Some back-to-school purchases are simple, like a new laptop or Chromebook. But other useful products are not always obvious. These may seem like purely optional, things to buy when you have money to spend.
However, don’t skimp on high-tech gadgets and accessories, especially if you often zigzag around your college campus. Add in the demands of a part-time job and a social life, and the right gear can help you stay sane.
Read more: 10 Life-Changing Laptop Accessories for College Students
laptop stand
Lulook
Lulook
Lulook
A laptop stand frees up desk space and improves the ergonomics of your setup. Especially if you often spend a lot of time studying or doing homework, you need a laptop screen with a height that prevents you from slouching or bad posture. It also eliminates the hassle of dual-screen setups with separate monitors. Luckily, laptop stands aren’t expensive, and you can even buy an ultra-compact one that’s easy to carry. Take it from the old man. Take care of your body now. Otherwise, you will be punished later for abuse.
bluetooth keyboard
Michael Kreider/IDG
Michael Kreider/IDG
Michael Kreider/IDG
A small room can feel even more cramped if it’s cluttered with cables. A Bluetooth or wireless keyboard with multi-device support streamlines your desk setup and lets you quickly switch between your PC, tablet, and phone. You can also take it on the go for improved ergonomics and comfort. Great lightweight options like the Keychron K3 and Logitech MX Keys Mini are easy to carry. If you don’t travel often, a heavier mechanical keyboard may be more comfortable for gaming or long typing sessions.
noise canceling headphones
Jonathan Takif/Foundry
Jonathan Takif/Foundry
Jonathan Takif/Foundry
Noise-canceling headphones are worth their weight in gold for drowning out distractions while studying (or when you need a break from a noisy roommate). Over-ears have the longest battery life, with top models like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra and Sony WH-1000XM5 offering a run time of 20 to 30 hours, making them ideal for long playback sessions or situations where you can’t charge frequently. Models half the price like Anker’s Soundcore Space Q45 will run just as long and still sound good.
On the other hand, ANC earphones are very portable and can easily fit in your pocket for short trips outside the house. The options are endless. Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds, Sony WF-1000XM5, and Apple AirPods Pro are just a few great top-of-the-line choices.
portable monitor
If you frequently leave your dorm or apartment, properly setting up your PC for travel will make your long days on the PC more comfortable. Along with a laptop stand and lightweight wireless keyboard, the extra screen real estate of a portable monitor makes it easy to navigate different tabs and windows. And the good news is that it’s not that expensive these days. One of the most popular models costs just $100, and you can sometimes find it for less on sale. For an even smoother setup, consider purchasing a good portable stand for your monitor.
tablet
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Dominik Tomaszewski / Foundry
Tablets can serve a variety of purposes: as a second screen for your PC, as a digital notepad for keeping track of class content, or as a comfortable way to read textbooks. It’s a great complement to your PC, especially if you have a desktop computer. The Apple iPad has long been popular for such multitasking, as has Samsung’s rival Galaxy Tab S series, but to reduce eye strain Android E-Ink like the Onyx Boox Note Air 2 You can also choose a tablet.
computer speakers
Creative / Amazon
Creative / Amazon
Creative / Amazon
It can perform much better than portable Bluetooth speakers or your laptop’s built-in speakers. A good, dedicated computer speaker will ensure that when you watch videos, the audio won’t lag or distort at moderate volumes. It doesn’t take up much space on your desk. For example, the budget speakers we selected cost less than $20 and have a small footprint. (See all options in our roundup of the best affordable computer speakers.)
bluetooth tracker
Losing your keys or other important items is annoying, but if you’re on the go often, it’s very easy to lose them. You can avoid this fate by connecting a Bluetooth tracker like an Apple AirTag or Tile Mate to your high-priority device. You can avoid headaches when you’re too stressed and can’t remember your movements accurately.
external hard drive
Technical advisor
Technical advisor
Technical advisor
Cloud storage is common these days, but even if it seems like an outdated technology, local backups can save your bacon. If you unknowingly delete files from your PC, the cloud, or both, you still have a copy of your data as long as you sync each other. You can use a dedicated cloud service for backup, but an external hard drive will be cheaper in the long run. and Easy access even when there is no internet. Even a small 5 TB drive is worth the investment.
power bank
While you are a student, you are guaranteed to be unplugged for long periods of time. All you need is a small power bank that you can put in your pocket (like this small 5000mAh model) to keep your phone running all day long. Choose one that doubles as a charger (like the Anker 511) and you’ll have plenty of coverage on the go.
printer
mark picavance
mark picavance
mark picavance
Printers may seem like relics, but you still need to print documents from time to time. Of course, you can use the computer room on campus, but it’s not always open all the time. Also, some schools charge a fee per page. You can print anytime without taking up much space, even with portable or compact models. Even the cheapest printers available can usually be kept in a drawer or closet.
hdmi switcher
Fosmon / Amazon
Fosmon / Amazon
Fosmon / Amazon
HDMI switchers instantly solve two problems when connecting multiple devices to one TV or monitor. First, you are no longer limited by the number of built-in ports. It also eliminates the hassle of pressing multiple buttons on the remote control to change devices. Everything is routed through the switcher. Switchers use only one port on the display and typically switch between active devices automatically. A 3-port HDMI switcher is usually sufficient, but you can step up to a 5-port model if you need more equipment.
Ergonomic mouse and/or keyboard
Kensington/Amazon
Kensington/Amazon
Kensington/Amazon
Repetitive stress injuries are the worst. If you use your PC all the time, using ergonomic peripherals can save you future pain. Simple wireless vertical mice start at $25, and there are alternatives like the Logitech Lift for people with smaller hands. The trick is to take regular breaks and, if you can, switch up the type of mouse you use from time to time. The same goes for the keyboard. Even a basic split keyboard model should keep your hands and wrists in a more natural position.
phone stand
Michael Soledad / Unsplash
Michael Soledad / Unsplash
Michael Soledad / Unsplash
Having everything in its own place will help reduce clutter when living in a small room. Removing objects from your desk surface will also significantly reduce visual noise. A phone stand helps you achieve both of these goals, while also making it easy to see incoming notifications at a glance. You can keep your battery charged by purchasing a stand that doubles as a charger.
e-book reader
Alaina Yi / Foundry
Alaina Yi / Foundry
Alaina Yi / Foundry
If you’re a bookworm, you’ll want to bring a collection of your favorite books into your dorm, but physical copies can be a real pain during the year-end moving season. An easier option is to invest in an e-book reader like a Kindle or Kobo. Your eyes will be freed from the LCD screen and your room will be less cluttered. Does it feel as good as holding a piece of paper in your hand? No, but being able to store hundreds of books on a slim, pocketable device is a good tradeoff. Plus, you can read the written word for free by signing up for your local library’s Libby service.
