Microsoft launches new Chromebook rival and other devices for students
Surface Laptop SE is now available through authorized Microsoft Surface Resellers
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Microsofthas launched its Surface Laptop SE and this newstudent laptopaims to take onChromebooksin the K-8 education market.
First announced in November of last year, theSurface Laptop SEis the software giant’s most affordable device yet starting at $249 in the US and £229 in the UK. This slim and sleek laptop features a long-lasting battery, an HD camera forvideo conferencingand a modern processor to load apps and files quickly.
Microsoft is also launching a new version ofWindows 11calledWindows 11 SEthat will power this new device and optimize performance with curated, education-first apps designed for budget-friendly devices according to a newblog post. At the same time, students can get the best ofMicrosoft 365includingMicrosoft Teams, Office 365 andMinecraftEducation Edition to help them build the skills they’ll need for the future in a secured and simplified environment designed to limit distractions.
Students will be able to access files for school andproductivity appsboth online and offline with built-insecurity while IT can manage downloads, deployment and security settings. However, unlike the rest of Microsoft’s Surface devices, the Surface Laptop SE will only be available for schools to purchase through authorizedMicrosoft SurfaceResellers like CDW, Staples, Verizon and Insight in the US and Softcat, BT and Computacenter in the UK.
Surface Laptop SE accessories
To complete the Surface Laptop SE experience, Microsoft’s partners will offer a number of accessories for the device that can be purchased separately.
These include gumdrop cases andheadsetsthat are tough and designed to withstand heavy use and the JCPal keyboard protector with easy-to-read large print letters and color-coded keys to improve key contrast and recognition. To improve device security, the Kensington Nano Security Slot controls physical access when the Surface Laptop SE is closed. These new accessories join a range of mice, adapters, display cables and more to help round out the Surface Laptop SE experience.
Meanwhile, commercial customers will be able to order spareSSDdoors, kickstands and covers for a selection of devices in the Surface portfolio which will enable IT technicians to service devices onsite.
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In addition to the Surface Laptop SE, Microsoft also highlighted how theSurface Go 3,Surface Pro 8,Surface Pro Xand theSurface Laptop Studioare ideal solutions for educators and high school students that need additional performance, reliability and a modern design.
We’ve also featured thebest student laptops,best Chromebooks for kidsandbest school tablets
After working with the TechRadar Pro team for the last several years, Anthony is now the security and networking editor at Tom’s Guide where he covers everything from data breaches and ransomware gangs to the best way to cover your whole home or business with Wi-Fi. When not writing, you can find him tinkering with PCs and game consoles, managing cables and upgrading his smart home.
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