The “smb://” is a protocol for sharing files, printers, serial ports, and communication abstractions. This is the language that the Microsoft Windows Network runs in and enables users on Macintosh computers to share files with Windows computers. Apple discontinued its 12-inch laptop in July 2019. You may be able to buy one in Apple’s Refurbished and Clearance Store, but supplies won’t last long. 13-inch models.
We’re over halfway through the year and growing closer to the halfway point of the summer, which means that for millions of students, it’s time to prepare for the next school year. Whether the school year takes place on campus, in a classroom, or online is uncertain, but one thing that is for certain is that students need a powerful, reliable laptop or desktop to get them through the school years or semesters to come. While there are many computer options on the market, year after year, Apple computers offer students some of the best laptop and desktops available.
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They’re not only powerful, but reliable, and can last for years. So if you yourself are a student or you’re a parent of a student looking for a new computer for this upcoming school year, look no further.
Best Apple Computers for Students
- Apple 16″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar
- Apple 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar
- Apple MacBook Air 13.3″ with Retina Display
- Apple 27″ iMac with Retina 5K Display
- Apple Mac Mini Desktop Computer
Here are some of the best Apple computers for students for this upcoming school year.
Apple 16″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar, Late 2019 ()
The Apple 16″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is the latest Macbook Pro, designed as a do-it-all, high-performance, mobile workspace, built to tackle any project or assignment out there. The biggest selling point for this latest MacBook Pro is it’s beautiful, brilliant 16-inch Retina display, that was built for rendering accurate, vibrant colors in images and video, making it ideal for color grading, photo editing, and graphic design.
But the 16″ MacBook Pro isn’t just a beautiful screen on the outside. It packs a powerful punch on the inside. Built with the option of a 9th-Gen 6-Core Intel i7 or i9 processor and AMD Radeon Pro 5300M or 5500M graphics card, these latest processors and graphics cards allow for the new MacBook Pro to run twice as fast as its predecessor, and run complex programs and software effortlessly.
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In addition to its powerful processor and video graphics card options, the 16″ MacBook Pro also comes with customizable internal RAM memory, from 16 GB to 64 GB. Also, you have the customizable internal SSD storage, from 512 GB SSD to 8 TB SSD, so your MacBook Pro will never get bogged down from lack of storage, or not be able to run multiple programs at once, which is essential while in school.
Finally, Apple made the new MacBook Pro keyboard experience even more enjoyable, with it’s redesigned Magic Keyboard, built to ensure faster key response. This makes typing essays, reports, or articles even easier. The built-in TouchBar allows making manual adjustments while editing or color grading a breeze, and even the speaker and microphones are improved, making almost every feature of the popular MacBook Pro better.
The MacBook Pro has been an attractive option for students for years, but with the new improvements and features of the new 16″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar, it’s hard not to take a serious look at this laptop that seems built as the perfect on-the-go workhorse, able to tackle any projects or assignments students will face in school.
Apple 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar, Mid 2020 ()
If you love all the performance features and beautiful Retina display of the 16” MacBook Pro, but prefer a smaller, more portable option for carrying between classes, the 13″ MacBook Pro with Touch Bar is the perfect option. Featuring the same Magic Keyboard, Touch Bar, and stunning Retina Display as the 16” MacBook Pro, you still get the same amazing visual and tactile experience, just in a smaller package.
When it comes to power and performance, the 13″ MacBook Pro is one of the top Apple computers and is well equipped with high performance Intel Core i5 processors, and more. A customizable RAM memory, fast and reliable SSD storage, and top-of-the-line graphics cards are included so you can run any program, from Photoshop to Acrobat, or perform any task, from editing to writing, effectively and efficiently.
The 13″ MacBook Prohas been a fantastic choice for students for years, due to its size and performance features. The 10th Generation version seems well-equipped to continue being that reliable laptop companion for students, for years to come.
Apple MacBook Air 13.3″ with Retina Display, Early 2020 ()
The Apple MacBook Air has been known for its sleek, lightweight, portable design for years, and the latest MacBook Air 13.3″ with Retina Display was built to attract those who care just as much about looks as they do functionality. The biggest change with the newest MacBook Air is its variety of processor, memory, and internal SSD storage options that make it a more powerful laptop, performance-wise. With much larger storage and memory options, a faster processor, and a built-in Intel Iris Plus Graphics card, it’s built to not only look great, but perform well.
With the latest Apple MacBook Air 13.3” with Retina Display, you’re not just getting one of the beautiful Apple computers. You’re getting a capable performer, at a competitive price, making it a fantastic option for students going into the new school year.

Apple 27″ iMac with Retina 5K Display, Late 2018, 2020 Upgrade ()
When you think of an iMac, you think of a powerful, easy-to-use, all-in-one desktop workspace solution. The latest Apple 27″ iMac Retina 5K Display continues that legacy, and is one of the best desktop options out there. Ideal for students or any young professionals needing a desktop computer that can handle anything, from rendering 4K video to editing large megapixel photos, or operating multiple softwares at once.
Externally, the iMac continues to trim down its slim, sleek aluminum design. It offers a large, vibrant, 5K Retina display with accurate and brilliant colors, making it a joy to work on, and easily one of the best desktop displays on the market.
However, the best feature of the new27″ iMac is its ability to be customized to fit the performance needs of any user. You can build your iMac with the latest Intel processors and Radeon Pro Graphics Cards, as well as plenty of internal RAM memory and SSD storage, so you never run out of space or see your iMac’s performance decline. They can be built to perform any task, while operating at the highest level. That is a beautiful thing, especially for students who primarily focus on photo, video, and design, and need a powerful desktop option.
So if you have a student in your life that is needing one of the best Apple computers create, design, or perform at a high level, check out the new Apple 27″ iMac with Retina 5K Display. It is a game-changer, and one of the most impressive desktop options on the market today.
Apple Mac Mini Desktop Computer, 2019 ()
Last but not certainly not least, we have the Apple Mac Mini Desktop Computer. If you’re looking for the power and performance of an Apple desktop, with the ability to customize your screen display and workspace, the Mac Mini is a perfect option for you. Built with increased power and storage options, from 8th generation Intel Core processors and Intel UHD graphics cards, to customizable RAM memory and SSD storage options, Mac Minis are powerful desktop options for any student.
However, the biggest selling point of the Mac Mini is it allows users more control over their desktop layout. Apple built the latest Mac Mini to connect to most external displays, with four Thunderbolt 3 ports, dual USB 3.0 ports, and a built-in HDMI 2.0 port. These output options are fast and reliable, and allow for total customization for your desktop display setup. This makes the Mac Mini an attractive choice for those who prefer control over their display layout, or want a bigger screen than the 27” iMac.
If you’re looking for a powerful desktop option for a student, that allows for a more custom external display experience, then the latest Mac Mini may be the best option for you.