Best Back-to-School Student Laptops, Netbooks

Like everything else, classrooms have gotten more technologically advanced in recent years. So don't send your high-schooler or college-aged student back to school without the proper tech they need to succeed.

But are you stumped when it comes to computers? CNET's Brian Tong and Molly Wood aren't. See them take the mystery out of choosing the best laptop and give the best picks of notebooks for under $1,000.

When pen and paper just won't cut it anymore, there's a computer model for everyone. Try out a quintessential laptop like the Samsung NP-R580-JSB1US or MacBook for general classroom and homework use. Or, for more specific needs, such as a business student, something like the Lenovo Think Pad X201.

When looking for the right laptop, thin and light models are still going to cost you a little more, but there are plenty of notebooks that cost less (some run as little as $400 or $500). However, keep in mind: No matter what type of computer you choose -- look for good battery life, and the built-in Blue-Ray player.

For more on CNET's laptop and netbook recommendations, click on the video below.