TECHNOLOGY · VERIFIED DEVELOPMENT
Best Laptops for Back-to-School Shopping Amid RAM and Storage Crunch
WHY IT MATTERS
Students and parents need to be aware of the current laptop market and make informed decisions when shopping for affordable options that meet their needs.
What happened
The ongoing RAM and storage crunch has driven up computer prices, but there are still affordable options available. The MacBook Neo is a top pick for middle school and high school students, offering impressive performance and a balance of build quality and price.
For college students, the MacBook Air (M5) is the best option, with a faster processor, more RAM, and faster storage. Windows laptops like the Asus Zenbook A14 are also a viable alternative, offering a superlight design and long battery life.
When shopping, consider spending more for a more powerful laptop, as prices are likely to continue rising into next year.
PRIMARY SOURCES
A RAMageddon guide to back-to-school laptop shopping
The Verge · Antonio G. Di Benedetto · Discovery only; Vox Media copyright terms apply