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Computer Recommendations for Undergraduate Students
Access to a computer serves as an integral part of course instruction. It is important to choose the computer type and operating system with which you feel the most comfortable and meets the system requirements for the software that you need to use. Whether you are buying a new computer or using an existing computer, you should ensure your computer is robust enough for coursework by checking that it meets the general minimum requirements outlined below. Each major has different computing and software needs, so be sure to check with your advisor as well.
Purchasing Hardware and Software
If you are purchasing a new computer, educational discounts are offered by Dell and Apple (see Vendor section below). Rice licenses several software products that you can use for free or at a discounted rate.
When buying a new computer, consider the following:
- Make sure the computer meets the minimum requirements listed below.
- Consider what software applications you will install and if they have minimum hardware requirements as well. These requirements may be higher than what is recommended here.
- Think about how long you plan to use the computer and your future needs.
- Compare costs of computer systems with minimum standards with those that are more robust.
- Note: Chromebooks are only suitable for basic internet usage and productivity software, such as word processing/spreadsheets.
- For information about these requirements, contact the OIT Help Desk.
Minimum Computer Requirements
Minimum standards have been established to ensure students have a computer that can adequately handle coursework needs.
| Specification | Minimum Recommended Value |
Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | i5 processor (or AMD equivalent) | Any current-generation Intel-Core i5 processor |
| RAM (also called memory) | 16 GB | More RAM will also allow you to run more applications concurrently without the computer slowing down. |
| Storage | 512 GB | If there is a need for a large amount of storage of larger files (i.e., movies, large pictures, high-quality audio files, CAD files, etc.), an even larger amount of storage space is recommended. |
| Operating system | Microsoft Windows 11 MacOS |
Choose an operating system that is currently supported by its vendor (i.e., Microsoft Windows or macOS). We only support operating systems where the vendor is currently providing security patches and updates. |
|
Screen size
Screen resolution
|
Minimum 13-inch 1920x1080 resolution |
The screen size and screen resolutions are minimum recommendations for laptops. |
| Graphics card | Intel integrated graphics Dedicated graphics (NVIDIA or AMD) |
Graphic cards come either integrated or distinctly attached to the system board. Integrated graphics cost less and are sufficient for general computing. Dedicated graphics cards are frequently included on workstation computers because they can improve the speed of rendering or modeling applications. |
| Networking | Wireless Wired (adapter may be required) |
802.11 is a wireless protocol that allows your computer to connect to WiFi networks. We recommend purchasing a wired network adapter if your computer does not come with a wired network port. Wired network connections offer greater stability and faster speed than wireless. |
| Additional features | Headphones Microphone Webcam USB-C USB-A adapter for flash drives Display adapters |
There are a variety of display adapters used for projecting to external displays. Verify the type of display you would like to connect to before purchasing any accessories. The most common types use on campus are HDMI, USB-C, and DisplayPort. |
| Warranty | 4-year warranty | Accidental damage coverage, which covers more than manufacturer defects. |
- Apple (Higher Education Pricing): https://www.apple.com/education/higher-education/
- Dell: https://www.dell.com/Rice