Computer Specification Recommendations

Are you a Mid-State student looking to purchase a personal laptop for schoolwork? Below are the recommended computer specifications you'll need.

Note: These are just the minimum needed to allow you to complete most assigned coursework. Opting for a more powerful laptop should be considered, so the laptop can last you even beyond your time at Mid-State.

Mid-State also offers a student laptop checkout program. For more information, please visit the Academic Learning Center on any Mid-State Campus.

Minimum recommended computer specifications:

• Processor: Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 or greater processor
• Memory: 8 GB RAM minimum
• Storage: 500 GB solid state (SSD) minimum
• Web camera and mic
• Network: 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet
• Wireless: Dual band 2.4/5.0 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11ac / Wi-Fi 5 minimum; 802.11ax / Wi-Fi 6 preferred)
• Operating System: Windows 11 / MacOS

Recommended computer specifications:

• Processor: Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 or greater processor
• Memory: 16 GB RAM
• Storage: 1 TB solid state (SSD) hard drive or larger
• Web camera and mic
• Network: 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet
• Wireless: Dual band 2.4/5.0 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11ac / Wi-Fi 5 minimum; 802.11ax / Wi-Fi 6 preferred)
• Operating System: Windows 11 Professional / MacOS

AutoCAD/ Software intensive classes:

• Processor: Intel i7 (11th gen or newer) or AMD Ryzen 7 (5000 series or newer) or greater processor
• Graphics: Dedicated graphics card with 4 GB or more VRAM, DirectX 12 support
• Memory: 32 GB RAM
• Storage: 1 TB solid state (SSD) hard drive or larger
• Web camera and mic
• Network: 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet
• Wireless: Dual band 2.4/5.0 GHz Wi-Fi (802.11ac / Wi-Fi 5 minimum; 802.11ax / Wi-Fi 6 preferred)
• Operating System: Windows 11 Professional / MacOS

Additional Recommendations

• Accessories:
  • When purchasing wireless accessories choose dual band technology (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz capable).
• Cable​s:
  • You may need to purchase accessories that are not included with a new computer purchase. Examples include an HDMI or display port cable for your monitor, network cable, and surge protector.
• Operating Systems:
  • We support computers running Windows 11/ MacOS and newer.
• Student Software:
  • Microsoft Office (Free), Adobe Creative Cloud are available to students, at a reduced price compared to what you will pay from a computer vendor.
• Warranty
  • Most retail computers have a 1-year warranty; we suggest you upgrade the manufacturer's warranty to at least 3 years.
    
    Note: Laptop warranties generally do not cover screen damage, such as cracking. Check with the manufacturer to see if they offer accidental damage coverage in lieu of the standard warranty.