Reasonable Computers for Kids – Holiday Season is Upon Us!

The Holiday season is just about two months away, meaning it’s time to start shopping for gifts whether they come from Santa, parents, family members, or friends.

When Purchasing, You need to Consider the Recipient

My sister just approached me about gathering some ideas for her 11 year old daughter, Addy. Addy will be getting an iPhone for Christmas, but my sister is considering getting her a laptop of some sort as she is beginning to need one for school. At her middle school, they use Chromebooks and Google Drive for classes.

Addy has desktop with Windows 7 installed, with programs like Microsoft Office and other games. Now, she is needing something more portable. She travels between her parent’s houses, and will be needing to type and research more frequently.

While my recommendations are affected by the case of my niece, they are applicable for any parents or individuals looking to purchase a laptop for a teenager or child. 

Types of Computers to Consider and their Pros and Cons

Chromebook 

Pros 

• Relatively cheap ($100-$400)
• Used in the school, familiar
• Light
• Very portable

Cons

• Limited use
• Needs internet for most functions
• Limited local storage

Windows 2-in-1 or Netbook

Pros

• May have tablet functionality
• Familiar operating system
• Completely functional
• Middle price range ($200-$1200)

Cons

• Middle price range
• Semi-durable
• May not be upgradeable
• Weight

Macbook

Pros

• Effective
• Durable
• Long lasting
• Completely Functional

Cons

• Unfamiliar operating system
• Expensive ($800+)
• Comparatively heavy depending

Recommendations

Because of the price, the Macbook or Macbook Pro is out of the question for this case.

I narrowed down the options to a Windows 2-in-1 or a Chromebook based on the cost effectiveness, as well as considering durability because this will be Addy’s first computer. When considering the first laptop for a child, you must consider durability because you do not yet know how the child or young adult will care for the device.

I also considered the ratings on various sites. The images above show the highest rated devices in each category, as well as their prices. 

Of course the final decision is up to the purchaser, in this case my sister. 

Are you buying any technology this holiday season?

Thanks for reading,

Amanda