A good laptop can be a fantastic tool for a child’s education, but how do you choose the right one? You want a durable, high-performance laptop, but you also don’t want to break the bank on a laptop for kids — after all, kids can be destructive.
To find the best one for your child’s needs, check out this shopping guide on the best laptop for kids, including some of our top recommendations. Our favorite, the Samsung Chromebook Plus, offers two-in-one versatility and a fast processor.
What to consider before you buy a kids’ laptop
Age
Your child’s age is an essential factor to consider when buying a laptop, because a younger child will usually require minimal features and the central processing unit (CPU) performance doesn’t need to be super-fast. There are cheap laptops that can carry out most basic tasks at an adequate speed.
If your child is older, they may need additional features and processing power to run their programs, which may include educational programs, gaming or streaming content. Older children also tend to be more careful than younger children, so the risk of damage to a pricier laptop is lower.
Budget
Most parents will gravitate toward the most affordable options when looking at laptops for kids, which is fair; laptops can be expensive, and when in the hands of a child, they tend to become damaged faster.
Our best suggestion is to keep your budget low and make sure that the laptop you buy can handle the tasks your child will be doing. If the focus is primarily on schoolwork, there are inexpensive laptops that will do the job.
Kids’ laptop features
Operating software
An adult or older child should be comfortable navigating different operating systems, but a younger child may find it difficult.
Chrome OS, which is run by Chromebook and Pixelbook laptops, is more stripped down than Windows OS or Mac OS, making it ideal for younger children.
Durability
Let’s face it – children can be careless. For this reason, you’re going to want to invest in a durable laptop, especially if it’s for a younger child.
Most inexpensive laptops are manufactured using cheaper materials, such as plastic, to make them more lightweight and portable, but some laptops are more durable than others. Typically, the more expensive the laptop, the sturdier and heavier it is.
Battery life
One of the most crucial considerations when buying a kids’ laptop is how long it will last away from a power outlet in case they can’t plug it in at school.
The great thing about laptops for kids is that their processors don’t require too much power to run basic work applications, such as Microsoft Office.
Most lightweight laptops’ battery life is around 10 hours, but you can find models with battery up to 13 hours.
Kids’ laptop cost
If you want the most basic laptop possible, you can find one for $100 or under, but you should aim for the $250-$500 range for a durable laptop with respectable performance.
Kids’ laptop FAQ
Are two-in-one laptops better than traditional-style laptops?
A. This is entirely subjective, but it does offer more versatility. Some don’t find the tablet feature of a two-in-one particularly useful, but it can be for children, who will be using their laptops to read or watch movies.
How important is random-access memory (RAM)?
A. RAM is important if your child will be gaming or running multiple high-processing apps at once. The more RAM a laptop has, the more responsive it will be.
Which laptop for kids should I get?
Best of the best laptop for kids
Samsung Chromebook Plus: available at Samsung and Amazon
Our take: The best laptop for kids is a high-powered two-in-one with a fast processor and a touchscreen.
What we like: Folds into tablet mode. Intel Core M3 processor. Built-in digital pen. Dual camera.
What we dislike: Pricey.
Best bang for your buck laptop for kids
Microsoft Surface Go 2: available at Amazon and Best Buy
Our take: A lightweight, inexpensive tablet that’s ideal for kids’ tasks and homework.
What we like: Up to 10 hours of battery life. Slim and portable. High-resolution touchscreen. Compatible with detachable type cover keyboard accessory.
What we dislike: Doesn’t include type cover keyboard. Only available in grey.
Honorable mention laptop for kids
Acer Chromebook Spin 311: available at Acer and Amazon
Our take: A durable, lightweight laptop perfect for light gaming and regular work tasks.
What we like: Inexpensive. 360-degree flip design. 64 GB flash memory storage. IPS display screen.
What we dislike: Touchscreen can be somewhat unresponsive at times.
Kevin Luna is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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