Must-Have Tech and Gadgets for University Students

Heading off to university is a big step, and making sure you’re equipped with the right tech can make life as a student on campus more productive, convenient, and enjoyable. While laptops are a given, many students overlook the supporting gadgets that can vastly improve their daily routines—from staying powered up during lectures to creating a comfortable and focused study environment. Here at Maplin, we’ve put together a breakdown of smart tech tools every student should consider packing before starting the academic year.

One of the most critical but often underrated items in a student’s tech arsenal is a power bank. Lectures, study sessions in the library, late-night cramming, or even long commutes between accommodation and campus can all leave students with little opportunity to plug in. That’s where something like the Maplin 10,000mAh Slim Power Bank comes in handy. Compact yet powerful, this device includes integrated cables for USB-A, USB-C, Lightning, and Micro-USB, meaning you won’t have to worry about carrying extra wires or losing them at the bottom of your backpack.

With a capacity of 10,000mAh, it can charge most smartphones at least twice, which is ideal for students juggling a packed day. It's a worthwhile investment for peace of mind, ensuring you're always able to stay connected—especially if you rely on your phone or tablet for notetaking or scheduling.

In your student dorm or shared flat, finding a free plug socket can be a battle, especially when everyone’s trying to charge multiple devices. That’s why it’s a good idea to bring a multi-port wall charger. Our range includes affordable USB hubs that double as power sources and data ports, helping you charge your phone, tablet, and headphones simultaneously. 

While you’ll likely be studying in various spots—libraries, coffee shops, lecture halls—nothing beats having a well-equipped and organized desk in your room. With many modern laptops offering fewer ports than ever, especially for students using ultra-thin or minimalist models, a USB-C hub or docking station becomes essential. Maplin’s USB-C Multiport Hubs expand your device’s capabilities by offering HDMI for external monitors, USB-A ports for keyboards or memory sticks, Ethernet for stable internet, and even SD card readers.

Depending on your university’s accommodation setup, you might find yourself restricted in terms of Wi-Fi access. Some halls only allow a limited number of devices on their network, or the Wi-Fi might not be strong enough to support video calls and streaming. In that case, having an Ethernet port can make a big difference. Plug directly into a wired connection for a faster, more reliable experience, especially during exams or virtual meetings with lecturers and other students.

While not every student will need it, an external monitor can be a serious productivity booster. Many of our USB-C hubs include an HDMI output, allowing you to connect your laptop or tablet to a second screen. This is especially helpful for multitasking—think essay writing on one screen, lecture notes or research articles on the other.

USB hubs are especially helpful for media students, designers, or anyone who benefits from using multiple devices at once. Even if you’re simply trying to plug in an external mouse and flash drive while charging your phone, a good hub will make your setup seamless and efficient.

We also offer higher-end docking stations—such as the ALOGIC Triple Display Docking Station, which supports three monitors and delivers 100W charging. These types of models may be more suitable for professional creatives or final-year students working with demanding software. For most undergrads, a compact hub will do the job and save both space and money.

University halls can be noisy, and shared houses are rarely the sanctuaries of quiet they promise to be during move-in day. Whether you’re trying to concentrate on writing an essay, tuning into an online lecture, or just unwinding with a playlist or podcast, a solid pair of headphones is essential for any student. While you don’t have to shell out hundreds, you should opt for a pair with active noise cancellation (ANC) to truly block out distractions.

We offer several budget-friendly options, including the Mixx StreamQ C4 Wireless ANC Headphones. These over-ear headphones are lightweight, wireless, and feature decent ANC—more than enough for a shared dorm or bustling coffee shop. They’re an excellent middle-ground for students who want quality audio without overspending.

There's also our Maplin Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones and a range of earphone models to explore, so you're certain to find the ideal pair to suit your needs as a student.

In addition to music and focus time, good headphones are increasingly important for communication. Many seminars and study groups now happen via Zoom or Teams, so you’ll want something that includes a microphone or complements a webcam and mic setup. Alternatively, students doing regular virtual presentations or attending online-only classes may want to consider Maplin’s Home Office Starter Tech Kit, which bundles a 720p webcam, a USB headset with mic, and a device stand—perfect for hybrid learning environments.

Finally, don’t underestimate the small extras that make life easier. Bluetooth speakers, for example, are great for social gatherings, background music during study sessions, or movie nights with flatmates. And although tablets aren't the focus of this guide, if you already have one, adding a stylus or tablet stand can help you transform it into a note-taking powerhouse for all your studies as a student.

One of the best things about tech shopping at Maplin is our focus on student-friendly prices. Unlike premium electronics retailers that focus exclusively on high-end gear, we strike a balance between quality and affordability, offering gadgets that are reliable without blowing your student budget.

When planning your purchases, prioritise based on your personal needs. Start with essentials: a power bank, headphones, and a USB-C hub. After your first few weeks, reassess—maybe you’ll find you need an Ethernet adapter, or that a webcam setup would help with remote learning. Buying gradually also helps spread the cost.

Maplin also offers a 10% discount on selected lines for students, making it even easier for you to kit yourself out for the new academic year with the tech you need.

As you prepare for university life as a student, remember that having the right supporting tech can be just as important as your choice of laptop. Gadgets like portable chargers, USB-C hubs, and noise-cancelling headphones aren’t just nice-to-haves—they actively help reduce stress, save time, and make your study space more comfortable and effective.

With Maplin’s wide selection of practical, student-friendly tech, you can build a setup that keeps you powered, connected, and focused—without overspending. Whether you're commuting to campus, studying in halls, or attending lectures online, these gadgets will help you make the most of your university experience.