BackBest laptop for students: Top 10 sleek and stylish laptops for everyday use offering performance, portability, and value
Check out the best laptops for students from top brands like Apple, ASUS, Lenovo, and more, featuring sleek designs and reliable performance, perfect for powering through studies and creative projects alike.
PremiumIf you are a school going student or a college student looking for the perfect laptop to stay productive and organised, our top 10 picks offer sleek and stylish options designed to meet your academic needs. Whether you need it for online classes, note-taking, assignments, or even entertainment, these laptops provide the performance and features essential for success in your studies.
With brands like Apple, ASUS, and Lenovo, these laptops deliver the right balance of performance, portability, and value. Lightweight and easy to carry, they’re ideal for moving between classes, the library, or your favourite study spot. These laptops also come with reliable multitasking capabilities for research, presentations, and more.
Many models offer long battery life, ensuring you can study all day without constantly searching for a charger. Sleek and compact designs make them easy to carry in your backpack. By choosing one of these laptops, you’ll have the perfect device for both academic success and everyday use.
1. Apple MacBook Air Laptop M1 chip, 13.3-inch/33.74 cm Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD Storage, Backlit Keyboard, FaceTime HD Camera, Touch ID. Works with iPhone/iPad; Silver
The Apple MacBook Air is a premium and high-performance laptop that offers exceptional value for students. With an M1 chip and a 13-inch Retina display, this laptop is perfect for demanding tasks and creative work. It also features a sleek and lightweight design for ultimate portability. Plus, its long battery life ensures you can stay productive all day long. Whether you're attending classes or working on projects, the MacBook Air is an ideal companion for students.
Specifications of Apple MacBook Air
Apple M1 chip
13.3-inch Retina display
Integrated 7-core GPU
8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
macOS Big Sur
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Exceptional performance | Higher price point |
| Sleek and lightweight design | Limited storage space |
| Retina display |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise the notebook's appearance, quality, and user-friendly interface. It boasts a great display, excellent software optimisation, and impressive battery life.
Why choose this product?
Choose the Apple MacBook Air for its powerful M1 chip, stunning Retina display, ample RAM and storage, security features, and seamless integration.
2. ASUS Vivobook 15, Intel Celeron N4020, 15.6" (39.62 cms) HD, Thin and Light Laptop (8GB/512GB SSD/Integrated Graphics/Windows 11/Office 2021/Silver/1.8 kg), X515MA-BR022WS
The ASUS Vivobook 15 X515MA-BR022WS is a versatile and budget-friendly laptop designed for everyday tasks. Powered by the Intel Celeron N4020 processor with a speed of up to 2.8 GHz, it offers smooth performance for basic computing needs. With 8GB of DDR4 RAM and a 512GB SSD, you get ample storage and fast data access. The 15.6-inch HD display features an anti-glare coating, making it comfortable for extended use. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics ensures decent visuals for everyday applications. This thin and light laptop, weighing just 1.8 kg, also includes a backlit chiclet keyboard with a numeric keypad, a fingerprint reader, and multiple connectivity options. Pre-installed Windows 11 Home and Office 2021 offer seamless productivity, while a 6-hour battery life keeps you going through the day. Ideal for students and professionals alike, the ASUS Vivobook 15 balances performance, portability, and affordability.
Specifications of ASUS Vivobook 15, Intel Celeron N4020
Intel Celeron N4020 processor
15.6-inch display
Integrated graphics
8GB RAM, 512GB SSD
Windows 10 Home
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Affordable price | Average build quality |
| Sleek design |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the laptop's lightweight design, ideal for personal use and education. However, some encountered issues with keyboard, touchpad, and charging. Mixed opinions on quality and performance.
Why choose this product?
Choose the ASUS Vivobook 15 laptop for its lightweight design, HD display, ample storage, Windows 11 Home, and sleek Transparent Silver finish.
3. Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1 AMD Ryzen 5 5500U 15.6" HD Thin and Light Laptop
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1 combines power and portability, featuring a 15.6 inch HD display, AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, and 16GB RAM. With a 512GB SSD, Windows 11 Home, and MS Office 2021, it’s ideal for multitasking and productivity. Weighing just 1.61kg, it’s easy to carry, making it perfect for students and professionals on the go. The laptop also includes 1 year of accidental damage protection and is available in cloud grey colour.
Specifications of Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1 AMD Ryzen 5 5500U 15.6 inch HD Thin and Light Laptop:
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5500U
RAM: 16GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 15.6 inch HD
Operating System: Windows 11 Home
Software Included: MS Office 2021
Weight: 1.61kg
Colour: Cloud Grey
Additional Features: 1 year of accidental damage protection, thin and light design
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Lightweight and portable at 1.61kg | Limited to HD resolution |
| Fast 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD for smooth performance | No dedicated graphics for intensive tasks |
| Includes Windows 11 Home and MS Office 2021 | Battery life may vary with heavy use |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its lightweight design and fast performance. The large SSD and ample RAM are also frequently praised for handling various tasks smoothly.
Why choose this product?
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1 is an excellent choice for those needing a balance of performance and portability. It offers robust specifications for productivity and a stylish, lightweight design.
4. Lenovo V15 Intel Celeron N4500 15.6" (39.62 cm) FHD (1920x1080) Antiglare 250 Nits Thin and Light Laptop (8GB RAM/256GB SSD/Windows 11 Home/Black/1Y Onsite/1.7 kg), 82QYA00MIN
This laptop is suitable for everyday tasks with its Intel Celeron N4500 processor and 8GB of RAM. The FHD display with antiglare and 250 nits brightness makes it comfortable to use even in well-lit environments. The 256GB SSD provides ample storage and quick boot times. With Windows 11 Home, you’ll have the latest features and security updates. The 1-year onsite warranty adds an extra layer of assurance for your purchase. At 1.7 kg, it’s easy to carry around, making it a good choice for those who are on the move.
Specifications of Lenovo V15 Laptop:
Processor: Intel Celeron N4500
Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920x1080) Antiglare, 250 Nits
Memory: 8GB RAM
Storage: 256GB SSD
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| FHD anti-glare display for clear viewing | Intel Celeron processor may lack performance |
| Ample RAM and SSD storage for smooth operation | Limited onsite warranty coverage |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the notebook's versatility, size, and value, finding it suitable for basic tasks and offering good value for money. However, issues with touchpad and heat are reported.
Why choose this product?
The Lenovo V15 can make for a good choice, thanks to its FHD antiglare display, ample RAM and SSD storage, Windows 11, lightweight design, and onsite warranty.
5. Dell [Smartchoice]15 Thin & Light Laptop
The Dell [Smartchoice] 15 is a sleek and powerful laptop equipped with a 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215U processor, 8GB of RAM, and a 512GB SSD. It features a 15" FHD display and Intel UHD Graphics, making it ideal for both work and entertainment. With Windows 11 and MS Office 2021 pre-installed, it’s ready for productivity out of the box. The laptop also includes a 15-month McAfee subscription for added security and a spill-resistant keyboard, all packed in a lightweight design weighing just 1.48kg.
Specifications of Dell [Smartchoice]15 Thin & Light Laptop:
Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215U
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 15 inch FHD (38 cm)
Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics
Operating System: Windows 11 + MS Office 2021
Additional Features: 15-month McAfee, Spill-Resistant Keyboard
Weight: 1.48kg
Colour: Black
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Powerful Intel Core i3 12th Gen processor | Integrated graphics may not be suitable for heavy gaming |
| 512GB SSD provides ample space for files and applications |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the laptop's lightweight design and overall build quality. A few have mentioned problems with overheating.
Why choose this product?
Choose the Dell 14 Thin and Light Laptop for its powerful Intel Core i35 processor, generous RAM and SSD storage, Windows 11, and additional features.
6. HP Laptop 15s, 12th Gen Intel Core i3, 15.6-inch (39.6 cm), 8GB DDR4, 512GB SSD, Thin & Light, Dual Speakers (Win 11, MSO 2021, Silver, 1.69 kg), fq5007TU / FQ5327TU
The HP 15s laptop, equipped with an 12th Gen Intel Core i3 processor, 8GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, is a great choice for students. Its 15.6-inch Micro-Edge anti-glare display ensures comfortable viewing during long study sessions. In addition, with Windows 11, Intel UHD Graphics, and dual speakers, it offers an immersive experience for multimedia tasks. Weighing just 1.41 Kg, it's lightweight and portable, ideal for carrying between classes or study sessions. With its features and functionality, students can achieve their tasks with ease.
Specifications of HP 15s Laptop:
Processor: 12th Gen Intel Core i3
RAM: 8GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 15.6-inch Micro-Edge, Anti-Glare, FHD
| Reasons to Buy | Reasons to Avoid |
| Lightweight at 1.48kg, easy to carry | Integrated graphics may not handle heavy gaming |
| 12th Gen Intel Core i3 for fast performance | No dedicated GPU for intensive tasks |
| Includes 15-month McAfee subscription for security | Limited to 15 inch display size |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate its lightweight design and fast performance for everyday tasks. The inclusion of McAfee for 15 months and the spill-resistant keyboard are also highlighted as major pluses.
Why choose this product?
The Dell 15 Thin and Light Laptop offers excellent performance with its latest Intel processor and ample storage, making it a great choice for students and professionals alike. Its lightweight design and added security features provide both convenience and protection.
7. Acer Aspire 5 Gaming Laptop Intel Core i7 13th Gen (8 GB/512 GB SSD/Windows 11 Home/4 GB Graphics/NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050) A514-56GM,14" WUXGA Display, 1.56 KG
The Acer Aspire 5 Gaming Laptop is an excellent choice for students seeking both productivity and gaming potential. With a powerful Intel Core i7 13th gen processor, ample 8 GB RAM, and a dedicated 4GB graphics card, this laptop can deliver smooth performance for both work and play. It also has a lightweight design and vibrant FHD display, making it ideal for on-the-go productivity. However, its gaming-focused features may be overkill for students primarily focused on academic tasks. Nevertheless, it's a performance powerhouse designed to meet all your computing needs.
Specifications of Acer Aspire 5 Gaming Laptop
Processor: Intel Core i7 13th gen
RAM: 8 GB
Storage: 512 GB SSD
Graphics: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Powerful Intel Core i5 processor | May be heavier compared to ultraportable laptops |
| Powerful RTX GPU for gaming | Higher price point compared to entry-level models |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers like the laptop's slim, sleek design and value. However, they report issues with the touchpad's sensitivity and sound quality, differing on battery life, ease of use, performance, and overall quality.
Why choose this product?
Choose this product for its powerful Intel Core i7 13th Gen processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 graphics, sleek 14-inch WUXGA display, and lightweight design.
8. HP Laptop 15s, 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215U, 15.6 inch(39.6cm) FHD Laptop(8GB RAM,512GB SSD,Intel UHD Graphics,Alexa,Numeric Keypad,Dual Speaker,Win 11,MSO 21,1.69 Kgs,Natural Silver) 15s-fy5003TU
The HP Laptop 15s is powered by an 12th Gen Intel Core i3 processor for seamless performance. In addition, it comes with a 15.6-inch FHD display and 8GB DDR4 RAM for crisp visuals and smooth multitasking. This HP laptop is available in a silver design and weighs just 1.69 kg, making it the perfect choice for on-the-go productivity. Buyers can experience impressive audio with dual speakers, all put together in an amazing device that runs Windows 11 and MS Office 2021 for productivity. Go ahead and bring home a new laptop today!
Specifications of HP Laptop 15s:
Processor: 11th Gen Intel Core i3-1115G4
Display: 15.6-inch (39.6 cm) FHD
Memory: 8GB DDR4 RAM
Storage: 512GB SSD
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| 11th Gen Intel Core i3 processor for efficiency | Limited storage capacity |
| FHD display for clear visuals | Integrated graphics may limit performance |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the laptop's value, quality, and performance, noting its vivid display and comfortable keyboard. Some complain about battery life and monitor.
Why choose this product?
Choose the HP Laptop 15s for its 11th Gen Intel Core i3 performance, FHD display, ample storage, lightweight design, and dual speakers.
9. Acer [Smartchoice] Aspire Lite AMD Ryzen 3 5300U Premium Thin and Light Laptop (Windows 11 Home/8 GB RAM/512 GB SSD) AL15-41 with 39.62 cm (15.6") Full HD Display, Metal Body, Steel Gray, 1.6 KG
The Acer Aspire Lite AMD Ryzen 3 5300U is a premium thin and light laptop perfect for students. Featuring 8 GB RAM, a 512 GB SSD, and Windows 11 Home, it delivers powerful performance for academic tasks. Its 15.6" Full HD display ensures vibrant visuals, while the sleek metal body in Steel Gray adds durability and style. Weighing just 1.6 kg, this laptop is ideal for students on the go. Discover the best laptop for students with this powerful and stylish option from Acer.
Specifications of Acer Aspire Lite Laptop:
8 GB RAM: Smooth multitasking.
512 GB SSD: Fast storage.
15.6" Full HD Display: Crisp visuals.
1.6 KG Weight: Easy portability.
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Powerful: AMD Ryzen 3, 8 GB RAM | No Dedicated GPU: Not for gaming |
| Portable: Only 1.6 kg | Limited Upgrades: RAM, storage |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the notebook's appearance, value, and performance, citing its decent look, speed, and suitability for trading. Some are pleased, but there are complaints about keyboard issues, battery life, functionality, and build quality.
Why choose this product?
Choose the Acer Aspire Lite for its powerful AMD Ryzen 3, 8 GB RAM, portability, and vibrant 15.6" Full HD display.
10. ASUS Vivobook 14 Thin and Light Laptop, IntelCore i3-1215U 12th Gen, 14" (35.56 cm) FHD, (8 GB RAM/512GB SSD/Win11/Office 2021/Fingerprint/42WHr /Blue/1.40 kg), X1404ZA-NK321WS
The ASUS Vivobook 14 is a thin and light laptop designed for students and professionals alike. Featuring an Intel Core i3-1215U 12th Gen processor, it delivers efficient performance for everyday tasks. The 14 inch FHD display ensures vibrant visuals, while 8 GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD provide ample storage and quick load times. Pre-installed with Windows 11 and Office 2021, it’s ready for productivity. With a convenient fingerprint sensor for security and weighing just 1.40 kg, this laptop is the perfect choice for anyone seeking the best laptop for students.
Specifications of ASUS Vivobook 14 Laptop:
Intel Core i3-1215U (12th Gen): Efficient performance for everyday tasks.
8 GB RAM: Smooth multitasking capabilities.
512 GB SSD: Fast storage with ample space.
14" FHD Display: Vibrant visuals for an enhanced viewing experience.
| Reasons to buy | Reasons to avoid |
| Powerful: Intel Core i3 for efficient performance. | No Dedicated GPU: Not suitable for gaming. |
| Lightweight: Weighs 1.40 kg for easy portability. | Average Battery: May require frequent charging. |
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers praise the notebook's performance, highlighting the impressive processor and good key response. Many consider it a good value. However, some report keyboard issues and poor sound quality, with mixed opinions on build quality, display, and battery life.
Why choose this product?
Choose the ASUS Vivobook 14 for its powerful Intel Core i3, lightweight design, vibrant FHD display, and pre-installed productivity software.
Why trust us?
Our team has many of experience with home appliances and gadgets. We carefully research and test products to give you honest information. We check out each item ourselves and only recommend those we truly believe are good choices for you. Our reviews are unbiased and not influenced by outside sources, so you can trust our recommendations to help you make the best decision.
What are the primary uses of a student laptop?
A student laptop is primarily used for writing papers, conducting research, attending online classes, and managing projects. It also supports multimedia consumption, such as streaming videos, and helps with communication through email and collaboration tools. Consider these factors as this will help determine the necessary specifications, such as processor speed, RAM, and storage capacity.
How important is battery life in a student laptop?
Battery life plays a vital role in the functionality of a student laptop, impacting both mobility and overall productivity. It is recommended to choose a laptop that provides at least 8 to 10 hours of battery life, allowing it to support a full day of academic activities, including classes, study sessions, and note-taking, without the need for constant recharging.
Are there any recommended software or accessories for student laptops?
Recommended software for student laptops includes productivity suites like Microsoft Office or Google Workspace for creating documents, presentations, and spreadsheets. Educational software relevant to your field of study can also be beneficial. Additionally, consider investing in a laptop stand or cooling pad to improve ergonomics and prevent overheating during long study sessions.
How important are portability and battery life when buying a student laptop?
Portability and battery life are crucial considerations when purchasing a laptop for students. A portable laptop allows students to easily carry it between classes, libraries, and study sessions without feeling weighed down. Additionally, long battery life ensures uninterrupted productivity, allowing students to work on assignments, research, and projects for extended periods without constantly searching for power outlets. These factors contribute significantly to a seamless and efficient learning experience, making them essential aspects to prioritize when selecting a student laptop.
What software and hardware compatibility is required?
Identify any specific software or hardware requirements, such as operating system preferences (Windows, macOS, or Linux), compatibility with educational tools, and necessary ports for peripherals. This ensures the laptop can support all the student's academic needs.
Which brand is better for buying a student laptop in India?
For buying a student laptop in India, brands like Apple, HP, Lenovo, and Acer are highly recommended. They offer a range of reliable, affordable laptops with good performance, long battery life, and strong customer support, making them ideal for students.
Best value for money laptop for students
The ASUS Vivobook 15 is an economical laptop designed for everyday use. It features a Dual Core Intel Celeron N4020 processor paired with a 15.6-inch HD display, ensuring consistent performance. With 8 GB of RAM and a 512 GB SSD, it offers rapid loading speeds and enough storage for key applications. At just 1.8 kg, this sleek and lightweight device is highly portable, making it an excellent choice for students looking for budget-friendly options without compromising on quality.
Also read: Asus ROG laptops: Best 7 options for competitive gamers and creators
Best overall laptop for students
The Apple MacBook Air Laptop with the M1 chip reigns supreme as the best overall product, delivering unparalleled performance and seamless integration with other Apple devices. Its 13.3-inch Retina Display, coupled with 8GB RAM and a speedy 256GB SSD, ensures a smooth and responsive user experience. The inclusion of features like a backlit keyboard, FaceTime HD camera, and Touch ID enhances functionality and security. With its sleek Space Grey design and compatibility with iPhone/iPad, this MacBook Air offers exceptional versatility and convenience, making it the top choice for discerning users seeking unparalleled performance and seamless connectivity.
Factors to consider when buying the best laptop for students:
Finding the best laptop for students involves considering several factors:
- Portability: Look for a lightweight and slim design, making it easy to carry around campus.
- Performance: Choose a laptop with enough power to handle your academic tasks, such as word processing, internet browsing, and running educational software.
- Battery life: Go for a laptop with long battery life to last through a full day of classes without needing to recharge frequently.
- Affordability: Set a budget and look for laptops that offer good value for money without compromising essential features.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the laptop is compatible with any required software or platforms for your courses.
- Durability: Consider the build quality and materials used to ensure the laptop can withstand daily wear and tear.
- Display quality: Look for a crisp and clear display that is easy on the eyes for long study sessions.
- Storage and memory: Choose a laptop with enough storage space for your files and sufficient memory (RAM) for smooth multitasking.
- Connectivity: Check for sufficient ports and wireless connectivity options to connect to peripherals and the internet.
- Reviews and recommendations: Read reviews from reputable sources and seek recommendations from fellow students or educators who have experience with the laptop models you're considering.
Also read: Best laptops under Rs.50000 in India: Top 10 options with powerful hardware and lightweight design
Top features, price and rating details of best laptops for students:
| Best Laptops for Students | Price | Rating | Special Features |
Apple MacBook Air Laptop M1 chip | ₹71,990 | 4.6/5 | 13.3 inch Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Touch ID, Space Grey |
ASUS Vivobook 15, Intel Celeron N4020 Laptop | ₹25,990 | 3.9/5 | 15.6 inch HD Display, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Integrated Graphics |
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 1 AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Laptop | ₹38,990 | 4.1/5 | 15.6 inch HD Display, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, 1Yr ADP Free |
Lenovo V15 Intel Celeron N4500 Laptop | ₹22,340 | 3.8/5 | 15.6 inch FHD Display, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD, Antiglare |
| Dell [Smartchoice] 15 Thin and Light Laptop | ₹35,990 | 3.8/5 | 12th Gen Intel Core i3-1215U, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, 15' FHD Display, Intel UHD Graphics, Windows 11 + MS Office 2021, 15-month McAfee, Spill-Resistant Keyboard, 1.48kg Weight |
HP Laptop 15s, 12th Gen Intel Core i3 Laptop | ₹38,990 | 4.0/5 | 15.6 inch Display, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Dual Speakers |
Acer Aspire 5 Gaming Laptop Intel Core i7 | ₹64,990 | 3.1/5 | 13th Gen Intel Core i7, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2050 |
HP Laptop 15s, 12th Gen Intel Core i3 | ₹36,790 | 4.1/5 | 15.6 inch FHD Display, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Alexa, Numeric Keypad |
Acer Aspire Lite AMD Ryzen 3 5300U Laptop | ₹28,990 | 3.9/5 | 15.6 inch Full HD Display, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Metal Body |
ASUS Vivobook 14 Thin and Light Laptop | ₹34,990 | 4.1/5 | 14 inch FHD Display, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD, Fingerprint Sensor |
Similar articles for you
AI laptops: What they are, how they work, and which ones to buy
Convertible laptops: What they are, who they're for, and which ones to buy
Best external monitors for laptops: Top 9 options to consider for smooth multitasking
Definitive buyer’s guide to Intel Core Ultra laptops for unmatched computing
Our picks of best Windows laptops will redefine your everyday computing experience; top 8 options
FAQs
Question : What specifications should I prioritise when buying a laptop for college?
Ans : Focus on processors (CPU), RAM, and storage capacity to ensure smooth multitasking and ample space for files and applications.
Question : Are lightweight laptops essential for students?
Ans : Yes, lightweight laptops enhance portability, making them ideal for students who need to carry them around campus or study on the go.
Question : Do students need dedicated graphics cards for their laptops?
Ans : It depends on their field of study. While design or engineering students may benefit from dedicated graphics for graphic-intensive tasks, most students can manage with integrated graphics.
Question : Are touchscreen laptops worth considering for students?
Ans : Touchscreen laptops can be beneficial for certain tasks like note-taking or creative work, but they're not essential for all students.
Question : Should students prioritise battery life when choosing a laptop?
Ans : Yes, especially for students who attend lectures or study sessions without easy access to power outlets. A laptop with long battery life ensures uninterrupted productivity throughout the day.
Disclaimer: At Livemint, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Mint has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
