Computer Purchasing Recommendations

This Article Covers:

Computer recommendations are a frequently discussed topic for incoming and current students. While there is no "one case fits all" answer to this question, JCU’s Information Technology Services (ITS) offers you some guidelines to help you with your decision.

• Minimum Requirements
• Recommended Software
• Purchasing
• Commonly Asked Questions

Minimum Requirements

1. Operating System (OS): Windows 11 or macOS 13 or higher
2. Intel iCore processors (i5 or above) or AMD Ryzen (5 or above)
3. 8GB-16GB RAM
4. 256 GB SSD
5. Webcam and Microphone (most laptops include this)

Recommended Software

1. Recommended web browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari. Internet Explorer or Microsoft Edge are not recommended browsers at this time.
2. We also recommend you have the following productivity software (free to all JCU students) installed on your laptop.
   1. Free Microsoft Office 365
   2. Respondus LockDown Browser
   3. Zoom

Purchasing

JCU currently does not have any special pricing agreements.  Students can often use their JCU email to qualify for student pricing and discounts.  We encourage you to shop for sales and back-to-school discounts as well as utilize education discounts.  

1. Lenovo
2. Dell
3. HP
4. Apple

Commonly Asked Questions

1. Windows or Apple? - This decision is up to you and your personal preference.  
2. Do I need to purchase Microsoft Office or Microsoft Office 365? - No, as a JCU student you will get free access to Microsoft Office 365 for up to 5 devices.
3. What if I already have a computer? - While older computers may be sufficient for your needs, we recommend that you bring a computer that meets or exceeds the above guidelines.  If you bring a system that barely meets the minimum standards, you should anticipate upgrading in some manner during your four years at JCU.
4. Can I use a Chromebook? - Chromebooks are not recommended as they will not support installing software you may need and you may have issues with Respondus Lockdown Browser which is used for testing.
5. Do I need a printer? - No, JCU provides free printing to all students.  Students can print from personal devices to print release stations found in the Student Center, Library, Academic Buildings, & Residence Halls.  Large or specialty print jobs can be printed at minimal cost through the JCU Copy Center.
6. Is there wireless internet on campus or in the residence halls & apartments? - Yes, JCU has high-speed wireless internet across campus.  From the classroom, to a residence hall room, to the Quad, students should be able to access wireless.  All residence halls also have wired internet ports in the room, apartments and duplexes do not have wired internet ports.  
7. Can JCU recommend a computer for me? - JCU ITS recommends you choose a computer that best meets your needs and budget as long as it meets the minimum qualifications listed above.  If you have a question about a computer or would like us to review a computer you are considering purchasing, please call or email the Service Desk, we would be happy to review and offer advice.  
8. Do certain majors require specific laptops? - JCU ITS is unaware of any departments or majors requiring a specific laptop, but it is always best to check with the department associated with your area of study to confirm or offer advice on the requirements of that major.  JCU has computer labs (both PC and Mac) available to students 24/7 as well.  
9. Will JCU help me if my computer breaks or has an issue? - Yes, we offer free assistance to any student with a personal device that is having an issue.  Please visit the Service Desk on the ground floor of Saint Ignatius Hall across from Saxby's and we would be happy to help you with any technology issues.  If we are unable to fix your issue, we offer recommendations on where to seek repairs and assistance.