Welcome to Clarkson University! As you prepare for an exciting journey of discovery and learning, one of the most important tools you’ll acquire is your college laptop. We know this can be a big decision—not just for students but for parents, too. To help you navigate the options and ensure you’re equipped for success from day one, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 “must-haves” for your new laptop for college.

These recommendations are designed to ensure your college laptop not only meets the demands of your coursework but also serves you reliably throughout your experience at Clarkson.

The Top 5 Laptop “Musts” for Undergrads at Clarkson:

1. Choose Lane: Windows vs Apple

Each operating system (OS) has qualities that serve different audiences. 

  • For engineering majors: We recommend a Windows PC. There are some software packages used by these majors that only run on Windows. There are workarounds for those with Apple Macs, but they require a larger hard drive (the recommended 1TB SSD is ideal) and you’ll need to accommodate “dual-booting” into Windows using Boot Camp. 
  • For everyone else: Only you can decide based on your preferences, but in most cases we still recommend a Windows PC. Most all systems and services are natively offered in the Windows environment. Overall, it’s better to choose a Windows device for a smoother ride. 
2. Powerful Brains: Your Processor is Key

Think of your laptop’s processor as its brain – it dictates how quickly and efficiently your computer can handle tasks. To keep pace with your demanding coursework, especially as you delve into specialized software, you’ll need a robust processor.

  • For Apple Macs: An Apple M4 chip is highly recommended, offering enhanced performance for years to come. The M3 chip is the minimum.
  • For Windows PCs: We recommend an Intel Core i7 (14th Generation or newer). While an i5 is the minimum, an i7 will give you significantly more headroom and a smoother experience.
3. Room to Run: Don’t Skimp on Memory (RAM)

Memory (RAM) is crucial for multitasking, allowing you to run multiple applications smoothly without your computer slowing down. As you progress through your degree, you’ll likely be working with more complex programs.

  • 16 GB RAM is the absolute minimum, but we strongly recommend 32 GB RAM. This extra memory will make a noticeable difference in performance and ensure your laptop can handle future software updates and more intensive tasks.
4. Speedy Storage: Say Goodbye to Slow Load Times with an SSD

Forget traditional hard drives! Solid State Drives (SSDs) are incredibly fast and will dramatically improve your laptop’s responsiveness, from booting up to opening applications and saving files.

  • 500 GB SSD is the minimum, but we highly recommend 1 TB SSD. With larger file sizes for projects and software, more storage will save you from constantly having to manage space.

5. Peace of Mind: Comprehensive Warranty and Insurance

Let’s face it, accidents happen. A reliable warranty and comprehensive insurance are not just nice-to-haves; they’re essential for protecting your investment throughout your university career.

  • Look for a 3-year parts and labor warranty. This ensures you’re covered for any hardware issues that may arise.
  • Comprehensive breakage, theft, and hazard insurance is a must-have. This will protect you from unexpected costs due to accidental damage, loss, or theft.

Final word: Be Ready for Anything: Operating System and Productivity Tools

Ensuring your operating system is up-to-date and having access to essential productivity tools will set you up for academic success.

  • Windows PCs: Ensure your laptop comes with Windows 11.
  • Apple Macs: Your Mac should run macOS 15.5 (Sequoia) or later.
  • Productivity Tools: Great news! Microsoft Office 365 for Education is available to all current students at no charge!

A Special Note on Pen-Touch Interfaces:

While not a strict requirement, many students find it incredibly useful to have a computer or tablet with a pen-touch interface. This can greatly facilitate the electronic submission of handwritten assignments and note-taking, making your academic life a bit easier.

We understand that purchasing a your college laptop is a significant investment. By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped with a reliable and powerful tool that will support your academic endeavors and help you thrive at Clarkson. We can’t wait to see you on campus!

Help and Support:

Students and families may reference the Minimum Computer Specifications posted in Clarkson’s Knowledge Base. 
For additional assistance, please contact Clarkson OIT Help Desk:

  • Online: Get Help
  • Email: helpdesk@clarkson.edu
  • Call: 315-268-HELP (x4357)