Home Hardware Recommendations
Be prepared to teach and learn with the right technology
Having the right hardware is integral for success at USD. For new and returning students, and for employees that want to work from home, ITS has provided a list of personal hardware recommendations and specifications to ensure that your technology works for you, not against you.
Devices and specifications listed on this page are subject to change at anytime. This guide is to be used only as a starting point when selecting a computer that meets your needs.
Dell has also partnered with USD to provide students with a portal containing hardware recommendations based on 3 categories:
- General Studies
- Nursing/Business/Law
- STEM Students
Click here if you are interested in a Dell Personal Computer
For student questions about program-specific requirements and software, please contact your department.
For questions about network connectivity and bandwidth requirements, please click here.
For all other questions, please contact the ITS Help Desk.
Before Purchasing a New Computer
Technical Information and Considerations
Recommended Windows Specs
ITS does not provide specific model recommendations. However, we do provide hardware specifications that can be met by many computer models.
| Model | Storage | Memory (RAM) | Processor (CPU) | Other Notes |
|
Windows Laptop - Entry Level |
256 GB SSD
|
8 GB
|
Intel Core i3 8th Gen or above |
Highly recommended to include an integrated webcam and microphone Note: Zoom virtual backgrounds require an i7 |
| Windows Laptop - Mid Level |
256-512 GB SSD |
8-16 GB |
Intel Core i5 8th Gen or above |
|
| Windows Laptop - Pro Level |
512 GB - 1 Terabyte SSD |
16-32 GB |
Intel Core i7 8th Generation or above |
Highly recommended to include an integrated webcam and microphone |
Other Things to Consider
- For students, most students bring their computers with them while traveling to and from class. Consider the weight of the laptop when selecting a model
- Are you a fan of touchscreens? If so, consider touchscreen laptops or convertible laptop-tablet hybrids
- Will you be using a resource-intensive software? Make sure to check with the software vendor for your specific computer requirements before purchasing
Recommended Mac Specs
For Mac computers, ITS provides specific model recommendations. However, please note that the specs of these models may change over time. Always ensure your software is compatible with the selected operating system.
| Model | Storage | Memory (RAM) | Processor (CPU) | Other Notes |
|
Macbook Air - Entry Level to Mid Level |
256-512 GB SSD |
8 GB |
1.6 GHz dual-core Intel Core i5 8th Generaltion or newer |
The Macbook Air is much lighter than other models at the cost of some processing power |
|
Macbook Pro - Mid Level to Pro Level |
512 - 1Terabyte SSD |
8-32 GB | 2.0 GHz quad-core Intel Core i5 8th Generaltion or newer |
The Macbook Pro is heavier, but has more processing power |
Other Things to Consider
- For students, most students bring their computers with them while traveling to and from class. Consider the weight of the laptop when selecting a model
- Many business and engineering softwares require a Windows interface. Make sure the Mac operating system will work well for you before purchasing
- Will you be using a resource-intensive software? Make sure to check with the software vendor for your specific computer requirements before purchasing
Recommended Mobile Device Specs
For mobile devices, ITS provides specific model recommendations. However, please note that the specs of these models may change over time, and are only recommendations, not requirements. Some software may not be available or compatible on mobile devices.
| Make | Model | Operating System | Storage |
|
Apple |
11" iPad Pro |
iOS |
128 GB |
| Apple |
10.2" iPad |
iOS | 128 GB |
| Dell |
Latitude 5310 2-in-1 |
Windows 10 | 128 GB |
Peripherals to Consider
Peripherals aren't required, but often times, can be very useful for improving technology performance. Consider the following peripherals:
| Item | Purpose |
| USB Wireless Mouse | Having a wireless mouse can make long periods of time on a laptop much more bearable and easier on your wrists. There are very low-cost options, as well as higher-end, bluetooth based options |
| Laptop Stand + keyboard | Long periods of working on a laptop at a desk can cause neck pain from looking down. A laptop stand can raise the screen to eye level, and ease eye and neck strain. A wired or wireless keyboard allows the user to continue working with the laptop on a stand |
| External Webcam | Most laptops come equipped with a reliable webcam and microphone, but if you are dissatisfied with the quality of yours, consider an external webcam with 1920x1080p resolution and an omni-directional microphone. ITS recommends this webcam, or one with similar technical specifications. |
| Powerline Adapter |
If you aren't able to run an Ethernet cable from your router to your computer because of distance, consider a Powerline Adapter like this one on Amazon. Powerline adapters use the power lines in your walls to transfer your internet connection over long distances in your home. Please note that Powerline Adapters are contingent on a number of factors, and may not work for everyone. |
| Wifi Adapter |
If you are working on a desktop computer without wifi, you can consider a wifi dongle to allow your computer to connect to the wifi. Note that wifi connections are not as fast or stable as Ethernet connections. |