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The best laptops for kids, teens and students
Our top picks, whether they need a computer for school, university, gaming or creating
Picking the right laptop for a child or teen that's decent – and won't quickly feel outdated – can be really challenging. Whether they need one for school, are learning from home, headed off to university or just need a reliable device for homework and entertainment, there’s no shortage of options.
Children have different needs depending on their age, too. Younger kids probably just need simple, durable machines. Teens and older students will want computers powerful enough for creative work or light gaming. It's hard to know where to start.
So we've pulled together a list of the best laptops for kids, divided into sections for different ages and needs, and including both affordable options and premium picks built to last through uni. We've also included a buying guide below our reviews.
Best laptops for kids
To put this list together, we researched the needs for each subcategory and hunted down the best laptops at the right price. We included Windows, Apple and Chromebook devices, as well as 2-in-1 laptop/tablet hybrids and an iPad option that can be set up with parental controls.
Laptops for younger kids
Pros
- Affordable and lightweight
- Converts into a tablet
Cons
- Lower-end performance
- ChromeOS can feel limited
Who it's for: Young learners who need a sturdy and easy-to-use laptop will get on well with this model. It has a 14-inch HD display, simple design and decent performance for studying.
Why we like it: This is a relatively slim and compact model, with a 2-in-1 laptop/tablet design, a touchscreen, a robust build and good keyboard, and lots of ports for connectivity. As long as it’s used for online work, ChromeOS is simple and secure, and the battery can easily last a full school day.
Take note: This only uses an entry-level Intel chip, so it’s best for browsing, videos and basic work. And while it is very portable, smaller kids may be better off with an even more compact screen, like the 12.2-inch display of the Acer Chromebook Spin 312 or the small Lenovo IdeaPad Chromebook Duet.
Key specifications
| Display | 14 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | ChromeOS |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 64GB/4GB |
| Connectivity | USB-A x2, USB-C x1, HDMI, MicroSD slot, 3.5mm jack |
| Weight | 1.55kg |
Pros
- Affordable price
- Extremely portable
Cons
- Tiny screen won’t suit all users
- Not that much storage
Who it's for: This one’s a 2-in-1 style Chromebook, but with a fully detachable keyboard and a very small design. It only has an 11-inch display, making it a tiny laptop that’s going to feel a bit cramped for adults, but potentially ideal for younger users, especially if it’s mainly for online lessons or media.
Why we like it: The small keyboard is an ideal size for young kids, and it comes with a stylus for sketching and writing. It has a lot of battery life, a super lightweight design, and a crisp Full HD screen. While its performance is basic, it shouldn’t let you down for web apps, streaming videos and browsing.
Take note: This is not for demanding computing and, beyond performance, it also doesn’t have much storage or that many ports available for connectivity.
Key specifications
| Display | 11 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | ChromeOS |
| Battery life | Up to 12 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 128GB/8GB |
| Connectivity | USB-C x2, 3.5mm jack |
| Weight | 510g |
Pros
- Fantastic tablet experience
- Great battery life
Cons
- Keyboard costs extra
- Not quite as versatile as a proper laptop
Who it's for: Okay it's not a laptop, but an iPad can be ideal for kids who mostly do app-based learning or want to watch videos and play mobile games. Apple has an extensive selection of apps and capabilities, but it’s worth remembering that additions like the keyboard attachment will cost extra.
Why we like it: We’re big fans of the entry-level iPad and recommend it to everyone new to tablets. It’s powerful, slim and light, with a chip that can handle productivity tasks, browsing and even some multitasking without trouble. It’s not going to come close to the most capable models Apple makes, but kids shouldn’t notice any difference in use (read our iPad 11th gen review for more information).
Take note: For full laptop functionality, you’ll want to add a keyboard that’s sold separately and while Apple’s software has robust parental controls, you’ll need to take the time to set up child accounts and limits. And, remember that it’s not a laptop per se – it will be good for some tasks but may not fully replace a laptop for everything.
Key specifications
| Display | 11 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Apple iPadOS |
| Battery life | Up to 10 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB/6GB |
| Connectivity | USB-C x1 |
| Weight | 477g |
Affordable Windows laptops for school
Pros
- Good port selection
- Affordable price
Cons
- A little heavy for portability
- Battery life is better on other options
Who it's for: If you're after a low-cost Windows option, the Acer Aspire 3 is one of the best budget laptops you can buy, with speedy performance for everyday productivity. It has a good build, solid specs, a big screen, and lots of ports for connectivity.
Why we like it: In addition to its decent keyboard and screen, the Aspire 3 has a mid-range AMD Ryzen 5 processor, lots of storage and enough RAM that it won't struggle with multitasking. It's more than powerful enough for word processing and web browsing, and delivers all day-long battery life.
Take note: While it's great value and very competent, it’s worth remembering that it’s not designed for gaming or intense workloads, and there are quite a few rivals that will deliver better battery life.
Key specifications
| Display | 15.6 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 |
| Battery life | Up to 9 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 512GB/16GB |
| Connectivity | USB-A x3, USB-C x1, Ethernet, 3.5mm jack, HDMI |
| Weight | 1.78kg |
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Impressive battery life
Cons
- Very limited ports
- Pricier than similar Windows laptops
Who it's for: If your top priority is an easy-to-carry laptop, there aren’t many models as light as this. It’s just 1.13kg for a laptop with a 12.4-inch screen, ideal for on-the-go use. It could be a great choice for older kids and teens who need a stylish, lightweight Windows laptop for schoolwork, browsing and everyday tasks.
Why we like it: With this laptop, you’re getting a sleek and premium build quality that feels much more high-end than most in its price range. It compares well to key rivals, like a MacBook Air, offering a reliable battery life, vibrant touchscreen and enough computing power to handle school projects, video calls and light multitasking.
Take note: While it’s good for those after a lightweight and premium design, it’s not for art students who might need heavy-duty performance for gaming or creative software. The webcam is also sub-par, it has limited ports for connectivity, and costs more than some comparable Windows laptops.
Key specifications
| Display | 12.4 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 |
| Battery life | Up to 15 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 256GB/8GB or 16GB |
| Connectivity | USB-A x1, USB-C x1, 3.5mm jack |
| Weight | 1.2kg |
Pros
- Good performance for productivity
- Lightweight design
Cons
- Make sure you pick the right processor for your needs
- Rivals offer more battery life
Who it's for: There are a couple of different configurations of the Vivobook 14, but the one we’re recommending has a good number of ports, a lightweight design, a lay-flat hinge, “military-grade” durability and a capable Intel processor. If you can find the specs you want at a good price, this is a great affordable option.
Why we like it: For a decent and reliable laptop that doesn’t weigh or cost too much, this is a good pick. It’s a solid option with Windows 11, a decent amount of storage and a capable processor for productivity. It’s good for multitasking, too, and will work well for those doing some graphics tasks, such as basic video editing or working with images in Photoshop.
Take note: The model linked to here runs Windows 11 in S-mode, which is a secure and “streamlined” version of Windows 11 that’s designed to restrict app installations to those from the Microsoft Store. Switching out of S-mode is possible, but it’s one-way. Once you switch, you can’t go back to S-mode.
Key specifications
| Display | 14 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 in S-mode |
| Battery life | Up to 8 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 512GB or 1TB/8GB or 16GB |
| Connectivity | USB-A x3, USB-C x1, HDMI, 3.5mm jack |
| Weight | 1.4kg |
Premium laptops for university students
Pros
- Top performance in a light design
- All-day battery life
Cons
- Expensive
- Not that many ports
Who it's for: Anyone wanting a reliable, long-lasting laptop for school and personal use should consider the latest MacBook Air M4. Apple computers are built to last, with excellent batteries, screens and build quality. It's a great pick for a teenager at school or anyone heading off to university.
Why we like it: The Air is not only highly portable, it’s also incredibly capable. Apple’s M4 chip is great for speed and efficiency, and this would be great for anyone getting into creative projects like photo and video editing. It also has a sharp and vibrant display, and a fantastic battery that easily lasts all day long – read our full MacBook Air M4 review.
Take note: Compared to the rest of the laptop market, MacBooks are premium devices and come at a higher cost. If you’re buying a new one, you should expect to spend almost £1,000 or more. They’re a better fit for responsible older children, and they should last for several years.
Key specifications
| Display | 13 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Apple macOS |
| Battery life | Up to 18 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 256GB or 512GB/16GB or 24GB |
| Connectivity | USB-C x2, 3.5mm jack, MagSafe charging |
| Weight | 1.24kg |
Pros
- Super lightweight
- Long battery life
Cons
- May not be compatible with all apps
- It doesn’t have as many ports as some rivals
Who it's for: If you’re after an ultra-thin and super-lightweight laptop for university, the Zenbook A14 weighs under a kilogram and gives you a huge battery life, a great OLED screen, a big trackpad and a capable Snapdragon processor.
Why we like it: This is an excellent pick if you need something to carry around all day, with a battery that will keep up with long days away from a charger. It’s a premium design, with an excellent display, and it offers great performance and efficiency for productivity tasks.
Take note: Some Windows laptops with similar specs can cost less, so it’s worth being sure that the perks of the lightweight design, screen and battery matter most to you. This one also runs on an ARM chip, and you’ll need to check that key apps will still run on it. Also, Snapdragon-powered PCs aren’t made for gaming, so keep that in mind, too.
Key specifications
| Display | 14 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 |
| Battery life | Up to 32 hours |
| Storage/Memory | 512GB, 1TB or 2TB/16GB or 32GB |
| Connectivity | USB-A x1, USB-C x2, HDMI x1, 3.5mm jack |
| Weight | 0.98kg |
Gaming laptops for older kids
Pros
- Strong gaming performance
- Robust build quality
Cons
- Heavy to carry
- Fans will get loud when playing games
Who it's for: Teenagers who love gaming will like the Asus TUF Gaming A15. It has plenty of ports and enough power for competitive games, at a more affordable price than many of the gaming laptops on the market. It’s also going to be more than enough for web browsing, working, photo editing and multitasking.
Why we like it: While you’ll want to make sure you pick the right processor for the kind of games the laptop's going to be used for, most configurations should be able to handle the majority of modern games well. It also has a sturdy build, lots of connectivity and a reliable keyboard with RGB LED lighting.
Take note: As a mid-range performer, it’s not going to deliver the absolute best gaming performance you can get, and you might notice that the fans will get loud under load. It’s also a heavy option – at 2.3kg, it’s going to be a noticeable weight to carry around!
Key specifications
| Display | 15.6 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Windows 11 |
| Battery life | Between 2 to 12 hours (depending on usage) |
| Storage/Memory | 256GB, 512GB or 1TB/8GB or 16GB |
| Connectivity | USB-A x3, USB-C x1, HDMI, 3.5mm jack, Ethernet |
| Weight | 2.3kg |
Acer Predator Helios Neo 16 PHN16-71,16-inch Gaming Laptop
Pros
- High-refresh rate display
- Plenty of performance
Cons
- Poor battery life
- Fans get noisy
Who it's for: We’re aware this one’s a bit more of an investment, but it could be worth it if you’re buying for an avid gamer! This offers a lot of power for its price, a great selection of ports, a comfortable typing experience and a big display. It’s made to deliver strong gaming performance, but will be good for productivity or as a desktop replacement, too.
Why we like it: The 16-inch screen is a big part of the appeal – it’s a stunning high-resolution panel supporting higher frame rates for competitive games. This beefy laptop is also great for its extensive port selection for connectivity, impressive thermal management, and its responsive keyboard and touchpad.
Take note: Like a lot of gaming laptops, you have to be prepared to handle a similar set of issues. When gaming, the battery life won’t impress at all, and the fans will get noisy. And, compared to the laptops we recommend for productivity, this is a seriously heavy option.
Key specifications
| Display | 16 inches |
|---|---|
| Operating system | Intel Core i7 |
| Battery life | Between 3 to 8 hours (depending on usage) |
| Storage/Memory | 512GB or 1TB/16GB |
| Connectivity | USB-A x3, USB-C x2, HDMI x1, MicroSD x1, 3.5mm jack, Ethernet |
| Weight | 2.9kg |
How we chose the best laptops for kids
We put this guide together by combining in-depth research with hands-on experience where possible, considering the features that matter for younger users. For each recommendation, we looked at how well the laptop works for everyday tasks like schoolwork, browsing, entertainment, and creative hobbies All while keeping an eye on value for money.
We paid attention to build quality, as laptops for children need to be able to handle knocks, bumps and the occasional drop. We also compared key specs like processors, memory, storage, and battery life to make sure each option offers enough performance for smooth everyday use. We didn't pick models that have features kids won't use or need, and have aimed to prioritise models with parental controls. Every laptop here comes from a trusted brand, and offers a good balance of durability and performance.
Why you should trust Good Housekeeping
At Good Housekeeping, we're always thinking hard about the purchases that matter most to you. We wrote this guide with parents in mind, drawing on our knowledge of the laptop market and years of experience reviewing tech products.
This guide was written by Technology Editor Simon Cocks, who has worked at GH for over a decade, and his picks are based on rigorous research into which models from the top brands deliver the right balance of performance, longevity and value for money.
Other products to consider
There are a lot of laptops on the market, so it's worth thinking about what you really need. Do you already know you want an Apple laptop for a good price? It's worth thinking about buying a refurbished MacBook.
If you're already invested in the Samsung ecosystem, the brand's Galaxy Book Pro or Pro 360 are great for sleek, lightweight designs, vivid screens, and long battery life. Also look at Dell’s mid-range Inspiron series, as these provide reliable performance and reasonable prices. On the premium side, Dell's XPS 13 is a top-tier Windows laptop, often recommended for students.
We'd also look at HP’s Pavilion 15. It's a laptop that's great for a user-friendly big-screen Windows experience, with touchscreen and number pad, so it could be ideal for spreadsheets or creative work.
How to buy the best laptop for kids
Not sure where to begin? We’d start by thinking about the child's needs, and then going on to think about the operating system, physical aspects and performance features. We’ve explained the things to keep in mind below.
Age and usage
It's important to match the device you buy to a child’s needs. Most advanced computers come with features they simply won't use. Younger kids will be best off with lightweight Chromebooks or tablets. If you're buying for someone a little older, make sure it can handle homework software and some multimedia too. University-bound teens will need much better performance, so it can handle coursework and essays.
Operating system
Windows, ChromeOS or macOS each have their own benefits. Chromebooks (which run ChromeOS) get automatic updates, and support Android apps – they're a good fit for online learning. They also have simple set up and security, so work well for young users. Windows laptops run familiar Office apps and support the widest range of software. Meanwhile, Apple's MacBooks (running macOS) have strong built-in privacy controls and are great for creative apps, meaning they can also be great for schoolwork and university students.
Durability and portability
Generally, laptops for younger kids should be quite durable. It’s almost inevitable that they’ll get bumped and dropped. Look for rubberised edges, sturdy build quality and spill resistance, if you can. Also, prioritise lightweight designs (under 1.5kg) as those won’t be as difficult to carry around in a laptop backpack.
Screen size and input
Look for a 10 to 13-inch screen for younger kids, as that’s going to be large enough for their needs. Teenagers may prefer a larger display (up to 15 or 16 inches), though, and it’s worth checking for a quality keyboard (backlit keys can be a big help) or a touchscreen for easy input, just like on a smartphone or tablet, like one of the best iPads.
Battery life
You’ll want a battery that will last for a full day of use without needing to be recharged. Aim for eight to 10 hours, as that will be enough for the full school day. How long any laptop lasts will always depend on how much it’s used.
Connectivity/ports
The laptop has everything a child needs to get started. But, they’ll inevitably need to connect extra gadgets like a mouse or keyboard, or a pair of volume-limiting kids’ headphones. Most laptops have a couple of USB slots, some models have an HDMI port so you can connect monitors, projectors or TVs, and most should have a 3.5mm jack for connecting a pair of wired headphones.
You’ll know how important connecting peripherals is from your use of your own computer, and we’d say that having at least a USB-A and a USB-C port is fairly essential, although if you’re limited to the latter, you can find some great USB-C hubs to add back ports and functionality. The most portable laptops will skimp on ports, so that’s worth remembering.
Storage
Laptops come with built-in storage that lets you save and keep files, photos and documents on the device. The bigger the number of GB, or gigabytes, the more room that’s on the laptop.
For comparison, 32GB stores roughly 7,000 digital photos and 128GB stores around 30,000, but don’t forget apps, downloads and programs all take up space too, so aim for at least 128GB of storage, if possible.
Parental controls and safety
There’s a lot on the internet that’s not for children. So it's important for parents to set clear rules about how and when a child can use their laptop. The best way is to take advantage of parental controls on offer. Parents can set up an account for a child, then limit what they have access to on the device.
This way, they can filter out websites from search results, set screen time limits, stop them from buying apps or browsing privately. They should also be able to set up activity reports to see what children are up to on the computer. Windows has Family Safety, macOS has Screen Time, and ChromeOS can use supervised accounts or Family Link.
Budget
Think about how much you’d like to spend. Basic Chromebooks can start from as low as £200–£300, while mid-range Windows laptops should cost around £400–£700. MacBooks and premium Windows computers will be over £800, though, unless you get them refurbished. Make sure you factor in extras to the cost, including any wireless keyboards, wireless mice, laptop stands, laptop sleeves or required software.
Frequently asked questions
At what age should a kid get a laptop?
The jury is still out on when is the best time to buy a child a laptop (research suggests age 12 is when UK ownership picks up), but whether they’re making a spreadsheet or playing an hour of Minecraft, you’ll want to enforce strict rules about how to stay safe online and turn on parental controls to filter search engine results, limit screen time, stop private browsing and get sent activity reports.
Should I buy a Chromebook or a Windows laptop?
Chromebooks run ChromeOS, which is simple and fast, with Google’s Family Link making it easy to control a child’s access. We think they’re ideal first laptops for kids because they’re great for basic tasks and online learning. Windows laptops support the full range of school software (like Microsoft Office and coding tools) and they have flexible parental controls, too.
We suggest picking Windows if you’re buying for an older child who needs specific Windows-only apps or wants to play games. Otherwise, Chromebooks are often easier for younger kids.
Are tablets (like iPads) suitable in place of laptops?
Tablets with optional keyboards can work very well for both younger kids and older users who may be able to fully replace their laptop with an iPad. For instance, the latest 11th generation iPad could be the “best laptop for kids” that isn’t an actual laptop. It’s lightweight, has a long battery and access to a huge selection of apps. It also has robust parental controls.
However, remember to get a keyboard if your child is going to be typing a lot. And bear in mind that Windows tablets can provide full PC capabilities. But, again, that all-important keyboard will be sold separately.
Verdict: Best laptops for kids
There's a wide range of options when it comes to choosing a great laptop for a child, and your pick will come down to how old they are and what they need the computer to do. Most kids at school will get on well with a Chromebook – an Acer Chromebook Spin 314 is likely to be a good fit.
We recommend university students consider something like a lightweight MacBook Air or Asus Zenbook A14, if these fit within the budget.
An Apple iPad (11th Gen) can also work as a laptop replacement. Alternatively, the Acer Aspire 3 15 A315-44P or Asus Vivobook 14 should be a good fit for those after an affordable Windows laptop.
Simon Cocks is Good Housekeeping UK’s Technology Editor, overseeing tech shopping content and strategy for the title. He previously also worked across other titles including Esquire UK, Digital Spy, Men’s Health UK and Women’s Health UK.
Simon specialises in testing the latest smart gadgets, home entertainment gear, headphones, speakers, portable chargers, radios, e-book readers and smartphones. He's reviewed top tech products from brands including Google, Apple, Amazon, JBL and Bose.
A magazine journalism graduate from Kingston University in 2014, Simon also worked on the Discovery and Silkroad inflight magazines. He then gained experience writing about entertainment at SFX and Total Film. He also contributed reviews and interviews to TwitchFilm (later ScreenAnarchy), CultBox and Frame Rated.
He joined Good Housekeeping UK as the Editorial Assistant for Special Projects and was part of Good Housekeeping’s Consumer Affairs Team between 2014 and 2019. In this role, he conducted price comparison research, wrote detailed household and money-saving advice guides and edited thousands of in-depth reviews for the Good Housekeeping Institute.
He has focused on technology and gadgets since 2020, where he started by testing out power banks and instant cameras. He writes reviews, roundups, news articles and deals updates, and also covers top tech deals during sales like Amazon Prime Day, Black Friday and Cyber Monday.
When not testing out the latest gizmos, you’ll find Simon either catching up with the newest releases at his local cinema or out shooting with his beloved compact camera.
You can follow Simon on Instagram, on Bluesky, on LinkedIn and on Threads.
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