Best Computers for Students
Whether it’s a laptop or desktop, a solid computer is a must-have for students of all ages. With so many of them on the market, though, how do you know which one is right for your needs? What is the best laptop for elementary students? What about the best laptops for high school students?
At Lenovo, we understand that you need tech that can support your students while also being functional for entertainment, gaming, and more. That’s why we offer a broad selection of computers that are perfect for everything from online classes to streaming your favorite shows!
This guide will focus on three models that are often regarded as the best computer for online school: the AIO 3 Series 24”, Mini 5i, and IdeaCentre 3 Towers.
Let’s dive in!
AIO 3 Series 24”
The AIO 3 Series 24” desktop computer offers the perfect balance of affordability, sleek design, and performance. It is one of our top entry-level, all-in-one computers that helps you get the computing power you need without having to store a massive tower or hard drive.
This is one of the best computers for students because you can upgrade it down the road, it is compact enough to fit on your desk while saving space, and it maximizes productivity.
- The AIO 3 Series 24” has a 24-inch display. This touchscreen has an FHD IPS display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080. It also provides 250 nits of brightness, ensuring you can adjust your settings for the lighting in any bedroom, dorm, office, or classroom.
So, what do you get when you purchase this slick and affordable computer? The package includes all the devices your student needs to succeed. For example, it includes the computer and monitor, wireless keyboard, a wireless mouse, and a quick start guide to help you get set up.
It has all the tools and accessories included in the box so you can get to studying or browsing the web without delay. The all-in-one computer comes in business black so it can match with any style or decor too!
Enhanced Performance
Whether you are shopping for the best computers for elementary students or the best laptop for middles school, you need tech that can perform and keep up in a fast-paced environment. The AIO 3 Series 24" absolutely delivers -, providing your student with world-class performance, speed, and efficiency.
For starters, it has an impressively fast 10th Generation Intel Core processor and a solid-state drive. This processing technology allows your programs, applications, and systems to run faster and smoother – so you can spend more time studying and less time dealing with lag.
If you need even faster performance, you can upgrade the base system.. by increasing the processing speeds up to 3.60 GHz with Turbo Boost and adding up to 6 cores. Even though this is model is perfect for beginners and students, it can scale alongside your computing needs.
Another area where this desktop computer excels is storage. With 1 TB of space, you can store plenty of files for school, family, and fun. That means you won’t need to ration your storage space between documents and files, so go ahead and download that game because it won’t slow your online classes down.
You can also access up to 8 GB of RAM. Students who like to stream music while writing research papers or running other apps simultaneously will be impressed with the speed this allows.
The AIO 3 Series 24” also comes preloaded with the Windows 10 Home operating system. This is the latest Windows O S that is built to run the best computers for students.
Compact and Modern
When you are searching for the best laptop for middle school, your goal is to find something that is powerful but also compact. You don't want them working on a massive computer. Instead, consider the space-saving AIO 3 Series 24".
It is an all-in-one computer, is packaged neatly inside the monitor, so you only need to worry about one device. It is only 24-inches wide and is designed with tight spaces in mind.
It only weighs 16.3lbs, and the touchscreen display is basically borderless. The narrow bezels maximize the real estate you have available for online classes, educational apps, and more. With a huge screen-to-display ratio, you will have a hard time noticing the border is even there.
The base on this computer is also stylish, with modern design aesthetics that will help it fit into any setting. Cluttered cords and limited desk space are also a thing of the past when you choose the AIO 3 Series 24". It includes a cable collector right inside the stand, so even your accessories can be neatly organized and arranged, So say goodbye to messy desks and tangled cords! This will do wonders for your students’ productivity and organization skills.
The touchscreen can also be easily tilted and adjusted so you can optimize your viewing angle. Use this flexibility to avoid light reflections, enhance the ergonomics of your setup, or share your screen with a friend.
Functional for Everyone
The AIO 3 Series 24” is also a computer that is functional for everyone. Sure, it is one of the best computers for students, but it is also ideal for family viewing and more. The large display is fitted with narrow bezels, so you can sit around the computer with classmates, friends, and family with ease. The 24” FHD IPS display provides an exceptional viewing experience, and the visuals will be just as clear regardless of which angle you are looking from.
Thanks to the Integrated Intel UHD or Iris Plus Graphics card, your screen will produce images with brilliant and accurate colors – perfect for editing photos and exploring your creative side.
Since the computers can be viewed from wide angles, it makes it the perfect tech to help your student with their homework or supervise their online browsing. It also means that you can gather around and enjoy your favorite shows and movies with ease! This model is also compatible with dual monitors, so you can expand your field of view even further.
Another feature that makes the AIO 3 Series 24" functional for everyone is the interactive touchscreen. Whether you have an elementary student that is just learning how to use a mouse or an older relative that may not be comfortable with tech, the touchscreen makes navigating the device simple and intuitive.
All you need to do is tap files directly on the screen with your finger – or drag and drop specific windows – to accomplish your task. This makes opening apps, browsing through photos, and playing games even more exciting.
Get Connected
The best computer for school is one that allows you to get connected and navigate the web with flexibility. There is no doubt that the AIO 3 Series 24” can help you do that, and then some.
It is equipped with all the ports you need to integrate other devices and tech. Students generally need to incorporate accessories like headsets, USB drives, cameras, and more depending on the educational environment, and your computer should be able to facilitate that connectivity.
This all-in-one desktop includes the following ports: 2 USB 2.0, 2 USB 3.1, an RJ45 ethernet port, a 3-in-1 card reader, DVD-RW, and HDMI-out. Similarly, it offers a headphone and microphone combination port to ensure your student can participate in class discussion, create content, and enjoy their favorite music.
You might be wondering, what are all these ports used for? Certain ports can be used to connect to an external soundbar or keyboard to boost your browsing experience and productivity. If you want to connect a second monitor to make your studying efforts even more efficient, you can leverage the HDMI slot to create a seamless connection.
Speaking of connecting more devices, this computer also comes equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 – opening you up to a world of possibilities when it comes to getting connected.
Emphasis on Privacy and Security
As with all your tech devices, privacy and security should be a top priority. The AIO 3 Series 24” emphasizes this fact by providing built-in privacy and security features. For instance, the True Block Privacy Shutter protects your webcam to give you added peace of mind that your students are safe.
The computer also allows you to install kid-safe controls and other security applications to meet the needs of your unique situation. It gives you complete control over the way your information is shared and stored too.
Mini 5i
Are you looking for an ultracompact desktop that can fit in even the tiniest of spaces? If so, the Mini 5i is the perfect solution. It is equipped with up to a 10th Generation Intel Core processor, an impressive array of ports, and pre-loaded software – meaning this small computer packs a big punch.
When you purchase this device, the box will include the IdeaCentre Mini 5i, a 90W or 135W AC adapter, and a quick start guide to help you get up and running. Note that it does not come with a monitor, keyboard, or mouse, so you will need to purchase those separately. It gives you the freedom to choose those that will meet your exact needs.
So, why is the Mini 5i one of the best computers for high school students and even college goers? The key is the impressive processing power it provides without taking up a ton of space. There is a good chance that these students will have limited desk space – whether they are at home or in a dorm – so you need a compact solution. It only weighs 3.26 pounds and is less than 1.60” inches thin, so you can fit it almost anywhere.
It is Small but Mighty
This computer is small but mighty – that’s why we called it the Mini 5i! Big things can come in small packages, and this is a great example of just that. It delivers powerful system performance with a solid-state drive and up to 12 GB DDR4 memory.
That’s right, all of that is stored within this tiny desktop PC. That is why it is one of the best computers for students. You no longer need a giant tower or desktop computer to access fast browsing, tight security, and expansive connectivity.
Although the goal with this device is to have a small computer that is easily hideable, our designers did not neglect the device's appearance. It is outfitted with a Terrazzo Grey exterior that is accented with a mineral grey textile covering. This unique combination makes it appear warm and homey, while still exuding a contemporary tech feel.
The Mini 5i is an ideal computer for students that don’t want a flashy gaming setup but don’t want to sacrifice the capabilities of their desktop. It can blend in perfectly at school, home, and even at work!
Ready to Go When You Are
Students are always on the go, and when they get access to new tech, they want to use it right away. Our on-demand lifestyle has made us accustomed to instant solutions and access, and the Mini 5i ensures that you have the same experience with your computer.
The Mini 5i comes preloaded with various software solutions, so you can get started with whatever project you are working on right away. The preloaded software package includes Lenovo Vantage, a trial of Microsoft 365, and a trial of McAfee LiveSafe.
The best computer for online school makes it quick and simple to get your work done and having Microsoft 365 pre-installed can make all the difference. All you need to do is boot up your Mini 5i and you can access Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more.
Whether you need to write a research paper, create a presentation with PowerPoint, or build a budget in excel, these preloaded tools will make your educational experience seamless and effective.
Think of Lenovo Vantage as the control center for your computer. It makes it easy to manage your applications, get support, update your drives, and even run device diagnostics. That means it is easy for parents to manage their students’ devices and ensure that the computer is operating properly.
A trial of McAfee LiveSafe is included with your Mini 5i to ensure that you can protect your students and their data. Having this installed will provide you with extra comfort knowing that your device is secured.
Reliable Storage that Doesn’t Slow You Down
When you are in school, you need access to a lot of data. You will also be creating documents, presentations, photo albums, and more that need to be stored on your device. The worst thing that could happen is that you get halfway through the semester and your PC runs out of space!
With the Mini 5i, these worries will be non-existent. It runs on an efficient Windows 10 desktop that allows you to maximize your storage space and speed. You can choose from either a 256GB SSD or a 1 TB HDD – giving you plenty of runway to store large files like movies, RAW images, and applications.
Top processing speeds will be maintained even as you start to store data on your device. In other words, you can download as much music and as many applications as you’d like without worrying about it affecting your ability to complete your schoolwork.
You can expect your streaming to be fast and reliable too, so you can have the best experience whether you are watching Netflix or logging into your virtual classes.
All the Ports You Need
At Lenovo, we understand the importance of having enough ports on your device to connect accessories and additional tech. That's why this PC is equipped with a complete fleet of ports for your convenience.
You can find these slots on the front and back of the Mini 5i – the entire device was utilized to make the most out of the limited real estate available for ports.
On the front, you will find three ports: a USB 3.2 Type-C, a USB 3.2 Type-A, and a headphone and microphone combination jack. The rear slots on the Mini 5i include 4 USB 3.2 Type-As, a DisplayPort, an HDMI slot, and RJ45.
That leaves you with an impressive five USB ports around the computer so you can easily connect all your accessories and additional devices. The USB-C slot is conveniently positioned in the front, so you can quickly charge devices and access faster data transfer.
The HDMI slot allows you to connect an additional monitor to the Mini 5i, which can help students be more efficient and productive.
Advanced Tech
Students represent the next generation of engineers, doctors, teachers, and more – so it is only right that they have access to advanced tech that will propel them into the future.
The Mini 5i’s 10th Gen Intel Core processor is one of the most efficient on the market. It starts at 2.00 GHz but can be enhanced to 3.60 GHz with Turbo Boost, providing exceptional speed and reliability. The 6 cores, 12 threads, and 12 MB cache also ensure that your load times are minimized and there are no concerns with lag.
Just because the Mini 5i doesn’t come with a monitor doesn’t mean that the graphics aren’t amazing. The Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 card can generate vibrant visuals and accurate colors, so you can have an optimized viewing experience on the screen of your choice.
Accessorize as Needed
The Mini 5i is a stand alone PC, so the mouse, keyboard, and monitor are all sold separately. This presents an exciting opportunity to accessorize as needed. No two students are the same, so why should their tech accessories be identical?
Choose from our wide line of computer monitors designed to fit any space and budget. For example, you can mix and match the Mini 5i with almost any screen in our line-up. That includes gaming monitors designed to bring your students' favorite video games to life.
The same goes for your mouse and keyboard. Higher-level students may prefer ergonomic accessories that enhance their performance during extended usage - which might be time spent studying or gaming.
IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers
One of the best computers for students is the IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers. This next-generation PC boasts a thin profile that offers big performance – it is the best of both worlds. You no longer need a clunky desktop that takes up your entire workspace. Instead, opt for this device that allows you to access all the power you need – and then some – without requiring you to store a huge device.
Students need to manage many apps and programs, photos, music, videos, and other files for their courses. The IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers were designed to process all these requirements at once while keeping everything running smoothly.
When you purchase this PC, you will also get a USB mouse and keyboard, ensuring that you can be productive and efficient right away. It doesn’t come with a standard monitor option, but that just means you get to choose from our entire product line to find the perfect fit for your educational needs. You will also receive a quick start guide that outlines everything you need to know about your new desktop computer.
Selecting the best computers for elementary students can be tough, but the IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers are the top choice. Rather than worrying about flimsy laptops holding up to what younger students might put them through, consider instead this PC that has a slim and stylish tower that can be placed anywhere.
Trend-Setting Design
There’s a good chance that when you think of desktop PCs, the terms sophisticated, trendy, and slim don’t come to mind. The desktops we think of are large, unsightly, and outdated. Those other terms are reserved for tablets and laptops, right?
Well, the IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers are here to change the way you view desktop computers for good. They demonstrate superior craftmanship with their sleek lines and aesthetic finishes – these PCs were not built to be hidden in a cabinet or under a desk!
Its contemporary line designs highlight the mineral gray finish, allowing the PC to look trendy and appealing. The slim size gives you the chance to put it just about anywhere that you want, and it looks great with all types of designs and workstations.
The IdeaCentre 310S is only 8.4 L, making it half the size of your traditional desktop PC. This is perfect for students that have limited space on their desks because you can neatly store it under a monitor or tuck it away in the corner.
Whether you opt for this desktop PC in your home, college dorm, or classroom, you will not be disappointed with how modern the design looks.
Customize Your Storage Features
It can be frustrating to shop for the best computer for school, only to find that the ones with a slim and sleek design don't have enough storage. Having to pay for more storage than you will ever need can be as equally irritating, though!
The only way to solve this issue is to choose a PC that allows you to customize your storage features – and the IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers do exactly that.
If you don't need to store large files and prefer a desktop that can offer faster transfer speeds and shorter boot times, choose the 128GB SSD. This option still allows you to store a significant number of files, videos, and photos but enhances your processing speeds and efficiency.
On the other hand, if your student loves photography, videos, or music, consider the 1TB hard drive instead. This expansive storage capacity ensures that you can download large files, games, and more without running out of space on your PC.
As you can see, the multiple storage options allow you to prioritize what is most important to your student. Do you need a lot of storage space and want to make sure that you never have to delete files to make room for more? Or do you prefer faster boot times and processing for a smaller hard drive?
The choice is up to you!
Perfect for Students to MultiTask
It’s no secret that students love to multi-task. Very rarely will you find a high schooler or college student just studying – they are almost always blasting their favorite tunes, streaming videos, or chatting with friends at the same time. The more that technology becomes integrated into our lives, the greater amount of multi-tasking that will occur.
The best computers for students, like the IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers, can handle any task you throw at them. Even when they need to manage several at one time.
It doesn't matter if you are running multiple applications, watching shows, listening to an online lecture, or finishing your homework. This device has powerful performance that feels so smooth you won’t even realize you have so many things running at once.
You might be wondering – how can this desktop PC manage to multi-task so efficiently? The key to this power is the up to 10th Generation Intel Core processor and Radeon graphics. This top-tier tech was built to handle large amounts of processing requirements without slowing down or causing your programs to freeze or lag.
That means that the days of having to shut off your music or show just to get your school program to boot up are long gone.
Ports, Ports, and More Ports
An essential component of an effective PC solution is the ability to connect extra devices. This might mean adding a second monitor – or a third – external speakers, microphones, and webcams. The only way to do this, though, is to connect to a port.
Have you ever needed to charge your phone or connect a device to your computer, but there weren’t any slots left?
The IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers are designed for students in mind, so they offer plenty of ports to connect everything you need. How many is plenty, you ask? These devices allow you to connect with up to 8 USB ports.
Four of these are located right in the front of the tower, meaning you don't have to slide the desktop over or reach around it. The other four are in the back, but they can still be easily accessed, if necessary.
These PCs also include an HDMI port and a 7-in-1 card reader. Feel free to connect devices like cameras, tablets, and more so that you can optimize your learning experience.
Match Your PC with a Sleek Monitor
After you purchase one of the IdeaCentre 3 Series Towers, it is time to match it with the perfect monitor. Lenovo offers an impressive selection to choose from, which you can check out here.
There is something for every type of student when it comes to finding the right monitor. Students that enjoy gaming and immersing themselves in virtual worlds should consider one of our top-performing gaming monitors. A gaming monitor will provide a high-resolution display with life-like lighting - so you can have a realistic game experience.
If you are looking to outfit a large classroom with multiple devices, we also offer affordable and effective monitor solutions to meet these needs.
Many of our monitors are also TÜV Rheinland Low Blue Light certified, which means you can stare as long as you want – the screen will protect your eyes from these harmful rays much better than most other options.
