For general computing like word processing and web browsing, we recommend computers with the following minimum specifications:
- Intel Core i5, AMD Ryzen 5, Apple M1 or newer processor
- Windows 10/11 or one of the three newest versions of macOS (ChromeOS is not supported)
- 8 GB of RAM
- 128GB Solid State Drive (flash storage)
- Tablets and Chromebooks are not supported
For more media-intensive applications like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere, we recommend the following:
- Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 7, Apple M1 or newer processor
- 16 GB RAM
- 256GB Solid State Drive (flash storage)
With the emergence of cloud storage and streaming media, laptops are beginning to be shipped without CD/DVD drives. External drives are available for $50-100 through retailers like Amazon and Best Buy.
We also recommend backing up data to ensure that data is not lost in case of damage, crash, or theft. There are a variety of free and paid cloud services as well as USB external hard drives.
If looking to purchase a laptop, pay attention to the size and weight of the computer. It needs to be both comfortable to use and transportable. It always helps to "try before you buy."