What computer should I buy for college?

Summary

LITS's general recommendations for incoming students looking for guidance on computer purchases. Plus information about educational discounts!

Body

Overview and Recommendations


Minimum hardware specifications

When choosing a personal computer, we suggest:

  • Memory (RAM): 16GB or more
  • Storage: Minimum of 256GB
  • Lightweight and portable design for easy mobility
  • Strong battery life for use across campus

Consider your needs

  • Your academic interests and potential major
  • Software that may be required for your courses
  • Your personal preference for macOS or Windows
  • Your budget
  • MHC provides campus computer labs with access to all required academic software.

Warranty recommendation

  • LITS highly recommends purchasing an extended warranty with your new computer.
  • An extended warranty protects your investment in case of damage, hardware failure, or other issues.

Educational discounts

As a member of the Mount Holyoke community, you can receive educational discounts when you order through these vendors:

Mount Holyoke College also offers an educational technology purchasing program in collaboration with the Smith College Computer Store. The options include hardware and software, all with educational discounts from Apple, Dell, Microsoft, and Adobe.

Details

Details

Article ID: 471
Created
Fri 8/11/23 3:57 PM
Modified
Thu 6/26/25 5:37 AM

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Educational access to Word, Excel, OneNote and PowerPoint, Microsoft 365.