Overview

A Desktop or Laptop computer is not required for all classes at SPU, but may be for some. Computers for research and classwork are available across campus, but these computers are subject to availability. We strongly recommend a personally owned laptop. The University is generally a Microsoft campus, but resources are equally accessible from an Apple (Mac) or Windows PC. The following are minimum and recommended specifications for hardware.

Specifications

Minimum Specifications

Processor - Intel i5 or AMD equivalent
RAM (memory) - 16GB
Storage - 256 - 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
Operating System - Microsoft Windows 11 or the latest Mac OS X version

Recommended Accessories

External Hard Drive for backup (500GB min)

Recommended Specifications

Processor - Intel i7 or AMD equivalent
RAM (memory) - 16GB - 32GB
Storage - 1 TB Solid State Drive (SSD)
Operating System - Microsoft Windows 11 or the latest Mac OS X version

Recommended Accessories

External Hard Drive for backup (500GB min)

Some examples of laptops you may consider:

Any model of recent vintage: Lenovo ThinkPad, Lenovo Yoga, Dell Latitude, Dell Precision, HP EliteBook, Microsoft Surface, etc.

Software

Current SPU students can access various software titles through the SPU Download Center.

Where to Buy

Many online retailers have special discounts and upgrades. Depending on how quickly you need a computer, you could choose to visit a store, such as Best Buy, Staples, etc. or purchase directly through the manufacturer's website (e.g. dell.com, lenovo.com, apple.com, etc...). Read reviews and visit a store in person to get a better idea of what a machine will look like when it arrives.

The following sites are commonly used references for reviews. Reviews units at these sites are generally provided by the vendor and should not be considered completely objective.

Review Sites

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