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19 Top Tech Deals for Back-to-School 2025: Smartphones, Laptops & More 

10 min read
Back-to-school season is here, and it’s the perfect time for parents and students to take advantage of deals that make school life easier, more efficient, and a lot more fun. Whether you’re gearing up for virtual college classes, prepping for long study sessions, or just need gadgets to set your kids up for success, now’s the time to do some shopping. 
A student holding a laptop and notebook in school.

From sleek tablets that can handle everything from homework to gaming, to smartphones packed with the latest features, to must-have accessories that make staying connected a breeze, this guide walks you through it all. We’ll show you our top tech picks, how to hunt down the best tech offers, and give you a look at exclusive back-to-school deals happening now. 

*This guide was created by T-Mobile to help you explore products in our store. The opinions expressed here reflect our editorial perspective based on publicly available features, specifications, and articles.  

*Product pricing and availability are subject to change. Visit our website for the latest offers on phones, devices, and accessories. 

Popular back-to-school tech ideas: Our top 19 picks for students 

If you’re a back-to-school shopper searching for new laptops, tablets, or some other gadget for yourself or your kids, you’re not alone. Last year, nearly 70 percent of shoppers made those items a top priority. With that in mind, here’s a list of some of the most popular back-to-school items for students of all ages, as well as our personal picks for each category. 

Top 3 smartphones 

Whether you’re after the latest AI features, multitasking capabilities, long battery life, advanced cameras, or a bigger-than-life display, the right smartphone can enhance all your school experiences. These phones offer amazing features at a great price. 

Our picks: 

  1. iPhone 16: With its A18 chip, you’ll have the performance to handle everything from streaming lectures to multitasking between apps. Plus, the 6.1" Super Retina XDR display ensures that everything from reading to watching content looks sharp and vibrant, while the 48MP Fusion camera is perfect for capturing high-quality photos or scanning documents for schoolwork. The Action Button adds extra convenience for quick actions like taking notes or setting reminders. The USB-C port and up to 22 hours of video playback mean you can stay powered up and connected all day, whether you’re in class, studying, or relaxing.  
  1. Motorola edge 2025: For students who want premium features without paying flagship prices, the Edge delivers. It has a powerful MediaTek Dimensity 7400 processor, a 5,200mAh battery, a huge 6.7" Super HD pOLED display  perfect for reading, studying, or watching lectures, and a triple camera setup for scanning documents, creating content, or joining online classes in sharp detail.  
  1. REVVL® 8: A strong pick for students who want a reliable, feature-packed phone without a high price tag, this device boasts a large 6.6” FHD display, perfect for reading, streaming, or taking notes. With a powerful Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor and 5G connectivity, students can multitask smoothly, join video classes, or browse without lag. The 50MP deal camera system with OIS is ideal for capturing clear photos, scanning documents, or recording projects, while the 5,000 mAh battery ensures all-day use with minimal charging.  

Top 6 tablets, laptops & accessories 

Essential for research, assignments, and multitasking, they’re an all-in-one study companion for students of all ages. 

Our picks: 

  1. iPad (A16): An excellent choice for students, the 11-inch Liquid Retina display makes reading, studying, and all their favorite content vibrant and immersive, while the A16 chip ensures smooth multitasking for researching, gaming, streaming, and more.  
  2. Apple Pencil USB-C: Compatible with iPad (A16), this handy pencil magnetically attaches to your iPad for easy storage, and pairs and charges with USB-C. It’s great for notetaking, creating artwork, and beyond. 
  3. Apple Magic Keyboard Folio: Also designed to work with the A16, it offers a super comfortable typing experience, a built-in trackpad for precise control, and a full row of 14 function keys to boost productivity. It has a detachable keyboard and a magnetic back cover that snaps right onto your iPad, and an adjustable stand for easy viewing. 
  4. Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 5G: For students who need a reliable tablet without breaking the bank, this tablet has a 10.95-inch LCD screen for smooth and vibrant visuals, and nice performance for everyday tasks like browsing, studying, and light multitasking. Plus, the 7,040mAh battery keeps students going through long study sessions or entertainment breaks. 
  5. Samsung Book Cover Keyboard Slim AI Key: This slim, lightweight tablet cover snaps on easily to your Samsung tab and keeps it protected without adding bulk. It includes a built-in keyboard that’s perfect for taking notes, writing papers, or replying to emails. Pair it with DeX Mode for a laptop-like setup, and even connect it wirelessly to your Galaxy phone to type across devices – great for multitasking on the go. 
  6. Lenovo 100e Chromebook Gen 4: A great choice for students who need a fast, secure, and reliable laptop. Featuring ChromeOS, the device boots up fast, ensuring you can get to work quickly. With up to 14 hours of battery life, students can study or stream content throughout the day without needing to recharge. The USB-C and HDMI ports allow for easy connections to external devices, and the Fast Pair Bluetooth feature lets you connect wireless devices quickly.  
Image of different colored iPads, one with an attached keyboard.

Top 2 noise-canceling headphones or earbuds 

Ideal for creating a focused study environment or just enjoying your favorite tunes between classes. 

Our picks: 

  1. Beats Fit Pro True Wireless Earbuds: Perfect for students who need versatile, high-performance earbuds under $200 for studying and staying active. With their secure-fit wingtips, they’re great for hitting the books or hitting the gym. They also feature Active Noise Cancelling (ANC), as well as Transparency mode, which keeps you or your student aware of their surroundings when necessary. 
  2. JBL Tune 670NC Wireless On-Ear Headphones: A great choice for students looking for high-quality sound, comfort, and value, all around $100. They feature a lightweight design, up to 70 hours of battery life, and ANC, perfect for studying in a busy library or enjoying music between classes. 

Top 2 smartwatches 

Keep track of time, health metrics, reminders, and notifications all in one. 

Our picks: 

  1. Samsung Galaxy Watch8: With its sleek, lightweight design, advanced sleep, health, and fitness coaching, as well as personal AI assistant features, this watch will keep students connected, moving, and efficiently on-the-go.  
  2. Apple Watch SE 2nd Gen: iPhone loving students will appreciate this stunningly advanced smartwatch, with all of the essential features to help them stay connected, active, and healthy on campus, at home, or in the dorm.  
Image of three Apple watches together.

Top 3 chargers 

From portable power banks, to wall chargers and wireless charging pads, these must-have accessories keep students powered up and on the go, without interruption. 

Our picks: 

  1. Mophie 15W Wireless Charging Pad: This charging pad offers a fast and efficient way to power up devices cable free. Just place it on the charger for a seamless connection. 
  2. GoTo Dual USB-A and USB-C 32W Wall Charger: Featuring USB-A and USB-C ports, this wall charger powers up multiple devices at the same time.  
  3. Belkin 10k 20W Battery with USB-C Cable: This power bank has a built-in port and USB-C cable so students can charge two devices at once - or charge one device and the power bank at the same time.

Top 3 trackers 

From lost backpacks and bikes, to misplaced musical instruments, and beyond, trackers help students keep tabs on their important stuff via their smartphone. Attach them to things like keys, wallets, or other small items - or just throw them in a bag or instrument case and go. 

Our picks:  

  1. Apple AirTags: These are must-haves for iPhone users who want to keep close track of backpacks, bags, purses, or other essentials while traveling. Just attach to important items and track them via the Find My app. 
  2. Chipolo POP Tracker: This colorful tracker is tiny but mighty. Easily attach it to keys, bags, luggage, or other important items you want to keep tabs on. You can locate missing items with the help of a global network using Apple Find My or Google's Find My Device. 
  3. SyncUP TRACKER 2: With real-time location updates via GPS precision (even without nearby phones!) and compatibility with Android devices and iOS, it will bring students peace of mind no matter where they roam. Simply track items using the T-Life app. 

How to find back-to-school tech offers: 4 steps 

Finding the best tech deals on your back-to-school items doesn't have to be overwhelming. By shopping strategically, leveraging top tech deals and student discounts, and staying informed on promotions, you can maximize your savings while stocking up on high-quality devices for less.  

Follow these 4 simple steps to find the best back-to-school tech deals: 

  1. Utilize student portals:  Many colleges and universities work with companies like Apple, Samsung, and Microsoft to offer special bundles and deals on laptops, software, and other tech. Find out if your school has something similar. 
  2. Bundle and trade-in offers: Combine deals or trade-ins when possible to maximize savings. 
  3. Use price tracking tools: A quick online search will reveal plenty of reliable websites and browser extensions that monitor price history and track discounts, helping ensure you get the best possible value, while saving you time. 
  4. Shop early and online: Deals and selections can start in July or August. Instead of going store to store, save time by comparison shopping online. Be sure to look for exclusive promotions from current providers like your wireless carrier, which may offer money-saving deals to valued customers. For example, let’s take a quick look at some of the back-to-school promotions from T-Mobile. 

FAQs: 3 back-to-school tech questions answered 

  1. What are the best tech deals for college students? 
    College students can benefit from bundles, wireless offers, university/college discounts, exclusive deals from online retailers, as well as offers from wireless carriers like T-Mobile. See all of our latest deals and back-to-school promotions here. 
  2. Should I wait until Labor Day sales to buy tech? 
    Back-to-school deals can begin as early as July and extend through September and beyond. 
  3. Can students access special T-Mobile phone plans? 
    While there are no phone plans specifically for students, T-Mobile lets you choose your phone and plan for a more personalized experience. Get started here. 

Whether you’re shopping for the latest smartphone or smartwatch, the most affordable tablet, a great set of headphones, or just a few accessories – be sure to take advantage of the best back-to-school tech deals for 2025.  

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