptop (7th Edition, 2024), and Asus Zenbook A14. According to the article, a good college laptop should have long battery life, be lightweight and thin, and be able to handle the performance required for school tasks. The reviewer emphasized the importance of battery life, stating that it is essential for students who need to study and work on their laptops in various locations throughout the day. "No one wants to be the person scrounging for an outlet in a lecture hall or coffee shop," the reviewer noted. The reviewer's top pick for a college laptop is the Apple MacBook Air (M4, 2025), which offers a 13-inch display and up to 24 hours of battery life. The Dell 14 Plus is another option, featuring a 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB hard drive. The Microsoft Surface Laptop (7th Edition, 2024) is a MacBook alternative that offers a 15-inch display and up to 17 hours of battery life. The Asus Zenbook A14 is an ultralight laptop that weighs just 2.6 pounds and features a 14-inch display. The article notes that these laptops are not only suitable for college students but also for professionals who need a reliable and portable device. "These laptops are designed to keep up with the demands of modern work and study, whether that's streaming video, working on complex projects, or simply browsing the web," the reviewer said. The reviewer's picks for college laptops reflect the latest developments in the industry, including advancements in battery life, processor speed, and display technology. As the demand for portable and powerful laptops continues to grow, manufacturers are responding with innovative designs and features that cater to the needs of students and professionals alike. In an interview, the reviewer emphasized the importance of considering the specific needs of college students when choosing a laptop. "College students need a laptop that can keep up with their busy schedules, from lectures and study sessions to social media and streaming," the reviewer said. "They also need a laptop that is lightweight and easy to carry, as they will be lugging it around in a backpack all day." The article concludes by recommending that college students consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing a laptop. "Whether you're a student or a professional, the right laptop can make all the difference in your productivity and success," the reviewer noted.