Laptops for freshman

Hi

My kid will be a freshman this fall, majoring in Bio.

He will be bringing a laptop, but wanted to know if kids in this major generally carry their laptop regularly to school? If so, a low laptop weight would be of interest.
Also, are laptops likely to be stolen/lost from class and dorms? If so, would want to look for a cheap option.

thanks - br

Also, recommendations on screen size? I’m wondering between 13 & 15" - typical sizes for lightweight laptops

We are looking into laptops right now as well. My d wants a mac, so we are comparing models and costs. Any advice on what has worked for students in the past would be helpful!

Both S and D have MacBook Pros. They bring to most classes, but depends on class and teacher. D had a teacher that did not allow in class. For D, with CS classes, she ended up needing an external monitor that she connects her MacBook to when she’s in her room. S has an external monitor too, he uses for gaming mostly and when he would like a larger monitor for certain projects.

They would both say go lighter in weight-if it’s an option.

Current student taking courses with many pre-med students. Most seem to own macbooks since they are lightweight, and frequently bring them to lecture to type out notes. I have also seen the rise of convertible 2-in-1 laptop/tablets such as the surface pro with a stylus pen as well for note-taking. IMO the latter is more convenient but it depends on whether the class is reliant on doing math/drawing out processes or not.

Laptop will most likely not be stolen if he is careful with it, ie closing door to his room when going out and not leaving it unguarded in the library for a lengthy amount of time.