Is 8GB RAM enough for a student laptop?

In 2026, no — 16GB is the minimum. Modern browsers with 20+ tabs, Zoom, and Office together can exceed 8GB. Every laptop on this list includes 16GB.

Should students get a tablet instead of a laptop?

A laptop is still essential for papers, exams, and coursework. An iPad can supplement for note-taking in lectures. The MacBook Air is light enough to serve both roles with the right apps.

Best Ultrabooks for Students 2026