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When it comes to selecting the optimal laptop for high school students, the Apple MacBook Air M1 stands out as a top contender. Despite the availability of its successor, the M2 version, the M1 remains a stellar choice, equipped with all the essentials for school tasks and more. Boasting exceptional value, it delivers impressive everyday performance, extended battery life, and a lightweight build that enhances portability.
For those seeking the best value proposition, the HP Pavilion Aero 13 emerges as a compelling option. Priced at a starting point of $800, its frequent availability at discounted rates offers even greater affordability. Much like the M1 Air, the Aero delivers robust performance for day-to-day usage, complemented by prolonged battery life, all packaged within a sleek and compact design ideal for on-the-go students.
![Apple MacBook Air M1 laptop open on a gray table with a blue sofa in the background.](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/1b400c507165b62631eeab09c1dfe3fce13b99c7/hub/2023/09/20/47917311-3bcd-4a6d-8229-a7fda7bb76e1/apple-macbook-air-m1-01.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&height=144&width=144)
Best laptop overall for high school students
![The 2023 HP Pavilion Aero 13 laptop open and facing to the right and sitting on a dark blue couch.](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/16849c3fe7b176ec9451cff11002928a8ffc00e1/hub/2023/08/15/f511b8a1-6be3-498e-afed-3e4e0331c3e5/hp-pavilion-aero-2023-01.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&height=144&width=144)
Best Windows laptop for students
![Acer Chromebook Spin 714 open and facing to the right on a wooden table with windows behind it.](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/5f4e1a2fb4b4e670b45b6f2ff73e52e62e063865/hub/2022/09/20/54700754-7049-4a86-a22e-b662a1c43322/acer-chromebook-spin-714-04.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&height=144&width=144)
Best Chromebook for students
Acer Chromebook Spin 714
![Acer Swift X 14 OLED ultraportable at an angle against a gray wall](https://www.cnet.com/a/img/resize/a88865ef92886227b67165e640991fd4bd6b2317/hub/2023/06/21/3a03bd46-8de7-4afc-ab60-bd97eb4c2f5c/acer-swift-x-14-overview.jpg?auto=webp&fit=crop&height=144&width=144)
Best for STEM students