General Use Laptops
These laptops will be useful for general studies like Math and English. Word processing, spreadsheets and browsing the web would be the primary functions. The recommended specifications would be as follows:
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Operating System: Windows 10 or 11
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Processor:
Intel Ultra 5 2XX, Core 7 1XX or Intel i5 13th gen and i5 14th gen
AMD AI or AMD Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7 7000. 8000, 9000 Processor
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RAM/Memory: 8GB minimum, 16GB recommended
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Storage Space: SSD 250GB or more
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Approximate price range: $500-$700
ART/AutoCAD Use Laptops
If taking classes for the AutoCAD, AVMP, and certain ART courses that have specialized software for photo/video editing or engineering /3D modeling, a more powerful laptop will be required. The recommended specifications would be as follows:
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Operating System: Windows 11
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Processor: Intel Ultra 5 or AMD Ryzen 5 Processor
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RAM/Memory: 16GB or more
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Storage Space: SSD 500GB or more
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Dedicated graphics: minimum Nvidia RTX 4050, RTX 5050, equivalent or higher. Nvidia Quattro for long term use.
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Approximate price range: $800-$1800+
AVMP
The AVMP classes use MacOS typically - we'd recommend a Macbook Pro from the Apple Higher Education store.
- Processor : M4 or higher, recommend M5 Pro
The software will work on an Air with a standard M5, but the processor will slow down around 8 minutes into very demanding jobs.
- RAM / Memory : 16 GB or more
- Storage Space: 512 GB or more
- Approximate price: $1800-$3000
Not Generally Recommended
The following computers are not recommended for compatibility reasons:
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Chromebooks: These can be used for typical coursework such as Canvas, Zoom, and web based document/slideshows. Software used in many classes do not have a Chromebook version - such as Microsoft Office on Desktop, Adobe and Autodesk.
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Mac/Macbooks outside of AVMP: If you are taking a CMSY-110 course, you will need a Windows computer to run Microsoft Access. You can get a loaner computer from the DH110 lab. Additional software in other courses may not run on MacOS.