UI Student Laptop General Recommendations

Useful for: Students

Overview

The University of Idaho IT Service Desk recommends the following minimum specifications for personally-owned student laptops suitable for general coursework.

Some academic programs may have additional or more specific requirements. Please consult with your department or academic adviser for recommendations tailored to your major.

Windows Devices

Apple (Mac) Devices

Additional Recommendations

Windows Devices

  • Operating System: Windows 11

  • Processor: Intel Core i5 (11th Gen or newer) or AMD Ryzen 5 (4000 series or newer)

  • Memory (RAM): 12 GB or more

  • Storage: 512 GB SSD

  • Camera: Integrated or external webcam

Apple (Mac) Devices

  • Operating System: macOS Sequoia 15 or later

  • Processor: Apple M3 or M4 chip

  • Memory (RAM): 16 GB

  • Storage: 512 GB SSD

  • Model Year: Any Mac model released after 2023

Additional Recommendations

  • Audio: Over-ear headphones with a built-in microphone or external speakers for video conferencing and remote learning.

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