Whether they’re using MacBooks for schoolwork or post-college entertainment, students need all the right accessories to get the most out of their computers. From keyboards to covers, stands to speakers, and headphones to hubs, here are 12 of the best back-to-school options for your Mac.
This is one of the most important accessories for any laptop user: a good set of noise-canceling headphones. They’re a great way to block out distractions and stay focused when studying or working on a project, and they’ll likely come in handy throughout the day as students move between work and play. If you’re looking for a pair of high-quality buds, check out the Beats Studio 2S. Though not the latest model, CNET’s David Carnoy found them to be comfortable and lightweight, with a solid sound quality and excellent battery life that easily rivals Apple’s premium Airpod Pros.
A good portable speaker is also essential for any student, and JBL’s Clip 4 Eco is a great option. Its 10 hours of playtime, IP67 water resistance, multiple color options and plenty of volume for such a small device make it an ideal pick. Plus, it’s made from recycled materials for a reduced carbon footprint.
Every MacBook should have a protective case, and WIRED’s Julian Chokkattu has had good luck with Harber London’s full-grain leather sleeve. The tan or black version fits a variety of sizes, and it’s crafted to look beautiful and develop a unique patina over time.
The only thing better than a good computer is a well-protected one. If you want to keep crumbs and dust from gunking up your keyboard’s inner workings, try out Moshi’s $25 ClearGuard (shown here). It’s a superthin, transparent, durable film that’s custom-designed for each MacBook keyboard and barely affects key response. Alternatively, KB Covers offers similar products in a range of colors and designs.
A great way to add a little extra functionality to your MacBook is with a multi-function trackpad that doubles as a stand. A simple, functional design like this one from Satechi can save desk space and keep your notebook flat when not in use.
Having a dedicated dock for your MacBook is a good idea, and Plugable’s USB-C Triple Display Docking Station is a solid choice. It supports up to three displays via HDMI or DisplayPort and has six USB 3.0 ports, so it can handle a lot of peripherals simultaneously.
A good mouse is a must for any student, and while the MacBook’s gorgeous trackpad might suffice in most cases, it can be helpful to have a separate mouse when more precision is needed. This UGREEN cable is a great solution, with a 6-foot cord that’s braided with nylon to resist tangling and a gold-plated connector to maintain contact between the laptop and monitor. It can support up to a 4K display and transmit audio and video signals simultaneously. Check out all of our best back-to-school tech deals to score even more gear for your MacBook.