The base model clocks in at only $999, and it features eight CPU cores, seven GPU cores, 256GB of solid-state drive (SSD) storage, and 8GB of unified memory. In our head-to-head matchup, we found that the MacBook Air is the better option overall. Apple's M1 chip provides excellent performance across all the devices it's in, and the fanless MacBook Air M1 shows that off perfectly.

What we thought of the Apple MacBook Air M1:įor years, the MacBook Air has been a thin, light alternative to the MacBook Pro that performs worse. Who’s it for: Any college student who loves the Mac but doesn't have the budget for the MacBook Pro. Why should you buy this: It's the most economical entry into Apple's MacBook ecosystem. And if you opt for the OLED display, you'll enjoy binging HDR video when you're not attending class or finishing coursework. And you'll love the way it feels and performs, as well. We love the way the Pavilion Plus 14 looks with its conservative yet attractive design that comes in one of five colors. That's a lot of laptop for not a lot of money. This updated version comes with up to a 45-watt 14-core (six Performance and eight Efficient) 12th-generation Intel Core i7-12700H processor and offers a premium-like build quality.Įven better, you can get a version of the Pavilion Plus 14 with a 15-watt 10-core (two Performance and eight Efficient) Intel Core i5-1240P, discrete Nvidia GeForce MX550 GPU, and a 2.2K (2240 x 1400) IPS display for just $680 on sale. The laptop is an upscale version of HP's Pavilion budget and midrange lineup, offering a thinner chassis and a 90Hz 2.8K (2880 x 1800) OLED display for just $820 (on sale).

What we thought of the HP Pavilion Plus 14:Ī well-built, feature-complete, affordable machine, the HP Pavilion Plus 14 does it all. Who’s it for: College students who don’t have a lot to spend but still demand a great laptop. Why should you buy this: You won’t find many laptops that provide a better combination of low price, great performance, and lightweight design.

Best apple laptop for college students