Back-to-School Tech Trends: Key Insights from Revuze’s Latest Report

As students prepare to head back to school, the demand for technology products increases. Revuze’s latest “Back to School Trends Report” provides an in-depth look at students’ evolving preferences and the tech accessories they rely on for their academic success. This blog post will highlight key findings from the report, offering valuable insights for brands aiming to capture the back-to-school market.

The Importance of the Back-to-School Season

The back-to-school (BTS) season is one of the most important retail periods of the year, second only to the holiday season, accounting for approximately 21% of all non-holiday spending. During this time, retailers have a unique opportunity to capture consumer interest, as parents and students gear up for the academic year with necessary purchases. In 2024, back-to-school spending is projected to reach $41.5 billion, up from $36.9 billion in 2023, reflecting both growing consumer demand and rising prices.

With the growing reliance on technology in education, particularly as remote learning becomes more prevalent, tech accessories are seeing increased demand. Things like tablet keyboards, mice, and protective covers are no longer seen as optional extras but as essential tools for enhancing productivity and learning. 

Most Popular Segments

Our report examined the computer peripherals category from July 2023 to June 2024, identifying the top segments discussed in online consumer reviews. Tablet keyboards dominated back-to-school conversations, accounting for 51% of reviews and appearing in over 10,000 mentions, highlighting their importance in turning tablets into more functional devices for schoolwork. Mice were the second most-discussed segment, with 1,100 reviews making up 14% of the total. Headsets followed closely, representing 12% of the discussions.

Missing Features Students Want

While tech accessories are highly sought after, the report reveals that students are dissatisfied with some of the products on the market. Common complaints about tablet covers and keyboards included:

• Too Heavy: Many students found tablet keyboards and covers too bulky and heavy, making them less portable for daily use. This added weight discouraged students from carrying their tablets around, often leaving them stationary at home.
• Lack of Stability: Students frequently mentioned that tablet keyboards lack stability, especially when used on uneven surfaces like laps or soft surfaces. Some reported that the keyboards wobble or tip over easily, making it challenging to type or write effectively.
• No Backlit Keys: A common frustration for students was the lack of backlit keys, making it difficult to use their keyboards in low-light environments, such as during evening study sessions. This limitation reduced the overall functionality of the keyboards.
• No Built-in Touchpad: Several students expressed disappointment that many tablet keyboards did not include a built-in touchpad. They noted that the addition of a touchpad would significantly enhance the keyboard’s utility by allowing seamless navigation without needing a separate mouse.

Key consumer pain points for the mice segment include:

• No Programmable Buttons: Students noted the lack of customization in many mice, specifically the inability to program additional buttons. This feature would have been helpful for personalizing the mouse to meet different academic and gaming needs, but its absence limited functionality.
• Too Light: Many users found that some mice were too light, which gave them a cheap feel. Students felt that a slightly heavier mouse would provide better control and a more durable, quality feel during use.
• Not Durable: Durability was a significant issue, particularly for students who reported that their mice broke or stopped functioning after just a few weeks of use. This lack of durability was especially problematic for students relying on these devices for everyday schoolwork.
• USB Dongle Issues: Another common complaint involved the USB dongles for wireless mice. Some students found that the dongles were easily lost or broke, while others experienced difficulties with the dongles staying securely connected to their devices. This issue affected the usability and longevity of the product.

These gaps in current offerings represent a major opportunity for brands to address consumer frustrations and enhance their product lines to better meet the needs of students.

Most Sought-After Features in Back-to-School Tech

The report also highlights several key features that students value most in their back-to-school tech purchases. For tablet covers and keyboards, consumers seek:

• Lightweight Design: Students prioritize lightweight covers and keyboards that are easy to carry, especially when packed into a backpack for long school days. Heavier cases can add unnecessary bulk, making them less convenient for students who are on the move between classes.
• Stability: A solid, stable stand is important for tablet keyboards, allowing students to type comfortably without worrying about the device wobbling or tipping over. Stability is especially valued during typing or study sessions on uneven surfaces like desks or laps.
• Backlit Keys: Many students study or work in low-light environments, such as dorm rooms or libraries, making backlit keyboards an essential feature. Backlit keys allow for easier typing in dimly lit spaces, improving the overall usability of the device.
• Built-in Touchpad: A built-in touchpad is highly sought after in tablet keyboards, offering students the convenience of navigating without needing a separate mouse. This feature enhances functionality and makes the keyboard more versatile for schoolwork.

For mice, students desire the following features:

• Programmable Function Buttons: Customizable buttons are particularly valued by students who use their mice for both schoolwork and personal use, such as gaming. These buttons make it easier to program shortcuts, log in to programs quickly, and improve overall productivity.
• Heavier Weight: Students often prefer a slightly heavier mouse, as the added weight provides more stability and control during use. This feature is especially important for reducing hand strain during long hours of use, whether for school assignments or extracurricular activities like gaming.
• Durability: Durability is a top concern for students who use their tech accessories daily. Mice that can withstand constant use without breaking are highly valued, particularly for students who need reliable devices for school projects.
• Functional USB Dongle: Wireless mice with reliable USB dongles are favored for their ease of use and quick connectivity. Students appreciate a functional dongle that stays securely in place and allows them to connect their mice to laptops without hassle.

Brands that focus on enhancing these features in their products are more likely to succeed in the back-to-school market by aligning with the preferences of today’s tech-savvy students.

Meeting the Needs of Today’s Students

The increasing reliance on tablets and laptops for schoolwork means that peripherals like keyboards, mice, and protective covers have become essential tools for learning. Brands that focus on addressing student complaints—such as improving stability in tablet keyboards and offering more portable and customizable accessories—will be best positioned to capture the growing back-to-school market. By staying attuned to the most sought-after feature, brands can capitalize on this critical retail period and ensure they are meeting the demands of today’s tech-savvy students.

For a deeper dive into the data and more detailed insights, download the full “Back to School Trends Report” by Revuze.

Florence Broder

Florence Broder is a marketing professional with over 20 years of experience. She has worked in a range of global high-tech companies.