Computer recommendations

Computer Technical Specification Recommendations

Updated for 2025–2026

Minimum Configuration

13"-15" monitor
Windows 11 or macOS 13 Ventura (or later respectively)
Intel i5 (12th gen or newer), AMD Ryzen 5 (6000 series or newer), or Apple M1 chip or better
16 GB RAM
512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
Battery 8+ hours
3 year warranty

Preferred Configuration

13"-15" monitor
Windows 11 or macOS 14 Sonoma (or later respectively)
Intel i7 (12th gen or newer), AMD Ryzen 7 (6000 series or newer), or Apple M2/M3 chip
32 GB RAM (recommended for computer science, digital media, cinema, architecture, or design majors)
1 TB SSD (minimum for storage-intensive disciplines)
At least 2 USB-C or USB 3.2 ports
Wi-Fi 6E or Wi-Fi 7 support
Battery 10–14 hours
3 year warranty with accidental damage coverage

Additional Recommended Technology

Webcam
Computer Mouse
Headphones/Earbuds (noise canceling preferred)
Optional: External monitor
Optional: USB-C hub or docking station

FAQ's

Is one computer enough? Frankly, it isn't a bad idea to have a second computer available. Computers crash, but classes keep moving. Having a backup computer can help you get by until your regular computer is available. The second computer might be an older computer that has been retired from another member of the family. Or the second computer might be a high-end gaming computer or a MAC system.

Do I need a CD/DVD drive? Probably not. Most software is available from other sources, so CD/DVDs are rarely required. They add bulk and weight to a laptop. If it turns out that you do sometimes need a DVD, you can obtain a CD/DVD/Blu-ray external drive that plugs into an ordinary USB port.

Is a Mac okay? It will probably get you through most classes. However, there are some classes where a Windows machine is preferred. Also, faculty may not be able to demonstrate how certain operations are done on a Mac system. Options for Mac users include using software like Parallels Desktop to run Windows in a virtual environment, or using cross-platform alternatives where available.

Is a tablet okay? A tablet can be a useful tool, but it is not adequate for many university classes.

Is a Chromebook okay? A Chromebook will be adequate for some classes, but it is not adequate for many university classes. This may change in the future, but Chromebooks are not adequate as your primary computer for college.

Is a high-end gaming Windows laptop OK? A gaming laptop certainly meets and exceeds the minimum requirements. However, in our experience gaming laptops do not stand up well to the rigors of student life as a daily carry computer. They are excellent as a backup computer, but they probably should not be used as a daily carry computer.

Is a screen larger than 15 inches OK? Technically, yes. But larger screens mean more weight. Even if you are in excellent physical condition a large-screen laptop gets heavy when you carry it around all day. Large screens also tend to be more fragile when pressure is applied to the middle of the case as often happens when a laptop is in and out of a bookbag several times a day. You will also find it harder to find backpacks that will hold a very large laptop.