Minimum Laptop Requirements for Students

Summary

Students at GCC may choose to purchase a laptop for class work. Due to a variety of software needed for class, here are the minimum and suggested specifications for student laptops.

Before You Start

  • Laptops should use MacOS or Windows. Chromebooks have compatibility issues with applications and classroom technology.
  • Students may loan a laptop from the library on campus, rather than purchasing one.
  • You may purchase a laptop from any verified store, and many will have student discounts.
  • Additional file storage can always be achieved through cloud services, such as OneDrive, and/or an external Hard Drive.
  • Current GCC campus laptops are Dell brand with Windows 11.

Steps 

  1. Check Minimum Requirements:
    1. Operating System: Windows 11 / MacOS 15 or higher
    2. Storage: at least 256GB SSD (Solid State Drive)
    3. RAM: 8GB
  2. Check Recommended Specifications:
    1. Operating System: Windows 11 / MacOS 15 or higher
    2. Storage: at least 512GB SSD (Solid State Drive)
    3.  RAM: 16GB
  3. Check Additional Needs:
    1. Windows Defender is built into Windows computers, but you may consider installing additional antivirus software.
    2. If presenting in classrooms, ensure that your laptop has an HDMI port. If it does not, you will need an adapter.

Additional Resources

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