What should I look for in a college laptop under $800?

For that workload, I’d focus less on a high-end processor and more on 16 GB of RAM, a comfortable keyboard, a decent screen, and battery life. A recent mainstream processor should handle papers, research tabs, video calls, and streaming just fine. If 16 GB pushes the price too high, 8 GB can work for basic use, but it gives you less room to keep a laptop for several years.

Check the exact configuration before buying. Listings for the same model can have different memory, storage, screens, and battery sizes.

Since you specifically want Windows, I’d look at a standard 14- or 15-inch laptop from a reputable line rather than choosing by touchscreen or 2-in-1 features first. For lots of typing, keyboard feel and weight matter every day. A touchscreen hinge is handy if you’ll actually use tablet mode, but it isn’t a must-have for writing and documents.

If you can, try the keyboard and check the return policy. Comfort is hard to judge from a spec sheet.

A refurbished business laptop is another option worth considering. Some business-class models offer a sturdy build and a good keyboard for less than a similarly equipped new laptop. Compare the specific machine’s age, battery condition, warranty, and return terms, though. Refurbished does not automatically mean the battery or overall condition will be great.

I wouldn’t stretch the budget just to get a more powerful processor for this. Writing, web research, and video lessons are modest workloads. Spend your attention on a reliable model with the school’s required operating system, a solid keyboard, sufficient memory, and battery life that suits your day. Also check whether your college provides software or has any program-specific requirements before you buy.