A laptop is your child’s most important tool in college. You want it to last all four years (or more) and fulfill their needs, especially if they’re starting virtual learning. There is a large selection to browse, and it can be challenging to know where to begin. Below is a helpful guide to ensure you purchase the right custom-built computer for your college student.

A Guide to Buying a Laptop for a College Student

1. Portability & Durability

Will your child be taking their laptop to class every other day? If so, consider a small, lightweight device so it will be easier to carry. If your child is attending virtual classes, make sure the operating system can handle various applications at once. It’s crucial for the machine to be durable, so you may be better to look into a business-class laptop versus a consumer-grade.

2. Performance Power

Pay close attention to your child’s curriculum. Suppose they’re studying business and only require internet browsing and presentation software. In that case, you don’t need to purchase a laptop with above-average computing power. Students doing video editing, video game design, or computer aided design will need a more powerful device possibly with dedicated graphics. Common specs include 8-32 GB RAM and a multicore processor.

This is a great time to consider customizing a laptop. A manufacturer will carefully consider your child’s needs and then upgrade the device with to maximize computing power.

3. Accessories & Add-Ons

There are many ways to customize a computer. Consider a touchscreen and stylus if your child is studying graphic design or likes to take notes by hand. Choose a product with a high-quality camera and microphone if they’re taking many online classes.

Purchase plenty of external storage if they’ll be saving large files such as engineering blueprints. Other accessories like an external monitor, headset with microphone, docking station, wireless mouse and keyboard may be very helpful.

If you’re in the market for a custom-built computer, contact Microworx of Rochester, NY. They’ve served the area since 1994 and offer a variety of tech services. Their skilled team members handle data recovery, computer and laptop repair, and computer virus removal. Call (585) 271-0050 to speak with a representative and visit their website to learn more about the company. Want to receive tips or special offers? Text JOIN to (585) 484-0755 to enroll in their text messaging program. Need to know their hours? Text HOURS.