Information Technology Services

Home Hardware Recommendations

Be prepared to teach and learn with the right technology

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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.

I already have a computer. Do I need a new one?

Before purchasing a new computer for academic or professional use, use this checklist to determine whether your current device will meet minimum recommended specifications.

Check your Operating System

Is your computer compatible with and running the newest Windows 10/11 feature updates or Mac OS 13.5 Ventura?

Check your Memory (RAM)

Does your computer have at least 16GB RAM?

Check your Storage (Hard Drive Space)

Does your computer have at least 256GB of storage space, and at least 40GB free space?

Choosing Mac or Windows

Many programs and technologies are specific to a certain type of operating system — it's very important to ensure you pick the computer that will work best for your needs.

If you end up needing a software title or resource that is not compatible with your operating system, you may need to use another computer, or run a virtual machine in order to access that resource.

  • you will be be using Windows-specific software titles
  • you need good performance at a lower price point
  • you are more comfortable with the Windows interface and layout
  • you want to choose between processor brands Intel or AMD

Choosing the right computer

The grid below is provided as a guide to help you find a device that best fits your needs.

Mid-Level devices will support all of the sample software listed, and meet 80% of student and employee technology needs

Computer Category Recommended Uses Sample Software
Basic/Entry Level/Lower Cost Office, Internet, Productivity, Canvas Office 365, Google Suite, Chrome Browser, Adobe Acrobat, Photoshop, R
Standard/Mid Level/Cost increase over Entry Level Entry Level apps plus light video editing, rendering, and data set processing Adobe Premiere, MATLAB, SPSS, Maple, Mathematica, AutoCAD, RevIT, SAS
Pro/Performance Level/Cost Increase over Mid Level Mid Level apps plus heavy rendering, script jobs, scratch disks, etc CNC Apps, Solidworks, STATA MP core based, MathCAD

Note: For best performance, Pro-level software requires a performance-level device.

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 8-16 GB Intel Core i3 13th Gen or above Highly recommended to include an integrated webcam and microphone
Windows Laptop - Mid Level 512 GB SSD 16-32 GB Intel Core i5 13th Gen or above Highly recommended to include an integrated webcam and microphone
Windows Laptop - Pro Level 1-2 Terabyte SSD 32-64 GB Intel Core i7 13th Generation or above Highly recommended to include an integrated webcam and microphone. Depending on resource intensive software, more memory or storage space should be considered.

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