Empower Young Minds: 11 Best Laptops for 12 Year Olds in 2023!
Discover the top laptops perfect for your 12 year old! From durability to performance, find the best options to fuel their creativity and learning. In this guide, we have ranked and reviewed the 9+ best laptops for 12 year olds. We’ve also included 5 affordable budget options and our top 2 choices, helping you pick the best one for your needs.
Looking for the best laptops for 12 year olds? Look no further! We’ve got you covered with a selection of top-notch laptops that are perfect for your needs.
These laptops offer a winning combination of affordability, durability, and performance, giving you the control you desire. With features like touchscreens, long battery life, and ample storage capacity, these laptops are ideal for schoolwork and entertainment.
Whether you’re working on assignments or enjoying your favorite games and videos, these laptops will meet your requirements.
So, get ready to find the perfect laptop that will help you excel in your studies and keep you entertained for hours on end.
Table of Contents
What Are the Best Laptops for 12 Year Olds
If you’re a 12 year old looking for the best laptop, there are a few key features to consider.
First and foremost, you’ll want a laptop that’s suitable for school and college work. Look for laptops that run on Chrome OS or Windows, as these operating systems offer a wide range of educational software and applications.
Additionally, consider the specific needs of your child’s activities. If they enjoy gaming, you’ll want a laptop with a powerful processor and a dedicated graphics card. For kids with limited dexterity, a touchscreen or convertible laptop might be a great option.
Durability is also crucial, as children can be a bit rough with their belongings. Look for laptops that are known for their sturdiness and durability.
Here are our top picks for the best laptops for 12 year olds to consider this year.
1. MacBook Air
The MacBook Air stands out as one of the top contenders in the world of laptops, offering a sleek design, powerful performance, and seamless integration with other Apple devices. With its lightweight and thin design, it is perfect for those who desire freedom and mobility.
The MacBook Air features a spacious 15.3-inch display with vibrant and clear visuals, providing an immersive user experience. The magic key for fingerprint authentication adds an extra layer of security and convenience.
Powered by the M2 chip with its 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, and up to 24GB of unified memory, the MacBook Air delivers versatile performance for everyday tasks. The battery life of up to 18 hours is truly impressive.
Whether you are a student, professional, or casual user, the MacBook Air is a reliable and efficient choice.
- Lightweight and thin design
- Spacious and vibrant 15.3-inch display
- Magic key for fingerprint authentication
- Long battery life of approximately 18 hours
- Versatile performance for everyday tasks
- Exquisite build quality
- Lack of information about Amazon’s policy
- Potential compatibility issue with Rogers Email
- Uncertainty regarding Amazon’s return policy and potential refund delays.
2. Dell xps 15
The Dell XPS 15 is a highly acclaimed laptop known for its exceptional performance and sleek design. With its 15-inch FHD+ edge-to-edge display and powerful Intel Core i7 10th Gen processor, it offers a brilliant visual experience and lightning-fast processing speeds.
The XPS 15 also features a large touchpad, integrated Eyesafe display technology, and a quad-speaker design with Waves Nx audio for immersive sound quality. Its high-polished diamond-cut sidewalls and refined 4-sided InfinityEdge display add to its premium look and feel.
Additionally, the XPS 15 comes with a 512GB solid-state drive for ample storage space and a NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics card for smooth graphics performance.
- Exceptional performance
- Sleek and premium design
- Large touchpad and edge-to-edge display
- Integrated Eyesafe display technology
- Quad-speaker design with Waves Nx audio
- No built-in CD/DVD drive
- Limited power for CD/DVD drive
- Pricy option
3. MacBook Pro
The MacBook Pro is a top-tier laptop known for its exceptional performance and cutting-edge features. Powered by the Apple M3 Pro chip or the more advanced M3 Max chip, the MacBook Pro delivers amazing performance for demanding workflows, such as manipulating gigapixel panoramas or compiling millions of lines of code. Its power-efficient design ensures the same exceptional performance whether running on battery or plugged in, with up to 22 hours of battery life.
The 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with extreme dynamic range and over 1000 nits of brightness for HDR content provides stunning visuals. Compatibility with various pro apps, including Adobe Creative Cloud and Apple Xcode, allows for lightning-fast work. The MacBook Pro also offers a range of connectivity options, including MagSafe charging, Thunderbolt 4 ports, and Wi-Fi 6E.
With its sleek design and powerful performance, the MacBook Pro is a top choice for professionals.
- Exceptional performance for demanding workflows
- Stunning display with extreme dynamic range and high brightness
- Compatibility with a wide range of pro apps
- Long battery life
- Sleek and stylish design
- High price point
- Limited port options
- Limited customization options compared to some PC laptops
4. Asus ROG Zephyrus G14
The Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 is a high-performance laptop renowned for its exceptional gaming capabilities and advanced specifications. With a 14 FHD 144Hz display, powered by an AMD Ryzen 7-5800HS processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6G graphics, this laptop delivers reduced screen tearing, heightened clarity, and an enhanced competitive advantage.
The G14 also boasts accurate color performance, wider viewing angles, ray-traced graphics, and realistic lighting, providing users with a truly immersive gaming experience. In addition, the G14 features a desktop-style keyboard with RGB backlighting, a variety of ports including USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A and Gen 2 Type-C, and wireless-AX + Bluetooth connectivity. The laptop also comes in a stylish Moonlight White color and includes a bonus 32GB SnowBell USB Card.
- Exceptional gaming capabilities
- Advanced specifications
- Reduced screen tearing
- Heightened clarity
- Enhanced competitive advantage
- Accurate color performance
- Wider viewing angles
- Ray-traced graphics
- Realistic lighting
- Stylish design
- Some users may experience technical issues
- May require servicing over time
- Price may be a barrier for some customers
5. Razer Blade 15
The Razer Blade 15 is a highly acclaimed gaming laptop known for its powerful performance and sleek design. With its NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series Graphics and 13th Gen Intel Core i7 Processors, this laptop delivers exceptional gaming experiences.
The QHD OLED 240 Hz Display enhances visuals with vibrant colors and smooth motion. Additionally, its ultra-portable and lightweight design make it easy to carry and use on the go. The Razer Blade 15 also features patented Vapor Chamber Cooling, ensuring that the laptop stays cool even during intense gaming sessions.
The laptop offers easy upgradeability with an extra M.2 slot and user-upgradeable memory slots, allowing users to customize and improve their gaming performance.
- High-quality aluminum case
- Quiet fans even during demanding games
- Phenomenal screen with great colors and viewing angles
- Powerful graphics and ample RAM for future-proofing
- Fast Wi-Fi performance
- Screen could have slightly better overall brightness
- Expensive price point
- Lack of external ports and need for adapters
- Lack of included cables and poor support
6. Alienware M15 R7
Alienware M15 R7 is a highly regarded gaming laptop that offers exceptional performance and cutting-edge features. With its powerful Core i7-12700H Fourteen-Core Processor, 64GB RAM, and Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 Ti Graphics Card, this laptop provides an immersive gaming experience. The 15.6′ FHD non-touch screen with a 360Hz refresh rate ensures super smooth gameplay, while the DDR5 memory clocked at 4800MHz enhances overall performance.
In terms of storage and connectivity, the Alienware M15 R7 comes with a spacious 4TB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive, providing ample space for games and files. It also features an integrated webcam and supports wireless WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.
The laptop runs on Windows 11 Home, with an option to downgrade to Windows 10 if desired. It comes with a 1-year warranty and dedicated graphics RAM with 8GB. Additionally, users have the option to upgrade to Windows Pro for $100 from the Windows Store.
- Exceptional gaming performance
- Cutting-edge features
- Ample storage space
- High price point
- Limited battery life
- Bulky and heavy design
Best Budget Friendly Affordable Laptops for 12 Year Olds
Looking for a budget-friendly option? Here are the top affordable laptops for you.
When it comes to buying a laptop, you want the best option that fits your needs without breaking the bank. Years ago, finding a low-priced laptop meant sacrificing performance and features, but now there are plenty of options available that can save you money without compromising on quality.
For kids who need a laptop for schoolwork and basic tasks, the Acer Aspire 3 is a great choice. It offers a good balance of performance and affordability, making it perfect for everyday use. LG gram 16 is another budget-friendly option, especially for those who prefer the simplicity and security.
For those looking for a budget gaming laptop, you might have to compromise on some features, but you can still find options that offer decent gaming performance at a low price. Consider laptops with entry-level graphics cards and sufficient RAM to handle your favorite games like HP Victus 15.
Here are our top picks for the best budget friendly affordable laptops for 12 year olds to consider this year.
7. Acer Aspire 3
The Acer Aspire 3 is a budget laptop that offers impressive performance and features for its affordable price. With its AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core Processor and AMD Radeon Graphics, this laptop provides a smooth and efficient computing experience.
The 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with sharp details and crisp colors ensures a visually pleasing experience. The narrow bezels and 16:9 aspect ratio further enhance the viewing experience.
The Acer Aspire 3 also comes with 8GB LPDDR5 Memory and 128GB NVMe SSD Storage, providing ample space for storing files and multitasking. Additionally, the laptop features Wi-Fi 6 technology for a strong and consistent internet connection.
The Acer Aspire 3 runs on Windows 11 Home in S Mode, offering fast start-ups and automatic updates for added convenience.
- Affordable price
- Impressive performance
- Sharp and vibrant display
- Ample storage space
- Fast internet connectivity
- Limited to Windows 11 Home in S Mode
- Limited storage capacity
- May not be suitable for heavy gaming or resource-intensive tasks
8. SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3
The SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3 is a budget laptop that offers reliable performance and a sleek design for an affordable price. With its 13th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics, this laptop provides ample processing power for everyday tasks.
The thin and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around, allowing users to own the day from anywhere. The full-HD screen delivers crisp and vibrant visuals, showcasing the quality expected from a Galaxy display. Additionally, the long-lasting battery ensures hours of plug-free usage.
- Affordable price
- Reliable performance
- Sleek and lightweight design
- Crisp and vibrant display
- Long-lasting battery
- Limited storage capacity
- No touchscreen or backlight feature
- Some users reported issues with battery performance
9. LG gram 16
The LG gram 16 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers impressive performance and a sleek design. With its lightweight build and long-lasting battery, it is perfect for users who desire freedom and mobility.
The 16-inch non-reflective display with DCI-P3 99% color gamut ensures vibrant and accurate visuals, while the Intel Evo Platform powered by 12th Gen Intel Quad Core i7 Processor guarantees smooth and efficient multitasking.
The laptop also features a PCIe4 M.2 NVMe SSD with 256GB storage and 16GB LPDDR5 RAM for fast data access and seamless operation. Additionally, the LG gram 16 comes with a Full HD IR Webcam with AI sound technology, presence detection, and smart display for enhanced security.
Overall, it is a reliable and affordable option for consumers in need of a budget-friendly laptop.
- Lightweight and portable design
- Impressive performance with 12th Gen Intel Quad Core i7 Processor
- Long-lasting battery life
- Vibrant and accurate display
- Enhanced security features
- Limited storage capacity
- Mixed reviews about keyboard and screen quality
- May not be suitable for heavy gaming or graphics-intensive tasks
10. HP Victus 15
The HP Victus 15 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers impressive performance and essential features for users on a tight budget. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 7535HS processor with Zen 3+ microarchitecture and backed by 8GB of DDR5 RAM, this laptop ensures smooth multitasking and efficient performance.
It also comes with a 512GB SSD for fast boot-up times and quick data access. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics card enhances the gaming experience and supports graphic-intensive tasks. The 15.6-inch Full HD display with a 144Hz refresh rate and adaptive sync technology delivers a smooth and immersive visual experience.
he backlit keyboard, HP Wide Vision HD Camera, and connectivity options like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi add to the overall convenience and functionality of the laptop.
- Budget-friendly option
- Impressive performance for multitasking
- High-quality graphics for gaming and graphic-intensive tasks
- Smooth and immersive display
- Convenient features like backlit keyboard and HP Wide Vision HD Camera
- Heat generation concerns
- Limited connectivity options
- No information provided about warranty and return policy
11. MSI Creator M16
MSI Creator M16 is a budget-friendly laptop that offers impressive features and performance for users on a tight budget. With its 13th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor and RTX 4060 GPU, it provides elite gaming and professional content creation capabilities.
The laptop’s 32GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB NVMe SSD ensure smooth multitasking and ample storage space for files and applications. Its 180-Degree Lay-Flat design allows for comfortable viewing angles, while the QHD+ Display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and 60Hz refresh rate offers abundant color gamut and vivid colors for editing.
The laptop runs on the Windows 11 Home operating system and comes with USB 3.2 Type C and HDMI ports for easy connectivity.
- Elite gaming and professional content creation capabilities
- Simplistic design with Windows 11 Home
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU for ray tracing
- Flip-n-Share feature for easy sharing of content
- Quiet operation and easy setup
- Multi-tasking capabilities
- Bright screen for outdoor use
- Good value for the price
- Keyboard backlight turns off quickly and cannot be adjusted
- Finger print sensor blends in with touchpad
- Laptop attracts fingerprints easily
- Home key is missing on the keyboard
- Speakers have low volume and audio quality
If you’re shopping for a laptop with a tight budget, consider refurbished laptops. These laptops have been restored to their original condition and often come at a significantly lower price.
Saving money doesn’t mean you have to settle for a cheap desktop. These budget laptops provide a good balance between price and performance, making them suitable for various needs. Now that you know the best budget laptops available, let’s move on to some essential laptop selection tips.
Laptop Selection Tips
Consider the specific needs and preferences of your child when choosing a laptop for them. Here are three key factors to keep in mind:
- Long battery life: Kids are always on the move, whether it’s for school, extracurricular activities, or simply hanging out with friends. Opt for a laptop with a long battery life to ensure that your child can use it throughout the day without constantly needing to charge it.
- Operating system: When it comes to the operating system, you have a few options. The Chrome operating system is popular among elementary school students due to its simplicity and kid-friendly features. On the other hand, Windows laptops offer a wider range of software compatibility and customization options, making them suitable for older kids, including college students.
- Memory and storage: Kids nowadays have a lot of digital content, from school assignments to photos and videos. Make sure to choose a laptop with sufficient memory and storage space to accommodate their needs. Consider laptops with at least 8GB of RAM and SSD storage for faster performance and quick access to files.
Considerations for Laptop Purchasing
When choosing a laptop for your 12-year-old, it’s important to take into account several key factors for a successful purchase. Here are three considerations that will help you make the best decision:
- Kid needs: Think about your child’s specific needs and preferences. Are they using the laptop for schoolwork, gaming, or video calls with friends and family? Understanding their requirements will help you choose a laptop that aligns with their interests and activities.
- Durability and portability: Middle school can be a challenging environment for electronic devices, so look for laptops that are built to withstand rough handling. Consider laptops with MIL-STD-810G certification for added ruggedness. Additionally, factor in the laptop’s size and weight, as your child will likely need to carry it around school.
- Software compatibility and parental controls: Check if the laptop is compatible with the software required by your child’s school. Some schools may use specific programs that only run on certain operating systems. Additionally, consider laptops that offer robust parental control features, allowing you to monitor and control your child’s online activities for their safety and well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Laptop Is Best for 12 Year Old?
The best laptop for a 12-year-old would be an affordable option that offers durability, education-focused features, parental controls, and a lightweight design. It should have long battery life, good performance, and compatibility with educational software.
What Is a Good First Laptop for Kids?
A good first laptop for kids should be affordable, durable, and compatible with educational software. Consider battery life, size, and weight for portability. Ensure easy keyboard and touchpad use, parental control, internet safety features, and sufficient storage and performance.
Which Laptop Is Best for Primary School Students?
For primary school students, look for affordable options with durability. Consider parental controls and the benefits of touchscreens. Choose the right size laptop for a 12 year old. Battery life is crucial for educational purposes. Recommended brands balance entertainment and education.
What Is Better for Kids a Laptop or Chromebook?
For kids, a laptop offers more versatility and software compatibility compared to a Chromebook. While Chromebooks are great for web-based tasks, Windows laptops are better suited for various educational software and multitasking needs.
Wrapping It Up!
In concluding our comprehensive guide on the best laptop for kids in 2023, it’s clear that the perfect choice balances robust performance, durability, and kid-friendly features. For 12-year-olds, a laptop that excels in battery life, offers a comfortable keyboard, and has sufficient RAM is essential. Among the top contenders, Chromebooks stand out for their simplicity and value, making them a preferred choice for schoolwork and basic gaming.
Lenovo and Acer Chromebook models are particularly noteworthy for their balance of performance and affordability. They offer an efficient operating system in Chrome OS, making them ideal for younger kids. For those seeking more power, a Windows laptop with an Intel Core processor is a solid alternative, providing versatility for both school day tasks and entertainment.
Gaming laptops, although more expensive, are an option for older kids interested in more graphically intensive tasks. The Lenovo Ideapad and Microsoft Surface Laptop Go are excellent examples, offering substantial graphic capabilities and higher specs. For parents concerned about supervision, many of these devices come with built-in parental control features.
Budget-conscious shoppers will find solace in knowing that there are several best budget options. From budget laptops like the Lenovo Chromebook to the more premium Microsoft Surface Laptop Go 2, there’s a range of choices to suit different price points. Remember, investing in a laptop for your kid is about finding the right balance between functionality and cost-effectiveness.
When choosing a laptop, consider the RAM (preferably 8GB for smooth multitasking) and a durable build to withstand the rigors of a child’s daily use. Whether it’s for gaming, schoolwork, or just exploring the internet, the right laptop can be a valuable tool for both learning and leisure.
In selecting from the myriad of laptops and Chromebooks available in 2023, parents and kids alike should focus on longevity, ease of use, and value for money. The best laptop for kids isn’t just about flashy features; it’s about finding a dependable, versatile device that aligns with your child’s needs.
Top picks for the best laptops for kids in 2023 include models from Lenovo, Acer, and Microsoft, each offering unique advantages. Whether it’s the long battery life of a Chromebook, the versatility of a Windows laptop, or the power of an Intel Core-equipped device, there’s something for every need and budget.
In this rapidly evolving digital age, equipping your child with the right laptop can significantly enhance their learning and development. Whether it’s for study or play, the right choice will provide a balance of functionality, durability, and value, ensuring that your child gets the most out of their digital experience.
Read Further on laptoplingo.com
After exploring our selection of laptops for 12 year olds, you might be interested in discovering more about laptops suitable for other age groups or specific educational stages. These laptops are chosen for their age-appropriate features and educational value.
If you’re looking for laptops for children who are slightly younger, our guides on laptops for 8 year olds, laptops for 9 year olds, and laptops for 10 year olds might be very useful. These laptops are chosen for their suitability for each specific age group, ensuring a match for their educational and entertainment needs.
For those considering laptops that cater to educational needs while being versatile for various learning activities, our selection of laptops for grade school students offers options that are ideal for a range of school tasks and educational purposes.
Additionally, as your child approaches their teenage years, they might require a laptop that can handle more advanced school projects. In that case, our insights on laptops for middle school students could be beneficial, offering a balance between performance and user-friendliness.
Moreover, if your child is developing specific interests in areas like coding or design, our guides on laptops for cs and laptops for design space can provide laptops that cater to these specialized interests, supporting their growing skills and hobbies.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a versatile laptop that can also provide entertainment and gaming capabilities, our overview of laptops for Roblox offers options that can balance educational use with gaming fun, catering to a 12-year-old’s leisure activities.
By exploring these laptop options, you can find the ideal laptop that not only suits the needs of your 12-year-old but also adapts to their evolving requirements as they grow and their interests develop.
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