Student Laptop Recommendations
Student Laptop Recommendations
Information Technology Services provides the following information to assist students with decisions about computer purchases. In general, most new or recently purchased laptops that students bring with them will meet the basic requirements for network connectivity Spartanburg Methodist College wireless network, regardless of Operating System (Windows or macOS). Students should check with their academic advisor and/or anticipated major department for additional requirements.
Information Technology Services (ITS) supports student laptops, mobile devices and gaming systems on campus and should be a first stop for students needing help connecting to SMC’s network or with questions about the configuration and function of computers. ITS is located on the lower level - Library.
These are the minimum recommendations for computers connecting to SMC’s network:
CHROMEBOOKS: Chromebooks, HP Streams, and similar low-cost alternatives to a traditional laptop do not meet the Minimum Specifications for use as a primary computer by students of Spartanburg Methodist College. *
WINDOWS:
Minimum Specifications
Recommended Specifications
Notes
8th Generation i5
8th Generation i7 or Better
8GB RAM
16GB RAM or Better
8GB is not recommended over a four-year period.
256GB SSD
512GB SSD
64-bit Windows 10
64-bit Windows 10
32-bit Windows is not recommended due to incompatibility with some optional programs that are used or required by faculty.
DVD-R/RW (external ok)
DVD-R/RW (external ok)
Many laptops will not have this as a built-in option.
Gigabit Ethernet
Gigabit Ethernet
Adapter may be needed for
some newer/smaller models.
Webcam – Either Integrated with Laptop or External *See note below*
Extended warranty plan, including accidental damage coverage, for expected life of computer strongly recommended. Laptop bag recommended.
250GB+ External Backup Storage.
APPLE/MAC (Recommended for Art and Design Majors):
Minimum Specifications 6th Generation i5
Recommended Specifications
Notes
16GB RAM
16GB RAM or Better
8GB is not recommended over a four-year period.
256GB SSD
512GB SSD
Catalina
Monterey
DVD-R/RW (external ok)
DVD-R/RW (external ok)
Many laptops will not have this as a built-in option.
Gigabit Ethernet
Gigabit Ethernet
Adapter may be needed for
some newer/smaller models.
Webcam – Either Integrated with Laptop or External *See note below*
Extended warranty plan, including accidental damage coverage, for expected life of computer strongly recommended. Laptop bag recommended. 250GB+ External Backup Storage.
VERY IMPORTANT, PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING:
If considering the purchase of an Apple (Mac) computer, students should understand that the macOS is appropriate and recommended for students in some disciplines, such as Studio Art and Graphic Design. Some applications, such as Microsoft Office programs like Excel, function and are laid out differently on the Mac platform and require a specific version of the macOS. Students that plan to major in Business, Accounting, Science will likely take many classes that require using these programs on a Windows platform. Students can access these programs on the Windows platform in the labs on campus, but they should be aware that some work may need to be completed in these areas if they choose to purchase or bring a Mac. Students should check with their academic or major advisor for additional requirements specific to their discipline.
*Chromebooks are a low-cost alternative that provide much of the same functionality as a laptop, but due to platform limitations should be considered a supplemental device, rather than a primary device. Incoming students should not expect to be able to complete all SMC coursework with one of these devices.
Students will need to also be aware that some super lightweight platforms (Surface Pro, MacBook Air, HP Stream, etc.) require extra hardware to load software from CD or DVD media.
In addition, some of these platforms (HP Streams, for example) have very limited internal storage, which can cause significant issues after upgrading Windows and as a result we recommend against them.
Student Laptop Recommendations 8/15/22