Choosing A Device
No matter what device you use, it should meet these requirements:
- Have at least 64 GB of storage available
- Have at least 8 GB of RAM
- Have an 8 hour battery life
- Have WiFi connectivity
Windows11 Computers Buy From Amazon
Advantages: Wide selection of manufacturers and prices, most software support, most 3rd party app support
Disadvantages: More prone to viruses
Tech note: I personally recommend getting a Windows computer because they support the most applications (Adobe Creative Cloud, C#, PLTW Kite, etc), have the most manufacturer selections, and widest price range.
Apple MacBook (Air or Pro) - Click Here for best MacBook pricing direct from Apple
Advantages: Quality parts, ease of use, can run Windows
Disadvantages: Expensive
Tech note: Apple's would be my second recommendation because they, like Windows computers, have downloaded application support so you will be able to run programs like Adobe Creative Cloud. While Apple's are quality products, there is not much variety so they are more expensive than comparable computers.
Chromebook Computers Buy from Amazon
Advantages: Extremely inexpensive hardware options, easy browser-based interface
Disadvantages: Very limited software support (can not install programs like you can on a Mac or PC)
Tech note: Chromebooks will work for all basic classroom use (reports, presentations, etc) but because their apps come from the Google store you will not be able to use them on projects in Art, Video Production, or Computer Science that require downloaded programs (Adobe Creative Cloud, Unity, Eclipse, etc) to be installed on them.
Apple iPad (Pro, Standard, Mini 4) - Click Here for best iPad pricing direct from Apple
Advantages: Compact and lightweight, many device and price options
Disadvantages: Very limited software support, not a "traditional" keyboard computer
Tech note: Same disadvantages as Chromebooks and they do not have a keyboard.
Remember that no matter which device you choose, they will be used in a school environment and carried in bookbags. Buy on the cheap and get the accidental damage warranty.