Shopping for back-to-school tech accessories is a lot of responsibility. We get it.
Not only are you trying to set your kids up for success, you have to choose gear they will actually use, that will last a long time, won’t break the bank … and that they actually like.
They may not admit it, but they’re kind of counting on you.
Luckily, you don’t have to be a tech expert to get it right. Having been through it ourselves and learned many lessons over the years, we are pleased to give you our 10-step guide to making back-to-school tech shopping easier and less stressful.
1. Start with their age
A second grader doesn’t need the same gear as a college sophomore. For little ones, keep it simple and tough — choose gear that can survive drops, spills, and the occasional squished backpack.
By middle school and high school, kids start to need more tools, like headphones, keyboards, and styluses for taking notes. This is also when personal style starts to matter, so expect them to have more opinions about colors and designs.
College students are in a whole different category. They need tech that keeps them productive, mobile, and powered up, whether they’re in class, in the library, or sharing a dorm.
2. Don’t skip the school checklist
Before you jump straight into shopping, take a minute to check your child’s school supply list or tech guidelines. Some have strict rules for devices that kids will need for tests. Others recommend certain models of headphones, keyboards and other products that could save you from buying something that doesn’t work later.
3. Think about value, not just price
Budgets are tight, and tech can get expensive — especially if you’re shopping for more than one child. Look for seasonal sales, bundle deals, and multi-use products like keyboard cases that also act as stands. And for older students, investing a little more in quality can be worth it. A durable, well-made charger or keyboard might cost more upfront, but will outlast cheaper versions and save you money in the long run.
4. Make sure everything works together
This may sound obvious, but it’s where a lot of parents trip up. Always check that a new accessory works with the devices your child already uses — including any tech that the school issues. This means knowing what type of connection they need — such as Bluetooth or maybe a Lightning Cable — and making sure you have the right size and fit for cases and keyboards. If you’re looking for a charger, it’s a good idea to find one that can power up several different devices at the same time.
5. Protection is always worth it
Whether your child is 6 or 16 years old, accidents happen. Spending a few extra dollars now on products that last will save you money further down the road. For younger kids, go for drop-proof cases, keyboards that can handle spills, and cords that don’t tangle. Older students may prefer something sleeker that still protects their devices without weighing them down. Either way, investing in gear that will last the school year and beyond is always worth it.
6. Power on the go
If your child spends most of the day at school or on campus, then a portable charger or power bank can be a real game changer, particularly with older students. Look for products that are fast-charging and have multiple ports so they can power up more than one device at a time. If you’re planning to get a wireless charger, make sure it works with all their devices, and be aware that sometimes thick or rugged cases can get in the way of charging.
7. Fitting into their daily routine
Think about how your child’s day works. If they move a lot between classes, have a long commute, or even work late in the case of older students, it’s important to choose tech that’s lightweight, compact, and easy to carry. A great tip is to get a simple tech pouch that will keep chargers, cables, and smaller gadgets from becoming a tangled mess at the bottom of a backpack.
8. The right audio for the right setting
Headphones are a great tool for improving focus. For younger kids, choose models with volume limits to protect their hearing. For teens and college students, noise-canceling headphones can be a lifesaver for blocking distractions in dorms or cafés. A built-in microphone might be helpful for online classes or group projects. And if they’re in college, a Bluetooth speaker will probably be at the top of their wish list. You might roll your eyes but they’ll thank you.
9. Focus on learning, not just cool factor
It’s easy to get caught up in what’s trendy, but focus on tools that genuinely help your child learn and stay organized. Comfortable keyboards and mice (known as “ergonomic” products) take the strain out of long study sessions and help students get more work done. And a good stylus can really help with taking notes. Remember: cool is fine, but useful is better.
10. Let them add their personality
From middle school on, kids care more about expressing their personal style through their stuff. The good news is you can find tech that is both practical and fun. Let them choose a favorite color, add stickers, or use skins and LED lights to reflect their personality. When they love their gear, they’re more likely to take care of it.
Peace of mind for the school year … and beyond
Our experts have tested all the products available on this site to ensure they make the grade for your child’s needs. Shipping and returns are free, and each one comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
