Computers and Equipment Recommendations for Students 

Whether using an existing computer, or purchasing a new one, below are technology recommendations for student success at the University of Chicago. 

Basic Windows Computer
  • Processor: Minimum of Quad-core 11th Gen Intel Core i5
  • Memory: 6 GB LPDDR4x RAM or greater
  • Storage: 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) or greater
  • Screen size: 13 inches or larger
  • Screen Resolution: 1280 x 768 or greater

Optional Extras

  • Webcam: integrated or external
  • Headset: Bluetooth wired or wireless
  • Accidental Damage Warranty Coverage: 3 or 4 years
Advanced Windows Computer
  • Processor: Minimum of 10-core 12th Generation Intel Core i5
  • Memory: 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM or greater
  • Storage: 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD) or greater
  • Screen size: 14 inches or larger
  • Screen Resolution: 1280 x 768 or greater

Optional Extras

  • Webcam: integrated or external
  • Headset: Bluetooth wired or wireless
  • Accidental Damage Warranty Coverage: 3 or 4 years
Order a Windows Computer
Basic Macintosh Computer
  • Model: 13″ MacBook Air
  • Processor: Apple M2 chip with 8-core CPU
  • Memory: 16 GB Unified memor
  • Storage: 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
  • Screen size: 13.6-inch Liquid Retina display with True Tone 

Optional Extras

  • Webcam: integrated or external
  • Headset: Bluetooth wired or wireless
  • Accidental Damage Warranty Coverage: 3 or 4 years 
Advanced Macintosh Computer
  • Model: 14″ MacBook Pro
  • Processor: Apple M1 pro chip 8 Core CPU
  • Memory: 16 GB unified memory
  • Storage: 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
  • Screen size: 14″ Liquid Retina XDR display

Optional Extras

  • Webcam: integrated or external
  • Headset: Bluetooth wired or wireless
  • Accidental Damage Warranty Coverage: 3 or 4 years
Order a Macintosh Computer

Students are encouraged to have the latest operating system versions and security updates.

The University provides the following key software resources free to all students:

  • Windows 10/11 upgrade
  • Microsoft Office 365 for Education
  • Anti-virus protection – Crowdstrike Falcon

The University does not recommend using a Chromebook or tablet as the primary computing device.