As we approach back-to-school season, many students will be heading to college for the first time. This life-changing chapter can already be overwhelming, not to mention thinking about everything you may need for class. Luckily, technology has made things a lot easier for college students in 2025.
Also: The best laptops for college
You'll need a capable laptop to complete your assignments to keep up with your classes. When walking around campus, you need a pair of headphones to keep you entertained, or have noise-cancelling capabilities for important study sessions. For late-night work, you need a portable charger to keep your phone fueled up throughout the night, and for impromptu friend gatherings (because college is about fun, too), you need a speaker to set the mood.
Also: The best tablets for students going back to school
These are just a few of the many tech devices that are essential to survive college. Based on personal experience and hands-on testing by ZDNET experts, we have compiled a list of everything you need for the back-to-school season.
A laptop
Laptops are a must-have for college students--most, if not all, assignments will require a laptop. My laptop broke once in college, and I could not go a day without borrowing someone else's to complete assignments. The best laptops (including picks for college) include long battery life, top performance, and effective storage and RAM.
A pair of headphones
It was my first week of college when I realized the importance of headphones and earbuds as a student. Not only was everyone wearing them during their daily commutes, workouts, and study sessions, but they often helped me focus in noisy buildings. If you want full coverage and better noise-cancellation features, over-the-ear headphones may be for you. But if you want something cheaper or more convenient, earbuds may be better.
A smart notebook
Carrying around multiple notebooks all day can be exhausting, especially when walking everywhere. And I understand taking notes on laptops is not for everyone-- sometimes you just want to write down your thoughts, your to-do list or even just scribble your boredom away. That is why smart notebooks are the best alternative to offer that pen-to-paper alternative.
A tablet
As a student, you may be looking to buy the least amount of products as necessary for school. I get it you are on a budget (I was there once, too). Therefore if you want a versatile device that can serve you as a way to stream your favorite show in between classes while also giving you the ability to take notes during class, these top tablet picks are for you.
A speaker
While a speaker may be at the back of your mind when packing for college, from personal experience let me tell you, it's a must. From impromptu friend gatherings to daily showers, your speaker will come in handy at the most unexpected times. Now you don't need an extremely big or fancy speaker: the best speakers are durable, portable, powerful, and support your on-the-go college lifestyle.
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Look below for some more tech essentials that can help elevate your college experience.
Do I actually need all of these devices to be successful in college? College success is determined by the personal time and effort you put into your college education, not necessarily the tech devices you may have. However, having quality devices will make a difference in your college life. Most professors expect you to own or have access to a computer, so don't be surprised if most of your assignments are online. If you are worried about costs, there are many top-performing budget-friendly devices, such as tablets or laptops that you can buy. Show more
Should I get a laptop or a desktop computer for college? Most students go for laptops in college due to the versatility and simplicity of transportation. However, if you prefer to take notes or do work on a tablet, smart notebook, or regular notebook in class, then a desktop in your dorm can work for you. If you are unsure how to decide here is a guide to help you. Show more
How often will I need to bring a laptop to class? How often you bring a laptop to class will depend on your professors and your preferred note-taking method. Some professors in college do not allow laptops in classes whatsoever, others will give you assignments in class that may require the use of your laptops. My advice is for you to always go prepared during that first week of classes with both a laptop and a notebook, and to ask your professor what do they prefer in their classes. Show more
What apps can I use to support my college studies? Depending on your needs, different apps may work for you better than others. Personally, I could not live without Google Calendar, Maps, Venmo, or the Gmail app, since they helped me stay organized and made my life so much easier. Show more