The idea behind finding that sweet spot on price and power, is to ensure your school can afford to get as many machines as possible, without scrimping on performance.

It's worth considering what these are being used for as that could mean you buy a mix. Some more powerful machines for taxing gaming that requires the fastest performance, and more affordable options for those that have less pressure to perform -- such as those with lots of processing going on in the cloud, for example.

You may also want to think about setting aside budget for accessories such as gaming keyboard and mouse, headphones, webcams, and even gaming chairs.

This guide lays out the best affordable gaming computers for schools available right now.

The best affordable gaming computers for schools

1. HP Victus 15L: Best overall affordable gaming computer

The HP Victus 15L is the perfect combination of gaming specific setup for performance power while keeping that price tag well under the $1,000 mark. Despite this packing in plenty of power, it also remains relatively compact in a home console-sized setup that can make fitting many into a small space a possibility.

Inside you get all the grunt of an Intel Core 10th-gen processor backed by Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 Super graphics, up to 16B of RAM, and up to 1TB of storage. More than enough for most gaming needs in school then.

So when it comes to getting the most out of your space, and your budget, this is an option that does that really very well. And it's worth keeping in mind this comes from HP, which is a reputable brand that offers good support and warranty cover, so you have that longer term peace of mind also.

As a bonus this also offers a good selection of ports on the front of the machine, so it can be easily interfaced by students using their personal hardware, or for accessing external drives more easily than on if these were on the back.

An excellent affordable gaming computer for schools with a good selection of variation in specs so you can find the ideal price and power point that meets your needs.

2. Refract Gaming Jade: Best custom build

The Refract Gaming Jade is a custom-built machine that is setup by Overclockers to offer a full-on PC gaming experience without the usual steep price tag. It's worth noting this is often available in sales so you can get it for a lower price if you keep your eyes peeled.

This looks great, with see-through sides, LED lighting, and fantastic framing. But that goes further as it produces superb-looking gaming visuals too, right up to 4K quality thanks to the hardware. This usefully comes in one configuration, making things very simple when buying.

Everything is powered by the AMD Ryzen 7 7700 and backed by Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 Ti graphics, 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB SSD. That makes this an entry-level gaming PC but one that should offer more than enough power for schools. It's also simple to setup and use with room to upgrade, which makes it a more future-proof option than many at this price and spec level.

It's worth noting that this is air-cooled only, so if you have a lot of these in a room it could get quite noisy. Although since most gamers have headsets on anyway this may not be much of an issue.

3. Lenovo Legion Tower 5i: Best for multi-use

The Lenovo Legion Tower 5i is around the $1,000 mark yet offers powerful gaming specs and works well for wider PC uses, too. It can be good for gaming while also providing enough grunt for video and image-editing purposes.

The tower is an eye-catcher with its glass side and multi-colored LED lighting setup. Thanks to plenty of ventilation holes on the front, this can be cooled efficiently so you get powerful performance at the 1080p-quality level, which 77fps levels on the likes of Cyberpunk 2077.

Don't expect this to offer ray-tracing level performance as that's rare at this price point without suffering on FPS performance. Instead, you can enjoy quality graphical gameplay from the Intel Core i7 CPU backed by Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Ti with up to 16GB of RAM and a combination 1TB HDD and 512GB SSD for storage capacity and speed combined.

4. Acer Predator Orion 3000: Best compact model

The Acer Predator Orion 3000 manages to keep the price low while also making sure the footprint of this machine is minimal. As such, this is a compact PC that won't take up too much room while still offering plenty of power at that sub-$1,000 price point. You can go higher than that with specs, if needed though.

At the base you get an Intel Core i5 11th-Gen chip backed by Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 graphics card, and up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM plus 512GB or 1TB SSD.

This system uses the company's FrostBlade cooling fans to make sure the setup remains chill even under the most intense pressure. This runs Windows with gaming-friendly features such as the Auto HDR to ensure the dynamic range is as vast as possible to give you the most realistic picture quality.

On top of all that you have a glass side with LED lighting for a truly powerful gaming machine look, plus plenty of space for future upgrades.

5. HP Omen 25L: Best performance on a budget

The HP Omen 25L is a model that stands out when it comes to design and performance. While still keeping the price low this manages to offer superb performance for 1080p gaming, meaning high frame rates on pretty much anything your throw at this machine.

You have an RBG LED lighting setup on the glass-sided main unit that features clean lines and a minimalism that really makes this look fantastic. It also offers super simple tool-free access, making it a good model for upgrades and changes whenever needed.

The top quality performance comes at the base configuration but you can spend more and get that even more powerful, if needed. On entry you get plenty with that AMD Ryzen 5 5600G CPU, AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT GPU, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD.

6. Asus ROG Ally: Best handheld

The Asus ROG Ally is a gaming computer compact enough to hold in your hands. This is a really great option if mobility is an important requirement, as this can go anywhere.

Thanks to a built-in 7-inch IPS 120Hz 1080p display flanked by controls and speakers, this is an all-in-one setup. Yet, despite that size, it still packs in full-powered gaming specs.

That's due to a powerful AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip running the show with the backing of an RDNA 3 GPU, a massive 16GB of DDR5 RAM, and a plentiful 512GB SSD.

Despite having all this, and in such a small package, it still manages to keep the price down, making it one of the most affordable options on this list.

7. MSI Codex R2: Best for power without compromises

The MSI Codex R2 is a powerful-yet-affordable gaming machine that offers 1080p-quality gaming and even 1440p performance without making many compromises at all.

This is thanks to plenty of grunt in the form of that Intel Core i5-14400F processor that's backed by an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 GPU as well as 16GB dual channel DDR5 RAM and SSD storage.

This also looks the part with that RGB lighting setup that shows off the plentiful hardware as well as the space for more if needed.

8. Zhic Gaming PC: Best super cheap

The Zhic Gaming PC is a super affordable option that is sub-$500 at time of publishing. Despite that low price, it still manages to offer decent specs, including plentiful RAM at 16GB and a hefty 1TB of SSD storage. Plus, it's powered by the AMD Ryzen 5 5600G CPU and backed by AMD Radeon Vega graphics.

This is where money is clearly saved, as the graphics are built into the CPU rather than having a dedicated separate GPU. As such, this will be more limited than the other machines on this list in terms of top performance power.

That said, you can upgrade as required, so adding in a GPU to this setup may work out more affordable, and powerful, than some of the pre-built options on this list.

• Best Hardware for Teachers
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The point here is that even at the more affordable end of the spectrum, there are plenty of laptop options that are tailored to serve various needs.

Sure, not too long ago it was a choice between paying more and getting premium features and cutting back and having to sacrifice. But as tech has become more prevalent and affordable, you can now have the best of both.

Before you buy it's important to think about what you need, be that a powerful processor backed by lots of RAM and a graphics card for gaming and video editing, or a light and portable model with longer battery lift for all-day use.

The operating system is also a good place to consider as this may affect the systems and apps you already use regularly. Then, of course there's the price.

This guide lays out all the best affordable laptops for schools so you can find the right model to suit your needs.

Best affordable laptops for schools

Best affordable laptop for schools overall

The Acer Aspire 3 tops our list as the best affordable laptop for schools. This is thanks to a baseline model that provides plenty of performance friendly specs while keeping the price low. You can spend more and get a faster CPU, GPU, more RAM, more storage, and even a larger and higher resolution display. But the key here is that no matter the level you pick, this is well-built.

That means Acer-level quality in terms of materials, lightweight, solid frame, and battery quality and longevity. Plus, these machines run on Microsoft Windows 11 as standard.

Great connectivity is available with USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and WiFi 6 onboard. The screen has a BlueLightShield to protect the eyes, and with a slim profile of 18.9mm and 1.6kg weight, this is good to go in a bag with you all day.

Best affordable Apple Mac laptop for schools

If you want to get an Apple laptop, but don't want to pay Apple prices, then an older model MacBook Air is a great option. While the M2 offers big savings, it's not much more than the M3, so looking around that age range can be a perfect balance of affordability and power.

The MacBook Air is available in several variants when it comes to specs and even colors, but in all instances you're getting a very well-made machine. A strong metallic outer, meticulously designed physical keyboard, intelligent biometric security, and a rich and clear display, plus a plethora of connectivity options.

Above all else you're getting macOS, which features access to some of the best made and most stable apps out there. Lots of developers build for Mac first, so even if these are older laptops, students may be getting access to the latest software simply by using a Mac.

Best affordable Chromebook for schools

The Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is a super affordable way to get the power of a 2-in-1 laptop and tablet without spending a lot. To be clear, this is a low-spec model even for a Chromebook so it's not the most powerful. But it will run the light Chrome OS smoothly and can serve you well for most simple tasks such as working on documents, using a web browser, and accessing emails.

Having that ability to use this as a tablet or a laptop is a rare treat at this price point. The device works well for students, and teachers, who want to use it in portable way when a laptop might not fit or a tablet may not offer enough. This lets you always have both at the ready.

Battery life is superb, with a good 16-hours use on constant video playback testing. It should go all day without the need to carry a charger, making that already compact build seem even more portable.

Best affordable Windows laptop for schools

This Windows 11 laptop from ASUS offers a range of specs but even the baseline is more than powerful enough for most school tasks. Packing in an AMD Ryzen 5 chipset, this offers 6-cores and 12-threads of processing smarts backed by integrated graphics and plenty of RAM and SSD storage space.

The build quality is solid, as you'd expect from a big name such as ASUS, offering you a portable option that still packs in a large and high-quality 16-inch FHD+ display.

You also have a 720p webcam, fingerprint sensor, USB-C, multiple USB-A, and HDMI connectivity, plus WiFi 6E. This can handle plenty of heavier processing tasks but it has built-in graphics available so don't expect this to power perform for tasks such as gaming or video editing.

Best affordable gaming laptop for schools

The Acer Nitro V 15 is an affordable gaming laptop that's ideal for schools. This is one of the more expensive models on this list but there's no avoiding that when it comes to a laptop that's powerful enough for gaming. The key here is that you get that great combination of a dedicated graphics processor and screen built to task.

Under the hood is a powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 GPU for buttery smooth gaming performance. And the screen can keep up thanks to its 144Hz refresh rate and high def 1920 x 1080 resolution on the 15.6-inch display.

A few options in terms of specs are available so you can save money or spend more depending on how much power you need. In either case you're getting a powerful and portable gaming laptop that's built by a well-established brand known for decent quality that should last.

Best affordable AI laptop for schools

The Dell Inspiron 14 is a great option for schools that want an affordable laptop that still packs in onboard AI smarts. Despite being well-priced for what is onboard, this gives you a Windows 11 experience with all the powers that having Microsoft Copilot onboard offers.

The onboard GPU isn't so powerful, which is alright for 2D image editing but anything more complex is going to be taxing. That said, the display, at 14-inches 60Hz and 1080p, is decent and is backed by a zippy eight-core Qualcomm Snapdragon CPU.

Copilot onboard means integrated AI companion assistance with the likes of Microsoft 365 tools and beyond.

• Best Tools For Teachers
• Best Hardware for Teachers

From holding online video lessons to creating video guidance resources that students can watch later, a ring light can help to enhance the quality of the picture. The idea being to offer a steady light source that creates a more natural finish -- ultimately allowing students to feel you're more lifelike and engaging when on video.

Ring lights are built primarily for facial clarity but, of course, this light source can be used to add great visibility to resources being used in the video, from books to experiments, if you arrange it all correctly.

While the cameras on laptops and smartphones, as well as dedicated webcams, are all better than ever -- these all are limited by the light source. Enhancing that light source gives the camera the best chance to do its job well -- creating a more immersive video experience for students to enjoy.

But which is best for you? Read on to find the best ring light for teachers.

1. Neewer Ring Light Kit: Best ring lights for remote teaching top pick

The Neewer Ring Light Kit is one of the best available as it is designed for professional-level make-up work. The massive 20-inch ring light uses an array of 352 LEDs to create a broad and even spread of 44W of light that ranges from 3,200 to 5,600K, allowing you to avoid the too-white light that some ring lights deliver.

This is both mains- and battery-powered, making it ideal if you want the option to move around, or sit somewhere not close to a power source. The size of this light offers a wide spread that can deliver a more even finish, ideal for any teacher who wants to illuminate more than just their face. So for a science teacher taking a class through a live experiment, for example, this is an excellent choice.

2. Rotolight Neo 2: Best ring light for video classes

The Rotolight Neo 2 is a product built by a company with years of experience creating lighting at the professional level, for photographers and others. As such, it represents a ton of research and experience being distilled into a very small, highly efficient, and super effective form factor. Small enough to sit on a desk, in fact.

Pop this next to your display, laptop, webcam, smartphone – whatever – and it will illuminate you as the subject with a perfectly balanced light that creates the most lifelike representation. We haven't missed the fact this isn't technically a ring light, but it does exactly the same job, just without the option to place your smartphone at its center.

Both battery- and mains-powered, this is super portable. Yet it offers a whopping 1,840 lux of bicolor light that is good for clear images at up to three feet, making it ideal for video lessons.

3. UBeesize Selfie Ring Light: Best affordable ring light

The UBeesize Selfie Ring Light is a great option for teachers who don't want to spend too much. This compact ring light, at 10.2 inches, still manages to offer enough power for teachers on a video call with the options of three levels of warmth from 3000K up to 6000K, and 11 brightness levels.

Some versions come with a tripod stand while still being super affordable. A USB power cable is supplied that can be plugged into a mains charger, a portable battery, a laptop, tablet, or smartphone – making it very versatile and portable.

The tripod also features a phone holder, perfect if you want to teach a class, see the students while still facing the light and camera, and remain hands-free. For the low price, it comes with a three-year replacement cover for parts, which is even more impressive.

4. Xinbaohong Clip-On Selfie Light: Best for iPhone and laptop

The Xinbaohong Clip-On Selfie Light is a super affordable, mega portable ring light that easily clips to smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other devices. Essentially, anything that's 0.7-inches or thinner, this will clip to it. This makes for a very easy-to-use device, powered by USB cable, which delivers a powerful 6000K light that's ideal for video class teaching.

This device offers bright and dim modes, although when used in the bright option, the battery won't last long. Yup, this does work on battery alone, so it's travel-friendly, but since you're likely using it with a USB-capable device, charging shouldn't be an issue. At this price it's so easy to give it a try it's difficult to think of a reason not to.

5. ESDDI 18 Ring Light: Best dimmable and powerful ring light for video

The ESDDI 18 Ring Light offers a large and very powerful ring light for a reasonable price when you consider the padded case, six-foot stand, and phone clip are thrown in, too. The light itself offers a wide range of color, from 3000 to 6500K, as well as the ability to vary brightness from 10 to 100. That's plenty of range from the powerful 432 LEDs that kick out a whopping 48W of light power.

All that makes this equally as capable when lighting a teacher for a remote class lecture or for covering a wider area to show off an experiment. The only downside is you will need mains power as that's the only option on this ring light.

6. Smoovie LED Color Stream Ring Light: Best color light

The Smoovie LED Color Stream Ring Light is ideal for anyone looking to offset the color of a room. That could mean helping to normalize the color but also it could be used as a feature as part of creating a mood for a presentation, say. This also allows you to pick three color modes within the white spectrum to vary the warmth and get an ideal facial covering when needed.

This is USB-powered, however, some versions (at time of publishing) come bundled with a 3,000 mAh battery charger pack too, making it truly mobile. There are 6- or 8-inch size variants, both of which are plenty bright enough for most rooms.

7. Erligpowht 10" Selfie Ring Light: Best value for size

The Erligpowht 10" Selfie Ring Light is a well-balanced option that offers lots of powerful features at a budget-friendly price. This model comes with a 10-inch LED light ring capable of three color modes, ranging from bright white to a softer yellow.

This sits atop a tripod that's capable of extending from 18 inches high right up to 50 inches. It also comes with a smartphone mount attachment. You also get a remote control for use at a distance that connects to the phone via Bluetooth.

This has a lot going for it while keeping the price low, making it an ideal entry level model for anyone wishing to give a light ring a try without spending too much.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
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While using your own laptop offers you plenty of advantages such as security, privacy, and the ease of having everything you need right there, it requires moving. You'll need to lug about what can be a bulky device. Get the right laptop bag and that becomes less of an issue.

The perfect laptop bag will not only let you carry your laptop about, comfortably, but also any peripherals -- while keeping it all protected. That can mean a charger for your device, plus extras such as headphones, cameras, mics, wireless mouse and keyboard, or even paperwork and stationary -- all in one bag.

Bags do vary so you may want to consider if you need all features such as padded protection, waterproofing, single or double shoulder carry options, zips or flaps, additional pockets for papers and peripherals, and of course material, look and pricing.

This guide lays out the very best laptop cases for teachers so you should be able to find the ideal bag for your requirements.

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• Best Tools for Teachers

The Very Best Laptop Cases for Teachers

1. Case Logic Laptop Case: Best overall

The Case Logic Laptop Case is the simply named, yet perfectly made, ideal all-around bag for teachers transporting their digital device to, from, and around school. This is a full-sized bag so you not only have a sleeve for your laptop, which may not be snug enough for smaller models, but you also get lots of pockets. That makes this great for carrying a charger, cables, and adapters, but there's also space for school books, marking gear, and even room for a tablet, phone, and purse too.

The comfortable shoulder strap and grab handle give multiple carry options, both of which are made for long distances, if needed. The build quality is high with tear- and water-resistant materials and an inner padding that is drop-resistant. Even the zips are of a high quality so you can open and close this all day, throwing from desk to desk, without worry of it giving up on you.

This is good for laptops up to 18-inches, so nearly all laptops then. You can also fit full-sized sheets of paper in there without folding, and there's even a luggage pass through on the back, making this great if you want to travel with it or if you use a rolling luggage case in school. This isn't the cheapest option but you do get a lot for your money.

2. Mosiso Laptop Sleeve: Best water-repellent sleeve on a budget

The Mosiso Laptop Sleeve is an ideal option for anyone who simply wants a slide-on case that protects their laptop without taking up too much room or costing a great amount. This lightweight model offers lots of color and size options, however, each one offers layered casing for protection against water and drop damage. The neoprene outer stops water while the shockproof sponge beneath offers knock resistance and an internal plush finish protects the body from any scratching.

This model is priced low yet also comes with a small secondary case for your charger, cables, USB sticks, and so on. Both have a smooth glide zipper and come in various matching colors. Don't expect to store much else in this though as it's built specifically to fit the laptop you have, with sizes ranging from 12.3 to 16 inches.

3. Thule Gauntlet 3.0: Best extra tough case

The Thule Gauntlet 3.0 is the go-to choice for anyone who wants ultimate protection. Made by a brand known for tough car roof boxes, this is built to go the distance. From moving around school to going on trips on flights, this is a hard-shell case that can withstand even heavier knocks and drops.

Designed for 13-inch laptops specifically, this is limited in size and there are no extra pockets. That in mind, the already high price is certainly premium. But that's because the design and build quality are so good – this polyurethane-hardened case is going to last you a very, very long time.

You do have compartments with two stretchy mesh dividers plus a nylon strap to hold the laptop in place. All that is surrounded by a dense foam to keep the laptop, and anything else you fit in there, super secure.

4. UZBL Work-in Laptop Case: Best for Chromebooks

The UZBL Work-in Laptop Case is the go-to option for teachers using Chromebooks or other smaller laptops. Built for 11.6- to 11.8-inch laptops, this features lock-in grips in the corners that hold a device suspended in place. That means protection by the outer EVA shell, which is not only impact- but also water-resistant. The laptop also can be used while still in the case.

Open this up, work on the laptop or output to a whiteboard, then close it and you're ready to change classroom. Extra storage spaces make carrying chargers, cables, and adapters easy. All this and the price remains relatively low for all that you get. The only downside is this is specifically for smaller laptops. Having a carry handle and a shoulder strap make for good portability options that keep this comfy to carry, even for longer periods of time.

5. Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L: Best for longer travel

The Topo Designs Travel Bag 30L is perfect for teachers who carry a lot of items in school and need a bag they can use for further travel, commuting to and from school or taking flights on school trips. The bag is actually carry-on compliant, making it the ideal size for anyone who flies regularly. The fact it can be carried as a backpack, with a shoulder strap or with a carry handle, is a portability bonus.

Interior padded sleeves keep a laptop or tablet impact secure as well as safe from scratches or spills. For schools, this is great as you can carry chargers, cables, adapters, books, marking, spare clothes, food – anything you need for a day or more – all while fitting on your back in a stylish bag. Lots of compartments with zips make for quick access that's ideal for getting to notes or marking without having to open up the entire bag.

6. Peak Design Everyday Messenger: Best for customizable storage

The Peak Design Everyday Messenger is a product that is so well thought out it justifies the steep price tag. The magnetic MagLatch is super easy to use but also stays securely shut for peace of mind. On the inside, the bag is very customizable with flexfold dividers that can be moved to create the right storage space to keep what you need secure and quickly accessible inside.

Outside, the design is gorgeous, available in a selection of colors and materials, and also remains sleek enough to be carried comfortably, full or near empty. This will store up to 15-inch laptops and features a comfy shoulder strap for all day use.

• Best Hardware for Teachers
• Best Tools for Teachers

The world of printing is well-established and, as such, there are many big name brands from which to pick. From HP and Canon to Epson and Brother, all offer a wide range of printer types and each offers varying features. But what's worth thinking about right away is running costs. Some brands offer more affordable up front printers but then you pay more for ink in the long run, so be sure to look into that before getting too excited about a seemingly great deal.

The main two printer types now are inkjet and laser, with the latter offering superior quality and speeds but more expensive toner replacement versus the ink in those jet-style printers. Then you'll want to think about wifi connectivity, the ability to print on school networks with integrations, mobility, paper capacity, scanning and copying options, auto loading, and ports such as USB for direct printing from flash drives.

Here's what to know about buying a printer for school.

This guide has taken all that into account before laying out only the very best printers for schools with each option's special feature standing out to make it even easier to find the right model for you.

You may also want to check out our guide on how to print on school networks with laptops to get the best out of your model -- and to decide which will ideally suit your setup.

HP OfficeJet Pro 9135e

The HP OfficeJet Pro 9135e is a great all-rounder when it comes to printers for schools, small offices, homes, and more. As such, it does the basics well, so you can expect high-quality prints both for color and black options. Crucially, it's also fast with up to 24 pages printed off per minute, and with a large 500 sheet paper capacity, it should keep going automatically for a long time.

A scanner is onboard with an Auto Doc Feeder (ADF) so this can scan multipage documents without the need to feed in each page manually -- ideal for teachers making project copies for the class, for example.

This features wireless connectivity with Ethernet, wifi, and mobile options to keep this connected to networks or to directly connect to individual devices. You also have the extra layers of security from the HP Wolf Pro Security to provide peace of mind.

The only downside could be the size of the printer as it's not the most compact, plus the need for a pricier-than-some HP ink subscription to get the most out of this printer's features.

Epson EcoTank ET-2720

The Epson EcoTank ET-2720 is all about the ink storage as that tank name suggests. This allows you to top up by pouring in the ink, rather than using the usually tiny cartridges. As such, you can buy in bulk and fill lots at a time, for up to 4,500 color pages, which should result in far less need for replacements or maintenance -- ideal for schools.

This color inkjet is capable of printing fast, at up to 33 pages per minute, and connects via high-speed USB or over wifi and prints up to A4 paper size. The downside is that the capacity is just 100 sheets of paper so even if the ink is abundant, the paper may need to be added more often in larger, regular school-use cases.

Image resolution is high, making this great for printing photos that look especially good when used with glossy paper, which this specifically supports.

Canon PIXMA G1220

The Canon PIXMA G1220 is another supertank printer, meaning it can be filled up rarely and keep going for up to 7,700 color print pages on a single refill. Crucially, it does this while remaining smaller than most and offering a simplicity that not only makes it easy to use but also a more affordable option.

You do lose out on features, however, such as a scanner onboard or wifi connectivity, plus printing is slower than many at nine pages per minute. But if you simply want a printer than requires littles maintenance interaction -- apart from refilling the relatively meager 100 sheet capacity paper tray -- then this is a solid worker. Prints are of a high-quality, both for color and black, while glossy paper support also makes this a viable photo printer.

Brother MFC-J6955DW

The Brother MFC-J6955DW is a real contender for all-round winner as it does a bit of everything and offers support for up to tabloid sized paper. Packing in three paper trays, it won't need much maintenance, and thanks to duplex scanning it can do both sides with ease.

Printing is fast and high-quality, both in black as well as color, topping out at an impressive 30 pages per minute. Support for wifi, USB and NFC are welcome connectivity options although it won't print directly from a USB thumb drive.

Running costs are low and with the ability to scan, copy, fax, and print at scale, this is a great choice for schools that want business-level print quality and performance at a more affordable price.

Canon Pixma G7020 Megatank

The Canon Pixma G7020 Megatank is called that as it goes beyond the supertank to offer even more ink capacity to make for some of the best ongoing running costs of any printer.

Not only is this great value for longer term fees, but it also offers rich features such as auto-duplexing and an auto document feeder, ideal for bulk copying jobs. It's faster than many other megatank options out there at up to 14 pages per minute in color. Plus, quality is excellent with well-defined text and even smaller fonts produced clearly.

• How To Print on School Networks with Laptops
• Best Hardware for Teachers

Digital pens are a great way to merge the physical way of taking notes with the digital advantages of saving. That means you can write what you need, but won't only have it on that sheet of paper. Instead, these pens will allow you to have a digital copy, ideal as a backup, but also as an easy way to share those notes.

Not all pens are created equal though, so you'll need to think about which features you require and just how much you want to spend. Some models will record what you write on any paper, others require specific paper, books, or even a tablet device. Some come with buttons to give you shortcut controls, while some even let you record voice notes to go with your written notes. 

Many digital pens will now transcribe your handwriting into digital text, a very helpful tool indeed. But with the accuracy and quality varying across brands it pays to use this guide to find the best model to suit your needs.

Best digital pens for teachers

The Livescribe company leads the way in digital pens and this model, the Symphony, offers some of the best from years of development that has managed to become more affordable than ever. Despite this not being the top-end model from the company, you really do get a lot for your money. That includes the ability to write using the ergonomic design so it sits comfortably and naturally in the hand. 

Thanks to a decent 10-hour battery life and 90-day standby time, conversion of writing to text live on a connected smartphone, and super speedy charging via USB, this is a really easy model to use. It does require special paper to work, so you'll want to keep that ongoing cost in your considerations when buying. 

This is a very well made pen that uses premium materials and looks compact enough to go anywhere with you without actually looking like a digital pen.

For all-out comfort, the Neo Smartpen N2 is one of the best options out there right now. This is weighted perfectly so that you can write comfortably as if using a standard pen, only this is packing in plenty of smart features too. This does require a special notebook and writing pads to function but the results are worth that.

One button press and this is on and recording, it charges via micro-USB for ease, and will go for a full five hours before you need to charge it back to full. Setup is very straightforward and should only take you around 30 seconds to be up and running from new. Thanks to premium metallic materials, this feels like a strong option that's made to last.

For those that want to capture drawing as well as writing, this is a fantastic option as it's built to task. You do require a pen and specific pad combo for this to work, however, the results are worth the extra kit. Unlike some other options, this pad allows you to place any paper on that pad and it will still detect your doodles for digital conversion -- ideal for artists.

Not only is this a very comfortable pen to use but it's also one of the most accurate in terms of detection and digital reproduction. The pen is inert so you only need to charge the pad, which goes for a good eight hours before needing a recharge via micro-USB. This pairs with a smartphone, after a simple one minute setup, and allows you to save and share your art with ease. View and edit your work in the app for the perfect digital finish.

As the name suggests, the Livescribe Echo is all about the audio to go with your digital writing. As such, this is a little bulkier than some, with its onboard storage for audio recordings, yet it is still comfortable enough to write with pretty naturally. Usefully, this will link your audio recording to the section you're writing, making it perfect for class notes to which you need to add more than what you've written alone.

Battery life is decent, charging is easy, and setup is straightforward. Being Livescribe, you have lots of features in the app including the ability to convert your handwriting into digital text, which makes back-up and sharing very simple.

This is a bulkier model than many, so keep that in mind if comfort is your priority. But if audio recording is a must, then this is one of the best options out there.

Being Moleskin, the quality of this setup is premium, but it does mean you need to invest a bit more upfront and ongoing. This comes with the Pen+ and Ncoded Paper Tablet, which is a fancy notebook that helps with detection and even includes icons that work as buttons for digital controls. 

The pen is pretty lightweight and comfortable to use, with a triangular design that sits well in the hand. The pad is similarly premium with a superb finish to the paper, and the combination of those two makes for some very accurate recording. The same applies to transcription in which the app converts your handwriting to text with ease.

This even allows you to record audio, making it a great option for lectures or class in which extra notes, in a hurry, are a real option. The fact it all appears live on the connected smartphone app is just a really nice feature that helps to justify the more-than-most price.

Both virtual reality and augmented reality headsets give teachers an opportunity to offer students an immersive experience of a topic or subject. From taking a virtual trip to ancient Rome to dissecting a frog without any real animals being harmed, the possibilities are broad. Plus, this option is far more affordable and safe than the physical world alternatives. 

Many headset systems now work as a group, allowing the teacher to guide the students as they each have a personal viewing experience from their connected headset. This can mean a great focus of attention, even for students that might otherwise struggle to stay engaged in a group situation.

Here's what to know about buying a VR headset.

For this guide we're mostly looking at the best VR and AR systems for schools, used in the classroom.

Best VR headsets for schools

1. ClassVR: Best Overall

The ClassVR system, by Avantis, is a purpose-built VR headset and software package designed for schools. As such, these headsets are solidly constructed with a plastic shell and wide headband. Each system comes with a pack of eight, plus all the kit necessary to get up and training. Crucially, ClassVR also offers a lot of assistance with setting up the install and managing the system, if that's what the school chooses. 

The system offers plenty of educational content that is actually curriculum-aligned. Since it's all run from a centralized management system, it leaves the teacher in total control and also means you don't need more than one main computer to have it up and running. 

Since this ensures all the students see the same content at the same time, it can facilitate a group learning experience, just as with a real class trip, for example. The price is reasonable for what you get but when you compare to affordable options that work from home, it's still a commitment.

2. VR Sync: Best for Use with Multiple Headsets

VR Sync is a digital platform that can be used to send a VR experience to multiple headsets. Since this is simply the software part of that, it leaves the school free to use varying headsets. This is also a great option for a school that allows students to bring in their own headsets from home.

You can add videos, so you can make your own or use those downloaded from online. You get full 360-degree video with spatial audio for full immersion. It also offers an option to study analytics of how users interact – aimed more at business users, but it has potential for the classroom too.

Sync VR currently works with Oculus Go, Oculus Quest, Oculus Rift, Pico, Samsung Gear VR, Android, and Vive.

3. Redbox VR: Best for Content

The Redbox VR system is similar to the ClassVR setup, only this offering is created to work with Google Expeditions specifically. As such, it's an ideal way to take a class on a virtual tour of places all over the world, now and in the past.

The system comes in a box with a selection of headsets and all the kit needed for set up and keeping the system charged for use. An optional 360-degree video recording setup allows users to make their own videos – ideal for a virtual tour of the school, for example.

The system comes with a 10.1-inch tablet that allows the teacher to control the experience with ease while still remaining mobile enough to move around the class.

4. Oculus Meta Quest 3: Best Stand Alone Setup

The Meta Quest 3, formerly Oculus, is one of the most powerful standalone headsets out there right now. While it's not specifically built for the classroom, it packs in so much power, so many features, and such a wealth of content, that it's a great classroom tool. It's not cheap, and you do need a Facebook account to get up and running, but it's worth all that for the super accurate gesture controls and more.

This is a light model, making it suitable for younger users too. Everything runs quickly and the display is crisp and high-res enough to help even those less comfortable with VR to be at ease using this headset.

5. Google Cardboard: Best Affordable Option

Google Cardboard is a very, very affordable option. At its most basic, this is a cardboard box with two lenses, and although there are many unofficial versions with plastic build and head straps for a little more, we're still talking under $25 here. 

A smartphone is required in the headset to make the magic happen, but the system is still relatively cheap and can work anywhere. A negative as not all students have powerful enough smartphones, or want to risk breaking one.

Since this is part of the Google VR system, you get lots and lots of content that's always being updated. Google Expedition offers virtual school trips all over the world and, of course, it's all free to use. Beyond that, there are educational apps and the ability to create content for viewing. Add that to Google Classroom and you have yourself a very capable VR platform.

6. Windows Mixed Reality: Best for AR

Microsoft's Windows Mixed Reality is an augmented reality (AR) platform that works with Windows 10 and 11 devices and a selection of headsets. A fair amount of content is free, created by VictoryVR, but it's nothing compared to the scale of Google. That said, this is curriculum-specific content, so expect it to be useful: From virtual dissections to holographic tours, it's all very immersive.

The big sell here over a lot of VR is that this brings the virtual into the room, allowing students to have their hands recognized to interact with the virtual object as if they were really there. This is Microsoft, so don't expect it to be cheap, but there are a number of partners offering headsets, such as Dell and HP. Microsoft itself offers the Hololens 2.

Of course you can simply use a Windows 10/11 tablet with no headset for an AR experience too, as a more affordable alternative. 

7. Apple AR: Best for Visually Engaging Apps

The Apple AR offering is one that's built for use on its tablets and phones, specifically the LiDAR packing iPad Pro. Consequently, this is an expensive option when it comes to hardware. But for that outlay you get some of the most visually attractive and engaging apps designed specifically for education. 

Put a virtual civilization on a school desk or explore the stars during the day, all from a single screen. Of course, if students already own Apple devices that can help to extend the experience without cost to the school. Since this is Apple, expect plenty more apps to come and lots of free options too.

8. Vive Cosmos: Best for immersive games

The Vive Cosmos is a super powerful VR and AR headset that comes with very sensitive and accurate gesture controllers. All that is backed by a PC connection, so high-powered experiences are possible. Plus, there is a lot of modular capability, so you can invest less up front and upgrade parts as and when you need.

The programs include Vive Arts for educational content, from pairings with the likes of the Louvre and Museum of Natural History. This allows students to build a tyrannosaurus rex, bone by bone, for example. A lot of free content is available including a virtual anatomy class, a light refraction experiment, and more.

9. Apple Vision Pro: Best for ease

The Apple Vision Pro is a very impressive AR contender on this list but it's low down here as it's also very, very expensive. Sure, this being Apple means it's easy to setup and use and with more and more rich content landing daily. But that also means an Apple price tag which puts this out of reach for many schools -- or at best, taking turns and sharing a headset.

Thanks to eye-tracking smarts and superb display resolutions, this is super simple to use and looks great. But it's not designed specifically for schools, so keep that in mind if you're thinking of making the investment. 

Pricing and short battery life aside, plus that heavy headset weight, this is one of the best VR experiences you can have and it will only get better, so if you can afford it, this is worth a try.

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From running a quiz to hosting an AR experience, the right laptop has huge potential. But, of course, it can also simply mean an affordable way to keep connected to your cloud-based work, in the case of Chromebooks. 

From Windows and Chrome to Mac, there are lots of options, prices, and powerful features to consider. A big one is battery life, for example, in which you could have an all-day unit so you don't need to carry a charger. Or perhaps you don't mind that as you've already got one of the best laptop cases for teachers.

So, which are the best laptops for teachers? We've narrowed down some of the best, each listed by special features, to help you pick the ideal laptop for your education needs.

The very best laptops for teachers

1. Dell XPS 13: The best laptop for teachers overall

The Dell XPS 13 is one of the best laptops for teachers thanks to a well-balanced combination or portability, power, design, and pricing. This is like the Microsoft Windows laptop version of a Mac, that helps you save a buck, too.

It's possible to spec this laptop to the performance you need, with even the more basic and affordable end offering plenty of power for tasks, such as video editing. 

The laptop features a beautifully slim and light metallic build that makes this very portable and robust -- ideal for moving between classes.

You can pick from two display resolution options, with the top-end offering crystal clear 4K resolution on the 13.4-inch touch display. So for watching movies, video editing, and even gaming, this laptop can do it all without costing too much.

Some educators may benefit from more ports, but on the plus side this helps to keep the design minimal and the portability perfected.

2. Acer Swift 5: Best laptop for teachers on a budget

The Acer Aspire 5 is a relatively affordable option that delivers plenty of laptop power, making it ideal for educators on a budget. The excellent build quality means this device is rugged enough to withstand a day of being carried between classes, yet it is also lightweight thanks to its chassis.

Higher-priced options are available in this range if you want to get more grunt and don't mind paying a bit more, for video editing perhaps. This laptop packs in a battery that goes for a good 6.5 hours on a charge and the display is an eye-friendly 14-inches. 

The laptop comes running Windows so all those with a Microsoft setup school will be well served by this choice of laptop.

3. Google Pixelbook Go: Best powerful Chromebook

The Google Pixelbook Go is a powerful Chromebook that might not be the cheapest yet offers a lot for the price. It offers a gorgeous design with durable build quality. But it's the Hush keyboard that's worth shouting about as it offers a near silent typing experience that's ideal for teachers working while the class is busy with an assignment.

The battery life on the Pixelbook Go is superb, easily lasting 12 hours -- more than a full school day! -- without needing a charge. Teachers can carry this portable 13.3-inch Full HD screen laptop about all day without having to tote the extra weight of a charger. 

If your school is already using the Google G Suite for Education system, then a Chromebook makes sense and this is one of the best you can buy right now.

4. Microsoft Surface Laptop 3: Best laptop for teachers who use Windows

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 is a very good-looking laptop that's as great inside as its looks would suggest. That results in plenty of power for any task, be it simple Word use, video editing, or gaming. This is the ideal model to go for if you're a Windows user as it's essentially up there in terms of quality with the MacBook Pro, only built to be Microsoft-friendly.

The aluminum shell makes this a tough device that's designed for being moved around classrooms. Despite that high-quality construction, this manages to remain competitively cheaper than Apple's equivalent models, making it relatively affordable for what you get.

While the battery life could be better, it's going to get you a full day of use in nearly all cases, and with that 13.5-inch screen it's easy on the eyes even when reading through smaller type work. 

You can now also buy the Surface Laptop 5, however, for the jump in price, we're sticking with this as ideal for servicing teacher needs at the right price.

5. Apple MacBook Air M2: Best laptop for students of graphics and video

The Apple MacBook Air M2 is one of the best all-around laptops that you can buy right now but this does mean the price reflects that. If you can stretch to it then you're getting a super portable laptop with a great battery life that also has enough power to keep up with most tasks -- including video editing. 

The build quality is as premium as you'd expect from Apple, with a metal frame that can withstand daily use. Yet this is slim and light enough to slip into a bag without being noticed, much, even when walking about the school with it. The battery life is good for a day so you shouldn't need to carry a charger with you.

The display is super clear thanks to high resolution and rich colors that lets you watch movies on it, while the webcam and multiple microphones let you record yourself at high-quality -- ideal for video calls. Plus, you have access to some of the best apps in the world thanks to that macOS operating system running the show.

6. Acer Chromebook 314: Best affordable Chromebook

The Acer Chromebook 314 is another big brand name at a low price. It features the Chromebook moniker, so it has an OS that gives you a long battery life and lives in a form factor that's light and portable. The fact it also resembles a MacBook Air is just a bonus.

The screen is bright, clear, and crisp as well as plenty big enough at 14 inches. Lots of power gets all the tasks Chrome OS offers done easily. Plus, it is well-built with an impressive keyboard, trackpad, and selection of ports, including two USB-A, two USB-C and a MicroSD card slot. 

7. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6: Best for screen interactions

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 is a fantastic option for teachers who don't mind spending a little more. The result is a very powerful device that doubles as a tablet and even comes with a stylus for the touchscreen. And that display is a big part of the appeal, thanks to a 16:10 aspect ratio and super rich finish that makes packing in lots of windows while multitasking a viable option, even when mobile. 

Going mobile should be easy thanks to a fantastic battery life that can go all day without the need to carry a power adapter. You also have some excellent connectivity with WiFi, Bluetooth, two USB Type-A ports along with two Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-Cs, and an HDMI 2.0. Aside from the lack of card slot, this is well-kitted.

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• Best Tools for Teachers

Headphones can allow individual students to each interact with their devices, in class, without distracting others or losing concentration. These are also ideal for language learning, watching coding guidance, following quiz questions, taking instructions, listening to music, and more.

Lots of listening options are out there, and based on needs, you can spend as little or as much as you want. Features such as active noise cancelling, built-in microphones, and wireless connectivity are all worth considering. 

Comfort can also be important if these are to be worn for long periods of time. For that reason, and cleanliness, it's usually best to go with over-the-ear or on-the-ear options for use in class by multiple students.

So, all that considered, here are the best headphones for students.

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1. Sony WH-1000XM4: Best headphones for students overall

Students need look no further than the Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones as these do it all. These are one of the best pairs of headphones for active noise cancellation, making these ideal for noisy environments in which focus is important. But these also offer an impressive 30-hour battery life so only one or two charges are necessary to get through the school week.

Crucially, these are very comfortable with a soft memory foam cushioning that is gentle on the ears while also remaining breathable to avoid overheating. The five microphones in these headphones will isolate your voice from any background noise, delivering it with the utmost clarity – ideal for recording audio.

These are expensive but can be used beyond the classroom with features such as DSEE Extreme upscaling for top quality sound. It even has a sensor that automatically pauses music when you remove these and plays again when you put these back on. The 360 Reality Audio feature that lets you listen to music as if you are in a concert hall also adds to the value.

Want to save a buck? Go for the previous generation Sony WH-1000XM3, which are available for a little less with little noticeable difference. 

2. Plantronics BackBeat Go 810: Best affordable wireless headphones for students

The Plantronics BackBeat Go 810 headphones are a superb option for students who don't want to blow their budget but still want some top features and decent quality. The result is comfortable over-ear headphones that also look great and offer active noise cancellation.

The sound quality is excellent with a balance and warmth that you'd expect from a far more expensive headset. Tech from the company's more high-end kit is crammed in to get that warm sound and consistent wireless connection that make these headphones a pleasure to use. Or, more to the point, make you forget you're using headphones – leaving more focus on learning.

The microphone is built-in and clearly picks up a voice for interactive experiences. Combined with the noise cancelation quality, it makes for an insulated, clear, and focused learning experience that can go on all day thanks to the comfort of those ear pads.

3. 1More Triple Driver In-Ear Headphone: Best value in-ear for students

The 1More Triple Driver In-Ear Headphone takes value for money to another level with a super affordable yet highly capable setup that's ideal for students. The in-ear nature of these make them unobtrusive and allows you to appear as if you're not wearing headphones while in class.

But it's the audio quality that makes this jump out at the price point. Grammy award-winning sound engineer Luca Bernard has tuned these to take full advantage of those triple drivers. The ergonomic tips make these comfortable while also passively keeping out background noise.

The remote feels a little plastic, but at this price something has to give and since students likely won't use the remote much anyway during classes, this is a super setup.

4. Lypertek Tevi: Best truly wireless earbuds for students

The Lypertek Tevi earbuds let students go totally wireless for ultimate comfort and freedom of movement during lessons and beyond. These do this while also remaining relatively affordable when you consider how much tech is crammed into these little buds.

Sound quality is decent and even surpasses that of some big-name rival brands that charge far more. Battery life is useful at 10 hours, with a case that extends that to a total of 70 hours – more than enough for a week of classes and beyond. Then it's a high-speed USB-C charge to get back quickly to full power.

The built-in microphone makes these a do-it-all solution for class and day-to-day life. But the IPX7 waterproofing also make these great sports earbuds, adding even greater value. 

5. Apple AirPods Pro: Best for Apple fan students

The Apple AirPods Pro are very expensive, and there's no getting away from that with an Apple product. Yet these manage to justify that price. These are designed to work seamlessly with Apple devices and also offer some truly impressive noise cancelling.

Not only is outside noise removed for the listener but also any excess audio is removed for the microphones, so students can hear and be heard clearly. The silicone earbuds allow the user to find the ideal fit, making these viable workout buddies too.

Get five hours on a charge but pop these back in their carry for a total longevity of 24 hours, making this ideal for learning without worry about charging.

6. Sony WH-CH510: Best value on-ear headphones for students

The Sony WH-CH510 on-ear headphones are a great student option as these straddle the line of affordability and quality. These are wireless and offer Sony-level superior sound quality, and feature a light plastic build to keep the price, and weight, low.

Despite the comfy lightweight build, these manage a whopping 35 hours on a single charge before a quick recharge via USB-C. Of course, these won't offer active noise cancelling for that price but the cushioning does a good job of drowning out most background noise anyway. These are on ear, not over ear, so these headphones may not be as comfy as others.

It has a built-in microphone for interactivity. The only downside is a lack of 3.5mm jack, so you can only use these wirelessly, and charging before any class will be essential.

7. EarFun Air Pro 2: Best budget friendly wireless ANC earbuds

The EarFun Air Pro 2 earbuds are totally wireless, surprisingly affordable, and offer great active noise cancelling, battery life, and audio performance. These water-resistant earbuds have built-in microphones to pick up your voice but also to pick-up and actively remove background noise. As such, you can hear and be heard clearly, no matter the background noise.

These are super comfortable with varying rubber tips to fit most ears. These have a decent seven-hour battery, however, the carrying case recharge is good for a massive 34 hours. Bluetooth connectivity makes these easy to connect to multiple devices, and tap controls allow you to vary volume easily. A stunning set of buds for the price.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
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Whether you use a laptop or a desktop, a decent-sized monitor can make the whole interaction far easier on your eyes. That can mean a bigger and clearer display but also a more sharp image with higher resolution than some laptops. In fact, there are models with eye-care specific settings as well as modes that will take care of your eyes -- ideal if you find yourself looking at a screen a lot.

Going larger makes multitasking across many windows a far easier option, cutting back on flitting between screens or doing lots of copying and pasting.

Key monitor features to consider include screen size, resolution, and eye saver modes to protect your eyes if lots of use is planned.

So which is the best monitor for teachers? Read on to find the ultimate setup.

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• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

1. BenQ EX3203R: Best monitors for teachers top pick

The BenQ EX3203R monitor is the best overall in terms of quality, performance, and price. As such, it offers an ideal setup for teaching. Standing at 31.5 inches, this offers lots of screen space, and with a high 2,560 x 1,440 resolution and wide 16:9 aspect, it can cram in lots.

This monitor is also curved so it can offer a better viewing angle and more comfortable immersion. It's also built to gaming standards, so there is a fast 4 millisecond response time, ensuring you'll get a smooth video and clear imagery, even with lots of windows on one screen. 

This device also offers HDR for even clearer pictures, which, at 90 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut and plenty of brightness, make this super capable. The fact it manages to pack in all this while keeping the price lower than much of the high-end competition just makes this even more appealing. 

2. Samsung C27F398 27-inch: Best budget monitor

The Samsung C27F398 27-inch monitor offers far more impressive specs than its price tag would suggest. You get a respectable 1,920 x 1,080 resolution on the curved 16:9 display, which is able to offer impressive colors at 97% of the sRGB color gamut. It's also got a great contrast ratio that offers well-defined images – ideal for video windows. This is thanks to the use of VA, rather than IPS panel tech, which is usually only found on more expensive monitors.

This monitor is good for both HDMI and VGA inputs, and can tilt, except that's all the stand offers in terms of flexibility. The surround does feel a bit plastic, but since this likely isn't going to be moved much, that's not a big issue. At this price it's a compromise well worth making to get the better quality screen. 

3. LG 32UK550-B 31.5-inch: Best 4K and HDR monitor

The LG 32UK550-B 31.5-inch monitor could easily have been at the top spot on this list. It's affordably priced – for the specs – offers lots of screen space at 31.5 inches, and high resolution at 4K (3,840 x 2,160). But it also manages to deliver a high contrast ratio and 10-bit color depth thanks to HDR10. All that amounts to a very clear picture quality.

As such, this is ideal for video, images, and on-screen manipulations of designs, for example. While this does offer HDR, its brightness tops out at 300 nits, rather than the 400 required to be classed as VSEA's DisplayHDR 400 certification. Still, this is getting into professional picture-editing territory. For teaching, and even gaming, it is more than capable. 

This unit is slightly more expensive than the one in our No. 1 spot. But if spending a few extra dollars isn't an issue, this is a do-it-all 4K and HDR monitor that can easily be your top choice.

4. Lenovo ThinkVision M14: Best portable monitor

The Lenovo ThinkVision M14 is a unique entry in that it offers a portability like no other screen on this list. At 14 inches it's not massive, but that 1,920 x 1,080 resolution offers high-quality viewing with plenty of detail. The advantage is that this can easily be moved from room to room, or into the classroom, allowing for greater flexibility. Paired with a laptop, it can offer space for multiple screens, windows, or programs all running at the same time.

The brightness is excellent, allowing for outdoor use also. Color fidelity is fantastic, which is key for video and images, making the experience feel more immersive and lifelike. The multiple angles this can be tilted allow for comfort in many situations, adding to the screen's portability.

While this might not add much size over a laptop display, it offers more space by adding another screen. The price is low, making it a very accessible option for teachers who want to stay mobile, moving between rooms or even buildings.

5. Dell UltraSharp U2720Q: Best premium monitor

The Dell UltraSharp U2720Q is a high-end and high-resolution 4K monitor for those who want the best. Despite this, the price remains lower than similarly spec-toting, top-end monitors. It offers a quality build and screen, plus lots of connectivity options.

Connect to this monitor using DisplayPort, HDMI, two USB Type-C , three USB 3.0, and one Audio line-out. You also can use the USB-C to fast charge a laptop or phone, for example. 

Color accuracy is excellent, detail is sharp, and the contrast ratio is high. It is built to be good enough for professional photo editors, so it should serve most teachers' needs very well. All that and it's backed by a three-year warranty, too.

6. LG 29WN600-W 29: Best ultrawide monitor

The LG 29WN600-W 29-inch monitor is classed as an ultrawide device thanks to its 21:9 aspect ratio. This means that the high 2,560 x 1,080 resolution is spread across a width built to hold up to three screens in one. The result is superbly clear video and the option to also have other resources and communications open at the same time. While this is affordable, it's even more valuable when you consider this is like multiple monitors in one. 

This monitor offers HDR10 with 99% of the sRGB color gamut covered. All that makes for a screen that's good enough for super high-quality video, pictures, and even gaming. It is enhanced thanks to the FreeSync support, which makes for smother video delivery too.

7. Dell P3222QE 32" 4K Hub Monitor: Best for multi-tasking

The Dell P3222QE 32" 4K Hub Monitor is a great option for multitasking thanks to that high-resolution and, frankly huge, 32-inch screen. But that goes beyond the screen as this is a hub by name and nature, offering a selection of USB-C, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, and more ports so you can plug everything into the monitor. No more digging around behind the computer to plug in your phone to charge, it all goes into the monitor directly. 

The 4K resolution makes this a super sharp screen, and when backed by the rich colors and high contrast, this becomes a viable TV alternative. That's a great thing for classes in which getting the most lifelike visuals for your students is important. The only downside is the lack of speakers, which come as an optional extra. That does keep the price relatively low as it's all going into a super high-quality and sturdy build with great display.

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These allow teachers to move between classrooms and stay connected using wireless devices that suit them. This can include carrying a personal setup that stays connected to multiple devices across the school. Or it can be having a setup in each classroom that can be easily tidied away out of sight when not in use, and without a tangle of cables.

Battery life is the downside here, but barely. Since most of these will last for months or years on a charge, even that won't be something you need to spend much time worrying about.

It's worth looking for wireless keyboard models with mechanical keys, to give tactile feedback, with a full-sized layout for ease and finger protection. And on the wireless mouse, a scroll wheel and multiple buttons can be helpful additions to consider.

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The very best wireless keyboard and mouse for teachers 

1. Apple Magic Keyboard and Mouse 2: The best wireless keyboard and mouse for teachers overall

Despite this being named as a pair, the Apple Magic Keyboard 2 and Apple Magic Mouse 2 are generally sold separately. And neither is cheap. But as you can see from the design, both are very well made and, as such, are priced reasonably. 

The mouse stands out as a minimalist dream of a smooth glass-topped joy to hold. Accuracy is excellent on most surfaces, and the touch-sensitive scroll works well as do the mechanical dual button clicks. With battery life that goes for months and charges using an Apple Lightning cable, it couldn't be easier to use and pair with Bluetooth.

The keyboard is equally impressive, with a solid metallic frame that keeps everything compact and is strong for carrying about, while remaining perfectly spaced for typing, even for long periods. The mechanical keys are excellent for feedback while the butterfly action creates a satisfying re-spring feel. Numbers and F keys are all included, and everything charges via the Lightning port to keep going for months on end.

2. Logitech MK360: Best quality keyboard and mouse on a budget

The Logitech MK360 wireless keyboard and mouse gets you all the quality you'd expect from this brand, but without costing too much. As such, you get a super compact design that makes this setup ideal for popping in a bag between classes. The ease of setup and connection continue to make for simplicity of use, and those programmable F keys make personalization a must.

The battery life is superb, with a good three years of use on the keyboard and a year on the mouse before you need new batteries. The mouse is nice and portable yet has a height that makes for a comfortable hand rest even for longer periods of use. Dual keys and a scroll wheel give you plenty of control, while the detection of movement works across most surfaces.

A terrific setup even when you don't consider how affordable this combination is.

3. Microsoft Wireless Desktop 900: Best keyboard and mouse for Windows users

The Microsoft Wireless Desktop 900 is an ideal setup for anyone who uses a Windows device. With special deals for educational pricing, this is a great option to look at when buying on the school- or district-wide level. Complete with a USB dongle, this is good to plug-and-play with most Windows devices without the need to setup. That makes it ideal for moving between machines and rooms in school.

Running on replaceable batteries, the life between changing these is a good two years, and with the batteries included, it's a great deal. The keyboard itself is a classic full-sized layout with resistance on the push, which is liked by some but not all. It's still compact and highly portable, with the USB dongle tucking away inside the mouse. A solid build that works well and is made to last. Although the auto power off setup that turns on when key presses are detected can waste power in a bag.

4. Dell Premier Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard and Mouse: Best premium setup for multitasking

The Dell Premier Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard and Mouse is a terrific setup that does a lot to justify that higher price. The build quality, for a start, is fantastic, with a metallic finish on the solid keyboard and ergonomically comfortable mouse. This not only adds strength for portability and longevity but also looks great as a bonus and feels nice to the touch.

Despite being Dell, this setup is both Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi compatible across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. It can even be connected to three devices at the same time, allowing you to jump between gadgets while staying in control – ideal when presenting to the class across devices. All that and this has a stunning battery life of up to 36 months.

5. Adesso Tru-Form Wireless Ergo Mini Keyboard and Mouse: Best for ergonomic comfort

The Adesso Tru-Form Wireless Ergo Mini Keyboard and Mouse offers you all the comfort of an ergonomically designed keyboard and mouse while still remaining portable. This rare combination means you won't have to worry about strain injury if using these for long periods – this even has a built-in wrist rest for added comfort.

This Windows-only setup uses replaceable batteries that last up to six months. But it's the built-in scroll-wheel on the keyboard that's a stand-out rare addition – great for touch typists. The keyboard uses a membrane for quiet typing that's built to last long term. A very accurate mouse with side buttons, built-in track wheel, and USB dongle connectivity make this a really appealing setup that helps justify that price.

6. Logitech MX Mechanical Combo: Best portable all rounder

The Logitech MX Mechanical Combo is not only a great option for portability -- if you go for the smaller TKL option -- but is also an all round winner for so many reasons. Firstly, quality is premium here, with tactile and quiet mechanical switches fronted by those wonderful MX Keys. 

You also get a pretty long battery life of up to 70 days, Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity, an 8,000 DPI seven button MX Master 3S mouse, plus a MagSpeed Wheel and emojis built right into the keyboard. 

In addition, there's adjustable tilt on that keyboard for comfort and write protection. This setup really does it all and can be portable too. The catch? It's pretty pricey -- but you do get that Logitech peace of mind knowing it's going to last.

7. RedThunder K84: Best budget gaming keyboard and mouse

The RedThunder K84 wireless keyboard and mouse setup is built for gaming yet doesn't command the usually high price that goes with a setup of that type. 

Both the keyboard and mouse are ergonomic and designed for longer stints of use, ideal for gaming clubs in school and beyond.

The mouse has a decent 3,200 DPI with its honeycomb optical setup as well as LED rainbow lighting. The keyboard is a 75% setup, making it highly mobile while still offering 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connectivity, long battery life, and ABS-keycaps with a ten million keystroke lifetime.

An impressive setup for a really low price.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best Tools for Teachers

The idea behind these technological delights is to leave all the various cables you might use connected to one system, so all you have to do is plug in a single cable to connect to it all.

A dock station can mean instant power to your laptop and screens, HDMI or DisplayPort cables to screens, speakers connected, microphones hooked up, keyboard and mouse ready to go, dedicated webcams or document cameras connected -- and more. 

The point here is to allow teachers to move between classrooms and easily plug in their laptop and be ready to go. That saves time and effort as well allows cables to be tidied away -- safely -- to keep a clear room.

So which is right for your needs? Read on to find the best laptop docking station for teachers.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

1. Targus USB 3.0 Docking Station: Best laptop docking stations top pick

The Targus USB 3.0 Docking Station is a well-rounded option that delivers lots of compatibility while keeping the price relatively low. You get the speed of USB 3.0 connectivity but also a dock that will sit your laptop at an angle for easy viewing. This unit comes with charging built-in thanks to the 90W charger, so you won't need to keep your laptop charger with you all the time.

This dock works for two displays output at the same time, so you could have one connected via HDMI and another using the more traditional monitor DVI connection. Thanks to dual USB 2.0 and another pair of powered USB 2.0 ports, it's possible to have a wired keyboard and mouse attached with ports free to charge a smartphone or tablet.

For those who need the latest USB-C, perhaps to charge a phone, Targus does offer a Multiplexer Adapter that works with dock.

The dock also features a headphones port and a microphone port, making it simple to leave a headset connected and ready for video lessons.

2. Kensington USB 3.0 Dual Display Docking Station: Best budget option

The Kensington USB 3.0 Dual Display Docking Station is an option that gets you that well-known brand name with a price that's relatively low compared to the higher end options. Yet, it undercuts those while still offering some great features.

You get all the speed of USB 3.0 along with a simple-to-use layout. This unit also has an Ethernet port for high-speed gigabit-wired internet connectivity, ideal if you don't want to worry about wifi flaking out at any point. 

This docking station works with Windows laptops, Chromebooks, and Mac, allowing that one USB connection to the computer to multiply into six. In addition, there are both DVI and HDMI with dual display output as an option, with high resolution up to 2048 x 1152 at 60Hz. 

All that plus you get two years of coverage and lifetime Kensington technical support.

3. StarTech Thunderbolt 3 Dual-4K Docking Station: Best for 4K video quality 

The StarTech Thunderbolt 3 Dual 4K Docking Station is a very accomplished dock that boasts a whole host of top-end connections. This includes Thunderbolt 3, which means speeds of up to a whopping 45 Gbps. As such, this supports dual displays with resolutions of up to 4K.

What makes this dock a pleasure is that it can do everything through just one cable, so you connect the laptop and everything else goes from there. That includes display, charging phones, and multiple peripherals, all connected quickly. Plus, you have the option for Gigabit Ethernet for the most speedy and stable of internet connections. 

4. Plugable USB-C Triple Display Dock: Best for USB-C charging

The Plugable USB-C Triple Display Dock is ideal for anyone with a laptop who uses a USB-C charger since this will replace that. Yup, no need to carry a charger around and this will also offer lots of output options. Thanks to Thunderbolt 3, 60W powered USB and HDMI ports, this has most needs covered. 

Have an output to up to three 4K monitors in full resolution, charge a connected smartphone, and have laptop and keyboard all plugged in ready to go. This isn't cheap and it won't work with Chromebooks, but for everything else it does a very good job. The fact it comes with a two-year warranty is just a great bonus. 

5. Corsair TBT100 Thunderbolt 3 Dock: Best premium dock

The Corsair TBT100 Thunderbolt 3 Dock is a premium do-it-all option for those who don't worry about budget and just want it all. This Thunderbolt 3 toting dock offers 85W of charging power direct to your laptop, dual monitor output, and 4K resolution. 

You also get a host of other connections including HDMI, USB-C, Ethernet, and more rarely, an SD card reader, and a Kensington lock for office-level physical security. This crams in all that yet still remains slim and, for a dock, very good looking at the same time. The price reflects all this but if that's not an issue this really is one of the most comprehensive laptop docks out there right now.

6. J5Create JUD500 USB 3.0 Ultra Station: Best for multiple laptops

The J5Create JUD500 USB 3.0 Ultra Station is a super small profile device that discretely attaches to the back of your laptop, be it Apple Mac or Windows machine. This unit offers a host of connectivity via USB 3.0, HDMI, and VGA. You also get Ethernet connectivity directly as well as speaker or headphones and microphone connections.

But it's the unique "wormhole" feature that makes this device stand out. It allows you to connect another laptop, via USB, so you can hop between the two. It also makes file sharing between the two quick and easy over the direct wired connection. This is perfect if you have both a Windows laptop and an Apple MacBook, and want to jump between the two. It's ideal for classroom use too when multiple teachers are presenting to a big screen at once.

7. Dell Thunderbolt Dock WD22TB4: Best swappable

The Dell Thunderbolt Dock WD22TB4 is a great option for IT departments that want to plan ahead for changes. This is thanks to a swappable module that allows for variation to the setup with greater ease.

This model looks fantastic with that sleek black finish, and also plays very nicely with Dell laptops. In fact, this can offer ExpressCharge for Dell laptops for an 80% charge in just one hour, or 35% in 20 minutes.

Ports this offers include -- on the front -- two DisplayPorts, USB-C, two USB-A 3.2, one HDMI 2.0. On the back you have more, including two USB 3.2, one USB-C, and one USB-A with power share. All that means you can output at up to 5,120 x 2,880 although you are limited to 60Hz. 

This isn't the cheapest option, but with lots of functionality, some smart specific features, and that great look, it's certainly an appealing option.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

This page will be updated as new reviews are published, so check back frequently!

To learn more about the best software tools for teachers, visit our Best Tools For Teachers hub and Tech & Learning's guide to Google Education Tools and Apps.

Computers and Peripherals

What to Know About Buying a Chromebook
If you're considering buying a Chromebook, this guide will help you find the ideal one to suit your needs.

Best Chromebooks for Schools
A Chromebook can make education better for students and teachers by keeping everything simple while also being priced affordably for school and district.

Educator Edtech Review: Acer TravelMate P4 Spin 14 Notebook
Educator Frank Pileiro looks at the best features of this versatile convertible laptop, including cost, build, specs and more.

Best Digital Pens For Teachers
Tech & Learning takes a close look at the top digital pens for education.

Best Desktop Computers For Teachers
There are more great desktop computers for teachers now than at any previous time. But how to choose? Tech & Learning reviewed the top desktops computers from HP, Apple, Acer, Dell and Lenovo, looking at affordability, sound and graphics quality, security and much more.

Best Laptop Docking Stations For Teachers
Whether the priority is price, ease of use, number of ports or 4K capability, we help teachers explore the top options for laptop docking stations.

Best Wireless Keyboard and Mouse for Teachers
Tech and Learning looks at the latest and best wireless peripherals for education.

What to Know About Buying a Laptop for School
We look at key features of laptops—display, speed, connectivity and pricing—to help you make the best choice.

Best Laptops for Teachers
Pick the ideal laptop for your education needs from our laptop reviews.

Best Laptops for Elementary and Secondary Students
Whether your priority is performance, battery life, cost, or security, Tech & Learning breaks down the details of the best laptop computers for elementary and secondary students.

Best Laptop Cases for Teachers
Protect your most precious teaching technology with one of these best laptop cases reviewed by Tech & Learning. From the best overall to the best for longer travel and more, one of these top laptop cases is sure to fit the bill, while our Best Deals widget will help you find the best prices.

What to Know About Buying A Tablet for School
Considering a tablet computer? We examine all facets of your purchase to help you make the best decision.

Best Tablets for Teachers
The best tablets for teachers let educators stay mobile while remaining connected to the wealth of useful smart teaching tech available online.

Best Tablets For Students
Tech & Learning's hardware guru Luke Edwards gives you all the reasons to buy (or avoid!) the best and most popular tablets for students.

Best Monitors For Teachers
What matters when choosing a monitor? We looked at display size and quality, screen resolution, response time, and more, in order to rate the best monitors for teaching and learning.

Educator Edtech Review: ScreenBeam 1000 Gen 2 Wireless Display
The compact ScreenBeam 1000 Gen 2 Wireless Display device allows screen sharing from any device and includes an integrated whiteboard, digital signage, and notifications.

Best Document Cameras for Teachers
We reviewed six of the most popular document cameras for classrooms, rating them for affordability, compatibility, connectivity, features and more.

Best Ereaders for Students and Teachers
Digital readers are a great way to build a large library in a small space. Tech and Learning reviews the best ereaders for education, looking at the best overall, most affordable, various display sizes and the best public-library supported device.

What is Pocketalk? The Translation Tool Explained
Pockettalk is a translation device that operates in real time to help educators, students and families communicate across language barriers.

Canon MAXIFY GX4020 Wireless MegaTank All-In-One Printer
Educator Frank Pileiro looks at the key features of the Canon Maxify GX4020 printer and whether it works well in a classroom environment.

Best 3D Printers For Schools
Tech & Learning looks at the best 3D printers for schools, including the top options for beginners and remote printing.

Gaming Systems

Best Gaming Systems for School Esports Programs
Tech and Learning reviews the top education gaming desktops, laptops, handheld gaming devices and accessories.

Headphones and Webcams

Best Headphones for Teachers
The best headphones let teachers hear their students and focus on their lessons, while making remote teaching and remote learning better for all.

Best Headphones for Students
Tech & Learning tried out the top over-the-ear, in-ear, and wireless headphones for students, rating for affordability, sound quality, noise cancellation and battery life.

What to Know About Buying a Webcam
A complete review of what teachers need to know before they invest in a new webcam.

Best Webcams for Teachers and Students
The best webcams can help make the remote learning experience clearer and more compelling for both teachers and students.

Projectors and Whiteboards

Educator Edtech Review: BenQ Board Pro RP04
Frank Pileiro reports on how the BenQ Board Pro RP04 interactive whiteboard will perform in the classroom setting

Best Projectors for Schools
We dived into the pros and cons of five of today's top projectors for education.

Educator Edtech Review: Panasonic PT-CMZ50 Ultra-Short Throw Laser Projector
The Panasonic PT-CMZ50 ultra-short throw laser projector, ideal forlarge audience settings, offers high-quality bright images, virtually no shadowing, interactivity and collaboration.

Best Interactive Whiteboards For Schools
We rated the best interactive whiteboards, which feature multiple touch points, high quality 4K displays, free apps and more.

STEM, Robotics and Drones

Best Coding Kits for Schools
Tech & Learning reviews six of the top coding kits for education.

Best Robots for Schools
The best robots for schools help make education about coding, math, and engineering fun and engaging for students of all ages.

3 Tips For Teaching With Robots
Advice from an award-winning STEM educator about how to teach with robots in the classroom.

What to Know About Buying Drones for Schools
Consider purpose, programming capability, sixe, pricing and features when you’re in the market for a drone.

Best Drones for Schools
Did you know that drones can be a the core of an exciting STEM lesson incorporating coding and engineering concepts? We found the best ones for education.

Kaibot: How to Use It to Teach
Kaibot is a coding educational robot that teaches kids how coding works.

VR and AR Systems

Best VR Headsets for Schools
Tech & Learning reviews the top eight virtual reality headsets for schools. Find out the pros and cons of each, as well as the best deals of the day.

Best VR and AR Systems for Schools
The magic of virtual and augmented reality can make learning more immersive than ever. We rate them according to ease of use, sturdiness, company support, compatibility and more. Learn which VR and AR systems will work best in your school or classroom.

Teaching With the Apple Vision Pro
Educators discuss the potential for teaching with the Apple Vision Pro.

Robots for education are generally toy-like systems that require kids to build them before using coding to control the movements and perform other tasks. If it's coding that you're after specifically, with less importance on the robot building side of things, then the best coding kits for schools could be worth a look.

Not all robots are created equal, especially when it comes to education. A wide range of prices, complexity, coding types, abilities, sizes, and more need to be taken into account. So you may want the most simple bot that's ideal for teaching younger students. Or perhaps you're looking for a complex robot that works with multiple code types to help get students versed in real-world code they can use in a job one day.

Whatever the need, this guide aims to lay out the best robots for schools, with each one's special skill listed front and center, so you can easily find the best bot for you.

• 3 Tips for Teaching With Robots
• Best Coding Kits for Schools

1. Petoi Bittle Robot Dog: Best robots for schools overall pick

The Petoi Bittle Robot Dog is one of the best build quality robots you can buy for education right now. This DIY robot dog can either be ordered pre-built or as a kit that you build as part of the process. It comes in three forms: Bittle Stem, Bittle Robotics, and Bittle X. The main difference being that the X uses the OpenCat ESP32 open source quadruped robotics framework, while the other two use OpenCat. So for most schools the first two will be more than enough.

Build the dog, following helpful instructions, then students can adjust tensions and perform testing to make sure the robot is setup right. This can then be coded to carry out moves, and even responds to voice commands. Use pre-programmed moves, via the app, or build and even edit your own. 

The servo activated robot is perfect for STEM, robotics, coding, and even AI education. An optional camera module allows for more complex feedback where the robot can interact with its surroundings. The robots offer some really impressive agility and movements that have, until recently, been reserved for high-end premium robotics kits -- this brings it to more kids.

2. Makeblock mBot: Best for beginners

The Makeblock mBot is a superb robotic kit system for teaching children of around ages eight and upward about robotics, coding, engineering, and STEM. Helpfully, this is constructed using common components that you might find in the industrial robotics world -- making it a great way for students to learn about real-world robotics.

Building the bot is relatively simple, with 3D instructions to help students work with it so as to learn to work alone, or in groups, without much teacher guidance. Once constructed, it's possible to enjoy gamified lessons that teach more code-based content.

While the stock setup is fun, and offers some pre-programmed options to get going right away, there is the option to expand. It's likely that'll you want to budget spending more to get extra components if you want to get the most out of this in terms of the broadest learning setup for mechatronics.

3. Sphero Bolt: Best robot for coding

The Sphero Bolt is one of the best rolling robots from this company that has made its name over the years by offering just that. This generation of the Sphero robot is all about coding. That means it's not only fun to play with while learning, but also offers real-world coding to teach students for the future. Use Scratch-based or JavaScript coding to command the robot to perform real-world actions -- empowering, fun, and educational, all in one.

While this robot isn't so much about the build process, it does offer a translucent body so that students can see the mechanics inside and understand how it all works. The bot features programmable sensors as well as an LED matrix, which all adds up to lots of ways to interact with and program the machine. Control roll, flip, spin, colors, and more using the coding options, which include C-based OVAL as well.

4. JIMU AstroBot Series: Cosmos Kit: Best for younger students

The JIMU AstroBot Series: Cosmos Kit is a really fun way to not only teach robotics and coding but to also think about space at the same time. This robot can be constructed in three versions to make it an AstroBot, Rover, or Astron. Each has its own skills and abilities, allowing kids to get a lot out of this setup.

Usefully, this works with iOS and Android apps, which covers most but not all devices, so check that before you buy. This app provides 3D animated guidance on the build process so kids can construct the kit relatively independently.

Students can program the robots to move physically, walking or rolling about, but can also control the lights and sound effects that the robot is capable of offering. It's worth noting that while this does work with the Blocky app, you can also use other languages such as Scratch to code this bot's commands, making it useful for older children and coding-specific teaching alike.

5. Lego Boost: Best for building

LEGO Boost is famously fun to build and work with, and it's also built to be very educational when it comes to STEM. This setup will test students to build robots, with many variations possible to get different end results. This is done using clear app-based guidance that makes it accessible even to younger students.

Once built it is possible to get coding with the robot to carry out real-world actions. This uses block-based coding, which is color-based and is specific to Lego. So while this helps teach the basics of block-based coding, in a way that is helpful even to younger students, it won't go into much more depth. So for those seeking really complex coding lessons from their robot, this may come up a little simplistic. This can also work with other connected LEGO parts, making expansion and greater complexity possible.

6. Elegoo Smart Robot Car V4: Best for challenge range

The Elegoo Smart Robot Car V4 is a super fun robot car build that is challenging to construct but offers learning for beginners through to more advanced coders. Built on the Arduino system, this is highly accessible and crams in tons of features thanks to the 24 different module types included in this kit.

The robot is able to use lots of modules for various levels of control as these include obstacle avoidance, a line tracking module, infrared remote, app controls, and more. A helpful tutorial is available to get building without much more assistance needed, but it is probably better for students of about age 8 and above. The coding language is block-based, making learning simple even for younger users.

• 3 Tips for Teaching With Robots
• Best Coding Kits for Schools

Drones are more affordable and simple to use than ever before. That said, these aerial devices also offer a depth and complexity -- especially when you get into the coding -- which can help teach students of a wide range of ages and abilities. 

Crucially, drones are valuable tools for STEM learning, both as a means to help students build their own flying machines but also as a way to work with those creations. Coding can engage students in the virtual world while their built machines show them just how that can translate into a physical world result.

Once the drones are built, the uses can continue with drone racing, video and image shooting, and other real-world projects possible, each also working hand-eye coordination as the drones are piloted.

Below are the very best drones for schools with a variety listed, to suit lots of different teaching needs.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best Coding Kits for Schools

1. Robolink CoDrone Lite Educational: Best drones for schools top pick

The Robolink CoDrone Lite Educational drone and Pro models are available as stand-alone or as bundles for schools. In either case, these allow students to learn how to physically build the drone as well as how to program it.

Programming is done via an Arduino coding environment, or can be done using Python in the CoDrone Lite setup. The system helps students learn to code with blocking coding in Snap, text-based coding in Python, and coding in Blockly.

The drone itself is small and light, and features auto hovering, infrared sensors for educational games, and a barometer sensor to assist with altitude control. The limited eight-minute flight time isn't ideal, nor the max 160-foot range – but since this is more about building and tinkering than flying, these limits aren't a problem. 

2. Ryze DJI Tello EDU: The best camera drone for coding

The Ryze DJI Tello EDU is the result of a team-up between Ryze Robotics and the king of drone manufacturers, DJI. The result is an impressively specced drone for the price, complete with 720p, 30fps camera onboard, object recognition, auto take off and landing, and a failsafe protection system.

You get lots of coding options here with Scratch, Python, and Swift all available. This model also can work with other drones of the same type for a swarm mode so all can "dance" together. Mission pads offer uses as take-off and landing zones. This unit also offers a better-than-most 13 minutes worth of flight time. Plus, you can add a Special Development Kit (SDK) for lots of creative tinkering – ideal for curious and eager bright minds. 

3. Sky Viper e1700: Best affordable educational drone

The Sky Viper e1700 is a stunt drone that can be built from its basic parts and programmed to perform tricks. The fact this also flies at up to 25 mph is another feature that helps to make it a lot of fun while remaining educational. 

This unit is great for hand-eye coordination as it not only has the usual auto hover flight mode, but features pure manual, which requires a decent amount of skill, concentration, and patience to master. Despite the low price, it comes with lots of parts, including spares, which are great if the unit is going to get a lot of beginner pilots trying to control it manually. 

4. Parrot Mambo Fly: Best educational drone for coding options

The Parrot Mambo Fly is a very compelling drone option as it's made by a well-known drone manufacturer and is modular. This means students can build different drones based on what is attached, from a high-quality 60 fps camera to a cannon or grabber system. While that flexibility creates many options for real-world uses, the programming side is also impressive.

This unit offers some of the most varied programming language options of any drone with Block-Based Tynker and Blockly but also text-based JavaScript, Python, and even support for Apple Swift Playground. 

5. Makeblock Airblock: Best modular educational drone

The Makeblock Airblock is a modular drone that consists of one core master unit and six other modules that can be easily attached magnetically. It is designed and built by a STEM learning specialist and, as such, features comprehensive learning options. The Airblock comes with a dedicated mBlock 5 programming platform that features block-based and text-based coding. 

The Neuron app, which this comes with, is flow-based programming software that allows students to integrate this drone's actions with other devices such as AI or Internet of Things smart gadgets. All that makes for a very creative and comprehensive learning experience from what is a well-priced drone.

6. BetaFpv FPV Cetus RTF Kit: Best for racing

The BetaFpv FPV Cetus RTF Kit is a great option for students who enjoy gaming. This includes a VR headset that allows the drone to be flown in a first-person view, as if you are onboard during a flight. A super immersive experience that's lots of fun and teaches hand-eye coordination in a unique way.

The battery could be longer with a limited 5-minute flight time, except for the price this gets you FPV hobbyist kit without the usual outlay. You can even play a flying simulator game, using the controller, while the drone itself charges. The addition of an optical flow hover sensor is rare in these sorts of models, which is nice to see and makes this easy and safe to use.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best Coding Kits for Schools

Picking the best projectors for schools can be a more complicated task than it might appear. Several key factors need to be considered beyond budget alone. 

How large is the area you're working with? What resolution quality does your projector need to have? Does your projector need to have multiple inputs and outputs to connect external devices with ease -- for various teachers and students who pass through the room? Do you have space or will you need a short-throw option? Is daylight use important and could laser projection help?

Here's what to know about buying a projector for school.

This guide aims to take all these factors and more into consideration to offer you a list of the very best education-specific projectors to suit the needs of your school.

It's also worth considering the best webcam options and the best document cameras to make sure you're getting the most out of your projector in the room.

• Best Chromebooks for School
• Best Interactive Whiteboards for Schools

The Best Projectors For Schools

1. ViewSonic PA700W: Best overall projector for schools

The ViewSonic PA700W is a fantastic projector for use in schools as it is a very versatile tool that manages to keep the price relatively affordable, too. Crucially, this model can be positioned at several distances from the screen to offer variations in size of up to a massive 300-inch display. The only major downside here is that the resolution tops out at WXGA, which is 1280 x 800p, so at larger sizes this doesn't look as detailed as some modern TVs, for example. Hence this low price.

However, for reliability, this is a top brand that comes with a three-year warranty, plus this is built with education in mind. As such, you can expect a plethora of ports, including two HDMI, two VGA, one USB, one Ethernet, and two audio for in and out. So for connectivity this is a powerful pick.

The image quality isn't just about resolution though as projectors are largely defined by their brightness. In this case, the impressive 4,500 ANSI of brightness allows this to be used even in daylight and still be clear. That brightness can sometimes mean sacrificing colors but not here thanks to a massive 1.07 billion colors that can be displayed on the dynamic contrast ratio of 22,000:1 – all making for a very rich and clear display.

The lamp is good for around 12,000 hours before it will need to be replaced, which is pretty standard on these sorts of projectors.

2. Optoma ZH400: Best laser projector

The Optoma ZH400 is a super capable projector that might be a little more expensive than some, however, since this comes packing laser projection, it justifies that cost. Using a laser light source means you not only get the most crisp and clear images but also some of the best colors and contrast too. Plus, it can last longer and in this case packs in a massive 4,000 lumens of brightness, so it's good to go day or night.

This projector offers a Full HD 1080p resolution so it should be plenty clear even when setup to offer larger projections. Sure it's not 4K, but at this price that can't be expected from a laser quality projector. What you do get is a two-year warranty plus a full five years, or 12,000 hours, of cover on the lamp itself. Although the company says the lamp is built to last 30,000 hours. In addition, being laser, it is built to work constantly with just a recommended 30-minute break every 24 hours.

This is a compact projector, at 4.2kg, so it can be used in smaller classrooms and can also be moved about between rooms as needed. This should be maintenance free, thanks to it being laser, and can be installed anywhere thru 360 degrees along the horizontal axis or even rotate 90 degrees to project in portrait mode if needed.

3. BenQ MW536: Best affordable projector for schools

The BenQ MW536 is a lamp projector that keeps the price super low while still maintaining high standards when it comes to specifications. Primarily, this offers a very bright 4,000 lumens that should make for a clear display even on brighter days. It also offers an impressive three-year collect, repair, or return warranty, and has a lamp life of up to 15,000 hours.

This can be setup to thrown a screen from just 60 inches away and that can be from a wall rather than a screen if you need. In fact, this has an intelligent offset that lets you project clearly even on colored walls, expanding the options on where this can work. 

The contrast ratio of 15,000:1 is just alright as is the WXGA resolution, yet at this price they'll both serve most classroom needs just fine. Usefully, there is a dedicated Infographics Mode that shows extra clarity for text and graphics in detail -- ideal for the classroom. You also have two HDMI and two VGA ports for decent connectivity with multiple devices at once.

4. Epson BrightLink 725Wi: Best interactive projector

The Epson BrightLink 725Wi is a very powerful option as it not only displays but also detects gestures to make this an interactive option. As a result, teachers can stay by the display and touch, like on a smartboard, in order to interact, rather than being stuck by the input device of their laptop, for example.

Primarily, this is bright at 4,000 lumens and has an impressive 20,000 hour laser light source. It can project up to a 100-inch display size although the resolution does top out at WXGA. What it does feature though is automatic image alignment and pen calibration, which makes it super easy to install and, crucially, gives the option to move this between rooms.

This projector features Epson's legendary 3LCD quality, so the image sharpness and range of colors is excellent. This system supports up to eight users, and with wireless connectivity, can make nearly any wall or whiteboard immediately interactive. 

5. ViewSonic X2000B-4K: Best short-throw laser 4K projector

The ViewSonic X2000B-4K projector is technically the best projector in this guide, however, due to the very high price, it is sitting down here on the list. For a tidy sum of money you can have it all, meaning full 4K (3840x2160) resolution from a laser light source that requires little to no maintenance and lasts longer than regular lamps. Not only that, but this is also a short-throw projector so it can be placed close to the wall to display a large screen, ideal for smaller rooms limited on space.

Brightness is limited at 2000 lumens but since this is short throw it needs less to appear as bright as other models in this list, so don't hold that number against it. You have HDR and HLG support for superb contrast with a massive 125% Rec. 709 color gamut, meaning this will display movies better than many top end TVs, except at giant sizes of up to 100-inches.

This even comes with dual integrated Harman Kardon speakers with Dolby and DTS support for a full-on cinema style audio experience – plus the WiFi connectivity should make connecting any devices an easy process. 

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While many devices have cameras onboard now, these aren't dedicated to the task in the same way a stand-alone device can be. Investing in a webcam often will enhance the quality of the video -- there's a reason most YouTubers have dedicated webcams.

For one thing, most webcams offer a larger lens and sensor, so more light can get in for a far brighter and more lifelike end result. Then, for audio, you will find that lots of webcams feature multiple microphones to get the best from your voice as well as reduce any unwanted background noise.

Cameras can be moved for the ideal angle, perfect for classes where you may want to focus in on an object being talked about. These also come in up to 4K quality, allowing you to capture more and zoom in or downscale as needed.

Here is what to know about buying a webcam.

This guide lays out the best webcams for schools.

The Best Webcams For Schools, Teachers & Students

1. Logitech C922 Pro Stream: Best overall webcam for educators

The Logitech C922 Pro Stream is simply the best webcam for teachers and students, thanks to a top quality 1080p resolution sensor that's built into a minimally designed and easy-to-mount camera. It does all this while remaining relatively affordable, too (around $100).

When it comes to live streaming, the C922 is capable of 720p quality video at a super fast 60 frames per second refresh rate. That makes for a really smooth quality feed, ideal for teaching with movement while working on a whiteboard or taking a class through an experiment live.

A very useful feature for both teachers and students is the background removal tool. As the name suggests, it removes the backdrop to keep the person in shot while maintaining the privacy of their surroundings -– ideal for remote learning.

This camera is exceptional for low-light correction with auto light features -- no matter where you're able to get online from, this will offer the most clear video picture quality. It'll sound clear too thanks to built-in stereo audio recording.

A superb webcam for video streaming and audio quality make it ideal for both teachers and students in every learning environment.

2. Razer Kiyo: Best webcam with lighting

The Razer Kiyo is a webcam like no other as it features a dedicated LED light ring. This offers a diffused light that creates a professional level of quality for an even spread, which is designed to be flattering for the user. The result is a very clear image that can convey emotion and feeling, helping those watching feel more immersed in the experience.

This device has a 1080p quality resolution for recording and can stream at 720p with 60fps for a smooth video finish. The mounting system is super simple and clips to most screens easily. After that clip on and plug in, the process of getting up and running is also super simple.

Yes, this is more basic than some top-end models when it comes to extra features, but for a quality video with built-in microphone for audio, this does the job very well.

3. Logitech StreamCam: Best webcam for streaming

The Logitech StreamCam is, as the name suggests, built for the task of streaming. As such, it comes with integrated dual microphones for audio and a 1080p quality video streaming capability. But it's the extras that make it stand out, including AI to track your face as you move, which combines with autofocus to keep the image clear.

This device comes with a mount for displays or a tripod, works with PC and Mac, and connects via USB-C. The 60 fps video combined with a 9:16 format option (for Instagram and Facebook portrait shots) and smart exposure all make for a really high-quality image that's ideal for teaching, especially if movement is likely.

The webcam comes in a few color options and is small enough to fit in a bag, or even pocket, making it ideal for travel, storage, and use with a laptop.

4. Aver Cam540: Best webcam for 4K with zoom

The Aver Cam540 is the top-end of what webcams offer, and it has a price to reflect that (around $1,000). But it's well-justified as it is crammed with features. Primarily, it is capable of 4K resolution video quality, which might sound like overkill except it can be used with a 16x zoom, ideal for experiments, map analysis, and board work.

The remote allows you to pre-set 10 zones that it will pan to at the touch of a button, once again making this a great tool for teaching remotely if you want to move about and have the focus follow you as needed. Auto white balance, top color reproduction, and superb accuracy all help make this as clear as possible.

This webcam is even easy to install and works with Windows, Mac, and Chromebooks. It's actually certified for Microsoft Teams, Skype, and Zoom use.

5. Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000: Best webcam on a budget

The Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 has a superb image quality and performance for a very low price (around $90) when you consider all the features. This gets you a 1080p recording quality with the usual 720p streaming top-end limit. But it offers 360-degree rotation using the handy mount that works as a tripod for any surface.

The autofocus takes care of keeping the image quality high while the wideband mic provides crystal clear audio. As for exposure and lighting, you don't have to worry about much with Microsoft's TrueColor system taking care of that dynamically.

Pay very little, worry not at all, and get a lot. Simple.

6. Mevo Start: Best webcam for smartphones

The Mevo Start is a bit different to the others on this list in that it's wireless. Since this uses WiFi and is battery-powered, it can be paired with a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, anywhere. That makes this ideal for live streaming events, such as a school trip or experiment at a location, and can be done directly through the likes of Facebook, YouTube Live, or Vimeo.

This webcam comes with a built-in thread for a mic or tripod stand, and charges via USB-C. You get 1080p at 30fps with a low distortion lens, HDR and auto exposure for consistent quality no matter where you record. While it will live stream to multiple platforms at once, you can also record it locally using the microSD slot.

The battery lasts six hours on a charge, and the whole camera is small enough to slip into a pocket, making your lessons free to be experienced anywhere you dare to venture.

7. Elgato Facecam: Best for YouTube streaming

The Elgato Facecam is packing in a super powerful and high-quality Sony sensor so you can stream at 1080p and even enjoy 60fps quality. All that runs through some very easy-to-use yet powerful software, all of which add up to an ideal camera for YouTube streaming.

The downside for anyone seeking a simple webcam is that this is specialist, and as such, requires a separate microphone and won't offer autofocus -- since that can be troublesome for vloggers. So for teachers with a channel or who teach through YouTube videos, this is ideal. But for anyone that wants a simple webcam, the others on this list are better suited.

8. Logitech Brio UHD Pro: Best for groups

The Logitech Brio UHD Pro webcam is a super powerful option that's designed for business use but can work very well in the classroom. Thanks to 4K and up to 90fps quality and HDR, images are super clear. Crucially, there are also multiple angle options that allow the camera to zoom in on a face or a group to get the perfect field of view.

Sound quality is excellent thanks to dual noise-cancelling microphones that allow you to be anywhere and still be heard clearly. Thanks to the RightLight 3 tech, this does similar with light, balancing the picture for clarity even when facing sunlight, for example.

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A crucial consideration when picking the best headphones for teachers is microphone pick-up. Since you'll likely be using these to record your voice, perhaps for a class presentation or in chat over Zoom, clarity is key. Headphones with multiple microphones are able to pick up your voice with the most realistic clarity. These are also, in many cases, able to recognize and cancel out background noise, leading to the best possible audio no matter where you find yourself.

Other features you may wish to think about include connectivity -- do you want to save money with a wired connection or go for wider connectivity with Bluetooth headphones? How long does the battery need to last as larger, and often comfier over-ear headphones, can go more than 24 hours on a charge with ease.

All these are more factors are taken into consideration so here are only the very best headphones for teachers, with special skills clearly stated, to help you find the ideal pick.

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The Sony WH-1000XM4 active noise cancelling over-ear wireless headphones are simply the best headphones for teachers -- or anyone for that matter. These do it all, and to the very highest standard. As such, these are more expensive than most but if you want the best then they will more than satisfy.

Not only are these light and comfortable, with an impressive 30-hour battery life, but they're also super powered when it comes to active noise cancellation. From being on public transport to driving to sitting in a room full of talking students -- these headphones will leave you feeling like you're in a silent space. And thanks to five smart microphones, anyone on the other end of a call, or hearing your video recording, will also think you're in a silent space. 

Sony also uses DSEE Extreme upscaling so what you hear is super rich and clear, no matter the quality of the incoming feed. Other features -- such as auto pause when you take off these, pair to multiple devices, and support for Sony 360 Reality Audio -- all make these one of the best headphones options on the planet right now.

2. 1More Triple Driver In-Ear Headphone: Best value in-ear for teaching

The 1More Triple Driver In-Ear Headphones offer a great way to get powerful and clear audio without breaking your budget. Despite these being relatively low-priced this set actually packs in triple drivers so the resulting audio performance you get is superb. From listening to music to having phone conversations, these do a fantastic job of creating a realistic reproduction of audio.

Tuned by Grammy award-winning sound engineer Luca Bernard, these really do punch way above their price point when it comes to quality. And that applies to the microphone too, which allows you to use these to record audio on videos, hold video calls, and more.

Ergonomic tips, in various sizes, make these are comfortable for various ear types, while the use of a wired connection means no worries about recharging. The remote does feel a bit plastic, which could be somewhere money was saved to pass on that low price to you. Despite this, it all feels solid enough to last for the longer term even with daily use.

3. Plantronics BackBeat Go 810: Best affordable wireless headphones for teaching

This Plantronics BackBeat Go 810 headphones give you the best of a few worlds, including the comfort of over-ears as well as the quality of active noise cancelling. Crucially, these manage to do all that, and more, while keeping the price relatively low.

To be clear, these are great for in-class use, remote learning, presentation recording, calls, and more -- but also good enough for personal use to listen to music, game, watch movies, and more. And these can keep doing all that for a long time thanks to an impressive 24-hour battery life on a charge.

The comfy ear pads also make that longer life use a realistic option without the worry of discomfort. Plus, as a brand built on smartphone earpieces, you can rely on microphone quality pick-up to be at a level that will mean anyone listening to your recordings will hear you very clearly.

4. Lypertek Tevi: Best truly wireless earbuds for teaching

The Lypertek Tevi earbuds give you a totally wireless experience, with individual ear buds that pop into each ear for light, comfy, and portable headphones. That makes these very subtle, great for video calls, but also super portable so you can take them between classes all day.

These earbuds come with a charging case so each time you pop them back into the pocket-friendly sized housing, they recharge. So all-in you should get a massive 70 hours of use before needing to charge the case again. The battery on the buds themselves tops out at 10 hours, which is still plenty to last a day of use before charging quickly via USB-C.

Microphones make video chat clear as well as phone calls, although there isn't active noise cancellation here so expect to hear what's around you. That said, the buds fit well and do a good job of passive noise cancellation for listening, only the microphone may pick up more background noise for anyone listening at the other end of calls.

With onboard waterproofing, these are tough enough to handle a trip out in the rain as well as sweating, allowing you to use these for exercise too.

5. Sony WH-CH510: Best value on-ear headphones for teaching

The Sony WH-CH510 on-ear headphones offer a comfy experience with that Sony top-end brand quality but without the high-end price. As such, you can make a saving on premium quality audio, fit, and comfort with these teacher-friendly headphones.

That quality means these are great for listening to music, video, and other recordings with clarity. These also pack in wireless connectivity so you should be able to connect these to most devices using Bluetooth. Yes, you will need to charge these, but thanks to USB-C connectivity, that is a fast process. Plus, these last a massive 35 hours so a top-up should be rare.

The build is more plastic than higher-end Sony products yet these still feel solid. Note these are on-ear, not over-ear, so they have smaller cups that can be a little less comfortable and noise cancelling than others. Maybe worth trying these on in a store before you decide to buy.

6. Apple AirPods Pro: Best for Apple fans teaching

The Apple AirPods Pro 2 are the latest generation of the company's premium earbud offering. As such, you get active noise cancelling and long battery life with all the smart connectivity extras you can expect from Apple. 

For the high price you get some beautifully designed earbuds with a charging case that gets you a massive 30 hours on a charge of the case, and six hours for the buds themselves. 

These are perfect if you use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac – but also work with other brands using Bluetooth connectivity. The size and design is subtle, making them great for video calls, voice calls, video recording, and more, including listening to music and even exercising thanks to IPX4 water resistance.

7. EarFun Air Pro 3: Best affordable wireless ANC earbuds

The EarFun Air Pro 3 somehow manage to keep the price low while cramming in loads of premium features. First up, these offer active noise cancelling using a 6-microphone array that makes for super-clear call quality as well as video recording, no matter your recording environment.

These are also totally wireless with small buds that fit comfortably in your ears, and last a massive nine hours before going back into the case to charge for a total battery life of 45 hours. A 10-minute charge in the case gets you two hours of use, so these really do just keep going as long as you need.

Pair with most devices using Bluetooth 5.3 with LE and aptX support, making these a rare offering that delivers very high-quality audio -- ideal for music, video, calls, and more. They're also IPX5 sweat- and water-resistant, great for sports use as you need. 

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While tablets are now plenty powerful enough to replace laptops -- many coming with keyboards and stylus pens -- one can also be a useful extension of other devices. That can mean a more affordable tablet does the job of helping teachers interact digitally with students from anywhere in the class, without breaking the bank.

Tablets comes with a wealth of hardware to be taken advantage of in class, including cameras, microphones, speakers, motion sensors, and more. So from making video calls in a hybrid class to taking students on an interactive augmented reality experience, the uses are myriad.

It's worth thinking about how large you may need your tablet to be -- will students be looking from afar as a group, or is this mainly for one-to-one interactions? And how tough does it need to be -- are you using this alone or will it be left with younger students to handle too? Battery life could also be a consideration if you want to go all day without carrying a charger too.

So read on to find the best tablets for teachers available right now.

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1. Apple iPad (2022): The best tablets for teachers top pick

The Apple iPad (2022) is the very best tablet for teachers right now -- in fact it's the best tablet outright. As such, being Apple, you can expect a steeper-than-many price tag. But it more than justifies this level because of its hardware as well as the backing of some of the best apps available in the world. 

The 10.9-inch Retina display packs in a 2,360 x 1,640 resolution on the touchscreen for a clear and bright image. All that means a super clear and detailed display both for close-up and far viewing in the class. Whatever you need, the A14 Bionic chip will make short work of it with instant responsiveness. You also get a 12MP Ultra Wide selfie camera for video calls, and a 12MP rear snapper for sharing class materials and super realistic AR experiences.

Thanks to multiple microphones and high-quality speakers, you can use this for video interactions, video playback, and even recording and video editing as needed in class and for lesson prep. In fact, this is a viable laptop replacement with keyboard and stylus options. Plus, you can expect to get all-day use out of this with 10 hours on a single charge. 

While this isn't the top-end iPad Air model, this offers nearly all the features that does without quite as high a price. In short, this offers more than enough excellent hardware, app support, and build quality to suit nearly all teaching needs -- as well as personal use outside of class.

2. Samsung Tab S7 Plus: Best PC-style tablet

The Samsung Tab S7 Plus is a tablet that blurs the line between laptop PC and portable touchscreen device. This is largely thanks to the DeX mode that allows you to enjoy a desktop-style interface on the otherwise Android 10 operating system – including outputting to a TV – ideal for at-home use when a monitor isn't available.

This tablet packs in serious specs with a stunning 12.4-inch Super AMOLED display capable of HDR10+ and 120Hz, which all translates to lifelike clarity and smoothness – perfect for video teaching. The camera supports this well too with an impressive 8MP selfie snapper that works well in all lighting thanks to HDR smarts. 

The inclusion of the S Pen stylus is another big draw here, ideal for marking digital work, making notes, and drawing. You will have to pay extra for the keyboard case and this is already a pricey tablet, but as a genuine laptop replacement, with a 14-hour battery, it justifies the cost.

3. Amazon Fire 7: Best affordable tablet

The Amazon Fire 7 (2022) is a super affordable 7-inch tablet, making it a very practical option for many teachers. The build is rugged so it's ideal for the classroom, although the screen does lack the full HD resolution of some competitors. That said, at its size, the display does the job well enough – just don't expect an entire video classroom on that 1,024 x 600 screen.

This device runs Amazon Fire OS, which is Android-based, so there are lots of apps available, just not as many as Apple and Android devices offer. It is a great one-handed tablet that offers easy access to Kindle reading and comes with built-in Alexa voice assistant.

Battery life is relatively poor, and you'll need a charger nearby for any extended use over five hours. The 2MP cameras, in front and back, do a decent enough job of handling video calls and basic photography, but don't expect too much at this price. 

4. HP Chromebook X2: Best tablet that doubles as a Chromebook

The HP Chromebook X2 is a great option for anyone who wants the freedom of a tablet without losing the functionality of their Chromebook – ideal for schools already supporting Google programs and hardware. The anodized aluminum tablet section is a 12.3-inch detachable display that sports an impressive 2,400 x 1,600 resolution and daytime capable 403 nits of brightness. It attaches to a leather-texture keyboard with trackpad and also comes with the HP Active Pen stylus accessory.

Audio is excellent thanks to built-in B&O Play sound onboard, which makes this very capable for video lessons, as does the 4.9-megapixel front-facing camera and built-in microphones. The 12-hour battery means no need to carry a charger and the Intel Core i5 processing makes it more than capable as a full computer, too. The only downside is this is heavier than some tablets – but then again it is a lot lighter than many laptops.

5. Lenovo Smart Tab M8: Best for battery life

The Lenovo Smart Tab M8 is another tablet that falls into the affordable category while remaining compact. As such, it features an 8-inch display that tops out at 1,280 x 800, but packs in lots of color and a daytime useable 350 nits of brightness. The design is attractive and the inclusion of a charging dock, which angles the tablet perfectly, makes this a useful tablet-top video classroom device.

Despite 2GB of RAM and a quad-core MediaTek processor, this device does struggle with more processor-heavy tasks. That is likely because it is throttled to help battery life, which is an impressive 18 hours -- making this one of the best, especially for its size.

While we'd like a newer operating system than Android 9, this may get an update and in the short term does just fine. Plus, it offers plenty of apps to make it a very useful tablet in the classroom and for remote learning.

6. Microsoft Surface Go 3: Best Windows tablet

The Microsoft Surface Go 3 is a tablet that also gives the full Windows 11 experience, allowing it to double as a laptop replacement – if you have the attached keyboard cover. This crams in the power with an Intel Core 10th Gen i3 processor backed by up to 8GB of RAM, making it capable of nearly any task a teacher could ask of it.

While the Touch Cover that features a keyboard and trackpad isn't included, the price of the tablet is relatively low for what you do get. Expect powerful performance, bright and clear 1,920 x 1,280 display, and an excellent 5MP front-facing camera with 1080p Skype HD video that's ideal for video teaching. 

7. Apple iPad Pro: Best premium tablet

The Apple iPad Pro 12.9 is one of the best tablets out there, bar none. This does it all and it does it in style. As such the price tag reflects that. You get all the premium build quality of an Apple tablet, that impressive app store, a full keyboard, and the ability to use a super sensitive and smart stylus in the Apple Pencil.

Expect super speedy performance, lots of storage space, even if you go for the smaller device, and everything shown off on an eye-wateringly good screen. This just works, it works well, and will do for a long time to come. And with the inclusion of Lidar sensors, this should be future-proof even for the coming advanced AR teaching tools of the near future.

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It's worth noting the various types of desktop computer, which fall into the two main categories: all-in-one and tower. The former has all the smarts built into the monitor itself and generally is paired with a wireless mouse and keyboard, for the most minimal and cable-less setup. The latter, tower computers, require you to also add a monitor, speakers, webcam, microphone, mouse, and keyboard -- however, the machine will give you more power for the price. 

So while an all-in-one is great for a minimal finish, you can get more powerful processing and future-proofed specs with a tower setup.

You may just need a basic machine that will cover you for video calls, word processing, coding, web browsing, and emails. But if you want to be able to edit video, images, music, and enjoy gaming, then you'll need to invest in a faster processor backed by more RAM.

Read on to find the best desktop computers for teachers.

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1. Apple iMac (24-inch, M1): Best desktop computers for teachers top pick

The Apple iMac is one of the best computers you can buy. While we could say no more and that photo of the minimalist lines of this machine may be enough to sway you, we'll go on. This device screams quality, from the high-resolution display, which is plenty big enough at 24 inches, to the super-fast M1 processing.

There's enough power for video editing and gaming – so plenty for holding video classes with lots of windows open at once. That can mean multitasking during a remote lesson, with a presentation and other resources all available simultaneously on that large display. It also comes with a wireless Apple mouse and keyboard, and features a 1080p webcam plus a triple microphone array, making it ready for quality video teaching out of the box. 

This is an expensive option but more affordable than the top-end iMac Pro, making it accessible but with enough power to last many years. You can also connect up to two more 6K displays for a truly immersive experience.

2. Acer Aspire C24: Best value option

The Acer Aspire C24 is an all-in-one desktop computer that packs in everything you could need as a teacher, or school, without the steep price. For about half the price of the iMac, this offers a large and clear display, albeit at Full HD rather than 4K. It actually has a newer 11th Gen Intel Core processor and can be specced out to offer some serious power, with video graphics, should you need it.

While you can get a faster i5, this comes with a spinning hard drive that slows things. Look out for the lower spec i3 processor but with the faster SSD drive to get more speeds and savings in one.

The build quality is high and this looks great with that metallic finish and edge-to-edge display. It certainly appears more premium than the price would suggest. The built-in webcam has a slide-across cover that is a nice privacy touch. The microphone is built-in and works well, and it comes with a wireless keyboard and mouse so you're set to go right from setup of this Windows machine.

3. HP Pavilion All-In-One 24 : Best for graphics

The HP Pavilion All-in-One 24 is a complete packed PC that offers some serious powerful performance specs. Consequently, this AMD Ryzen-powered machine is good for graphics editing, gaming, and crucially, for teachers' multitasking.

The mighty 24-inch display is Full HD with a decent level of brightness, plus you get a privacy webcam that's high quality and is backed by an impressive quad-microphone. All of that makes for very high-quality video classes that can easily be seen, with the entire class on one screen. Audio is great too, thanks to a powerful front-facing speaker that's been tuned by specialist B&O.

The included mouse and keyboard aren't wireless, yet with very few other gripes to speak of, this is an impressive Windows PC that justifies its price.

4. Dell Inspiron 24 5000: Best for security

The Dell Inspiron 24 5000 is an all-in-one desktop PC that runs Windows and comes with lots of power onboard as well as the peace of mind knowing that this is Dell. That means strong security online and multiple options to get cover for the physical device in case there are issues. It's also backed by extensive customer support.

This computer offers a 24-inch Full HD touchscreen display that works perfectly with that Windows operating system. The quad-core AMD processor offers plenty of speed, while the as-standard 1TB drive provides abundant storage space. This device can be specced higher, but for a base level this is impressive and useful enough for most teaching situations.

Numerous connector ports are available at the back, and wireless connectivity is also decent with 802.11ac WiFi and Bluetooth 4.1 onboard. Those good looks are just a bonus.

5. Lenovo IdeaCentre A340: Best premium finish at a decent price

The Lenovo IdeaCentre A340 is an affordable way to get a premium design and finish as well as fast-performing specs. That sounds as if this Windows all-in-one PC does it all, but for the price you will take a hit on the processor unless you go for the Intel Core i3 option.

You get a 720p webcam and speaker built-in, except the audio isn't that powerful – although good enough for a class video lesson. The design is minimalist to do away with wires even though this comes with a wired mouse and keyboard.

The 1TB of storage and basic 4GB of RAM make for decent entry price specs that should serve the needs of most teachers into the near future. The option to upgrade specs is available, so it will last longer and work faster. You can also go for a larger 24-inch model if that's going to better help with all those multitasking windows.

6. HP Chromebase All-in-One 22: Best for Chrome users

The HP Chromebase All-in-One 22 is a pretty unique setup as it combines the best of an all-in-one desktop with Chrome OS. It does this with a Full HD 21.5-inch display that can be tilted 90 degrees, making it ideal for browsing web pages in portrait rather than landscape layout, for example. 

There's a powerful webcam that is backed by dual-array microphones, perfect for video lessons and calls in which you're seen and heard clearly. 

All this is pretty affordable for what you get, especially considering the wireless mouse and keyboard come as standard. It's not going to be the most powerful setup, but since this is Chrome-based you won't really need anymore power to run the apps you can access.

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This guide aims to lay out a range of coding kits that cater to varying ages and abilities, so there should be something for everyone. This list covers robotics, STEM learning, electronics, science, and more. The range also spans costs, from very affordable options that work on current hardware, such as apps for tablets, to more expensive options that include robots and other hardware to provide a more tactile experience for students.

The point here is that coding can be simple, it can be fun, and if you get the right kit, it should also be effortlessly engaging. It's also worth keeping in mind who will be teaching with the kit, and how much experience they have. Some kits offer training for educators so that the most can be offered to students in the classroom.

These are the best coding kits for schools

1. Sphero Bolt: Best coding kits top pick

The Sphero Bolt is a superb choice, and our best pick, for the ultimate in the best coding kits out there right now. Primarily this is a robot ball that is able to roll around based on your coding commands. That means students have a very physical and fun end result to their efforts that engages them both on-screen as well as in the room.

The ball itself is translucent so students can see how it all works inside with programmable sensors and an LED matrix to interact with. When it comes to coding, this uses a Scratch-style but also allows more advanced users to program with JavaScript, one of the most popular web-based coding languages. Or dig right into the C-based OVAL programming language for more advanced ways to control the robot's roll, flip, spin, and color commands.

While this is good for more advanced coders, it's also simple to start with, making it accessible for students as young as eight, and perhaps younger depending on abilities. The drag-and-drop menu options can make the process very simple with commands such as move, speed, direction, and others all clearly laid out for use through changing their order.

Also available is a Sphero Mini option, which helps with STEM learning and multiple coding languages, only at a more affordable price.

2. Botley 2.0 The Coding Robot: Best beginner coding robot

Botley 2.0 The Coding Robot is a fantastic option for younger students, of ages five and up, as well as those new to coding. This is because Botely is very simple to use thanks to its intuitive layout and interaction system. Crucially, it does all this with physical interactions that don't require any screen time at all.

The robot itself is not the cheapest, however, for what you get, it is actually very affordable. This smart moving bot features object detection and even has night vision so it can navigate about most spaces without the worry of sustaining damage -- another reason this works well with younger users. 

Get coding and this can take a massive 150 steps of coding instructions that allow it to make 45-degree turns in up to six directions, light up the multicolored eyes, and more. The set includes 78 building blocks, which allows students to build obstacle courses and more as navigation programming challenges. You can even transform the bot itself into 16 different modes including train, police car, and ghost.

The selection of kit options allows you to vary the amount you want or need to spend as well as adding complexity to suit the age and ability of the students you plan to use this with.

3. Kano Harry Potter Coding Kit: Best for tablet use

The Kano Harry Potter Coding Kit is a great choice for anyone who already has tablets in school and wants to make the most of that hardware without spending too much on other physical kit. As such, this is app-based and works with laptops and tablets, although it does give some real-world physical kit in the form of a Harry Potter-style wand.

This kit is primarily aimed at fans of the Harry Potter universe and, as such, all the games and interactions are magic related. The wand itself needs to be built out of the box as part of the challenge, and this then acts as a way of interacting with the games. Students can use the wand's movement sensors to interact, moving it like a wizard would. It can also be coded to display a color of choice using the built-in LEDs.

More than 70 challenges are available that teach and test various coding skills, from loops and code blocks to JavaScript and logic. Students can make feathers fly, pumpkins grow, fire flow, goblets multiply, and plenty more as they effortlessly learn as they play with magic.

There is also a Kano community, from wider coding games, which allows students to remix art, games, music, and more.

This coding kit is aimed at ages six and above yet could work for younger when able, and is available for Mac, iOS, Android, and Fire devices.

4. Osmo Coding: Best for early years coding

Osmo Coding offers kits that are built for students of ages five and above to work with physical blocks as they code using an iPad. While students use the real-world blocks, placed on the iPad or iPhone, they can see the outcomes of their actions digitally. As such, this is a really lovely way to learn code in a Montessori way, so it can be perfect for solo play as well as guided learning.

So while you will need an Apple device to run this, if you have one the price is relatively low and the real-world movements help to lower screen time. The main character in this system is called Awbie and students guide it through an adventure using the blocks to control the gameplay.

Games use music to help teach students to recognize melody and rhythm, with more than 300 musical sounds in the Coding Jam section. As such, this is a great STEAM learning tool that also features advanced side-by-side puzzles, strategy games, and 60+ coding puzzles. This covers the likes of logic, coding fundamentals, coding puzzles, listening, teamwork, critical thinking, and more.

5. Petoi Bittle Robotic Dog: Best for older students

The Petoi Bittle Robotic Dog is a superb option for older students and adults who want to learn real-world coding languages in a fun way. The dog itself is a very sophisticated robot that uses high performance plastic servo motors to create lifelike movements. The building of the bot itself takes about an hour and is all part of the challenging fun.

Once up and running, it's possible to code movements into the dog employing lots of different languages. These are real-world languages, which makes this great for STEAM learning but is best suited to those with previous experience. Start with Scratch-style block-based coding and build up to Arduino IDE and C++/Python coding styles. All this is done while also developing engineering, mechanical, mathematical, and even physics skills. 

The dog can be programmed to interact with the world, not only to move but also to see, hear, sense, and interact with its environment with an optional camera module. It can also work with other Arduino or Raspberry Pi compatible sensors. Go beyond its basics using the open sources OpenCat OS, which allows for customization and growth to really challenge and free up more advanced students to get creative.

An interactive whiteboard is, essentially, a giant touchscreen computer or tablet device that sits on the wall of the class. These are crammed with powerful features designed specifically with teaching in mind -- presuming you get the right one. That's what this guide aims to help you find, the right one for your specific needs as an educator. 

You may be buying for the district and simply want the most economically effective option, or perhaps you're a teacher with a particular need such as math with an equations-friendly stylus sensitive board. Or possibly you simply need a robust model that can be interacted with even by younger students without damage. 

Here's what to know about buying an interactive whiteboard.

Whatever the need for your model, this guide offers only the best interactive whiteboards, each categorized by special skill, so you can easily find the right model for you.

The very best interactive whiteboards

1: BenQ RP6502 Class 4K UHD Educational Touchscreen

The BenQ RP6502 Class 4K interactive whiteboard is the best one out there right now for education, thanks to a wide range of teaching-specific features. Primarily this is a big screen at 65-inches and it packs in a super high-resolution courtesy of a 4K UHD panel. Plus, it can manage 350 cd/m brightness and a 1200:1 contrast ratio -- all of which makes for a super bright, colorful, and clear display for the entire classroom even in bright daylight. The screen also supports up to 20 touch points at once, so lots of students can interact with it at the same time, ideal for collaborative work.

This interactive whiteboard is loaded with useful features specifically for teachers. The Floating Tool is really helpful as this allows educators to write on top of any media on the screen, such as a video, app, website, document, image, and so on. You can add information on what you're talking about without changing the original content itself. 

You also have handwriting recognition, allowing you to write and it can be converted to type for easy reading or sharing as needed. Plus, there is a voice assistant, making hands-free use of the board, even at a distance, a more realistic opportunity. Brush mode is another nice feature that allows you to freely create art as needed -- a nice option to encourage students creativity. 

Connectivity is also worth noting here as this plays nicely with nearly everything you could want. It comes packing in WiFi, Ethernet, VGA, audio-in, audio-out, three HDMI ports, and a massive nine USB slots. 

This board even has air quality, temperature, and humidity sensors so it can notify you when the environment is ideal for student focus and learning as well, as when it's not and what needs to be improved. 

2. Samsung Flip 2 WM55R

The Samsung Flip 2 WM55R is a mighty interactive whiteboard not only in terms of size (available up to 85-inches) but for quality. Samsung is well-known for its screen manufacturing expertise and, as such, this interactive whiteboard is one of the best looking you can get. That means a 4K UHD resolution for detail as well as extremely rich colors and excellent dynamic range. This quality continues into the sensitivity.

For using a stylus this screen is superb, with handwriting recognition and a pen to screen feel that is as close to "real" writing as you can get at this scale. That's helpful for teachers annotating anything on the display and for students who come up to write answers, for example. And with up to four using styluses at the same time, this can make for a great collaborative learning space. 

Connectivity is decent with WiFi, Bluetooth, NFC, HDMI, Ethernet, USB, and audio out, however, no audio in.

For teachers, there is a helpful art mode that has a wide array of brushes available for creating art on the screen which, again, is another collaboratively creative opportunity for students. Sharing is also easy with the ability to send via email, USB drive, print outs, and more all from the screen itself. 

3. Vibe Board Pro 75"

The Vibe Smartboard Pro is a fantastic interactive whiteboard for anyone who wants a simple to setup-and-use model that doesn't scrimp on great teacher-focused features. Primarily, this is a mighty 75-inch screen with a 4K resolution, offering 8-bit color, anti-glare, and a 4000:1 contrast ratio as well as 400 cd/m brightness -- which all means clear and colorful images no matter the lighting conditions.

This is also a fully stand-alone system with computing smarts onboard, thanks to the Intel UHD Graphics 620 and Intel i5 processor combination. This is all run on VibeOS, which is built on Chrome OS, making this very Google-friendly -- ideal for Classroom users. 

While security is a top feature on this model, ideal for managing student devices securely, it also offers superb collaboration capabilities. One app, of which there are many free, lets the class collaborate on a single document shown on the screen all while using their own devices to input. 

This also supports remote learning and works with apps such as Canvas to save everything automatically in the cloud. From images and videos to websites and documents, it can all be displayed and interacted with ease. And with support for up to 20 touchpoints, many students can be involved simultaneously.

4. ViewSonic IFP9850 98 Inch ViewBoard 4K

The ViewSonic IFP9850 98 Inch ViewBoard 4K is one of the biggest interactive whiteboards you can buy and it's also one of the best at this size. Not only is this massive, making it ideal even for larger rooms, but it is also 4K UHD so the resolution detail is excellent, near or far. That means when using the 20 points of touch sensitivity, much of the class can work on this at once with clear visuals and responsive touch controls – for fingers or stylus pens.

Wall mount this beast or use the rolling trolley to move it between rooms as needed. Wherever it goes, this should connect just fine thanks to a huge array or options that include -- deep breath -- eight USB, four HDMI, VGA, audio in, audio out, SPDIF out, RS232, LAN, and AC in.

While this is powered by a quad core processor for smooth speeds, it also has lots of audio power. This packs in a 45W stereo soundbar, backed by a 15W subwoofer and multiple 10W stereo speakers. All of which equates to big sound to go with that big display -- for immersive learning no matter where the student is sat, even in larger rooms.

All that means this is expensive and probably has more features than any teacher needs -- but it pays to be prepared. 

5. Ipevo CSW2-02IP IW2

The Ipevo CSW2-02IP IW2 interactive whiteboard system isn't a traditional screen setup but rather a smart sensor device. Instead, this uses sensors to offer a way to interact that means a small and portable system that is also a lot more affordable than many of the alternatives. That said, the projector price is not included so it's worth factoring that in also -- or you can use a connected laptop if that works for you.

Three devices are included: a sensor camera, a wireless receiver, and an interactive pen. So you can use any surface, be it a traditional whiteboard, or even a document, and interact with it using the pen. This will then be displayed on the output device, be that a laptop or projector screen. Having a projector means you can output an image and have the edits appear live on screen, too.

Usefully, you won't need WiFi here as everything connects via a USB port. This works with lots of projector types and is compatible with plenty of apps for you to edit with. Since it's so small, it can be moved between classrooms easily and all while saving money.

6. LG CreateBoard

The LG CreateBoard is a powerful interactive whiteboard that comes in a range of sizes, from 55 to 86 inches. All of those come with Android OS onboard, making it ideal for any institutions that already use that system. That said, it can work with other apps well and does come with plenty onboard.

Collaboration software is built-in, so it's easy to work as groups, and with a massive 40-point multitouch display, this is one of the most interactive for the largest number groups that you can buy right now.

Another useful feature is the wireless screen share that lets you share the display, or a file, with nine other shared screens in the classroom. This makes file sharing simple but is limited in number, which isn't ideal for regular-sized classes.

This does come with a dedicated DMS, which makes monitoring and controlling multiple CreateBoards a simple process for admins. This also allows for broadcasting of announcements across the devices in the school.

A useful OPS slot allows teachers to mount an OPS desktop easily, ideal for use by varying users throughout the day. Other useful features include multiple windows on one screen, picture-in-picture, Bluetooth connectivity, powerful built-in speakers, front connectivity to plug in easily via ports such as USB-C, lots of security features, and an auto remove files option. 

Not only can students now work to create virtual models with 3D software, but they can then have that made with a printer that then allows them to hold what they imagined. A powerful learning experience for anyone.

A 3D printer can work across a whole host of uses, including teachers creating replacement parts and showcasing pieces to suit their class. They also help in lessons such as shop class and art or geography and sciences.

The printers, as well as the software, are now more affordable and accessible than ever -- where it previously may have required some technical skills to master.

This guide aims to lay out the best 3D printers for schools right now.

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Best 3D Printers For Education

1. Dremel Digilab 3D45: Best overall

The Dremel Digilab 3D45 is a superb example of a 3D printer that is built for schools and beyond. It is WiFi-connected so students can print from anywhere, even at home, which makes it good for hybrid learning as well as in class. But it's the unique 720p camera that's a real draw here so students can view progress of the print in real-time. The auto-leveling bed and auto-filament detection are big parts of this too, so printing can start without the need to make physical adjustments in person.

For in-classroom use, the unit features a HEPA filter and closed printer chamber to remove any toxins from the filament. Dremel also bundles prepared lesson plans aimed at K-12 students. Plus, it offers a certification program to help instructors become better at using, and teaching use of, its 3D printers.

2. Flashforge Finder 3D Printer: Best for beginners

The Flashforge Finder 3D Printer is a superb option for schools looking to test the use of a 3D printer as it's designed for beginners. As such, it is priced low, is easy to use, and offers excellent reliability.

Despite the low cost, this unit features a removable print plate for easy flipping of the finished product, WiFi connectivity for online printing remotely, and very quiet running. Setup is near effortless, which is a big appeal in the sometimes-complicated world of 3D printers. That it works with a whole host of filaments and that there is auto detection for proprietary types is a bonus.

The Flashforge Education Program offers schools and colleges discounts to lower the already very fairly priced 3D printer.

3. Ultimaker Original+: Best for building challenge

The Ultimaker Original+ is a novel 3D printer in that it harks back to the start of this type of printer, when you were required to construct it yourself. As such, it represents a great project for a class, to build the printer before using it to build more items. This also makes it a more affordable option, perhaps one that students could have in their homes, if they were interested in investing in 3D printing.

The print area is plenty big enough and there are several popular filament options that work with this unit. Pair with a computer and the Ultimaker Cura software and you have a powerful tool for designing and building many different projects.

Ultimaker as a brand has been around for a long time in the 3D printing world and, as such, offers a wide selection of resources for educators -- from the basics through operation and maintenance right up to lessons for students that focus on STEM learning.

4. LulzBot Mini V2 3D Printer: Best for scalability and versatility

The LulzBot Mini V2 3D Printer is a big name in the 3D printing world as it stands for quality. That not only means high-resolution printing but reliability too -- something well appreciated and needed in schools. The vast array of filament types that this works with also speaks to its versatility, ideal for use across various subject types. Everything runs quietly and printing can be done wirelessly thanks to a GLCD controller.

While this doesn't take up a large space it will still print a decent-sized model with a 20 percent increase in volume compared with the previous model, without growing externally in size. This isn't the cheapest unit but for the versatility, reliability, and ability to scale this offers, it justifies the price.

5. Sindoh 3DWOX1: Best for remote printing

The Sindoh 3DWOX1 is a 3D printer that brings some of the best innovative features to a model that sits at the mid-level price point. As such, it boasts a heated platform and removable bed for easy product removal, HEPA air filter in a contained print area to stop fumes, and hands-off filament loading for safety and ease. You also get WiFi connectivity, so this is remote learning-friendly for off-site printing.

This unit works with plenty of different filaments, both Sindoh's own as well as third-party options such as PLA and ABS. It is a reliable printer that keeps the price lower than you'd expect for what you get here. Speed adjustment is also useful, especially for remote printing in which time constraints aren't an issue, as you can go slower to get a higher-quality end result.

6. Makerbot Sketch Solution: Best for lesson plan STEM learning

The Makerbot Sketch Solution is from a brand that has more than 7,000 models in schools across North America. That's not only thanks to the quality of the hardware but also the backing of tons of educational resources. This unit comes with more than 600 free lesson plans, a certification program for students, and ISTE-certified 10-hour 3D printing training. The cloud-based file management system that works with the powerful TinkerCAD and Fusion 360 3D CAD software is a really nice feature both for in-class design and from home hybrid learning too.

The printer itself comes with a heated and flexible build plate for easy removal of printed items. The enclosed chamber and particulate filter make it super safe, and touch screen controls make for easy in-class use. Everything is easy to setup and use but the lack of filament compatibility and price may not work for everybody.

7. Original Prusa i3 MK3S+: Best for consistent quality

The Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ is the latest in a long line of iterations of this flagship 3D printer that has continually been improved on, with an already good setup, to reach the level it's at now. The result is a build quality and print consistency that is fantastic. This comes pre-built and features some excellent additions such as the magnetic bed, which fits perfectly into place and stays there for consistently high-quality print results.

For the price the build size could be a little larger, but with that new bed-levelling probe and the results, at the 150-micron resolution, speaking for themselves, it's tough to find fault with this 3D printer. The fact it supports lots of filament types and the company's own PrusaSlicer software is easy to use, make for a compelling setup that justifies the price.

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• Best Laptops for Teachers

Enter a classroom, plug in or connect wirelessly, and you can have all your prepared materials at your fingertips right away. Laptops allow educators to run slideshows, hold quizzes, share videos, and even power AR experiences.

Finding that sweet spot between price and features is the key. To get this right, it's worth thinking about performance first -- how much power do you need? If you aren't running AR or editing video then you likely won't need a graphics card or the most powerful processor, so could save some money there.

Portability is another consideration as the smaller a laptop is and the longer its battery life, the more you may pay. If you can instead invest in a laptop bag that holds your charger and makes carrying the weight easier, that might work out better.

Security is also important so consider what the operating system offers -- do you need Windows, Mac, or Chrome for your school setup?

So, which are the best laptops for teachers? We've narrowed down some of the best, each listed by special skill, to help you pick the ideal laptop for your education needs.

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The very best laptops for teachers

1. Dell XPS 13: The best laptop for teachers overall

The Dell XPS 13 is one of the best laptops for teachers thanks to a well-balanced combination or portability, power, design, and pricing. This is like the Microsoft Windows laptop version of a Mac, that helps you save a buck, too.

It's possible to spec this laptop to the performance you need, with even the more basic and affordable end offering plenty of power for tasks, such as video editing. 

The laptop features a beautifully slim and light metallic build that makes this very portable and robust -- ideal for moving between classes.

You can pick from two display resolution options, with the top-end offering crystal clear 4K resolution on the 13.4-inch touch display. So for watching movies, video editing, and even gaming, this laptop can do it all without costing too much.

Some educators may benefit from more ports, but on the plus side this helps to keep the design minimal and the portability perfected.

2. Acer Swift 5: Best laptop for teachers on a budget

The Acer Aspire 5 is a relatively affordable option that delivers plenty of laptop power, making it ideal for educators on a budget. The excellent build quality means this device is rugged enough to withstand a day of being carried between classes, yet it is also lightweight thanks to its chassis.

Higher priced options are available in this range if you want to get more grunt and don't mind paying a bit more, for video editing perhaps. This laptop packs in a battery that goes for a good 6.5 hours on a charge and the display is an eye-friendly 14-inches. 

The laptop comes running Windows so all those with a Microsoft setup school will be well served by this choice of laptop.

3. Google Pixelbook Go: Best powerful Chromebook

The Google Pixelbook Go is a powerful Chromebook that might not be the cheapest yet offers a lot for the price. It has a gorgeous design with a durable build quality. But it's the Hush keyboard that's worth shouting about as it offers a near silent typing experience that's ideal for teachers working while the class is busy with an assignment.

The battery life on the Pixelbook Go is superb, easily lasting 12 hours -- more than a full school day! -- without needing a charge. Teachers can carry this portable 13.3-inch Full HD screen laptop about all day without having to tote the extra weight of a charger. 

If your school is already using the Google G Suite for Education system, then a Chromebook makes sense and this is one of the best you can buy right now.

4. Microsoft Surface Laptop 3: Best laptop for teachers who use Windows

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 is a very good-looking laptop that's as great inside as its looks would suggest. That results in plenty of power for any task, be it simple Word use, video editing, or gaming. This is the ideal model to go for if you're a Windows user as it's essentially up there in terms of quality with the MacBook Pro, only built to be Microsoft-friendly.

The aluminum shell makes this a tough device that's designed for being moved around classrooms. Despite that high-quality construction, this manages to remain competitively cheaper than Apple's equivalent models, making it relatively affordable for what you get.

While the battery life could be better, it's going to get you a full day of use in nearly all cases, and with that 13.5-inch screen it's easy on the eyes even when reading through smaller type work. 

You can now also buy the Surface Laptop 5, however, for the jump in price, we're sticking with this as ideal for servicing teacher needs at the right price.

5. Apple MacBook Air M2: Best laptop for students of graphics and video

The Apple MacBook Air M2 is one of the best all-around laptops that you can buy right now but this does mean the price reflects that. If you can stretch to it then you're getting a super portable laptop with a great battery life that also has enough power to keep up with most tasks -- including video editing. 

The build quality is as premium as you'd expect from Apple, with a metal frame that can withstand daily use. Yet this is slim and light enough to slip into a bag without being noticed, much, even when walking about the school with it. The battery life is good for a day so you shouldn't need to carry a charger with you.

The display is super clear thanks to a high-resolution and rich colors that lets you watch movies on it, while the webcam and multiple microphones let you record yourself at high-quality -- ideal for video calls. Plus, you have access to some of the best apps in the world thanks to that macOS operating system running the show.

6. Acer Chromebook 314: Best affordable Chromebook

The Acer Chromebook 314 is another big brand name at a low price. It features the Chromebook moniker, so it has an OS that gives you a long battery life and lives in a form factor that's light and portable. The fact it also resembles a MacBook Air is just a bonus.

The screen is bright, clear, and crisp as well as plenty big enough at 14 inches. Lots of power gets all the tasks Chrome OS offers done easily. Plus, it is well-built with an impressive keyboard, trackpad, and selection of ports, including two USB-A, two USB-C and a MicroSD card slot. 

7. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6: Best for screen interactions

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 is a fantastic option for teachers who don't mind spending a little more. The result is a very powerful device that doubles as a tablet and even comes with a stylus for the touchscreen. And that display is a big part of the appeal, thanks to a 16:10 aspect ratio and super rich finish that makes packing in lots of windows while multitasking a viable option, even when mobile. 

Going mobile should be easy thanks to a fantastic battery life that can go all day without the need to carry a power adapter. You also have some excellent connectivity with WiFi, Bluetooth, two USB Type-A ports along with two Thunderbolt 4 USB Type-Cs, and an HDMI 2.0. Aside from the lack of card slot, this is well-kitted.

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• Best Tools for Teachers

In a world of cloud storage, with plenty of free space out there, are physical hard drives still relevant? For a few reasons, these are. If you want the security of knowing your data is all in one place, where the darker web can't get at it, then a physical hard drive helps -- making it ideal for teacher and student use.

Portable hard drives can also provide a lot of storage space for your money. Crucially though, these also work offline, allowing you to access your content anytime and anywhere regardless of internet connection status.

Since these can work with multiple devices, it can be helpful for sharing files across machines, such as taking a video from your laptop and plugging it directly into a projector, for example. 

So you may already have looked at the best laptops for students or best tablets for students and want to save money by going for a lower storage option and pairing that with an external drive. Whatever you're after, this guide should have a perfect portable hard drive for your needs. 

• Best laptops for students
• Best tablets for teachers

Best Portable Hard Drives

1. Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch: Best overall portable hard drive

The Seagate Backup Plus Ultra Touch is the premium model in this range from the hard drive specialist. That means that it still offers plenty of storage at up to 2TB and does it in a very portable and slender body, but with super protection. This offers an onboard AES-256 encryption so that nobody can get at your data but you -- it would take a super computer several hundred years to brute force break into this drive.

Everything is transmitted at high-speeds thanks to the USB-C and USB-3.0 adaptors. These allow you to use the drive with your Windows or Mac laptop, tablet, or Android smartphone. 

Especially helpful here is the inclusion of the Seagate Toolkit software, which allows you to create backups automatically, or at the touch of a button. This lets you always have copies of your files, for you to roll-back to, should you needed. You can even mirror folders so all your files are kept backed up, live, as you make changes on your device.

The fabric outer gives the drive a premium feel, also making it more easy to grip when on the move. Everything is simple to transport with a 5.3oz weight in total and slim 0.46-inch body that could slip into a pocket or bag easily. 

2. SanDisk Extreme Portable: Best for speed

The SanDisk Extreme Portable is a superb option for anyone who wants the fastest file transfers. This comes in 1TB and 2TB versions, yet in both cases offers speeds of up to 1GB per second. That makes this ideal for anyone working with larger files such as video, audio, or images that need to be moved fast. Or if you want this as the main drive you access regularly then the speed helps make this feel as quick as working with an internal drive.

Everything is solid state allowing it to be compact; in fact, this is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand and it's so reassuringly well-built that you get a 3-year limited warranty as part of the deal. 

The downside? This is expensive, so you'll pay more per terabyte than many other drives, however, it gets you that speed and portability advantage. It's also super tough with an IP55 rating against dust or water damage, meaning you don't need to worry about looking after this drive as you throw it in a bag.

3. Samsung T7 Shield: Best for toughness and speed

The Samsung T7 Shield is a superb combination drive that offers a solid state drive of up to 4TB in a body that's built to last. Thanks to a tough outer shell this drive is both shock- and water-resistant to an IP65 rating. It works with nearly any device that has a USB port, and is also super secure thanks to an AES-256 encryption.

Unlike some other drives, this packs in USB 3.2, which allows it to read and write at over 1GB per second. All that makes this suitable for video, audio, images, and use as an internal drive equivalent with near instant response rates. The fact it looks attractive and comes in a selection of color options is just a bonus.

Samsung throws in USB C-to-C and C-to-A cables so you can use this with laptops and desktops as well as smartphones, tablets, and consoles. Crucially, this should work with most smart whiteboards with ease. It's not the cheapest but you get a lot for the price, and with lots of size options there should be a model to suit most needs.

4. Crucial X6 Portable SSD: Best budget option

The Crucial X6 Portable SSD is a very portable and capable drive that is also affordable, comparatively. At just 2.4 by 2.6 inches and 0.35-inches thin, this is a svelte little square that can slip into your pocket with ease. You get USB type C and A combinations, allowing you to use this with most devices from laptops and desktops to tablets and smartphones. 

This isn't the fastest drive out there for transfer rates with SATA skills that mean you're going to get about 550MB per second, which is still very fast and more than enough for most file transfers.

The drive is a basic looking unit yet it does the job and is solid enough to withstand most daily rigors -- although it's not tough by any means.

5. Western Digital My Book: Best for storage space

The Western Digital My Book is a great option for anyone who wants huge amounts of storage. This comes in a variety of capacities with prices to suit but pushes the limit at the top end right up to 22TB of storage. 

The downside here is that the drive does require an external dedicated power cable to run, making it less portable than most. But the flip of that is a lot more capacity from this drive that is also larger than most.

Speeds are decent with USB-A offering transfer rates of 5Gbps. Thanks to software onboard this offers an AES-256 encryption as well as backup that automates, keeping files secure on the drive. 

Thanks to a high-quality build, you get a 3-year limited warranty on this shock-resistant drive that's made to last. 

A document camera, not be be mistaken for the best webcams, lets you share live video footage of a document, small objects, experiments, a book, and more, right on any display your classroom may have. You can also use this on platforms such as Zoom to include more video angles when teaching lessons online. Or make video resources using multiple camera angles for a more immersive learning experience.

Most of these cameras also double as scanners, using OCR (Optical Character Recognition) to pull text and digitize it. Look for WiFi connectivity for the greatest compatibility. It's also worth noting that USB is great for online use with computers but those packing HDMI are built for in-classroom use mainly. You may want to stream over Zoom, or similar, directly to students' devices in class so they all have a close-up view wherever they are.

Here's what to know about buying a document camera.

Here are the very best document scanners for teachers to help you find the one that serves your needs best.

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• How to Use a Document Camera for Remote Learning

Best document cameras 

1. IPEVO Do-Cam: Best document camera overall

The IPEVO Do-Cam is a superb document camera option for teachers who don't want to break the bank but do want plenty of features, all in a portable package. Thanks to a fold-down design and built-in cable store, this is quick and easy to pack up to move between classrooms.

Plug in via USB and the cam is ready to go with all its Full HD resolution quality, presuming you have a device with a USB-A connection – sorry, Macbook users. A one button switch lets you jump between the 8MP web camera and document scanner mode easily. The frame rate is decent and at 0.74 pounds it's lightweight, plus if you want to really stand out it comes in yellow as well as gray.

2. Aver U50: Best document camera for compatibility

The AVer U50 is a very versatile document camera, both in its flexibility, using the moveable arm, as well as its compatibility. It uses USB and works easily with Mac, Windows, and Chromebook devices. The 5MP CMOS camera is plenty powerful enough and offers 8x digital zoom. This camera is wide-angle and features an image-clarifying six LED lights, which are powered via the USB connection.

The cam is portable enough and lightweight but could offer even more flexibility in the head movement. It is relatively affordable and represents a very capable and easy-to-use option backed by stable AVer software.

3. Inswan INS-1: Best affordable document camera

The Inswan INS-1 is a superb option for anyone who wants a document camera for a little less cost yet still packs in lots of powerful features. This one manages to deliver Full HD 1080p quality, with 30 frames per second video, all via a simple USB connection that's good for Mac, Windows, and Chromebook.

This device doesn't foldaway quite so well as some options, but is still light and portable. The LED light is small, although it works well combined with that 8MP CMOS sensor. Buttons on the head can be helpful but do make for wobble when in use. You get digital zoom, and this will also double as a webcam should you need. All that for under $100 is very impressive.

4. Epson DC-21: Best document camera for teaching

The Epson DC-21 is the best document camera specifically for teaching, but due to a very high price, it's lower down this list. This is heavier than others here and bulkier, although that's because this is built for specific classroom use – it even comes with microscope adapter heads included, making it ideal for science lessons.

The 1/2.7" CMOS sensor is very powerful and as such can capture entire A3/tabloid areas in one shot – all done easily thanks to a powerful autofocus button. This can then be outputted to a big screen using VGA pass-through while also connected to a Mac or Windows machine. This unit can even split-screen content and zoom in optically by an impressive 12x.

5. ELMO MA-1: Best document camera for STEM learning

The ELMO MA-1 is another powerful teaching-specific document camera that's bumped down the list due to its high price tag. But for that money you get a tool that's perfect for STEM learning and that works stand-alone without the need to connect to a computer. The touchscreen lets you add annotations, zoom, and even access videos and images from an SD card.

Onboard is also a Chrome browser, WiFi connectivity, a QR-code reader, countdown timer (ideal for exams), and more. This outputs directly to a digital whiteboard via VGA or HDMI, and even lets you add your own apps, such as Google Translate to live translate text on the screen.

6. Ipevo VZ-X: Best for compatibility

The Ipevo VZ-X is a great option for anyone that needs their document camera to function with lots of device types. This model is built to work with Mac and Windows machines but also Chromebooks, iOS, Android, and most other devices either by HDMI or even with Apple TV. Pairing can be done over WiFi for the easiest wire-free way to get connected, and there is USB available too when needed.

The wide selection of physical buttons on the camera base itself make for easy controls -- ideal if you're presenting at the front of class with the camera while your laptop is out of reach. From zooming and focusing to locking position or using exposure compensation, it's all a tap away with dedicated buttons.

There's a microphone built-in too, making this a viable online streaming camera for teaching remotely as well as in class. Another model, minus the WiFi feature, is available if you want a more affordable variant of this superb document camera.

While physical storage on a hard drive or USB stick has its merits, using the cloud is fast becoming the first choice of most students for data storage. One of the main reasons is that there is a lot of it for free right now. But another factor is the ability to access that data from most devices and locations -- no need to remember that drive or to carry it about with you.

The downside? If you don't have an internet connection you won't be able to get at that data. Some say solid state is more secure, however, in most cases the larger data storage services offer so many layers of security, your data is likely safer than in your pocket.

You may already have one of the best laptops for students or best tablets for students and simply want to expand that storage. Or perhaps have access from more than those devices alone. Whatever your need, these are the best student cloud data storage options out there right now.

• Best tablets for students
• Best tablets for teachers

Best Student Cloud Data Storage Options

1. Google Drive: Best student cloud data storage overall

Google Drive is the cloud storage solution from one of the biggest data names on the planet. While that could raise a snooping red flag for some security-conscious students, aside from automated tracking of your words, the actual data should be super secure protected by all the power Google affords.

The free storage amount is generous with 15GB as soon as you sign up. Since this is part of Google, you will already have access to this if you have a Gmail account. Then, should you want more space, you can pick a wide selection of capacity amounts -- all reasonably priced -- right up to a massive 5TB of space.

While there is encryption during transit and rest, making your data super secure, this is still a U.S.-based company, so your data could be accessed by the government if needed. You have two-factor authentication, if you need, plus a super easy-to-use drag-and-drop interface that feels simple no matter which device you're accessing it from.

This also integrates with Google Drive, Sheets, Slides, and more, so you can easily access all your data and share it very simply if you already use those services.

2. Dropbox: Best for high-capacity storage

Dropbox is one of the original cloud storage services, so it has been working on perfecting its service for a long time. As such, you can expect lots of security for your data with heavy encryptions. This also means the integrations and user menus are very well-refined and intuitive.

Free storage is available, but at 2GB it's not the most generous. Where Dropbox stands out is the affordability of its larger storage capacity options, with a massive 5TB costing just $15.99 per month. Sharing with other users, even those who don't have Dropbox, couldn't be easier, making this an ideal choice if that's something you plan to do a lot.

This not only works across a host of devices but integrates well with apps that allow you to use this like another drive on your device -- and with lots of offline storage options you can access content anytime if needed too.

3. Microsoft OneDrive: Best for Office integration

Microsoft OneDrive is a good choice if you're already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. This is because it works really well with all the Microsoft apps, allowing you to access all your documents from one place, anywhere you are. It also means a generous 5GB of storage with a free account.

But this stands out with its storage inclusion for Microsoft 365 users who get a massive 1TB of storage as part of the deal -- which extends to a whopping 6TB for family accounts. 

While this works best with Microsoft devices, as it comes built-in, you can also use it on Mac, iOS, Android, and more. Everything is encrypted to protect your files, however, the Personal Vault feature is particularly helpful as this lets you place certain files in a locked folder that you need to go through two-factor authentication to access.

4. Apple iCloud: Best for Mac and iOS users

The Apple iCloud is a great option for Mac and iOS users thanks to excellent integration across those operating systems and a very generous 10GB of free storage space. The downside? You won't be able to use this on Android, so if that's you're mobile platform you might as well scroll on.

For everyone else, the iCloud offers encryption security for data at rest as well as in transit. You also have the option to expand storage, up to 2TB, at very reasonably priced rates. Plus, if you take out a plan, there are lots of Apple extras thrown in including Apple TV+, Apple Music, Apple Arcade, Apple Fitness+, and Apple News+ -- depending on which plan you choose.

If you've got an iPhone this is a great way to automatically have all your photos updated. And for files created on Apple devices, this helps with easy access across devices as well as sharing. 

5. IDrive: Excellent for bulk storage deals

IDrive is a fantastic option if you want to make a saving on large storage capacities by paying up front. As such, this offers some of the best rates for up to 5TB of storage at annual rates -- plus, you can save up to 50% by using student discounts. This does mean there are no monthly plan options, but since that's not what this option is all about, that shouldn't be an issue.

You do get a massive 10GB of storage for free, so it's well worth a try. And affordable doesn't mean unsafe as you have full encryption of your data end-to-end. Just don't expect a lot of other third-party integrations or the best upload and download speeds out there.

When it comes to STEM learning and social skills enhancement, more and more research reflects positively on esports. From K-12 to college, this covers a wide age range and many students, regardless of physical limitations or skills, may already play, making it an easy transition to get socialized in teams. 

Building a gaming rig, or at least setting up one, can be a valuable part of the process if students help, providing an opportunity to learn about the machines and how a system is put together while allowing them to feel ownership and develop practical tech skills and ability to fix issues should they occur.

Here's what to know about buying a school esports system.

Here are the best gaming systems for esports in schools, not only complete systems but also the key parts that make for a good setup.

• How to Build an Inclusive Esports Community
• Esports: How to Get Started with Cloud Gaming
• How Esports Can Support Equity

Best Gaming Systems for School Esports: PC Gaming System for Schools

Dell G5 Gaming Desktop

One of the top-end gaming PC systems, which remains far more affordable than most, is the Dell G5 Gaming Desktop. This is a single desktop tower-style computer that's powered by a future-proof 9th Gen Intel Core i3 at the basic end or up to an i7 if you can afford more power. Though with the backing of 8GB of RAM as a minimum and an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 graphics processor, even the most basic setup will handle all games with ease. 

Of course, you can always lower the graphics to play more intense games in the future, meaning this will last. But for the foreseeable future this offers more than enough power to handle any gaming challenge your students wish to take on. You will still need to pair it with all the other kit to get gaming. More on that below.

Asus VP228HE gaming monitor

The important part is the gaming machine, as previously mentioned. The monitor, while also important, doesn't require the same investment. For example, 4K gaming screens aren't really needed to help a student have an effective online match. Lag time can be more important but with the Asus VP228HE that's not an issue.

This monitor offers a Full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response time on a 21.5-inch screen. Alright that's not the largest, but with most students playing close to the screen, it's plenty. This is one of the most affordable monitors you can buy and it will get the job done. Save money here and invest that in the best desktop machine you can afford to go the distance.

Dell G7 15 Gaming Laptop

One way to avoid the expense of a desktop machine, display, keyboard, and mouse all separately, is to go for a gaming laptop. This also provides the freedom to move it to other rooms, use for other classes, and to allow students to take on tournament visits or to practice at home, if needed. 

The Dell G7 15 is an affordable yet very powerful option that should see you through for a good few years of use. You get Nvidia GTX 1060 graphics, a large 15.6-inch display, and a LED keyboard, all of which weighs in at a go-anywhere friendly 5.5 pounds.

Kingston HyperX Cloud Alpha Pro Gaming Headset

A gaming headset is often classed as optional extra in a gaming setup, but for the real benefits of esports in schools, you'll want your students connected for vocal interaction. This is a very top-end model with a lower-than-most price. Yes, there are cheaper options available, but then again, any headphones with a mic can do the job – we're laying out the best gaming-dedicated options here.

This investment gets you a dual-chamber design that results in deep bass notes and superb highs without distortion. It's also made with an aluminum frame, so it's solid and built to last. 

Logitech G512 Gaming Keyboard

The Logitech G512 gaming keyboard is a fully fledged mechanical affair. That aluminum-magnesium alloy construction means it's built to last the violent button bashing that a gaming session will deal out. Since it will be getting a lot of use, across many students and years, it's a great choice for those who want to invest in something durable.

On top of that, this is built for gaming with multicolored backlit keys that have three mechanical settings, including clicky and tactile feedback. It also has a USB pass-through, allowing you to run the mouse through this – so students can bring their own and easily plug in if needed. It also makes for easy charging for a device such as a smartphone – a very welcoming feature for students. 

Razer Abyssus Essential Gaming Mouse

Gaming specialist Razer offers a do-it-all gaming mouse in the Abyssus Essential that, as the name suggests, doesn't break the bank. This affordable option doesn't scrimp on features with LED lighting, adjustable weights, and a good selection of buttons.

Plus, no worries about customizations, as with more high-end gaming mouse options. You can save a few bucks here while also saving on the hassle of managing and handling more complex devices.

Best Handheld Gaming System for Schools

One great way to keeping gaming simple, affordable, and easy to share is to get a handheld console. The Nintendo Switch is a prime example as it can be plugged into a display for big screen gaming or used on the go with its built-in screen. Up to four players can game at the same time locally, making it a great option for in-school use if a network connection is a problem. 

Since many students may already own this console, it's a great way to integrate with what's already there, allowing those students who can't afford one to join in. Switch games aren't cheap, but since it is super simple to use, savings come on maintenance in the long term.

Aside from gaming, the Nintendo Switch also offers plenty of educational titles, and allows students to compete in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, a widely played and popular esports game unavailable outside the Nintendo world.

Best Gaming Bag for Schools

As featured in our best laptop bags for teachers, the Case Logic Laptop Case is ideal for students carrying a laptop and peripherals too. This features protective padding as well as a dedicated sleeve to protect a laptop or tablet. It also offers lots of pockets so students can carry chargers, peripherals, and more, all without movement that may otherwise cause damage. 

Carry handle and shoulder strap options are available, as well as enough space to tote books and more. Everything is water-, tear-, and drop-resistant with high-quality zips made to last. You also have enough size to fit an 18-inch laptop while being light enough for all-day use. It's not the cheapest out there but it's worth the price.

• How to Build an Inclusive Esports Community
• Esports: How to Get Started with Cloud Gaming
• How Esports Can Support Equity

While the Amazon Kindle and the Kobo or Barnes & Noble offerings are the main ereaders available, you do have a choice with varying features to serve your school needs specifically. By the time you're done here you should have the perfect ereader for your school.

Some features to think about, both for teachers and students, are backlights, waterproofing, physical buttons, and WiFi or data connectivity. Also the size of the ereader itself may be a factor, as can the brand to denote what content libraries you have access too.

If you need super high resolution and color -- perhaps to read magazines, comics and text books -- then you will be better served with a one of the best tablets. But if simply words and lots of battery life are your needs then read on to find the right ereader to help.

• Best tablets for students
• Best tablets for teachers

Best Ereaders For Students and Teachers

• Want more features? Check the best laptops for teachers
• Be sure you have the best webcam for teachers setup too

1. Kindle Paperwhite: Best Ereader Overall

The Amazon Kindle Paperwhite (2021) is the model of ereader from a lineage that put these E Ink devices into the limelight. Not only did the Kindle start off the paperless reading revolution, but it's been improving constantly with new releases that result in the current model, which is by far the best yet. Despite all the improvements, this manages to remain one of the most affordable ereader options out there, too.

Despite being the thinnest and lightest Paperwhite yet, this manages to offer a crisp 6-inch, 300ppi backlit display with super fast refresh rates for near instant page turns. There's a lot of storage space, at up to 32GB, so you won't need to worry about filling this up. Packing in both WiFi and cellular connections, you can be connected to new reading material anywhere, be it in the class or outside.

Crucially, this model comes with IPX8 waterproofing, making it a rugged device that can withstand living in a school bag on the move and even being read in the rain. Or take this into the bath and you won't have to worry about it getting wet.

Battery life isn't the best, compared to the older model, but that's still superb so you get days, or even a week, of plentiful use before needing a charge.

2. Onyx Boox Note Air: Best big screen ereader

The Onyx Boox Note Air is a huge tablet of a device that remains lightweight and svelte thanks to a gorgeous design. That does mean it isn't cheap but you get a lot for your money.

The centerpiece is that 10.3-inch backlit display that offers 226ppi for a relatively high resolution and clear, crisp text. This also works for images as this device can be used with an included stylus pen to draw, annotate, and edit documents – all ideal for teacher use. With PDF support and a selection of backlight colors, from warm yellow to vibrant blue, this is a great way to read and edit documents on the move or in class.

This ereader has access to the Google Play Store, so a lot of apps are available, but with that monochrome screen you are a little limited. That said, this is far more expensive than many other ereaders out there, competing more against tablets – which helps to justify the price.

3. Kobo Clara HD: Best for library reading

The Kobo Clara HD is the company's answer to the Amazon Kindle Paperwhite, only this one doesn't come with waterproofing – but it has a trade off. Instead, it is built to give you access to the U.S. public library book selection wherever Overdrive is used. That makes this an ideal ereader for students and teachers who want access to digital tons of reading materials.

But that's not all -- you also get that 300ppi and 6-inch display, plus this device comes with a color-changing backlight. You can read a textbook in bright blue light, or settle down at bed into a fiction novel with a warm, yellow sepia color.

This is a compact unit that's light, easy to hold one-handed, works quickly with a clear display, and offers extensive battery life that goes for weeks on a single charge. Plus, it'll open all sorts of file formats, unlike a Kindle, meaning access to EPUB, PDF, RTF, and even CMZ and JPEG for comic books and images. Add in the fact this is affordably priced – plus you can rent rather than buy books – and this is a serious contender.

4. Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight 3: Best for physical buttons

The Barnes & Noble Nook GlowLight 3 offers a throwback design feature that many ereaders have done away with: physical buttons. So if you're a fan of having a button to press when flicking through pages, then this is the one for you. You still get a super clear 6-inch and 300ppi display, only flanked with buttons. The Kindle Oasis also offers buttons but at a real premium.

The downside here is that you have a smaller library of books available to you when compared to the likes of Amazon's Kindle. What this does have is a color-changing backlight and an easy way to access ePub books, especially if you enjoy side-loading these.

5. Kindle Oasis: Best premium ereader

The Kindle Oasis could be at the top of this list if it wasn't for the price. Yet it does justify that amount as it is superbly designed for the most premium reading experience. That includes an ergonomic design, with a side ridge for easy and comfortable one-handed reading. It also has a larger-than-most 7-inch display and IPX8 waterproofing. 

The side ridge features buttons for easy one-handed page turning and it can be turned upside down making it work for both left- and right-handed reading. The adjustable backlight can work automatically based on time of day, offering bright blue light in the day and warm yellow in the evening.

Expect a battery life of up to six weeks, optional 4G connectivity, and up to 32GB of storage, all making this one of the most powerful ereaders available. The fact it gives you access to the mighty library of books Amazon offers is a bonus. 

6. Kindle Paperwhite Kids: Best for middle graders

The Kindle Paperwhite Kids is designed for students between age 7 and 12 primarily, with lots of material catered for that group. But, of course it can also be used by younger and older children as needed. This device comes with a case, long two-year warranty, and is waterproof -- making it ideal for the level of care a child is expected to give.

You do get a subscription included for all the Kids+ content that Amazon offers, which is plentiful. The downside is that lasts just a year before you'll have to start paying. You can go without, however, there is a lot there and it'll be tough to use this device quite the same without that subscription.

The 6-inch anti-glare screen is high-res at 300ppi and it features LED backlighting, making this a read-anywhere device. All that backed by a battery that can last months and this really justifies that relatively low price.

• Want more features? Check the best laptops for teachers
• Be sure you have the best webcam for teachers setup too

"But my device already has a camera," you might say. Sure, most do and some are pretty decent, but more often than not you will see a definite jump in visual and audio quality when using a dedicated webcam. 

A larger lens that lets in more light makes for a better image before the digital smart enhancements that most built-in devices rely on as these won't have that lens space. Getting that quality before digital changes makes for a superior end result.

More microphones can mean a far clearer vocal performance without background noise issues as those sounds can be digitally recognized and removed as needed.

These cameras can be moved about, mounted, titled, panned, and zoomed, all useful options when teaching a lesson to a class. While a 720p or 1080p model is fine, there are 4K options that can be great for cropping into specific parts of an image, or to show a class wide shot, for example.

Read on for the best webcams for teachers and students.

• Best Chromebooks for School 2022
• Best Free Virtual Labs

The Best Webcams For Teachers And Students

1. Logitech C922 Pro Stream: Best overall webcam for educators

The Logitech C922 Pro Stream is simply the best webcam for teachers and students, thanks to a top quality 1080p resolution sensor that's built into a minimally designed and easy-to-mount camera. It does all this while remaining relatively affordable, too (around $100).

When it comes to live streaming, the C922 is capable of 720p quality video at a super fast 60 frames per second refresh rate. That makes for a really smooth quality feed, ideal for teaching with movement while working on a whiteboard or taking a class through an experiment live.

A very useful feature for both teachers and students is the background removal tool. As the name suggests, it removes the backdrop to keep the person in shot while maintaining the privacy of their surroundings -– ideal when in virtual class at home.

This camera is exceptional for low-light correction with auto light features that mean no matter where you're able to get online from this will offer the most clear video picture quality. It'll sound clear too thanks to stereo audio recording built-in.

A superb webcam for video streaming and audio quality make it ideal for remote education for both teachers and students.

2. Razer Kiyo: Best webcam with lighting

The Razer Kiyo is a webcam like no other as it features a dedicated LED light ring. This offers a diffused light that creates a professional level of quality for an even spread, which is designed to be flattering for the user. The result is a very clear image that can convey emotion and feeling, helping those watching feel more immersed in the experience. 

This device has a 1080p quality resolution for recording and can stream at 720p with 60fps for a smooth video finish. The mounting system is super simple and clips to most screens easily. After that clip on and plug in, the process of getting up and running is also super simple. Yes, this is more basic than some top-end models when it comes to extra features, but for a quality video with built-in microphone for audio, this does the job very well.

3. Logitech StreamCam: Best webcam for streaming

The Logitech StreamCam is, as the name suggests, built for the task of streaming. As such, it comes with integrated dual microphones for audio and a 1080p quality video streaming capability. But it's the extras that make it stand out, including AI to track your face as you move, which combines with autofocus to keep the image clear.

This device comes with a mount for displays or a tripod, works with PC and Mac, and connects via USB-C. The 60 fps video combined with a 9:16 format option (for Instagram and Facebook portrait shots) and smart exposure all make for a really high-quality image that's ideal for teaching, especially if movement is likely.

The webcam comes in a few color options and is small enough to fit in a bag, or even pocket, making it ideal for travel, storage, and use with a laptop.

4. Aver Cam540: Best webcam for 4K with zoom

The Aver Cam540 is the top-end of what webcams offer, and it has a price to reflect that (around $1,000). But it's well justified as it is crammed with features. Primarily, it is capable of 4K resolution video quality, which might sound like overkill except it can be used with a 16x zoom, ideal for experiments, map analysis, and board work.

The remote allows you to pre-set 10 zones that it will pan to at the touch of a button, once again making this a great tool for teaching remotely if you want to move about and have the focus follow you as needed. Auto white balance, top color reproduction, and superb accuracy all help make this as clear as possible.

This webcam is even easy to install and works with Windows, Mac, and Chromebooks. It's actually certified for Microsoft Teams, Skype, and Zoom use.

5. Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000: Best webcam on a budget

The Microsoft LifeCam HD-3000 has a superb image quality and performance for a very low price (around $90) when you consider all the features. This gets you a 1080p recording quality with the usual 720p streaming top-end limit. But it offers 360-degree rotation using the handy mount that works as a tripod for any surface.

The autofocus takes care of keeping the image quality high while the wideband mic provides crystal clear audio. As for exposure and lighting, you don't have to worry about much with Microsoft's TrueColor system taking care of that dynamically. 

Pay very little, worry not at all, and get a lot. Simple.

6. Mevo Start: Best webcam for smartphones

The Mevo Start is a bit different to the others on this list, in that it's wireless. Since this uses WiFi and is battery-powered, it can be paired with a smartphone, laptop, or tablet, anywhere. That makes this ideal for live streaming events, such as a school trip or experiment at a location, and can be done directly through the likes of Facebook, YouTube Live, Twitter, or Vimeo.

This webcam comes with a built-in thread for a mic or tripod stand, and charges via USB-C. You get 1080p at 30fps with a low distortion lens, HDR and auto exposure for consistent quality no matter where you record. While it will live stream to multiple platforms at once, you can also record it locally using the microSD slot. The battery lasts six hours on a charge, and the whole camera is small enough to slip into a pocket, making your lessons free to be experienced anywhere you dare to venture.

7. Elgato Facecam: Best for YouTube streaming

The Elgato Facecam is packing in a super powerful and high quality Sony sensor. That means you can stream at 1080p and even enjoy 60fps quality. All that runs through some very easy-to-use yet powerful software, all of which add up to an ideal camera for YouTube streaming.

The downside for anyone seeking a simple webcam is that this is specialist, and as such, requires a separate microphone and won't offer autofocus -- since that can be troublesome for vloggers. So for teachers with a channel or who teach through YouTube videos, this is ideal. But for anyone that wants a simple webcam, the others on this list are better suited. 

8. Logitech Brio UHD Pro: Best for groups

The Logitech Brio UHD Pro webcam is a super powerful option that's designed for business use but can work very well in the classroom. Thanks to 4K and up to 90fps quality and HDR, images are super clear. Crucially, there are also multiple angle options that allow the camera to zoom in on a face or a group to get the perfect field of view.

Sound quality is excellent thanks to dual noise-cancelling microphones that allow you to be anywhere and still be heard clearly. Thanks to the RightLight 3 tech, this does similar with light, balancing the picture for clarity even when facing sunlight, for example.

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• Best Chromebooks for School 2022
• Best Free Virtual Labs

Being wireless means you can easily connect these keyboard and mouse combos to a whole host of devices. Use your desktop in the staff room, then tablet or laptop in class, or even your smartphone anywhere you find yourself. Crucially, lots of devices stay remembered so you can easily jump between connections without the effort of setup each time. 

If you're worried about going wireless for battery life, don't fret. These are super low power-consuming so you're going to get months of charge with some even lasting over the year mark.

What should you look out for when picking your perfect keyboard companion? Mechanical keys, to give tactile feedback, are a must, as is a full-sized layout for ease and finger protection. When it comes to the mouse it pays to have some sort of scroll-wheel as well as multiple buttons so you have maximum interactivity with multiple devices.

• Best Laptops for Teachers 2022
• Best Tools for Teachers

The very best wireless keyboard and mouse for teachers 

1. Apple Magic Keyboard and Mouse 2: The best wireless keyboard and mouse for teachers overall

Despite this being named as a pair, the Apple Magic Keyboard 2 and Apple Magic Mouse 2 are generally sold separately. And neither is cheap. But as you can see from the design, both are very well made and, as such, are priced reasonably. 

The mouse stands out as a minimalist dream of a smooth glass-topped joy to hold. Accuracy is excellent on most surfaces, and the touch-sensitive scroll works well as do the mechanical dual button clicks. With battery life that goes for months and charges using an Apple Lightning cable, it couldn't be easier to use and pair with Bluetooth.

The keyboard is equally impressive, with a solid metallic frame that keeps everything compact and is strong for carrying about, while remaining perfectly spaced for typing, even for long periods. The mechanical keys are excellent for feedback while the butterfly action creates a satisfying re-spring feel. Numbers and F keys are all included, and everything charges via the Lightning port to keep going for months on end.

2. Logitech MK360: Best quality keyboard and mouse on a budget

The Logitech MK360 wireless keyboard and mouse gets you all the quality you'd expect from this brand, but without costing too much. As such, you get a super compact design that makes this setup ideal for popping in a bag between classes. The ease of setup and connection continue to make for simplicity of use, and those programmable F keys make personalization a must.

The battery life is superb, with a good three years of use on the keyboard and a year on the mouse before you need new batteries. The mouse is nice and portable yet has a height that makes for a comfortable hand rest even for longer periods of use. Dual keys and a scroll wheel give you plenty of control, while the detection of movement works across most surfaces.

A terrific setup even when you don't consider how affordable this combination is.

3. Microsoft Wireless Desktop 900: Best keyboard and mouse for Windows users

The Microsoft Wireless Desktop 900 is an ideal setup for anyone who uses a Windows device. With special deals for educational pricing, this is a great option to look at when buying on the school- or district-wide level. Complete with a USB dongle, this is good to plug-and-play with most Windows devices without the need to setup. That makes it ideal for moving between machines and rooms in school.

Running on replaceable batteries, the life between changing these is a good two years, and with the batteries included, it's a great deal. The keyboard itself is a classic full-sized layout with resistance on the push, which is liked by some but not all. It's still compact and highly portable, with the USB dongle tucking away inside the mouse. A solid build that works well and is made to last. Although the auto power off setup that turns on when key presses are detected can waste power in a bag.

4. Dell Premier Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard and Mouse: Best premium setup for multitasking

The Dell Premier Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard and Mouse is a terrific setup that does a lot to justify that higher price. The build quality, for a start, is fantastic, with a metallic finish on the solid keyboard and ergonomically comfortable mouse. This not only adds strength for portability and longevity but also looks great as a bonus and feels nice to the touch.

Despite being Dell, this setup is both Bluetooth 5.0 and WiFi compatible across Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android devices. It can even be connected to three devices at the same time, allowing you to jump between gadgets while staying in control – ideal when presenting to the class across devices. All that and this has a stunning battery life of up to 36 months.

5. Adesso Tru-Form Wireless Ergo Mini Keyboard and Mouse: Best for ergonomic comfort

The Adesso Tru-Form Wireless Ergo Mini Keyboard and Mouse offers you all the comfort of an ergonomically designed keyboard and mouse while still remaining portable. This rare combination means you won't have to worry about strain injury if using these for long periods – this even has a built-in wrist rest for added comfort.

This Windows-only setup uses replaceable batteries that last up to six months. But it's the built-in scroll-wheel on the keyboard that's a stand-out rare addition – great for touch typists. The keyboard uses a membrane for quiet typing that's built to last long term. A very accurate mouse with side buttons, built-in track wheel, and USB dongle connectivity make this a really appealing setup that helps justify that price.

6. Logitech MX Mechanical Combo: Best portable all rounder

The Logitech MX Mechanical Combo is not only a great option for portability -- if you go for the smaller TKL option -- but is also an all round winner for so many reasons. Firstly quality is premium here, with tactile and quiet mechanical switches fronted by those wonderful MX Keys. 

You also get a pretty long battery life of up to 70 days, Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity, an 8,000 DPI seven button MX Master 3S mouse, plus a MagSpeed Wheel and emojis built right into the keyboard. 

There's also adjustable tilt on that keyboard for comfort and write protection. This setup really does it all and can be porable too. The catch? It's pretty pricey -- but you do get that Logitech peace of mind knowing it's going to last.

• Best Laptops for Teachers 2022
• Best Tools for Teachers

While 3D modelling software is now more immersive and engaging than ever before, there is still a lot of power in building a physical structure that you can hold. This is especially important for young minds that can potentially benefit greatly from their own tactile creations.

From shop class and art to geography and sciences, the uses for 3D printers are wide in school -- helping to justify the price tag. That said, with more models available now, prices have dropped dramatically, allowing schools to own models that just a few years ago were only accessible to professionals. 

This fast-developing area also means that 3D printers and the necessary software are far easier to use than before, making this accessible to an even wider age and ability range of students.

Students can fashion models to be used as part of projects or presentations while teachers can create tactile talking points to help make lessons more physically engaging for students. 

So which are the best 3D printers for education?

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Best 3D Printers For Education

1. Dremel Digilab 3D45: Best overall

The Dremel Digilab 3D45 is a superb example of a 3D printer that is built for schools and beyond. It is WiFi connected so students can print from anywhere, even at home, which makes it good for hybrid learning as well as in class. But it's the unique 720p camera that's a real draw here so students can view progress of the print in real-time. The auto-leveling bed and auto-filament detection are big parts of this too, so printing can start without the need to make physical adjustments in person.

For in-classroom use, the unit features a HEPA filter and closed printer chamber to remove any toxins from the filament. Dremel also bundles prepared lesson plans aimed at K-12 education. Plus, it offers a certification program to help instructors become better at using, and teaching use of, its 3D printers. 

2. Flashforge Finder 3D Printer: Best for beginners

The Flashforge Finder 3D Printer is a superb option for schools looking to test the use of a 3D printer as it's designed for beginners. As such, it is priced low, is easy to use, and offers excellent reliability.

Despite the low cost, this unit features a removable print plate for easy flipping of the finished product, WiFi connectivity for online printing remotely, and very quiet running. Setup is near effortless, which is a big appeal in the sometimes-complicated world of 3D printers. That it works with a whole host of filaments and that there is auto detection for proprietary types is a bonus.

The Flashforge Education Program offers schools and colleges discounts to lower the already very fairly priced 3D printer. 

3. Ultimaker Original+: Best for building challenge

The Ultimaker Original+ is a novel 3D printer in that it harks back to the start of this type of printer, when you were required to construct it yourself. As such, it represents a great project for a class, to build the printer before using it to build more items. This also makes it a more affordable option, perhaps one that students could have in their homes, if they were interested in investing in 3D printing.

The print area is plenty big enough and there are several popular filament options that work with this unit. Pair with a computer and the Ultimaker Cura software and you have a powerful tool for designing and building many different projects.

Ultimaker as a brand has been around for a long time in the 3D printing world and, as such, offers a wide selection of resources for educators -- from the basics through operation and maintenance right up to lessons for students that focus on STEM learning.

4. LulzBot Mini V2 3D Printer: Best for scalability and versatility

The LulzBot Mini V2 3D Printer is a big name in the 3D printing world as it stands for quality. That not only means high-resolution printing but reliability too -- something well appreciated and needed in schools. The vast array of filament types that this works with also speaks to its versatility, ideal for use across various subject types. Everything runs quietly and printing can be done wirelessly thanks to a GLCD controller.

While this doesn't take up a large space it will still print a decent-sized model with a 20 percent increase in volume compared with the previous model, without growing externally in size. This isn't the cheapest unit but for the versatility, reliability, and ability to scale this offers, it justifies the price.

5. Sindoh 3DWOX1: Best for remote printing

The Sindoh 3DWOX1 is a 3D printer that brings some of the best innovative features to a model that sits at the mid-level price point. As such, it boasts a heated platform and removable bed for easy product removal, HEPA air filter in a contained print area to stop fumes, and hands-off filament loading for safety and ease. You also get WiFi connectivity, so this is remote learning-friendly for off-site printing.

This unit works with plenty of different filaments, both Sindoh's own as well as third-party options such as PLA and ABS. It is a reliable printer that keeps the price lower than you'd expect for what you get here. Speed adjustment is also useful, especially for remote printing in which time constraints aren't an issue, as you can go slower to get a higher-quality end result. 

6. Makerbot Sketch Solution: Best for lesson plan STEM learning

The Makerbot Sketch Solution is from a brand that has more than 7,000 models in schools across North America. That's not only thanks to the quality of the hardware but also the backing of tons of educational resources. This unit comes with more than 600 free lesson plans, a certification program for students, and ISTE-certified 10-hour 3D printing training. The cloud-based file management system that works with the powerful TinkerCAD and Fusion 360 3D CAD software is a really nice feature both for in-class design and from home hybrid learning too.

The printer itself comes with a heated and flexible build plate for easy removal of printed items. The enclosed chamber and particulate filter make it super safe, and touch screen controls make for easy in-class use. Everything is easy to setup and use but the lack of filament compatibility and price may not work for everybody.

7. Original Prusa i3 MK3S+: Best for consistent quality

The Original Prusa i3 MK3S+ is the latest in a long line of iterations of this flagship 3D printer that has continually been improved on, with an already good setup, to reach the level it's at now. The result is a build quality and print consistency that is fantastic. This comes pre-built and features some excellent additions such as the magnetic bed, which fits perfectly into place and stays there for consistently high-quality print results.

For the price the build size could be a little larger, but with that new bed-levelling probe and the results, at the 150-micron resolution, speaking for themselves, it's tough to find fault with this 3D printer. The fact it supports lots of filament types and the company's own PrusaSlicer software is easy to use, make for a compelling setup that justifies the price.

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From small robots that move around balls to Harry Potter's wand, there are lots of options out there now. When deciding which robot kit is best for your class, keep in mind the type of coding you want to use as a factor in deciding which robots will work with that style.

Some coding kits allow students to also build the device itself, for example, Lego-based robots. This approach provides hands-on learning opportunities and gets students away from screen time during the coding process, and also allows them to work on block building – something that can be done in a group to promote social learning too.

Prices vary quite widely so keep that in mind when making a choice from this list of the very best coding kits out there right now.

• Best STEM Apps
• What Research Shows About Screen Time for Students
• Free Online Learning Resources For Schools

1. Sphero Mini: Best coding kit for programmable fun

The Sphero Mini is a golf ball-sized smart-controlled educational robot ball that can be moved using a connected smartphone. This is great for STEM learning as it allows the student to play games that require a form of programming.

This is also great for beginners as it's easy to use but equally allows for growth and progression. Students can advance to programming the device with Block-Based Coding or even JavaScript in the Sphero Edu app.

Students can build real-world mazes, obstacles, and courses to be navigated by the Mini using its gyroscope, accelerometer, and motor encoders.

The Sperho Mini is recommended for ages 8+ and is charged, at time of publishing, at $49.99.

2. Kano Harry Potter Coding Kit: Best for tablet and computer use

The Kano Harry Potter Coding Kit is a relatively affordable and fun way to get students involved in coding with a fantasy wizard theme. The kit comes with a wand, that needs to be built out of the box, making it educational from the start.

More than 70 challenges help teach students code, with code blocks, JavaScript, loops, logic, and variables all covered. The wand itself then becomes a part of the game, featuring motion sensitivity so students can really use it to carry out actions on the screen of the tablet or computer being used with the program. 

Kano has a large coding community, allowing for lots of inspiration. It also lets students see the code behind any creation, and then change it to create something new.

3. Botley 2.0 The Coding Robot: Best for screen-free coding

Botley 2.0 The Coding Robot by Learning Resources is a complete coding robotic kit that, brilliantly, does not require any screen time. This little robot looks fun but packs in some serious smarts with object detection, night vision, multi-colored light-up eye, programmable 45-degree turns, and a 150-step coding platform.

All this works through buttons on the bot itself, so no screens are needed, allowing students to get far more involved in the physical-world coding experience. 

The set comes with 78 pieces to help students create mazes, navigate obstacle courses, and more. This is done using the six directional buttons, which remember up to 150 moves in a row.

4. Lego Mindstorms EV4 Robot Inventor 51515: Best for Python-based coding

The Lego Mindstorms EV4 Robot Inventor 51515 might be a mouthful of a name but when it comes to coding, it is an easy-to-handle setup. That's not to say there isn't complexity though, as students can get full-on Python- and Scratch-based coding experience by using this robot-building package. 

This 5-in-1 set allows students to build five different robots using the myriad 949 parts available. Then, using the Lego Mindstorms app, they can code programs into that creation. Aimed at ages 10 and up, these robots can be programmed to walk, talk, and do more than the previous generations. 

From a brick-eating truck that piles up bricks left by other robots to a dancer bot, there are five basic models to create and work with.

5. Logiblocs: Best for science-based coding

Logiblocs is an electronic coding system that lets students physically snap the Commands together to build a system. From alarms and door bells to spy tech and secret recorders, there are plenty of units to build and create.

This helps to teach students about circuitry and science while at the same time providing the basics for the building block-style of coding. These help to show students how the world of IT and beyond works, at a base level, in a fun and engaging way. What's more, it does all that without the need for a screen.

The Morse Code machine is particularly useful as it not only teaches students how to build the system but then also allows them to learn and work with Morse Code.

6. BinaryBots Totem Crab: Best affordable coding kit

The BinaryBots Totem Crab is a robot that can be built by students to learn how to wire and install systems in a basic machine. This can then be coded to move and carry out actions such as grabbing and clawing, using coding programming.

This is a great, affordable way to get students building and coding robots. While there is only one style of robot to be built here, that could also be seen as a positive as it keeps the build process simple, while the coding part remains open to creative input. A great choice for students who find too much freedom of choice overwhelming.

This works with a BBC micro:bit power and interface board for use with the BBC micro:bit mini computer system.

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• Free Online Learning Resources For Schools

Being seen and being heard clearly in the class are important so, if anything, that's even more important when teaching remotely and online. As such, getting light right can be crucial. Your face being lit evenly, with a ring light, can mean all your expressions and feelings are more accurately shared with your students to help them feel as if you're really there with them.

Built-in cameras on laptops and phones are fine but without the proper right light even the smartest ones won't do a great job. LED-powered ring lights are now relatively affordable and offer professional quality lighting to everyone.

But which is the best for your needs? Read on to find the best ring light for teachers.

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• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

1. Neewer Ring Light Kit: Best ring lights for remote teaching top pick

The Neewer Ring Light Kit is one of the best available as it is designed for professional-level make-up work. The massive 20-inch ring light uses an array of 352 LEDs to create a broad and even spread of 44W of light that ranges from 3,200 to 5,600K, allowing you to avoid the too-white light that some ring lights deliver.

This is both mains and battery-powered, making it ideal if you want the option to move around, or sit somewhere not close to a power source. The size of this light offers a wide spread that can deliver a more even finish, ideal for any teacher who wants to illuminate more than just their face. So for a science teacher taking a class through a live experiment, for example, this is an excellent choice. 

2. Rotolight Neo 2: Best ring light for video classes

The Rotolight Neo 2 is a product built by a company with years of experience creating lighting at the professional level, for photographers and others. As such, it represents a lot of research and experience being distilled into a very small, highly efficient, and super effective form factor. Small enough to sit on a desk, in fact.

Pop this next to your display, laptop, webcam, smartphone – whatever – and it will illuminate you as the subject with a perfectly balanced light that creates the most lifelike representation. We haven't missed the fact this isn't technically a ring light, but it does exactly the same job, just without the option to place your smartphone at its center. 

Both battery and mains-powered, this is super portable. Yet it offers a whopping 1,840 lux of bicolor light that is good for clear images at up to three feet, making it ideal for video lessons.

3. UBeesize Selfie Ring Light: Best affordable ring light

The UBeesize Selfie Ring Light is a great option for teachers who don't want to spend too much. This compact ring light, at 10.2 inches, still manages to offer enough power for teachers on a video call with the options of three levels of warmth from 3000K up to 6000K and 11 brightness levels.

Some versions come with a tripod stand while still being super affordable. There is also a USB power cable supplied, which can be plugged into a mains charger, a portable battery, a laptop, tablet, or smartphone – making it very versatile and portable. 

The tripod also features a phone holder, perfect if you want to teach a class, see the students while still facing the light and camera, and remain hands-free. For the low price, it comes with a three-year replacement cover for parts, which is even more impressive.

4. Xinbaohong Clip-On Selfie Light: Best for iPhone and laptop

The Xinbaohong Clip-On Selfie Light is a super affordable, mega portable ring light that easily clips to smartphones, laptops, tablets, and other devices. Essentially, anything that's 0.7-inches or thinner, this will clip to it. This makes for a very easy to use device, powered by USB cable, which delivers a powerful 6000K light that's ideal for video class teaching.

This device offers bright and dim modes, however, when used in the bright option, the battery won't last long. Yup, this does work on battery alone, so it's travel-friendly, but since you're likely using it with a USB-capable device, charging shouldn't be an issue. At this price it's so easy to give it a try it's difficult to think of a reason not to.

5. ESDDI 18 Ring Light: Best dimmable and powerful ring light for video

The ESDDI 18 Ring Light offers a large and very powerful ring light for a reasonable price when you consider the padded case, six-foot stand, and phone clip are thrown in, too. The light itself offers a wide range of color, from 3000 to 6500K, as well as the ability to vary brightness from 10 to 100. That's plenty of range from the powerful 432 LEDs that kick out a whopping 48W of light power.

All that makes this equally as capable when lighting a teacher for a remote class lecture or for covering a wider area to show off an experiment. The only downside is you will need mains power as that's the only option on this ring light.

6. Smoovie LED Color Stream Ring Light: Best color light

The Smoovie LED Color Stream Ring Light is ideal for anyone looking to offset the color of a room. That could mean helping to normalize the color but also it could be used as a feature as part of creating a mood for a presentation, say. This also allows you to pick three color modes within the white spectrum to vary the warmth and get an ideal facial covering when needed.

This is USB-powered, however, some versions (at time of publishing) come bundled with a 3,000 mAh battery charger pack too, making it truly mobile. There are 6- or 8-inch size variants, both of which are plenty bright enough for most rooms. 

7. Erligpowht 10" Selfie Ring Light: Best value for size

The Erligpowht 10" Selfie Ring Light is a well balanced option that offers lots of powerful features but at a budget-friendly price. This model comes with a 10-inch LED light ring capable of three color modes, ranging from bright white to a softer yellow. 

This sits atop a tripod that's capable of extending from 18 inches high right up to 50 inches. It also comes with a smartphone mount attachment. You also get a remote control for use at a distance that connects to the phone via Bluetooth.

This has a lot going for it while keeping the price low, making it an ideal entry level model for anyone wishing to give a light ring a try without spending too much.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

Thanks to built-in cameras and audio, tablets are great both for in-class use but also for video calls and remote learning. The fact that these can be a lot more affordable than laptops is just a bonus.

A few areas you may want to think about before taking the tablet-based plunge: How big does your screen need to be versus how portable do you want this tablet? Is all day battery a must or is processing power the key? Will you need your tablet to work with a stylus pen? Can the operating system work well with your school's setup? If it's parents buying, do you need to put restrictions on the tablet?

It's a lot of points to consider so we've taken the rest of the work out of it for you by laying out the best tablets for students right now.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

1. Apple iPad (2020): The best tablets for students top pick

The Apple iPad (2020) is the best tablet you can buy as a student, both for remote learning and for classroom use. Fortunately, this tablet's uses go even beyond that, making it a great investment, even if it is one of the more expensive and not newest of tablet options out there.

This is an iOS device so it has more apps than any other platform. That makes this capable as a school device that could even replace a laptop if paired with a keyboard case. The dual microphones and front-facing 1.2MP camera make it a very capable video classroom unit, ideal for remote learning. 

Of course, multitasking also plays into this, if you want a document open while in a video class, for example – all of which is possible thanks to the power of that A12 Bionic processor and spacious 10.2-inch high resolution 2,160 x 1,620 Retina display.

The battery can last a full day on a charge, so this is great for use in the classroom too. 

2. Samsung Tab S7 Plus: Best PC replacement tablet

The Samsung Tab S7 Plus is a tablet that students who want a PC replacement, while staying mobile, should consider. While it's primarily a touchscreen device, with a superb 12.4-inch Super AMOLED screen that boasts HDR10+ and 120Hz, this can also be paired with a keyboard, mouse, and screen thanks to its DeX smarts.

Consequently, you can output to a TV or monitor and use the tablet like a PC computer. It is still an Android-based device though, so you get access to all the apps you could want from the operating system. 

For remote learning, the camera offers 8MP quality with HDR to adjust for any lighting, making it ideal even when moving from room to room – possible thanks to that 14-hour battery life. The S Pen Stylus is also a great addition for annotating and beyond. The keyboard case, which is a useful addition, is charged as an extra accessory. That said, this will pair with any Bluetooth keyboard, so that may not be a factor in your decision. 

3. Amazon Fire 7: Best affordable tablet

The Amazon Fire 7 is a tablet designed for those on a budget who don't mind a simple tablet that covers the basics. The 7-inch screen isn't the highest resolution at 1,024 x 600, nor is the front-facing camera at 2MP. That said, both will do the job for video classroom work.

The Amazon Fire OS works on an Android base so there are lots of apps are available. Battery life spans just a few hours, however, the build quality is solid, so even when thrown in into a bag with a charger it should survive, although a protective case is always a good idea.

This device offers excellent parental controls, making it a good option for anyone giving this tablet to a younger student who, perhaps, needs limits on usage.

4. HP Chromebook X2: Best Chromebook tablet

The HP Chromebook X2 is, just as the name suggests, everything you could want from a Chromebook, while taking on the form of a portable tablet. As such, it is ideal for both remote learning at home and in the classroom. 

This is a superb device for anyone hoping to integrate with Google systems, such as G Suite for Education, which many schools use. This is a fast and powerful option that also looks great thanks to its 12.3-inch display with high 2,400 x 1,600 resolution and 403 nits of brightness.

The leather-texture keyboard with trackpad and HP Active Pen stylus accessory are all great extras that come included with the setup. As does impressive built-in B&O Play sound and a 4.9-megapixel front-facing camera plus built-in microphones – all ideal for video lesson clarity. 

This device is heavier than some tablets, but lighter than many laptops, which it can replace. The 12-hour battery life might explain the weight to some extent but then you won't need to carry a charger so that works out well.

5. Lenovo Smart Tab M8: Best for battery life

The Lenovo Smart Tab M8 is a tablet that works well at home, angling in its charging dock stand for video calls. It is also ideal for use in school due to its impressive 18-hour battery life.

Thanks to an efficient quad-core MediaTek processor that is paired with 2GB of RAM, it provides enough power for basic tasks. Combined with the 8-inch,1,280 x 800 and 350 nits brightness display, it may not be a full laptop replacement but should keep you mobile.

The Android operating system offers plenty of apps and free updates that should keep this tablet's value long after the initial price has been paid.

6. Microsoft Surface Go 2: Best Windows tablet

The Microsoft Surface Go 2 is a tablet but one that doubles as a Windows 10 PC thanks to the full operating system and the option of a keyboard case attachment. There is plenty of processing power due to the Intel Core m3 processor and 8GB of RAM that allows for multi-tasking, video lessons, and more, all at the same time. 

The display offers a Full HD 1,920 x 1,080 resolution that, combined with the 5MP and 1080p Skype HD front-facing camera, offers a very clear video classroom experience. Battery life is good for a full day, and expect plenty of updates from Microsoft to keep the software secure and up-to-date long into the future.

7. Apple iPad Pro: Best premium tablet

The Apple iPad Pro is a really expensive option, which is a given at this top-end price. But you get what you pay for here with all the power of a laptop crammed into a svelte, strong, and super portable design. The screen is stunning, the cameras are excellent, and the power is zippy no matter which of the many, many excellent apps you're using.

With a great keyboard, superb stylus pen option and lots of other accessories available, this is a centerpiece that can be built around. Aside from the price it's tough to find any downsides to this tablet. If your school doesn't support Apple though, this may not be the best option for you, even if that iPad name is calling to you.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

Remote learning has grown in recent years and is fast becoming a viable alternative to classroom-only taught lessons. That could mean live lessons, or it could be sharing videos of lessons recorded for students. One popular method is to screen record and webcam record, to offer a guided video to students. Doing this with a large and high-resolution monitor is far easier and more effective.

If you've ever tried to teach an entire class on a tiny monitor, your sore eyes may have appreciated charity efforts such as the Two Screens for Teachers, which aims to get teachers at least two monitors for at-home work.

With the right monitor it becomes possible to have that video permanently on screen while also accessing class materials, emails, and other resources at the same time. 

Features to looks out for include screen size, resolution, and eye saver modes to protect your eyes if lots of use is planned.

So which is the best monitor for teachers in remote learning? Read on to find the ultimate setup.

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• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning

1. BenQ EX3203R: Best monitors for teachers top pick

The BenQ EX3203R monitor is the best overall in terms of quality, performance, and price. As such, it offers an ideal setup for at-home remote teaching. Standing at 31.5 inches, this offers lots of screen space, and with a high 2,560 x 1,440 resolution and wide 16:9 aspect, it can cram in lots. Essentially, an entire Zoom class can easily be displayed clearly without the need to squint.

This monitor is also curved so it can offer a better viewing angle and more comfortable immersion. It's also built to gaming standards, so there is a fast four millisecond response time, ensuring you'll get a smooth video feed, even with lots of moving students on one screen. 

This device also offers HDR for even clearer pictures, which, at 90 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut and plenty of brightness, make this super capable. The fact it manages to pack in all this while keeping the price lower than much of the high-end competition just makes this even more appealing. 

2. Samsung C27F398 27-inch: Best budget monitor

The Samsung C27F398 27-inch monitor offers far more impressive specs than its price tag would suggest. You get a respectable 1,920 x 1,080 resolution on the curved 16:9 display, which is able to offer impressive colors at 97 percent of the sRGB color gamut. It's also got a great contrast ratio that offers well-defined images – ideal for faces on video windows. This is thanks to the use of VA, rather than IPS panel tech, which is usually only found on more expensive monitors.

This monitor is good for both HDMI and VGA inputs, and can tilt, except that's all the stand offers in terms of flexibility. The surround does feel a bit plastic, but since this likely isn't going to be moved much, that's not a big issue. At this price it's a compromise well worth making to get the better quality screen. 

3. LG 32UK550-B 31.5-inch: Best 4K and HDR monitor

The LG 32UK550-B 31.5-inch monitor could easily have been at the top spot on this list. It's affordably priced – for the specs – offers lots of screen space at 31.5 inches, and high resolution at 4K (3,840 x 2,160). But it also manages to deliver a high contrast ratio and 10-bit color depth thanks to HDR10. All that amounts to a very clear picture quality.

As such, this is ideal for video feeds in which a class of small faces in windows will still be clearly displayed. While this does offer HDR, its brightness tops out at 300 nits, rather than the 400 required to be classed as VSEA's DisplayHDR 400 certification. Still, this is getting into professional picture-editing territory. For teaching, and even gaming, it is more than capable. 

This unit is slightly more expensive than the one in our No. 1 spot. But if spending a few extra dollars isn't an issue, this is a do-it-all 4K and HDR monitor that can easily be your top choice.

4. Lenovo ThinkVision M14: Best portable monitor

The Lenovo ThinkVision M14 is a unique entry in that it offers a portability like no other screen on this list. At 14 inches it's not massive, but that 1,920 x 1,080 resolution offers high-quality viewing with plenty of detail even for larger video classes. The advantage is that this can easily be moved from room to room, or into the classroom, allowing for greater flexibility. Paired with a laptop, it can offer space for multiple screens, windows, or programs all running at the same time.

The brightness is excellent, allowing for outdoor use also. Color fidelity is fantastic, which is key for faces, making the experience feel more immersive and lifelike. The multiple angles this can be tilted allow for comfort in many situations, adding to the screen's portability. 

While this might not add much size over a laptop display, it offers more space by adding another screen. The price is low, making it a very accessible option for teachers who want to stay mobile, moving between rooms or even buildings.

5. Dell UltraSharp U2720Q: Best premium monitor

The Dell UltraSharp U2720Q is a high-end and high-resolution 4K monitor for those who want the best. Despite this, the price remains lower than similarly spec-toting, top-end monitors. It offers a quality build and screen, plus lots of connectivity options.

Connect to this monitor using DisplayPort, HDMI, two USB Type-C , three USB 3.0, and one Audio line-out. You also can use the USB-C to fast charge a laptop or phone, for example. 

Color accuracy is excellent, detail is sharp, and the contrast ratio is high. It is built to be good enough for professional photo editors, so it should serve most teachers' needs very well. All that and it's backed by a three-year warranty, too.

6. LG 29WN600-W 29: Best ultrawide monitor

The LG 29WN600-W 29-inch monitor is classed as an ultrawide device thanks to its 21:9 aspect ratio. This means that the high 2,560 x 1,080 resolution is spread across a width built to hold up to three screens in one. The result is superbly clear video lessons and the option to also have class resources and communications open at the same time. While this is affordable, it's even more valuable when you consider this is like multiple monitors in one. 

This monitor offers HDR10 with 99 percent of the sRGB color gamut covered. All that makes for a screen that's good enough for super high-quality video, pictures, and even gaming. It is enhanced thanks to the FreeSync support, which makes for smother video delivery too.

7. Dell P3222QE 32" 4K Hub Monitor: Best for multi-tasking

The Dell P3222QE 32" 4K Hub Monitor is a great option for multi-tasking thanks to that high-resolution and, frankly huge, 32-inch screen. But that goes beyond the screen as this is a hub by name and nature, offering a selection of USB-C, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0 and more port so you can plug everything into the monitor. No more digging around behind the computer to plug in your phone to charge, it all goes into the monitor directly. 

The 4K resolution makes this a super sharp screen and when backed by the rich colors and high contrast, this becomes a viable TV alternative. That's a great thing for video classes in which getting the most life-like visuals on your students is important. The only downside is the lack of speakers, which come as an optional extra. But that does keep the price relatively low as it's all going into a super high-quality and sturdy build with great display.

• Best Laptops for Teachers
• Best 3D Printers for Remote Learning