Student Hut

Recommended for

2020

Want to know what products, services and events students can’t live without? So did we. So we asked them. We surveyed an elite selection of students from our Student Hut Opinion Panel to bring you the best of student essentials. From laptops to bank accounts, all the way to insurance and broadband providers, here are the top recommendations for students by students.

With more comprehensive reviews than any other site, this is the Student Hut Recommended for 2020.

Top Laptops for 2020

1. Microsoft Surface Laptop 2

Hailed across the internet as an excellent bit of kit, the Surface Laptop 2 offers a range of features including a much-loved touchscreen. Released in 2018, it's a fan favourite for a reason.

2. Microsoft Surface Pro 6

Another entry from Microsoft, the Surface Pro 6 offers a versatile Windows 10 experience. With the ability to flex between tablet and laptop mode, and Surface Pen and Cortana compatibility, this is a well-rounded device for students.

3. Apple Macbook Air 2019

Tried and tested is the phrase that comes to mind when discussing Macbooks. Loved by students internationally, this affordable model offers everything a student would need, including True Tone and an updated keyboard.

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Top Bank Accounts for 2020

1. Starling Bank 

Only launched in 2014, Starling has quickly become a favourite among students. Offering award-winning, app-based accounts, this bank's flexibility has attracted many with its 24/7 customer support and budgeting tools. 

2. Revolut 

Another app-based banking option, Revolut promises no hidden fees or rubbish exchange rates, making it the perfect student travelling companion. Perks include £200 a month in international ATM withdrawals for free! 

3. Monzo 

A favourite for students and travellers alike, Monzo offers a great variety of personal accounts to its customers. Features include little-to-no withdrawal fees abroad, and no additional charges when you spend overseas. 

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Top Credit Cards for 2020

1. NatWest 

Natwest is one of the most widely used credit card providers in the UK, and it's easy to see why. Offering low rates and 0% transfers, it's worth looking at what they have to offer. 

2. The Aqua Reward Cashback Credit

If you're looking for a reliable way to build your credit rating, Aqua has you covered. With a handy app, text alerts, useful guides and more, it's a great alternative to the major providers.

3. TSB Student Card

Whilst TSB offers a wide variety of credit cards, their Student Card is particularly attractive to those studying with no interest payments. Also, it's compatible with Apple & Google Pay, so that's a plus!

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 Top Broadband Providers for 2020

1. Hyperoptic Fibre Broadband

Hyperoptic Fibre Broadband is a great choice for any tech-minded student, offering broadband over 18x faster than the UK's average speed. 

2. Virgin Media Fibre Broadband

Reliable and widely-used, Virgin Media is a great option for students looking for superfast fibre broadband. With up to 362Mbps average download speeds, it's available throughout the UK.

3. Now Broadband

Offering Unlimited & Super-fast Fibre broadband for £25 a month, it's no wonder that Now broadband has become a favourite amongst students. 

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Top Phone Contracts for 2020

1. ID Mobile

Launched in 2015, ID Mobile offers fantastic value pay monthly phone contracts or SIM-only deals at great prices. Students are in full support of the provider, so check out what's available.

2. Voxi

Brought to you by the same people behind Vodafone, Voxi provides a range of cheap tariffs which are great for students, all with the flexibility to change at short notice. 

3. O2 Student Contract

02 has long been one of the most-used UK mobile providers, offering a range of deals for students as they customise their plans.  

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Top Home Insurance for 2020

1. Admiral

Admiral is a trusted insurance provider. Their home insurance is a tried-and-true option for students across the country.

2. Home Protect

Home Protect offers home insurance for all circumstances that suits your individual needs. With students living in a range of different housing, this might be the insurance provider you're looking for. 
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3. More Than

Offering building and contents cover, the opportunity to replace old items with new and up to £200 home emergency assistance, the appeal of More Than is easy to see. 

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Top Energy Providers for 2020

1. Octopus

Octopus energy offers some consistently affordable deals. With customers saving £222 on average compared to the average Big Six variable tariff, there's a reason students use Octopus.

2. Bulb

Offering affordable and renewable energy, Bulb provides a single tariff which is 17% cheaper than the Big Six standard deals. It's definitely worth checking out if you're looking for a new provider.

3. N Power

As a student energy provider, N Power has built a reputation by being easy-to-use and flexible. They offer a mobile app for viewing your metre reading, an online account and a host of other useful features. 

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Top Student Cities for 2020

1. Prague

The capital of the Czech Republic, Prague offers not only an extensive history but a host of fun activities to enjoy during your stay. A tried and tested student holiday hotspot, it's well worth checking out. 

2. Budapest

Situated on the river Danube, the Hungarian capital is a must-visit destination for many students. From nightlife to art galleries, Budapest has it all.

3. Barcelona

Barcelona is known around the world for its amazing culture and even better food and nightlife. If you're looking for restaurants, sightseeing and sunny weather, the centre of Catalonia might be the destination for you.

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Top Festivals for 2020

1. Wireless

Boasting one of the best Hip-Hop line-ups in the UK, for many Wireless is the event of the festival season. Located in the capital, the location makes this a must-go for all those students studying in London. 

2. Boomtown

A relative newcomer to the festival scene, Boomtown has become one of the UK's best-loved in just over a decade. A five-day experience with a range of DJs and bands, this is definitely one to watch.

3. Glastonbury

World-renowned, and for good reason, Glastonbury is a classic event which draws crowds from all over. From rock to rap to alternative, there's a little something for everyone at Glasto. 

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