Back-to-school tech your kids won't want to go without

A new school year is approaching, and the kids probably have their list of essentials ahead of their return.

While new pens and books are important, technology is a non-negotiable aspect of study nowadays. If your kids aren't already working from devices, the day probably isn't far off. Also, textbooks and homework assignments are often available digitally now, so they must have access.

On top of their digital devices, we can guarantee your kids probably want a bit of extra tech to make their school days more fun. These are the tech pieces you need to know about ahead of the 2025 school year.

NOTE: Prices are accurate at time of publishing.

HP Elitebook X360

$3699 here

An investment device that will get them through high school, we recommend this one for your seventh-grade kids. Featuring a investment device, a flip design that allows you to use it as a tablet, and a 512GB SSD Hard Drive that'll store their many assessments and pages, it's a great first device they can use at school at home. It also has a spill-resistant keyboard in case of accidents and a fingerprint reader for extra security.

Apple 2021 iPad

15% off on Amazon

If your kids have been integrated into the Apple ecosystem with iPhones, this iPad might be a better choice. Featuring a 10.2-inch Retina display, 256GB of storage, and compatibility with the Apple Pencil and Smart Keyboard, it's the perfect study companion.

Lenovo Tab

$279 on Lenovo

The Lenovo Tab is a great option for the kids. With a 10.1-inch FHD display and dual speakers tuned with Dolby Atmos, it's perfect for streaming or watching movies when they're not in study mode. As for school, it has a kickstand so they can refer to their textbook while writing in their books, plus an optional Lenovo play suite, which includes educational apps. It's also an affordable option, with this model costing just $279.

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ Plus

$799.99 on Amazon

Featuring a 12.4-inch screen and 256GB of storage, this is a great device to aid in schoolwork and study. Built to last, it has an IP68 rating that makes it water and dust-resistant. While it's a bit of an investment, it's a great selection for an older student, as they'll be able to use it as they transition into university.

LG 22-Inch Full HD Monitor

$127.66 on Amazon

Not just for the kids, a larger monitor will likely benefit everyone in your household. Using a monitor will allow them to see their study notes and assignments on a bigger screen, keeping them from eye and neck strain that often comes with working entirely on a smaller one.

Bonelk Aluminium Elevate 360 Laptop Stand

Get it here for $127

Another device to give them a hand with posture, this laptop stand can elevate the height of their device up to 300mm (eye level). Helping prevent hunching, and giving their eyes a break, they can also give themselves a bit more desk space when putting this stand to use.

Roccat Kone Pro Air Wireless/Bluetooth Mouse

$160.55 here

This wireless gaming mouse is ideal for kids who want a gaming setup for home, which they can use alongside their studying. This lightweight, ergonomic model has been perfected across 14 years of craftsmanship and connects wirelessly via Bluetooth. It has more than 100 hours of battery life, and rapid charge means you can get five hours worth on just 10 minutes of charging.

Logitech Casa Pop-Up Desk Work-From-Home Kit

$239.46 here

While this has been created for the working professional who needs to pack their desk away at the end of the day, it could also benefit your kids if they have to study from their bedroom. Rather than leaving their study notes and computer in plain sight while trying to sleep, this pop-up desk means they can fit everything on a shelf, or in a drawer before turning in for the night.

Alternatively, they can take it to the library to guarantee themselves a working space.

Logitech Pop Icon Keys Wireless Bluetooth Keyboard and Pop Icon Mouse

Get the keyboardGet the mouse

Offering contoured, low-profile keys, the Logitech Pop Icon Keys Keyboard provides a comfortable, laptop-like typing experience. It also comes in a range of great colours! Grab the matching Pop Icon Mouse for a full, aesthetically pleasing set.

Apple EarPods (USB-C)

Get yours for $29

If your kids have reached the age where they can have an iPhone, but you're not quite ready to trust them with AirPods, these will do the trick for the bus ride home.

Samsung Galaxy Buds Live

Buy them for $169.99 on Amazon

Alternatively, if you're a Samsung family, the Samsung Galaxy Buds Live are a relatively affordable option for a first set of wireless earbuds they can take to school.

JBL Tune 520 Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones

Just $47 here

If they prefer over-ear headphones, it's hard to go past the JBL Tune 520 Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones. With Bluetooth 5.3 technology, your kids can stream high-quality sound without a tangled cord getting in the way. They can also be connected to various devices with Bluetooth, making them multi-functional.

JBL Clip 5 Bluetooth Speaker with Carabiner

Save 27% here!

While this might be confiscated at school if played too loudly, this Bluetooth speaker will give your kids some choice over the music they like to play. They can clip it to their schoolbag, or just have it at home if they like to listen to background music while they study. Get one on sale here for just $66.

READ MORE: Our top picks for back-to-school essentials for kids