· Maggie · Reviews/Home · 8 min read
Top 4 Best Lightweight Laptops for Students 2025 Compared and Reviewed
Looking for a laptop that won’t weigh you down? Check out these top 4 lightweight laptops for students that balance portability, performance, and affordability, making your study sessions and multitasking a breeze.
Introduction
Let’s be real—being a student is hard enough without lugging around a clunky laptop that feels like a brick in your backpack. I’ve been there, and I know how much of a difference a lightweight, reliable laptop can make. Whether you’re sprinting to class, cramming for exams at the library, or binge-watching your favorite show between assignments, having a laptop that’s easy to carry and keeps up with your busy life is a must.
In this guide, I’ve rounded up four of the best lightweight laptops for students in 2025. These picks aren’t just easy on your back—they’re also packed with features to help you ace your studies and still have time for fun. From budget-friendly options to models with premium perks, there’s something here for every student. Ready to find your perfect match? Let’s get into it.
Lenovo IdeaPad 1 Student Laptop
The Lenovo IdeaPad 1 is a solid choice if you’re looking for a laptop that won’t break the bank but still gets the job done. It’s lightweight, which is a huge plus when you’re hauling it across campus, and it comes with a whopping 20GB of RAM and 1TB SSD + 128GB eMMC storage. Translation? You’ll have plenty of space for all your notes, projects, and maybe even a few Netflix downloads for those late-night study breaks.
The 15.6” FHD display is crisp and clear, though I’ll admit the viewing angles could be better. The Intel Dual Core Processor is fine for everyday tasks like browsing and typing up essays, but don’t expect it to handle heavy-duty software or gaming. The touchpad feels a bit cheap, and the plastic build isn’t exactly luxurious, but hey, it keeps the price down and the weight light.
If you’re a student who needs something affordable and practical, this one’s worth considering. Just don’t expect it to be a powerhouse.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and portable | Dual Core Processor is slow |
| Massive storage (1TB SSD + 128GB) | Mediocre touchpad |
| Affordable price for students | Plastic build feels cheap |
HP 14” Ultralight Stream Laptop for Students and Business
If you’re all about keeping things simple and portable, the HP 14” Ultralight Stream Laptop might be your new best friend. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and comes with a 1-year Office 365 subscription—perfect for cranking out essays and presentations.
Performance-wise, it handles basic tasks like web browsing and document editing just fine, but it can feel a bit sluggish if you’re trying to do too much at once. The 8GB RAM and hybrid storage (64GB eMMC + 256GB SD card) are decent for light use, but if you’re someone who hoards files or runs multiple programs at once, you might find the storage a bit limiting.
The battery life is okay, though not amazing, and the lack of a backlit keyboard might be a bummer if you’re a night owl. Still, for the price, it’s a solid little laptop that won’t weigh you down.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and portable | Limited internal storage |
| Includes 1-year Office 365 | Performance can feel sluggish |
| Affordable price point | No backlit keyboard |
NIMO 15.6 FHD Student Laptop, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Intel Pentium Quad-Core N100
Now, if you’re looking for something with a little more oomph, the NIMO 15.6 FHD Student Laptop is a standout. With 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, this thing is a multitasking beast. The Intel Pentium Quad-Core N100 processor keeps things running smoothly, whether you’re streaming lectures, editing documents, or sneaking in a quick gaming session.
The design is sleek and stylish, with a rose gold finish that’s sure to turn heads. It also comes with a backlit keyboard and a fingerprint reader, which are nice touches you don’t always see at this price point. The 15.6-inch FHD display is vibrant and sharp, though the fingerprint scanner can be a bit finicky, and the laptop might get a little warm during heavy use.
Overall, this is a great option if you want a laptop that looks good and performs well without breaking the bank.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 16GB RAM & 1TB SSD for fast performance | Fingerprint scanner can be unreliable |
| Lightweight and stylish design | May overheat during heavy use |
| 2-year warranty for added security | Sound quality could be better |
NIMO 15.6 FHD Student Laptop (Blue)
The NIMO 15.6 FHD Student Laptop in blue is another winner, especially if you’re after something durable and feature-packed. Like its rose gold sibling, it comes with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD, so you’ll have plenty of power and storage for all your needs. The backlit keyboard and fingerprint reader add a touch of luxury, and the 15.6-inch FHD IPS display is perfect for both work and play.
One thing to note is the 10-key numpad layout, which might take some getting used to if you’re not a fan. It’s also a tad heavier than some other lightweight laptops, but the sturdy build quality makes up for it. Plus, the 2-year warranty gives you some peace of mind.
If you’re looking for a reliable, stylish laptop that won’t let you down, this one’s a solid pick.
Pros & Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 16GB RAM & 1TB SSD for multitasking | Numpad layout may feel awkward |
| Backlit keyboard & fingerprint reader | Slightly heavier than some competitors |
| Affordable price for premium features | Limited color options |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best and lightest laptop?
If you’re after something super light and powerful, the Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) is a top pick. It weighs just 2.7 pounds and is packed with features like a brilliant Retina display and long battery life. For Windows fans, the LG Gram 14 is another great option, tipping the scales at only 2.2 pounds. Both are perfect for students and professionals who need something portable and reliable.
Which brand of laptop is best for students?
It really depends on what you’re looking for. Apple’s MacBook Air is a favorite for its sleek design and long battery life, while Dell and HP offer great Windows options that balance performance and affordability. If you’re on a tight budget, Chromebooks from Acer or ASUS are worth checking out. It’s all about finding the right fit for your needs and wallet.
Is Dell or HP better for college students?
Both Dell and HP have their strengths. Dell laptops like the XPS series are known for their premium build and performance, while HP models like the Envy or Pavilion series offer great value and versatility. If you’re after something sleek and powerful, go for Dell. If you want a balance of performance and affordability, HP might be the way to go.
What are very thin and lightweight laptops called?
These are often called ultrabooks. They’re designed to be super thin and light, usually weighing less than 3 pounds and measuring under 0.8 inches thick. They’re perfect for anyone who needs a powerful yet portable device.
What weight is considered a lightweight laptop?
A lightweight laptop typically weighs between 2 to 4 pounds (0.9 to 1.8 kilograms). If you’re looking for something ultra-portable, some models even weigh less than 2 pounds, though they might sacrifice a bit on features or battery life.
What is the difference between a Chromebook and a laptop?
Chromebooks run on Google’s ChromeOS and are designed for web-based tasks and cloud computing. They’re usually more affordable and have longer battery life, but they’re less versatile for offline use or running heavy software. Traditional laptops, on the other hand, run on Windows, macOS, or Linux and can handle a wider range of tasks, making them better for more demanding work.
Final Recommendations
After testing these laptops, here’s the lowdown:
- Best for Storage and Performance: The Lenovo IdeaPad 1 is a great choice if you need lots of space and decent performance without spending a fortune.
- Best for Budget and Portability: The HP 14” Stream Laptop is perfect if you’re on a tight budget and want something lightweight and easy to carry.
- Best for Aesthetics and Features: The NIMO Rose Gold model is a stylish, feature-packed option that’s great for students who want a little extra flair.
- Best for Durability and Warranty: The NIMO Blue model offers the same great specs as the rose gold version but with a sturdy build and a 2-year warranty for added peace of mind.
No matter which one you choose, you’ll be getting a laptop that’s lightweight, reliable, and perfect for student life. Happy shopping!
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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click on one of the product links above and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support my work and keeps the reviews coming. Thanks for your support!
