Computing Device Requirement

Device Specifications

We understand you may already have a laptop or computing device. There's no need to buy a new one if yours meets the minimum specifications below. We strongly encourage you to bring a device that meets the recommended specifications—the memory and storage capacity will allow you to effectively run necessary software and process data provided to you for class assignments.

A device meeting only the minimum specifications may not last for your entire Michigan Tech career. The more capacity and power your device has, the more likely it will serve your needs throughout your time at Michigan Tech.

Students majoring in engineering, mechanical engineering technology, and engineering management should plan to have a laptop for in-class instructional purposes in required Engineering Fundamentals courses.

If you are planning to buy a new laptop, expect to pay between $700 and $1,500 for a model with the recommended specifications. See additional information on computer recommendations.

Specification Details - All degree programs except the program offered through the Department of Humanities
	Minimum Specifications	Recommended Specifications
Processor	Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5	Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 or 9
Memory	8GB RAM	16GB RAM
Storage	250GB (Solid State Drive strongly recommended)	500GB (Solid State Drive strongly recommended)
Graphics	Integrated graphics	Dedicated graphics card with at least 4 GB of VRAM
Other	1TB external drive recommended for backup and additional storage HDMI output or HDMI adapter to connect to classroom facilities Wireless adapter capable of 802.11ac Built-in webcam and microphone, or a combination of USB-connected webcam and headphones with microphone.	1TB external drive recommended for backup and additional storage HDMI output or HDMI adapter to connect to classroom facilities Wireless adapter capable of 802.11ac Built-in webcam and microphone, or a combination of USB-connected webcam and headphones with microphone.

Specification Details - Degree Program in Department of Humanities
Rhetoric, Theory, and Culture
	Minimum Specifications	Recommended Specifications
Processor	Intel i5	Intel i7, i9
Memory	8GB RAM	16GB RAM (more if you plan to work with video)
Storage	512GB (Solid State Drive strongly recommended)	Additional 500GB external hard drive (7200 rpm or Solid State)
Graphics	2GB GPU VRAM*	4GB GPU VRAM*

* The standard Mac graphics card is acceptable. Learn more about graphics cards for video editing.

Note: The above specifications apply to both Windows and MacOS machines. If students want to work seamlessly between the Humanities Digital Media Zone and their own computer, they should consider purchasing a Mac laptop.