WIRED Editors Curate Best Tech Gear for Back to School

WIRED's reviewers have compiled recommendations based on extensive testing to help students make the most of their school year. The list includes devices for study, leisure, and convenience.

Top Laptops

Apple MacBook Neo is deemed the best overall college laptop, offering a high-resolution display, multiple color options, and a premium feel despite an 8 GB RAM limit. Students can get a $100 discount using their college email. For Windows users, Asus Zenbook A14 stands out as the best choice, weighing only 2.18 pounds, featuring an OLED display and excellent battery life.

Portable Monitors and Headphones

The Arzopa Z3FC is a 16.1-inch portable monitor with 2560x1440 resolution and 180 Hz refresh rate, suitable for work and gaming. Sony's WH-1000XM6 wireless headphones boast seven times more processing power for superior noise cancellation, 30-hour battery, and a foldable design. A budget alternative is the JLab Go Pop ANC earbuds costing just $25, offering active noise cancellation and transparency mode.

Water Bottle and Power Strip

Larq Bottle PureVis uses UV-C LED light to sterilize water every two hours, preventing bacterial buildup. It is double-insulated, made of stainless steel, and lasts up to three weeks on a charge. The Monoprice 8-Outlet Rotating Surge Strip features rotating outlets to accommodate bulky plugs, making it ideal for dorm rooms and shared spaces.

Mobility and Lighting

Segway E2 Pro scooter ($500) can travel up to 10 miles, reaches 15 mph, and includes turn signals. The Steelcase Eclipse Light is a versatile lamp with slide control, a mirror for video calls, and wireless phone charging.

Accessories and Connectivity

Plugable USB-C 9-in-1 Hub delivers 140W power delivery suitable for powerful laptops. The Herman Miller Oripura laptop stand improves posture and is foldable for portability. Razer Joro wireless keyboard with low profile is good for typing and gaming, though it lacks a 2.4GHz dongle.