Many schools suggest a certain type of device or offer a few options for their students. Their advice is based on cost, durability, and how well the device works with their software or systems. These recommendations are great starting points when picking a device for your child. Here are some other things to think about.

Key considerations

When buying a device for your child, consider one that is:

• durable and splash-resistant
• a suitable weight for your child’s age
• capable of browsing the internet, using basic apps, and handling schoolwork
• easy to repair
• compatible with the software used at your child’s school
• supported by an operating system that will receive updates for several years, ensuring your child gets important software and security updates. Devices that can auto-update are strongly recommended.

What to look for

When choosing a device for your child, look for one that has:

• a screen size big enough for your child to see their work easily – 10” or larger is best and older students may need bigger screens
• at least 64GB storage and 4GB RAM
• a battery that lasts at least a 6-hour school day
• a keyboard, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and a webcam, and if you buy a tablet, get an attachable keyboard too
• anti-virus software included or buy it separately.

Second-hand or brand new

When choosing a device for your child, you can go for a second-hand or brand new one, each with its own benefits. Consider the following:

Second-hand devices are:

• cost-effective, saving you money upfront
• likely to need replacement in a few years
• useful if your child’s needs change as they grow older, with younger students needing a basic device and older students requiring a more powerful computer for specialised subjects.

Brand new devices are:

• more expensive initially
• likely to last for several years (new Chromebooks are supported for 10 years)
• possibly suitable for your child’s next school too – check their BYOD requirements, especially if you’re buying for intermediate.

Tips to protect your child’s device

To protect your child’s device, consider the following tips:

• use a screen protector, especially for touchscreens
• get a case or carry bag, preferably shock-absorbing
• have care discussions with your child about looking after their device; many schools have care contracts to guide these discussions
• ask your school if they have secure storage for devices in the classroom
• record device details, including serial numbers.

Online safety

Once your child is online, it’s important to talk to them about online safety, good online behaviour, and keeping passwords secret. Netsafe has resources for this.