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
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
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.