Best Apple Devices for Students in 2025
As summer approaches, it’s time for students to start thinking about what they need when returning to school or college. Apple devices are a popular choice, but with so many options available—including some expensive ones—it can be challenging to decide which one suits your needs best.
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If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices, this guide is here to help. It outlines the best Apple phones, tablets, and student laptops for this year, ensuring you know exactly which products to take with you on your studies and which might not be the best fit.
Phone: iPhone 16e (with Some Caveats)
For students on a tight budget, the iPhone 16e is a solid choice. It offers everything a student might need from a phone: ample storage, a high-performance chip, and access to a wide range of apps via the App Store. Its price is also relatively accessible, making it a great starting point for those with modest needs.
However, there are situations where upgrading might be beneficial. If you’re studying something related to photography or film, the iPhone 16 or iPhone 16 Pro could be more suitable. These models come with enhanced cameras and additional lenses, while the iPhone 16 Pro also supports ProRes video and log recording—features that could be useful if you plan to do a lot of filming.
Additionally, the iPhone 16 Pro includes a LiDAR scanner, which may be necessary if you’re studying architecture or any field requiring accurate measurements and room planning. Before making a purchase, check with your college to see if they provide equipment for such tasks, as this could save you money.
Laptop: MacBook Air (M4, 2025)
A laptop is an essential tool for most students, and the 13-inch M4 MacBook Air is a top recommendation for those looking to get a Mac. It’s lightweight, easy to carry around, and equipped with Apple’s latest M4 chip, which provides enough power for most student tasks.
If your studies involve more intensive work—such as artificial intelligence, scientific calculations, or video editing—the MacBook Pro might be a better option. It features active cooling and more powerful chips, making it ideal for demanding tasks.
Tablet: 11-inch iPad
The 11-inch iPad is a versatile device for students, offering both academic support and entertainment. Its portability makes it easy to carry to lectures and classes, and it comes with a spacious display and strong performance thanks to the A16 chip.
For students in creative fields like design or art, the iPad Air might be a better choice. It works with the Apple Pencil Pro, which includes advanced features like pressure sensitivity and haptic feedback—ideal for artists.
Accessories
Accessories can enhance the experience of using Apple devices. The Apple Pencil is particularly useful for taking handwritten notes during classes. Additionally, investing in a good iPhone case can protect your phone from drops and damage.
Your iPad should also have a case, and many top cases come with built-in keyboards and trackpads, turning your tablet into a portable laptop. This could eliminate the need for a separate laptop in some cases.
For MacBooks, consider a laptop stand, external mouse, and keyboard to improve comfort and reduce back pain. A monitor can also be a helpful addition, especially for long study sessions.
How to Score an Apple Discount
Saving money is crucial for students, and there are several ways to get discounts on Apple products. Apple’s education store offers special deals for students, including discounts on MacBooks and iPads. Sometimes, free accessories like AirPods or an Apple Pencil are included with certain purchases.
Another option is Apple’s refurbished store, which sells returned items that have been restored and discounted. These products come with genuine parts, a new box, and a one-year warranty. The savings here can often be better than those found in the education store.
If possible, wait until September for Apple’s product refreshes. New iPhones, Apple Watches, and possibly a new iPad Pro will be released, and you might find previous-generation devices at a discount from third-party retailers.
While none of the recommended devices are expected to update until next year, there are still plenty of ways to get a great deal on an Apple product that will serve you well throughout your studies.
