With technology becoming an ever more present aspect of our lives, it’s important to teach computer literacy skills from an early age. Getting a laptop for your child(ren) is an excellent way to teach them keyboarding and other computer skills. It also provides them with a convenient location to store documents and files for any class projects.
There are a number of things to consider when purchasing a laptop for kids:
Processor: If your child will be doing any work with graphics or wants a laptop for gaming, you’ll want to consider upgrading the processor. Otherwise, most available processors are powerful enough to handle any standard applications a kid would run.
RAM: If speed, such as for gaming, is an issue, then shopping around for models with upgraded RAM is essential. This will ensure your child’s laptop doesn’t get slowed down at critical moments.
Audio/Video: A decent set of speakers, integrated microphone, and camera are must-haves for kids laptops. This ensures they can stay connected with friends and family, and allows them to enjoy both movies and games with ease.
Storage: Unless your child requires large storage capabilities for school projects, most standard hard drives will cover their needs. Anywhere from 128GB-500GB is standard and will more than handle most needs. If additional storage is required, you can purchase an external hard drive that easily connects via USB for an affordable price.
Durability: If there’s a potential for bumps and drops, purchasing a laptop with integrated shock absorbers or the like will help to protect your investment. You can also purchase aftermarket accessories that help cut down on wear and tear, and any accidents that may happen. Carrying cases or protective sleeves are worth the small investment in order to protect your kids’ laptop.
Size: Smaller kids can get by with smaller screens, whereas bigger kids (especially those who are gaming) will appreciate a larger size. Models around 13 inches should satisfy both younger and older children. Be conscious of the weight of the laptop, so that your little one isn’t lugging around a computer that’s too heavy for them to safely carry. Heavier laptops are also more likely to be damaged in case of falls or bumps. Look for models that weigh less than 5 pounds.
You can also choose from models that double as tablets or have touchscreen interface. There are even toy laptops for the younger set — we’ve included a few picks below. If you are looking for a laptop for your older child(ren), see our list of The Best Laptops for Teens.
With the above information in mind, in descending order of cost, here are 40 of the top rated laptops for kids, plus 10 must-have accessories.
The IdeaPad is a great machine for older kids and boasts a 6th Generation Intel Core i7-6700HQ processor and comes complete with 8GB of memory and a 500GB hard drive.
Key features:
Windows 10 pre-installed
Weighs less than 5 pounds
HD 1920×1080 resolution
Cost: *Est. $819.99
2. Apple MMGF2LL/A MacBook Air 13.3-Inch Laptop
Apple’s computers a beloved for their ease of use, which makes them ideal for little learners just starting out practicing their computer skills. It weighs just 5 pounds, which makes it easily portable for use at home or in the classroom.
Key features:
Choice of storage sizes
HD 1440×900 resolution
Battery lasts up to 12 hours
Cost: *Est. $799.99
The tablet that’s powerful enough to replace your full PC, this computer offers the suite of Office programs to ensure older children’s productivity. It is available in a choice of different bundle varieties to suit any family’s needs.
Key features:
Special screen won’t strain your eyes
Easily switches between tablet and laptop
Weighs just 3.5 pounds
Cost: *Est. $799.99
4. Lenovo IdeaPad 15.6-Inch Touchscreen Laptop
This laptop boasts a Intel Core i5-4200M processor and comes complete with 6GB of RAM and a 15.6-inch screen. It features a 5 hour battery life and comes with Windows 8 already installed.
Key features:
Slim profile
Easy-to-use touchscreen
CD/DVD drive included
Cost: *Est. $789.99
5. ASUS ZenBook UX305UA 13.3-Inch Laptop
This laptop boasts a powerful 6th-generation Intel Core i5 6200U 2.3GHz processor and comes complete with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB hard drive to store all your files. It boasts 10 hours of battery life and features a durable all-aluminum body.
Key features:
Available with or without mouse
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Windows 10 pre-installed
Cost: *Est. $749.99
A sleek and powerful laptop for all your child’s homework needs, it boasts a 1.6 GHz processor and comes complete with 4GB of RAM and a large 500GB hard drive. It features a comfortable and quiet keyboard to help cut down on distractions.
Key features:
Battery lasts up to 7 hours
Windows 10 pre-installed
1 year warranty
Cost: *Est. $739.49
7. Samsung ATIV Book 9 Plus NP940X3G-K06US 13.3-Inch Laptop
This laptop boasts an Intel Core i5-4200U 1.6 GHz processor and comes complete with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of solid state memory. You can easily sync files between your computer and smartphone, and the Samsung Apps marketplace offers a range of apps for all your child’s needs.
Key features:
Available in choice of OS
Battery lasts up to 7.5 hours
1 year warranty
Cost: *Est. $699
Available in a choice of different configurations, this laptop boasts a powerful Intel Core i5-5200U processor and comes complete with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of solid state memory. It offers HD 1920×1080 resolution and crystal clear infinity backlit display for easy viewing.
Key features:
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Windows 8 pre-installed
Battery lasts up to 15 hours
Cost: *Est. $649
9. HP Pavilion 13-s128nr x360 13.3-Inch Full-HD 2-in-1 Laptop
Available in a choice of different configurations, this laptop comes complete with a powerful Intel Core i5-6200U, 2.3GHz, Dual-Core processor and 8GB of RAM, along with 128GB of storage. It quickly converts between notebook to stand to tent to tablet mode.
Key features:
Windows 10 pre-installed
Battery lasts up to 11 hours 45 minutes
Weighs less than 4 pounds
Cost: *Est. $569.99
10. Acer Aspire C710-2055 11.6-Inch Chromebook
Acer is well-known for its powerful yet affordable laptops, and this machine doesn’t disappoint. It boasts an Intel Celeron 847 processor and features 4GB RAM and 320GB of storage. It offers easy access to word processing software in a small and lightweight package.
Key features:
Weighs just 3 pounds
Battery lasts up to 6 hours
HD graphics card included
Cost: *Est. $339.99
For additional chromebooks, see our list of The Best Chromebooks for Kids.
11. Classmate PC-Kids Computer Tablet PC Netbook
This machine features a unique design that allows it to be used as both a tablet and laptop in one compact package. It’s rugged enough to withstand anything your child might throw at it. It boasts an Intel Atom processor and features an anti-glare HD screen.
Key features:
Battery lasts up to 5 hours
Specially designed for intuitive use by children
Windows 7 and anti-virus software pre-installed
Cost: $299
12. 2go PC NL2PRO2GP Convertible Classmate Netbook
This netbook boasts a compact and lightweight design that is easily portable and perfect for little fingers. It comes complete with 160GB of memory and features a rotatable touch screen. It includes a pen-shaped stylus and offers longer battery life than previous models.
Key features:
Windows 7 pre-installed
3G capable, N/G wireless ready
Rubberized protective surface
Cost: *Est. $280
This laptop boasts a powerful Intel Celeron 2955U 1.4 GHz processor and comes complete with 4GB of RAM and a 16GB hard drive. The HD screen features anti-glare technology and is backlit for ease of reading in all conditions.
Key features:
Battery lasts up to 8 hours
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Built-in speakers and camera
Cost: *Est. $249
14. Dell Inspiron i3452 14″ Touchscreen Premium Laptop PC
This updated Dell laptop boasts an Intel Celeron dual-core processor and features 2GB of RAM and a 32GB hard drive. It comes complete with a touchscreen and Office 365 already installed so kids have access to documents and projects while on the go.
Key features:
Windows 10 pre-installed
Battery lasts up to 8 hours
Weighs less than 4 pounds
Cost: *Est. $249
15. HP 15-g170nr 15.6-Inch Laptop
This laptop comes complete with an AMD E-Series Dual-Core E1-1500 1.35 GHz processor along with 4GB of RAM and a large, 500GB hard drive. It comes with Netflix and anti-virus software pre-installed and features a built-in self-help support system.
Key features:
Weighs less than 5 pounds
Battery lasts up to 4.25 hours
Built-in webcam, WiFi
Cost: *Est. $248.03
16. HP Chromebook, 11.6 inches
This popular model from HP boasts a powerful 2.5 GHz Intel Celeron processor and comes complete with 2GB of RAM and a 16GB hard drive. It is both Bluetooth- and WiFi-enabled for easy access on the go and features a fun white and blue color that kids will love.
Key features:
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Built-in webcam
Full-sized keyboard for big and little hands
Cost: *Est. $248
17. Dell 11.6″ Chromebook 3120
This computer packs a big punch in a small package, boasting a powerful Intel Celeron n2840 2.16 GHz processor and comes complete with 4GB of RAM along with a 16GB hard drive. It supports Adobe products and has been specially-designed to be used in schools. It offers a shock-absorbent base and anti-glare screen.
Key features:
Weighs less than 5 pounds
Bluetooth-enabled
Fully sealed keyboard and touchpad
Cost: *Est. $242.99
18. Acer Aspire Switch 10 E SW3-013-1566 2-in-1 Tablet & Laptop
Available in a choice of different configurations to suit any family’s needs, this laptop boasts an Intel Atom Z3735F 1.33 GHz processor and comes complete with 2GB of RAM and 32GB of onboard storage. It features a compact design and can be used as a tablet or laptop at home and on the go.
Key features:
Windows 10 pre-installed
Battery lasts up to 12 hours
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Cost: *Est. $229.99
19. HP Stream 11-r010nr 11.6-Inch Notebook
Available in a choice of different configurations to suit any need, this compact laptop boasts a lightweight design that makes is easily portable for little learners. It boasts an Intel Celeron N3050 1.6 GHz processor, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB hard drive. It weighs less than 3 pounds and provides up to 10 hours of battery life.
Key features:
Windows 10 pre-installed
Choice of colors to suit any personal style
Includes a one year Office 365 subscription
Cost: *Est. $219.99
20. Asus Transformer Book T100TA
Available in a choice of multiple configurations to suit anyone’s needs, this laptop boasts an Intel A4 1.33 GHz processor and comes complete with 2GB of RAM and 64GB hard drive. It is both Bluetooth- and WiFi-enabled and features an easy-to-use touchscreen.
Key features:
Windows 8 pre-installed
Weighs less than 4 pounds
Battery lasts up to 10 hours
Cost: *Est. $199.99
21. Craig Electronics CLP293-BK 14″ Netbook
This compact laptop boasts a VIA A-Series Dual Core A4 1.2 GHz processor and comes complete with 285GB of RAM and 8GB of flash memory built in. It supports access to the Google Play store and is both WiFi- and Bluetooth-enabled.
Key features:
Weighs just 1 pound
Stereo speakers and microphone built in
Built-in front camera
Cost: *Est. $191.28
22. Amar® Black 10″ Mini Notebook Laptop
This mini laptop is the perfect size for little learners and boasts a sleek design that’s sure to impress. It can be set up in a choice of multiple languages and features built-in WiFi for ease of connectivity. It has built-in speakers and microphone, and offers a 16×9 HD screen.
Key features:
Built-in front camera
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Approximately 2 hours battery life
Cost: *Est. $133
23. Goldengulf 7-Inch Computer Laptop for Children (4.1 Jelly Bean Mini Android)
This mini laptop is ideal for tiny hands and boasts powerful Android software to help children learn safe computer usage. It comes complete with SD card slot, 2 USB slots, and HDMI port for easy connectivity and is WiFi-enabled. Built-in speakers, microphone, and camera allow little ones to stay connected with friends and family.
Key features:
Comes with 4GB of RAM and 4GB of storage
Weighs less than 2 pounds
Battery lasts up to 2 hours
Cost: *Est. $109
24. Atoah®7 Inch Mini Netbook VIA8880 Laptop Computer
This mini netbook makes an ideal starter computer for kids and comes complete with SD card slot, 2 USB slots, and HDMI port for easy connectivity and can access the Internet over ethernet or WiFi.
Key features:
Built-in speakers, microphone, and camera
Weighs just 1.5 pounds
Comes with 4GB of RAM and 1GB of storage
Cost: *Est. $109
This compact laptop lets little ones feel like a grown up using their own computer and features a portable and lightweight design that is ideal for kids on the go. It comes complete with a mouse, mouse pad, and sing along and story time games.
Key features:
Built-in speakers
Weighs just 3.5 pounds
Recommended for children aged 5-11
Cost: *Est. $104.92
26. eForprice 7″ Mini Notebook Laptop Computer Netbook
This toy laptop is suitable for little ones to get the hang of using a computer and boasts a VIA 8880 CPU 1.2GHz processor and comes complete with 4GB of storage. The slim, lightweight design is conveniently portable and Ethernet access plus built-in WiFi ensure kids can stay connected.
Key features:
Includes 2 USB ports, SD card slot, and HDMI port
Built-in microphone, speakers, and front camera
Battery lasts up to 3 hours or more
Cost: *Est. $99.99
27. Goldengulf 10″ inch Mini LAPTOP Netbook Android Computer Notebook
This mini laptop comes complete with Android software installed and access to the Google Play store for a host of apps and games to keep kids busy. It features support for 12 languages, WiFi and 3G connectivity, a slim and portable design, and built-in camera.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Battery lasts from 2-4 hours
Mouse included
Cost: *Est. $98.86
28. Craig Electronics CLP293-BL 14″ Netbook
This netbook computer boasts a VIA A-Series Dual Core A4 1.2 GHz processor and comes complete with 285GB of RAM and an 8GB hard drive. It comes with Android Lollipop software already installed and WiFi connectivity for convenient access to the Google Play store and its suite of apps and games.
Key features:
Built-in speakers, microphone, and front camera
Weighs just 1 pound
Supports use of an external mouse
Cost: *Est. $91.63
29. Green NEW 2015 7 Inch MID Android 4.1 Notebook
This compact netbook computer boasts an Android OS (and access to the Google Play store) and features 4GB of internal memory, with ability to expand up to 16GB. The battery lasts up to 2 hours at a time, and built-in WiFi and applications allow little ones to easily stay connected to family and friends.
Key features:
Includes 2 USB ports, SD card slot, HDMI port
Weighs less than 2 pounds
Built-in speakers, microphone, and front camera
Cost: *Est. $85
30. VTech Brilliant Creations, Advanced Notebook
A top choice for kids learning computer skills, this notebook computer comes pre-installed with 120 activities that help little ones learn math, reading, and other skills. Easily keep track of your child’s progress as they progress through 3 levels of difficulty.
Key features:
Recommended for children aged 5-8
Battery operated (included)
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Cost: *Est. $75
31. Haehne Pad-2 10.1 Inches Google Tablet PC
This compact and lightweight tablet is a great starter for little learners and boasts 16GB of internal storage with ability to expand up to 32GB via MicroSD. It supports connectivity through Bluetooth, Accelerator, G Sensor, GPS, HDMI, and FM.
Key features:
Available in a choice of sizes
Available in a choice of colors
Front and rear camera, microphone
Cost: *Est. $64.99
32. VTech Grade School Learning Nitro Jr. Notebook
This kid-friendly laptop comes complete with 40 activities pre-installed to help little ones learn computer skills along with arts, math, and music skills. It supports gaming by 2 players at a time and helps kids to learn through play.
Key features:
Recommended for children aged 4-7
Battery operated (included)
Weighs less than 5 pounds
Cost: *Est. $64.99
33. VTech – Cyber Spy Notebook
This kid-friendly notebook comes complete with 100 activities pre-installed to help little ones learn computer skills along with arts, math, and music skills. It can help teach 3 foreign languages and features recorded voice playback to help perfect pronunciation skills.
Key features:
Recommended for children aged 6-10
Battery operated (included)
Weighs less than 4 pounds
Cost: *Est. $54.21
34. iRULU eXpro X1 7 Inch Quad Core Google Android 4.4 Tablet PC
This laptop has been specially designed for little learners and boasts a fast 1.3GHZ Quad-Core high speed processor to power pre-installed popular Google apps. It has been GMS certified for secure use domestically and abroad. It comes with built-in WiFi, 512MB of RAM and 16GB of storage.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Weighs less than 1.5 pounds
1 year warranty
Cost: *Est. $45.99
35. Dragon Touch 7″ Quad Core Android Kids Tablet
A great gift idea for holidays or birthdays, this tablet boasts a Quad Core 4×1.2GH processor and features 512MB of RAM and 8GB of internal storage. WiFi connectivity and full HD screen ensures kids can stay in touch with friends and family when on the go.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Access to thousands of games and activities
Weighs less than 1 pound
Cost: *Est. $41.99
36. Discovery Kids Teach ‘n’ Talk Exploration Laptop
This kids laptop is the perfect entry point to teaching computer skills to little learners and comes complete with 60 activities pre-installed to help them with their math, language, and computer skills. It’s great for use while traveling or at home and is available in a choice of colors.
Key features:
Weighs less than 3 pounds
Recommended for children aged 6-13
Battery operated (included)
Cost: *Est. $24.49
37.Bilingual Advanced Learning Children Laptop
This kid-friendly laptop boasts a bilingual design that allows children to practice their English and Spanish language skills, or play games to help reinforce educational concepts. Kids will quickly develop a love of learning thanks to this fun and engaging toy.
Key features:
Weighs less than 2 pounds
Recommended for children aged 3-12
Battery operated (not included)
Cost: *Est. $19.95
38. VTech Baby’s Light-Up Laptop
Even the littlest learners can get in on the laptop game with this adorable portable computer with integrated carrying handle. It can be used in either English or Spanish modes and comes complete with 100 sounds, songs, and phrases to help engage kids in early computer literacy skills.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Recommended for children aged 1-3
Battery operated (included)
Cost: *Est. $19.79
Another excellent option for the younger set, this toy laptop comes complete with 20 learning activities to help teach little learners 60+ words, spelling, logic, and more. Choose from music, puzzles, and more with this mini computer that can be customized to your child’s needs. There’s even an attached mouse to give them a real computer look and feel.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Recommended for children aged 3-6
Battery operated (included)
Cost: *Est. $16.79
This toy laptop features a lightweight design and integrated carrying handle that makes it easily portable, and it comes complete with games, music, and alphabet puzzles pre-installed. Kids can send and receive their own pretend emails, just like mom and dad, as they learn important literacy skills through play.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Recommended for children aged 2-4
Battery operated (included)
Cost: *Est. $14.99
Accessories
41. LaptopAcc Slim 2.4Ghz Wireless Keyboard Nano USB Receiver And Shine Optical Mouse Combo
This wireless mouse and keyboard combo is compatible with PCs and laptops running Windows 8, 7, Vista, or XP. It features a lightweight and compact design for ease of use on the go and battery life of 1-2 years thanks to the integrated on/off switches.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Connection range up to 10m
Battery operated (not included)
Cost: *Est. $29.99
42. CoverBot Folio Style Landscape Turning Function Keyboard Notebook Case
This folio-style case turns the iPad Mini into a mini laptop for ease of use while at home or on the go, while offering stability and protection to your device. It doubles as a viewing stand and features shortcut keys to help your child work faster and smarter.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Built-in rechargeable battery
Automatic sleep/wake function
Cost: *Est. $28.99
43. Sofia + Sam Mini Lap Desk | Student Laptop Lapdesk | Travel
This cute little mini lap desk provides a stable surface for little ones to use their laptops on (15 inches or smaller) while out and about, and features an integrated carrying handle for easy portability.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Integrated memory foam cushioning
Weighs just 2.5 pounds
Cost: *Est. $24.99
44. Despicable Me 2 Minions Child Lap Desk With Detachable Pillow
This Minions-inspired lap desk provides a stable surface for little ones to use their laptops on while out and about or at home, and features an integrated carry handle for easy portability. There is an integrated zipper pocket on the pillow to hold small items.
Key features:
Weighs just 1.3 pounds
3x18x12 inches
Pillow is detachable
Cost: *Est. $24.61
45. Kid Lid Laptop Keyboard Cover
This unique product is perfect for parents that want to give their laptop keyboard a little extra protection when their kids are using it. Applications and programs can still run in the background while little ones sit back and enjoy touchscreen interface or watch a movie.
Key features:
Phthalate- and BPA-free
Dishwasher safe for easy cleanup
Folds for convenient storage
Cost: *Est. $22
46. Evecase HP Stream 13 Sleeve Case
Available in a choice of different sizes to suit a number of popular HP laptops (and other brands), this sleeve case boasts a soft and durable neoprene design that protects your child’s device from bumps. It features an integrated carrying handle for ease of portability and front pocket for storing papers and small items.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Easily tucks into a backpack
Smooth zipper closure
Cost: *Est. $15.99
47. SROCKER MS201 Silent Click 2.4GHz Wireless Optical Mini Cute Mouse
This mini-sized mouse is available in a choice of different patterns to suit nearly any personal style and features a lightweight, wireless design that makes is great for use on the go. There is no annoying click sound to bother those around you and it connects automatically in just seconds.
Key features:
Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, or XP, and Mac OS X (V10.4 and above)
Range of up to 10m
Battery operated (not included)
Cost: *Est. $13.99
48. TaylorHe Rachael Hale Collection 15.6″ Laptop Skins Sticker
Featuring one of the most beloved images from animal photographer Rachael Hale, this laptop skin sticker fits laptops that are 15.6 inches in size (or larger) and has been printed on eco-friendly paper.
Key features:
Easy to apply and remove
Leaves no sticky residue
Leather effect finish
Cost: *Est. $10.99
49. niceEshop(TM) Blue Mini Retractable USB Cable Optical Mouse
This mini mouse is perfect for use by little hands at home or on the go when a proper mouse is desired. It features a retractable cable for convenient storage and easily connects via USB. The compact design tucks into most laptop cases and it is an incredibly affordable option.
Key features:
Available in a choice of colors
Features two buttons and one scroll wheel
Easy plug-and-play installation
Cost: *Est. $4.57
50. OOOUSE Turtle Optical Mouse PC Laptop
This cute little mouse features a fun and whimsical turtle design that kids are sure to love. It helps little hands master mousing skills, while cutting down on annoying clicking sounds, thanks to its soft, rubberized grip surface.
Key features:
Connects via USB
Easy plug-and-play installation
Includes free stickers
Cost: *Est. $3.57
