Premium pick

1. Razer Blade 14

9.00 / 10
Read Reviews

Whether you're going back to school or college, the Razer Blade 14 is a great companion to take with you. It packs the latest hardware that will allow you to be productive by opening and running multiple apps. But aside from that, it also lets you enjoy some much-needed downtime thanks to its RTX 3070 Ti GPU, 16GB of fast DDR5 RAM, and Ryzen 9 6900HX CPU.

Investing in this laptop is worthwhile, but what might be an issue for some is the screen size, since it's only 14 inches. However, for school, the Razer Blade 14 could actually end up being the perfect fit. Weighing just over eight pounds, it's easy to carry in your school bag and won't be intrusive on your desk.

At home, the Razer Blade 14 can turn into the ultimate entertainment hub, thanks to its plethora of ports. You can use it to play VR games, as a monitor for your next-gen consoles, or even just to chill in bed watching your favorite shows. All of this, and the battery lasts on average for up to 10 hours.

Key Features
  • 165Hz refresh rate
  • 100% DCI-P3 color space
  • DDR5 4800MHz memory
  • NVIDIA DLSS
  • Ray tracing
Specifications
  • Operating System: Windows 11
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 6900HX
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti
  • Storage: 1TB
  • Battery: 10 hours
  • Display (Size, Resolution): 14-inch QHD, 1440p
  • Camera: IR webcam
  • Speakers: 7.1 surround sound
  • Colors: Black, Silver, Pink
  • Memory: 16GB DDR5
  • Ports: 1x HDMI 2.1, 2x USB-C, 2x USB-A
  • Dimensions: 17.4 x 15.8 x 4 inches
  • Weight: 8.03lbs
  • Brand: Razer
Pros
  • Fast, responsive display
  • Tactile keys
  • Sleek and stylish
  • Lightweight and portable
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Screen size could be too small for some
Buy This Product
Razer Blade 14
Editors choice

2. Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen)

9.20 / 10
Read Reviews

Perfect for any college dorm room, the Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) is a fantastic smart speaker that does much more than you might imagine. Thanks to built-in Alexa, you can use the Dot to play music, answer questions, check the weather, and even connect with other people who have the Alexa app or another Echo device.

If you have other compatible products in your home, you can use the Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen) to start routines, like turning on the lights or locking the doors. But, even if you don't want to engage in all of the fancy extras this smart speaker has to offer, you can still enjoy your favorite music whenever you like.

Key Features
  • LED display with clock
  • Can be used to create and initiate routines around the home
  • Alexa-compatible
Specifications
  • Brand: Amazon
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 3.5mm Output
  • Integrations: Alexa
  • Battery: None
  • Power: 30W
  • Connections: 3.5mm Output
  • Voice assistant: Alexa
  • Colors: Twilight Blue, Charcoal, Glacier White
  • Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.9 x 3.5 inches
  • Buttons: Alexa, Volume, Mute Mic
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Allows you to listen to music, set an alarm clock, and much more
  • Small and portable
Cons
  • The speakers aren't as powerful as other Echo products
Buy This Product
Amazon Echo Dot (4th Gen)

The AFROG Multifunctional LED Desk Lamp is ideal for lighting up darker areas while offering more than just light. It also boasts 10W fast wireless charging, a USB charging port, and seven levels of brightness. Simply place your smartphone on the wireless pad to charge it up while you complete your coursework, or leave it on overnight if you prefer a dim light at all times.

If you do end up falling asleep with the AFROG Multifunctional LED Desk Lamp on, you can set an auto-off timer for either 30 or 60 minutes. No more wasting electricity, and no need to get out of bed to turn it off.

The AFROG Multifunctional LED Desk Lamp is available in a range of colors. No matter which option you choose, you'll get flicker-free lighting, five lighting modes, and peace of mind while you study.

Key Features
  • 5 lighting modes and 7 levels of brightness
  • Wireless charging
  • Auto-off timer
Specifications
  • Brand: AFROG
  • Light Source Type: LED
  • Lumens: 1200
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Weight: 1.36lbs
  • Touch controls: Yes
  • Material: Metal
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Comes in a range of different models and colors
  • Flicker-free lighting
Cons
  • Wireless charging isn't very fast
Buy This Product
AFROG Multifunctional LED Desk Lamp

If you've got an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods, it can be a nightmare charging them all. With the ESR HaloLock 3-in-1 Wireless Charger, you can charge all of your devices at the same time. This stylish wireless charging stand is compatible with iPhone 12 and 13 models, AirPods, and Apple Watch models.

Simply place your iPhone, AirPods, or Apple Watch on the stand, and your devices will charge up without you needing to plug any additional cables in. What's more, you can turn on the fan on the phone charger to dissipate any extra heat that might be generated during charging.

The ESR HaloLock 3-in-1 Wireless Charger is lightweight, stylish, and won't look out of place on any desk.

Key Features
  • Cooling fan
  • 1,000g holding force
  • 360-degree magnetic ring
Specifications
  • Brand: ESR
  • Qi-Certified: No
  • Color: White
  • Compatible Devices : iPhone 12/13, AirPods 2/3/Pro, Apple Watch
  • Speed: 24W
  • Dimensions: 7.28 x 6.3 x 3.54 inches
  • Weight: 15.2oz
  • Adapter included: Yes
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Very convenient
  • Lightweight and unobtrusive
Cons
  • Doesn't charge very quickly
Buy This Product
ESR HaloLock 3-in-1 Wireless Charger

Powered by the Apple M1 chip, the 2022 Apple iPad Air is one of the most powerful tablets around. And, if you opt for the cellular options, you'll get 5G connectivity too. The hardest part is going to be choosing the right color because there are so many beautiful options to decide on.

The 2022 Apple iPad Air features Touch ID, so it's easy to unlock your tablet whenever you need it for college. Since it's compatible with the Apple Pencil (2nd generation), this iPad is perfect for taking notes in classes or even reading later in the evening. And, you won't have to worry about losing it as the Apple Pencil magnetically attaches to the side of the iPad, and charges wirelessly.

When you're in class, you can invest in a compatible Bluetooth keyboard, or Apple's Magic Keyboard to type up notes. When you're done studying, you'll be able to make the most out of the 2022 Apple iPad Air. Whether you enjoy drawing, watching TV shows, or playing mobile games, this iPad can do it all.

Key Features
  • Liquid Retina display
  • Available in a variety of colors
  • Compatible with Apple Pencil
Specifications
  • Brand: Apple
  • Storage: 64GB
  • CPU: Apple M1
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Operating System: iPadOS
  • Battery: 7600mAh
  • Ports: 1x 3.5mm jack, 1x USB Type-C 2.0
  • Camera (Rear, Front): 12MP, 12MP
  • Display type: 10.9-inch, 2360x1640
  • Size: 9.74 x 7.02 x 0.2 inches
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Pros
  • 5G compatibility if opting for cellular
  • Apple Pay available
  • Perfect for carrying around for studying
Cons
  • Expensive
Buy This Product
2022 Apple iPad Air

The Anker 341 boasts seven ports in one, meaning you can charge up multiple devices, or connect them at the same time. This USB-C hub is also compatible with USB-C Power Delivery which offers high-speed pass-through charging so you can power a laptop. It's perfect for taking around campus with you, or later at home when your devices need some extra juice.

If you need to transfer data from one device to another, you can use the Anker 341 to achieve this. With a microSD and SD card reader, as well as two USB 3.0 ports, you can save your files or transfer them, ensuring you don't lose your work.

Key Features
  • Pass-through charging
  • Transfer speeds of up to 5Gbps
  • HDMI supports 4K@30Hz
Specifications
  • Brand: Anker
  • Connection: USB-C, USB-A
  • Ports: 100W PD, USB-C, 2x USB-A, microSD, SD card reader, HDMI
  • USB-C Power Delivery: 100W
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Portable
  • Travel pouch included
Cons
  • More powerful devices like a Steam Deck will lose power
Buy This Product

First and foremost, you must have a Facebook, WhatsApp, or Workspace account to set the Meta Portal up. If you're happy to do this, then you'll appreciate just how much this smart display can offer. Being away at college can be daunting, so keeping in touch with your friends and family is really important.

The 10-inch display allows you to make video calls using Messenger, WhatsApp, and Zoom. Even if the other caller doesn't have a Portal, they can still be contacted, making it a great little display to have at home. And, if you want to inject a bit of fun into your calls, there is a huge AR library for you to explore different backgrounds, effects, and masks.

With Alexa built-in, you can use the Meta Portal to play your favorite songs, command Alexa-compatible devices, and watch all the TV shows you won't want to miss.

Key Features
  • Alexa built-in
  • Available in black or white
  • Includes Spotify, Pandora, Tidal, Facebook Watch, and more
  • AR library
Specifications
  • Display: 10-inch
  • Sound: 4-mic array
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi
  • Dimensions: ‎10.25 x 0.91 x 7.06 inches
  • Weight: 2.28lbs
  • Camera: 13MP
Pros
  • Great for keeping in touch with friends and family
  • Can sit almost anywhere in a room
  • Can disable the camera
Cons
  • Must have a Facebook, WhatsApp, or Workspace account to setup
Buy This Product
Meta Portal

With fast data transfer speeds of up to 540MB/s, the SAMSUNG T5 SSD is perfect for moving large files like 4K videos between your devices. Whether you have a USB-C or USB-A device, you can use this portable SSD.

Thanks to its size, the SAMSUNG T5 SSD is ideal for taking with you to school or college. You can store it in your bag or even take it in your pocket. Better yet, there's optional password protection and AES 256-bit encryption to ensure your data is kept safe.

Whether you're storing games, photos, or files, the SAMSUNG T5 SSD is a worthy investment. It's a solid little device that will take a beating, too.

Key Features
  • USB 3.1 interface
  • USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables included
  • AES 256-bit encryption
Specifications
  • Brand: Samsung
  • Capacity: 500GB
  • Power: Bus-powered
  • Speed: 540MB/s
  • Connection: USB 3.1
  • Portable: Yes
Pros
  • Looks stylish
  • Easy to carry in your bag or pocket
  • Fast storage
Cons
  • Quite expensive for 500GB storage
Buy This Product
SAMSUNG T5 SSD

With two microphones on either side, the Logitech C920x HD Pro webcam ensures clear audio, making it a breeze to make video calls. The camera is compatible with all major apps like Skype and Zoom, and can even be used for streaming.

Thanks to its auto light correction technology, the Logitech C920x HD Pro can work in most lighting conditions, adjusting the light when needed. Therefore if you're in a darker room, it will adjust the light to be brighter so the person on the other end of your video call is able to see you clearly.

Getting the Logitech C920x HD Pro to clip onto your device is pretty effortless, however, it won't fit onto every laptop, monitor, or tablet. You can, however, attach it to a tripod, making it much easier to adjust.

Key Features
  • 1080p resolution @30fps
  • Adjusts lighting conditions automatically
  • Microphone range up to 3 feet
Specifications
  • Brand: Logitech
  • Resolution: 1080p
  • Wide Angle Lens: No
  • Connection: USB
  • Integrated Lighting: No
Pros
  • Decent audio
  • Works with a range of apps like Skype and Zoom
  • Compact and easily clips onto laptops and monitors
Cons
  • Adjustments are limited
Buy This Product
Logitech C920x HD Pro

Whether you want to listen to music on the way to your class or enjoy some tunes with your friends outside, the JBL Clip 4 is one of the most portable ways to do this. The carabiner clip is easy to attach to your bag or clothes, meaning you can listen to whatever you like, whenever you like.

Using a Bluetooth-enabled device, you can stream music to the JBL Clip 4. The volume controls are easy to access, yet are discreet enough not to make this speaker bulky. It's also available in a range of colors, so you can have fun choosing the right style for you.

Waterproof and dustproof, the JBL Clip 4 can seriously take a beating. You can listen to music in the rain, wind, or sun, and continue listening for up to 10 hours on a single charge.

Key Features
  • Available in multiple colors
  • Waterproof and dustproof
  • Connect to any Bluetooth-enabled device
Specifications
  • Brand: JBL
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Battery: 10 hours
  • Water Resistance: IP67
  • Power: 5W
  • Dimensions: 1.8 x 3.4 x 5.3 inches
Pros
  • Lots of styles to choose from
  • Portable
  • Easily clips on
Cons
  • Audio isn't as powerful as a larger speaker
Buy This Product
JBL Clip 4

Whether you want to work on your laptop, tablet, or desktop computer, a wireless mouse can be a handy addition since it's very portable. The Logitech Pebble M350 uses Bluetooth connectivity, meaning it will work on a very large range of devices.

With a modern, slim, and lightweight design, the Logitech Pebble M350 can even fit in your pocket if you need it to. It's available in a range of colors, too, so you can purchase the right one for your setup.

The Logitech Pebble M350 boasts up to 18 months of battery life, making it a worthy investment. It's also very quiet to use, so if you don't appreciate clicky mice or scroll wheels, you'll love this wireless mouse.

Key Features
  • Multiple colors available
  • Connect via Bluetooth
  • 18 months of battery life on a single charge
Specifications
  • Weight: 3.5oz
  • Wireless?: Yes
  • Brand: Logitech
  • Dimensions: 4.21 x 2.32 x 1.04 inches
  • Battery: 1x AA
  • Compatability: ‎PC, Linux, Mac
Pros
  • Lightweight and compact
  • Connects to most Bluetooth-enabled devices
  • Easy to use
Cons
  • Very flat and not particularly ergonomic
  • May be too small for larger hands
Buy This Product
Logitech Pebble M350

Whether you're living in a dorm room, shared house, or at home, the Proscenic M8 Pro can help to keep your floors clean. Using 3,000Pa suction power and a generous 280ml dustbin, this robot vacuum can pick up dirt you didn't even know was there. Best of all, it has a built-in mop too, so you can clean hard floors at the same time.

If you have seriously ground in dirt, the Proscenic M8 Pro isn't going to be able to handle it. But for everyday cleaning, it works really well. And, it's pretty affordable when you compare it to many other robot vacuum cleaners.

With multi-room floor mapping, you can use the app to control where the Proscenic M8 Pro goes or doesn't go. You can adjust cleaning schedules, use your voice to control the robot, or adjust the water flow and suction power depending on your cleaning needs.

Key Features
  • Scans surroundings 360 degrees
  • Smart app and voice control
  • No-go zones, no-mop lines
  • Adjustable water flow and suction power
Specifications
  • Dimensions: 13.78 x 13.78 x 3.82 inches
  • Dustbin Capacity: 280ml (dustbin), 300ml (water tank)
  • Battery Life: 130 minutes
  • Brand: Proscenic
  • Power: 3000Pa
Pros
  • Excellent for small dorm rooms
  • Easy to clean
  • Schedule cleaning via the app
Cons
  • Mop functionality is limited to surface dirt
Buy This Product
Proscenic M8 Pro

FAQ

Q: What Is The Best Back-To-School Tech?

The best back-to-school gadgets and tech should be things that can help you out. Whether that be socially, educationally, or productively.

From printers to headphones, portable speakers to web cams, depending on the type of school or college you're going to, you'll find there's a gadget to suit you.

Q: Can Tech Be A Distraction?

While some tech can be distracting, for example, if it's taking you away from the task at hand, it can also be very valuable.

Back-to-school gadgets can help you organize yourself, set schedules, or even boost your morale when it's needed.