For most pupils and students, the best laptop for school is a refurbished model with an Intel Core i5 processor or Apple M1/M2 chip, 8 to 16GB of memory and an SSD. That's enough to work smoothly in Word, Teams, online learning environments and most study software, without paying full new price.
Which laptop for study suits you best depends on your education level, budget and how often you carry it around. Below we explain the key choices and list the 10 best refurbished laptops for school and study of 2026.
Which laptop do you need for school or study?
The right laptop for school depends on your education level, your field of study and how often you take the laptop with you. Below we answer the most common questions from pupils, students and parents before choosing a laptop for school.
Is 8GB of memory enough for school?
For most pupils and students, 8GB of memory (RAM) is enough. You can work smoothly in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams, Zoom and online learning environments. Do you often have many tabs and programs open at once, or are you studying a field with heavier software such as graphic design or data analysis? Then 16GB is a more comfortable choice.
Which processor do you need as a pupil or student?
An Intel Core i5 or Apple M1 chip is more than enough for browsing, word processing and online classes. For video editing, 3D design or programming, an i7 or Apple M-Pro chip is a better fit. Still unsure which laptop processor suits your field of study best? You'll find both types in our refurbished range, from entry level to more powerful models for demanding courses.
How much storage do you need?
Do you mainly work in the cloud, via OneDrive, Google Drive or a learning environment? Then a 256GB SSD is more than enough. Do you store a lot of files locally, such as photos, videos or large project files? Then 512GB or more storage is a wiser choice.
Which screen size suits school or study?
Do you move between classrooms often, or commute to school or college every day? Then choose a compact 13 inch or 14 inch laptop. Do you mainly work from home and want more overview, for example for multitasking or creative subjects? Then a 15 or 16 inch screen offers more workspace.
MacBook or Windows laptop, what suits your field of study?
A MacBook is popular among creative courses such as media, design and music production, thanks to its long battery life and user friendly macOS. A Windows laptop, such as an HP, Dell or Lenovo, offers more choice in models and is compatible with a wider range of software. Think of technical, economic or business courses.
Your education level also plays a role: at secondary school or in the first year of high school, a light, affordable laptop is often enough, while a vocational, university of applied sciences or university programme sometimes requires specific software.
Why choose a refurbished laptop for school?
A refurbished laptop is a technically inspected and restored second hand device, and for pupils and students it's often a smart choice. You save up to 70% compared to a new model, while still getting a reliable device. RefurbishedDirect has more than 28 years of experience and is the Benelux market leader in refurbished hardware for businesses, educational institutions and consumers.
Every device is ISO certified tested, and data is securely wiped using the Blancco method, accredited by, among others, the Dutch intelligence service AIVD. You also buy brand independent: whether you choose a MacBook, HP, Dell or Lenovo, every device comes with a minimum of 2 years warranty.
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Take advantage now of our Back2School deals on refurbished laptops for school and study.
View the Back2School dealsTop 10 refurbished laptops for school and study in 2026
Below we list the 10 best refurbished laptops for school and study, from compact MacBooks to sturdy business Windows laptops. The prices mentioned are indicative, based on current stock, and may change. Check the product page for the current price and availability.
1. MacBook Air 13" (M1)
The MacBook Air 13 inch with Apple M1 chip, 8GB memory and 256GB SSD is a light, compact laptop with a long battery life. Ideal for secondary school pupils or students who mainly do word processing, browsing and online classes. From around €449.
2. MacBook Air 13" (M2)
The MacBook Air 13 inch M2 is a generation faster, with more graphics power and a larger 512GB SSD. Suitable for students in a creative or university of applied sciences programme who need a bit more performance. From around €949.
3. MacBook Pro 13" (M1)
The MacBook Pro 13 inch with M1 chip combines the ease of use of the Air with a bit more processing power. A good option for students in more demanding fields, such as media or technology, without having to go straight for the Pro 14 or 16 inch. From around €699.
4. HP EliteBook 840 (G6)
The HP EliteBook 840 G6 is a 14 inch business laptop with an i5 processor and 16GB memory, making it one of the most affordable all rounders on this list. Great for everyday schoolwork, Office and Teams. From around €285.
5. HP EliteBook 840 (G8)
A generation newer than the G6, with the same sturdy 14 inch build but a faster processor. Suitable for students who want a bit more future proofing without giving up on size. From around €405.
6. HP EliteBook 850 (G8)
With a 15.6 inch screen, the HP EliteBook 850 G8 offers more workspace, combined with an i7 processor and 16GB memory. Nice for use at home or courses where you multitask a lot. From around €589.
7. HP EliteBook 830 (G8)
This compact 13.3 inch laptop combines an i7 processor with 512GB of storage. A good choice if you're on the move a lot but don't want to compromise on speed or storage space. From around €415.
8. Dell Latitude 5400
The Dell Latitude 5400 is the most budget friendly option on this list, with a 14 inch screen, i5 processor and 256GB SSD. Suitable for pupils and students who are mainly looking for an affordable, solid laptop for everyday use. From around €205.
9. Dell Latitude 5410
With the same size as the 5400, but with 16GB of memory, the Dell Latitude 5410 is a bit more capable for multitasking. A pleasant middle ground for vocational and university of applied sciences students. From around €255.
10. Lenovo ThinkPad T14
The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 is known for its sturdy build and comfortable keyboard, handy if you type a lot during lectures or classes. With an i5 processor and 16GB memory, it's a reliable choice for everyday study use. From around €235.
Which laptop suits your situation?
Looking mainly for a light, affordable laptop for secondary school or the first year of high school? Then the MacBook Air 13 inch M1 or the HP EliteBook 840 G6 is a logical choice. Studying at a vocational school or university of applied sciences and want a bit more memory for multitasking? Then look at the Dell Latitude 5410 or the Lenovo ThinkPad T14. Going for a university programme with heavier software, or working a lot with creative applications? Then the MacBook Air M2, the MacBook Pro 13 inch or the HP EliteBook 850 G8 offer more performance.