Student Devices

Choosing between a tablet and a laptop depends on your budget, the school’s BYOD requirements, and how your child will be using the device.

Tablets are lightweight, interactive, and easy to use, perfect for hands-on, play-based learning in early education.

Laptops pack more processing power, making them great for older students who are working on more complex tasks like collaborating on projects and STEM activities.

Parental controls can help keep children safe while they are online and support the development of healthy tech habits. Setting them up is simple, with most devices providing flexibility for parents to schedule screen-free time, filter inappropriate content, limit distracting apps, and more.

Before you buy, it’s a good idea to check with your school to see if they have any specific BYOD requirements for student devices. To find the right laptop, 2-in-1, or tablet for your child, it can also help to keep these general guidelines in mind:

The use of mobile phones is restricted in most primary schools across Australia to ensure students stay laser-focused on learning. However, students are allowed to carry a phone on their way to and from school so they can stay in touch with their parents.

Phones or kids’ smart watches with limited features and parental controls are perfect for primary-aged kids, as they keep distractions to a minimum.

The best OS depends on the school's BYOD requirements and the student's needs. Many Australian schools accept a range of operating systems, but it’s important to avoid outdated systems that no longer receive updates, as they could pose security risks.

Here’s what you should know:

Choosing the best phone for kids and teens means striking a balance between affordability, functionality, and safety.

The right choice depends on the student’s age, needs, and your family’s rules for digital use. Key considerations include:

For the best student laptop that’s easy on the wallet – focus on performance, durability, and usability for tasks like researching, summarising, collaborating and even streaming!

Chromebooks are affordable and simple to use, while Windows laptops offer flexibility with bigger screens and touch features. 2-in-1 devices add versatility for notetaking, sketching, and reading on the go.

Leading brands like Lenovo, HP, and Acer have affordable options under $1,000. With a huge selection available at Harvey Norman, it’s easy to find a back-to-school laptop to fit your budget and study needs.

Both are fantastic for students, offering their own distinct features. When it comes to 2-in-1s, students will benefit from their:

A powerful laptop is essential for seamless multitasking, rapid file demands, and handling complex software needs. Here's what to look out for:

From getting organised at the start of the semester to boosting productivity during busy assessment periods, the right accessories can make all the difference.

Here are the ultimate study buddies for university, college, and TAFE students everywhere:

2-in-1 laptops are a fantastic choice for uni, college, or TAFE students looking for a truly versatile device.

They give you the convenience of a tablet for storing digital textbooks or taking notes in lectures – while delivering laptop performance when it’s time to write detailed essays or work on group assignments.

2-in-1s are also compact and super lightweight, making them easy to stash in your bag and carry to and from class.

Tablets paired with a stylus pen can make notetaking feel as smooth and natural as putting pen to paper.

Highlight key passages in academic papers, jot down thoughts during tutorials, and annotate documents directly, all while keeping your notes neat and easy to access.

From the Apple Pencil for iPad users to the Microsoft Surface Slim Pen, the best stylus for taking notes should feel comfortable, offer precision, and help you get the most out of your tablet.