Best Laptops for Computer Science Students

15 Best Laptops for Computer Science Students 2024 – Top Laptops on a Budget

It is nearly impossible to become a computer scientist without a good laptop. Every student needs the best laptop of all for coding, to do programming, and typical assignments and projects. It seems easy to find a good laptop but when you start choosing the best laptop you become confused because of the numerous choices available in the market.

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Our Pick
Apple MacBook Pro (13-Inch, 8GB RAM, 512GB Storage) - Silver (Previous Model)
Good Choice
ASUS VivoBook S Ultra Thin and Portable Laptop, Intel Core i5-8250U processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB...
Don't Miss
Lenovo 2019 Yoga C930 2-in-1 13.9" 4K UHD Touch-Screen Laptop - Intel i7, 16GB DDR4, 1TB PCI-e SSD,...
Also Consider
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB)
Name
Apple MacBook Pro (13-Inch, 8GB RAM, 512GB Storage) - Silver (Previous Model)
ASUS VivoBook S Ultra Thin and Portable Laptop, Intel Core i5-8250U processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB...
Lenovo 2019 Yoga C930 2-in-1 13.9" 4K UHD Touch-Screen Laptop - Intel i7, 16GB DDR4, 1TB PCI-e SSD,...
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB)
Screen Size
13 Inches
15.6 Inches
13.9 Inches
12.3 Inches
Operating System
Mac OS
Windows 10
Windows 10
Windows 10 Home
Our Pick
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Apple MacBook Pro (13-Inch, 8GB RAM, 512GB Storage) - Silver (Previous Model)
Name
Apple MacBook Pro (13-Inch, 8GB RAM, 512GB Storage) - Silver (Previous Model)
Screen Size
13 Inches
Operating System
Mac OS
Good Choice
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ASUS VivoBook S Ultra Thin and Portable Laptop, Intel Core i5-8250U processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB...
Name
ASUS VivoBook S Ultra Thin and Portable Laptop, Intel Core i5-8250U processor, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256GB...
Screen Size
15.6 Inches
Operating System
Windows 10
Don't Miss
Image
Lenovo 2019 Yoga C930 2-in-1 13.9" 4K UHD Touch-Screen Laptop - Intel i7, 16GB DDR4, 1TB PCI-e SSD,...
Name
Lenovo 2019 Yoga C930 2-in-1 13.9" 4K UHD Touch-Screen Laptop - Intel i7, 16GB DDR4, 1TB PCI-e SSD,...
Screen Size
13.9 Inches
Operating System
Windows 10
Also Consider
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Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB)
Name
Microsoft Surface Pro 6 (Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 128GB)
Screen Size
12.3 Inches
Operating System
Windows 10 Home

All you need is to understand your requirements first which are mostly not just limited to coding and programming but may include extracurricular like gaming. To overcome these hurdles, the following article presents you with the ten best laptops for computer science students. It elaborates on all the significant specifications that a good laptop must have!

1. Apple MacBook Pro

The MacBook Pro (13-inch) by a very known brand “Apple” is ranked top amongst all ten best laptops for computer science students. It amazes you not only with its look but with extraordinary features.

If you are not happy with the display of your previous laptop then you are in the right place. It features a 13 inches display which is good enough for working and entertainment. The system has a macOS operation which is Apple’s own operating system with the highest proficiency and security. It has an Intel Core-i5 processor which is one step back to the latest.

Everything aside but there should be no compromise on looks. This product is available in a space gray color which gives it an extra aesthetic look.The dimensions of product are 0.59 * 11.97 * 8.36 inches (Height x width x depth). It weighs 3.02 pounds. The lightweight of a MacBook makes it very convenient for a student to carry it all along.

The most appealing feature is the touch system and the touch ID option. It also has the most advanced keyboard by Apple. The battery life extends up to 10 hours which is typically not provided by other laptops, so now you do not need to be worried about a socket or charger, as it allows you to work for hours without any problem.

The device has wireless WIFI and in-built Bluetooth technology which facilitates security. The laptop is the best choice with 8 GB RAM and 256 GB internal storage which is more than enough for the data storage of a student. You can do everything you want like programming, coding, and gaming too.

If you are thinking of a MacBook Pro’s performance, then obviously there is no compromise on it too. It gives you a choice to select based on your need and requirements ranging from i3 to i9. However, i9 is the latest and most advanced.

However, its price is a bit high but it really worth it if you want one in the normal range then you have to check our best laptops for under $700.

Overall, this revolutionary piece with all good specifications and the best display is going to make you shine. It is not even comparable when it comes to performance. The MacBook Pro is going to make your way clear to the world of CS.

2. Acer Aspire E 15 Laptop

The Acer’s E-series E-15 laptop has a central processing unit with Intel core i5 8250. It displays your data on an LED screen of 15.6 inches. The system is built in a way that it operates Windows 10 with four processor counts. This 8th Generation laptop has 8 GB memory (Dual Channel) with 256 GB internal storage. The memory is enough to store a large amount of data.

If you are tired of charging your old laptop again and again, then the Acer’s E 15 is designed for you. It has an extended battery life of 15 hours that is more than half a day. Not only battery timings, but also its processor does not fail to amaze you. It has a processor of 1.6 clock frequency (GHz) which is built up to 3.4 clock frequency (GHz) via boost technology.

The other in-built features include: secured SD memory card reader, two stereo speakers, drives, Bluetooth, wireless connectivity, HDR webcam, USB port, and much more. The screen resolution is maximized up to 1920 x 1080 pixels. The product weighs 5 pounds approximately.

This all makes setup an ideal item for future computer scientists. It is also not very expensive so a student can easily afford it. This laptop is going to cement all the gaps in your way of programming.

Besides the budget, the laptop has features all the significant specs needed for programming, gaming, watching videos, making projects, doing assignments, and virtual classes.

However, the laptop is a little heavier to carry out everywhere. But for students, it is convenient if they study from home.

Inclusively, E 15 is an in-expensive laptop and is very affordable for students. Fortunately, it’s price does not affect its features and performance at all. The best thing about this laptop is 15 hours of battery timings.

Acer Aspire E 15 Laptop is not that expensive if you have an interest in gaming then you definitely have to check best gaming laptops under $800.

3. ASUS VivoBook S Ultra Thin

The VivoBook S by a popular laptop brand ASUS is a portable laptop. The beautiful and decent look of this laptop makes it the best. It is very thin in width with 15.6 inches of display operating Windows 10. This display is giant and can surely amaze you. This aesthetic laptop is available in the Icicle Gold color that goes with people of any age or gender.

This efficient laptop ensues 8th Generation with Core i5 8250 by Intel with four processing units. It has a processor of 1.8 clock frequency (GHz) which built up to 4.0 clock frequency (GHz) via boost technology. This processor is well enough to make this laptop more efficient.

The other features include: 265 SSD, secured SD memory card reader, three-cell battery, two stereo speakers, drives, 4.1 Bluetooth, Dual-band wireless connectivity, HDR webcam, three USB ports, HDMI, and much more. The screen resolution is maximized up to 1920 x 1080 pixels. The product weighs 3.7 pounds.

As well, the laptop is very slim and lightweight which gives a plus point to students who have to carry it along for university. The best thing about this product is its portability and affordability. So ready your backpack for this amazing product!

Above and Beyond, this laptop did not compromise on looks as well as performance. You can not only do your work on it, but it is also best for gaming. And the good news is that it is fair to your pocket.

Also Check

4. Lenovo Yoga C930

This two-in-one Lenovo Yoga has 13.9 inches display with a touch feature. This product is artistry with those premium features: SSD, four-cell battery, two stereo speakers, drives, 4.1 Bluetooth, Dual-band wireless connectivity, HDR webcam, three external ports, LED backlight, microphone, and headphones jack, and much more.

It has a processor core i7 by Intel. It operates Windows 10 with four processor counts. The screen resolution is maximized up to 3840 x 2160 pixels. The product weighs three lbs. The best thing about this laptop is its flip flop design that it rotates into a 360-degree angle.

Lenovo never fails to impress the audience with its products. The Yoga C930 is a package of performance and display with all the advanced features. It is best for students due to the new flip design that gives it a tablet look as well. You can professionally grow with C930 without any problem.

In general, this beautifully designed laptop should be called all in one rather than two in one. This is because it features all the advanced specs with a good processor. It is known for its flip and flop design.

5. Acer Predator Helios

The Predator Helios by Acer is bringing future computer scientists to another level. It fetches the following features: 256 GB SSD, 16GB memory, hard drive bay, light keyboard, Wireless connectivity, LAN, IPS display, three-dimensional fan, slots for upgrades, and much more.

This 9th Generation laptop has a core i7 by Intel with six processor units. This is an HD display powered by IPS. The display is 15.6 inches which is a good laptop display. The display exhibits the best colors which are awesome for movie lovers.

Along with all specs, you are going to experience excellent gaming. This laptop is a new opportunity for computer scientists to grow in their field. However, this laptop is not easy to carry all along as it is heavier. It weighs 5.07 lbs.

In conclusion, the best thing about this laptop is the backlit keyboard which is one of the advanced and best features in the new laptop world. That is why this laptop is also preferred for gaming.

6. ASUS ZenBook

The ASUS ZenBook is a 13 inches display on a flat thin screen. The screen gives you an HD display and colorful exhibition that is good for screen lovers. This laptop has very amazing features like a backlit keyboard which is best for gaming, fingerprint, SSD which can be upgraded easily, HDMI, USB ports, and much more.

The best thing about this laptop is its display. It is available in a slate gray color. However, ASUS never compromises on processor and functions. This product has Windows 10 and inbuilt core i5 8265 by Intel. It has a processor which can be boosted up to 3.9 clock frequency (Hz). The product also comes with an SD card reader.

If you are worried about storage and all then this zenbook has a large memory space of 8 GB ROM with 512 GB internal storage. So you can download software and games without any hurdle. However, the system doesn’t have a graphic card but you can build it.

ASUS ZenBook is in a compact size and can be taken anywhere without any hassle if you need to check out more models give our best laptops under $400 a look.

At last, if you are enrolled in the computer science department then this ZenBook is a perfect choice for you. This is because this laptop is very light in weight. You can not even need a bag to carry it.

7. Microsoft Surface Pro 6 KJT-00015

This duo by Microsoft has a 12.3 inches touch display with 8th generation. The processor is Core i5 by Intel. It could function windows 10 and has 8 GB RAM and 256 GB internal space. It has integrated graphics unit-2 also called UHD graphics 620.

This upgraded version of Windows Pro 5th generation has more features such as 2736 x 1824 pixel display, touch screen facility, hardware, already installed software, good power source, Guidelines book, SSD, USB ports, headphones port, Microphone ports, and much more.

There is no compromise on its processor as it brings you 4.02 clock frequency (Hz). Also, it has SSD storage which can be further upgraded as per your choice. Though, its 8 GB RAM is more than enough for downloading large software, etc.

If you are a student and looking for a portable laptop then this laptop could fulfill all your needs and requirements as it provides you a detachable touch screen. So it is very easy going to attend lectures, read articles, review documents, take notes, and more.

Swiftly, this laptop is very stylish and portable. You can use it easily and get it everywhere. For the students, its detachable screen conversion is very soothing as it helps in getting lectures or making notes by just switching your iPad or tablet.

Also Check

8. Dell XPS 13 9360 Laptop

This visually sensible and attractive laptop is all in one deal for computer science students. It is available in silver color which gives it an aesthetic appearance. This laptop gives you 13.3 inches HD and colorful display with thin edges.

The laptop is made up of quality aluminum. The design of this laptop is very thin and lightweight which increases its portability so that students can carry it easily. Also, the slim screen is one of the advanced features in the latest laptops. It gives the laptop a very charming look and lowers the overall weight.

Dell is one of the best companies known for laptops worldwide. It never disappoints its users on every aspect whether it’s about performance or visual appearance. This Dell laptop has the following specifications: SSD, Backlit keyboard (essential for gaming), USB ports, headphones port, microphone port, wireless WIFI connectivity, Bluetooth connection, webcam, and many more.

Bluetooth connectivity is a good option to see in laptops. This is because it makes offline sharing feasible, especially in institutes where sometimes you are running out of connection.

Overall, this laptop is a good choice for university students but it is not recommended for professional use, However, there are variants available so you can choose as per your needs and your pocket.

9. ASUS TUF

TUF 505 by ASUS is also called ASUS TUF Gaming. This doesn’t mean that if you are a gamer then you would buy this laptop. However, gaming laptops are also good for programming, coding, and more. This is because a gaming laptop comes with an extraordinary processor and storage capacity.

When it comes to displaying, ASUS TUF has 15.6 inches display with 1920 x 1080 resolution. Gaming laptops often have good displays so that one can have a cleared gaming session!

The Gaming TUF features good pixels display, SSD, wifi connectivity, 48 W Hours battery, backlit advanced keyboard, already installed software, Guidelines book, USB ports, headphones port, Microphone ports, and much more. So not only gamers but if you are a computer scientist this one is perfect for you.

Moreover, another appealing property of TUF is the in-built dual fan technology. This can prevent the dust inside the laptop thus making it a durable product. So, this heavy-duty laptop facilitates you in every possible way.

Undoubtedly, this is one of the most powerful laptops by Dell in the TUF series. It contains all the significant specs that you may need as a computer scientist. Though, the most appealing feature is the AMD processor.

10. Dell XPS 9570 Laptop

The XPS 9570 Laptop by a much-known brand “Dell” is ranked amongst all ten best laptops for computer science students because it amazes you not only with its look but with extraordinary features.

If you are not happy with the display of your previous laptop then you are in the right place. It features a 15.6 inches display which is more than MacBook Pro and great enough for working and entertainment. The system has Windows 10 operating system which is updated to date. It has Intel Core-i7 chips processor which makes it able to perform multiple functions at once.

At glance, this product is aesthetic. The visual display is large so that you can enjoy Netflix all the season in its 1920 x 1080 HD resolution. The device has wireless WIFI and in-built Bluetooth technology which facilitates you. The laptop is the best choice with 16 GB RAM and 512 GB internal storage which is more than enough for the data storage of a student.

The best thing about Dell XPS 9570 Laptop is its display and resolution. Also, the storage is good enough to download and store software in it. If you are tired of storage issues in your previous laptop then switch with this piece!

FAQs

Should I get a gaming laptop if I’m not much of a gamer?

Yes. you can buy a gaming laptop although only gamers could buy a gaming laptop. In fact, a gaming laptop is preferred by any computer science student. This is because a gaming laptop is loaded with the best and solid specifications which makes it the best in performance.

Do I need to get an external laptop cooling pad if I run heavy programs for extended hours?

Well, that totally depends upon the processor of your laptop. However, if you know, before buying a laptop, that you are going to run heavy programs on your laptop which may end up heating your device then you should go for a laptop with an internal cooling feature.

Which laptop processor and memory should we choose as computer science students?

In the context of processors, core i5 by Intel is preferred because it is suitable for most types of workloads. However, core i3 is also enough if you don’t need to do animation or parallel computing. But if you are into this, then core i7 is recommended.

While in the framework of memory 8 GB is recommended at a minimum. However, it depends on your working schedule. If you are a multitasker then you should go for higher like 12 or 16 GB.

Is a dedicated graphics card needed for CS majors?

A dedicated graphics card is necessary only if you’re going to do heavy graphics. But, if you are not into this then these cards are not needed.

Conclusion

Choosing a good laptop with more advanced features is not a big deal now, because this article already did that for you!

If these weren’t enough, check out some other picks from Amazon also:

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Lenovo Flex 5 14 2-in-1 Laptop, 14.0" FHD Touch Display, AMD Ryzen 5 4500U, 16GB RAM, 256GB Storage,...
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CHUWI HeroBook Pro 14.1'' Laptop, 256GB SSD 8GB RAM, Windows 11 Laptop, 1TB SSD Expand, Intel...
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Lenovo Chromebook S330 14in Laptop Computer, Mediatek MT8173C up to 1.7 Ghz, 4GB RAM, 32GB eMMC SSD,...
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