Need a new computer?
First check with your department, as they will have proper recommendations for you (such as Apple/PC, laptop/desktop, etc.), then go from there. Always remember to get your new student computer discount! For Dell and Apple see below.
Nursing, Pharmacy, and School of Management students are required to have a laptop. Other programs do not require a computer, but we recommend that students have a computer for their convenience.
Program-Specific Requirements
We recommend checking with the school or program for specific requirements, such as:
- School of Management (SOM) computer recommendations - PC
- Fine Arts - APPLE
- Chemistry - PC
- Cinema - APPLE
- Computer Science - PC or APPLE
- DSON - PC or APPLE
- English - PC or APPLE
- Mathematical Sciences - PC or APPLE
- Psych/Int. Neuroscience - PC or APPLE
- Watson- PC preferred or BOTH PC and APPLE
General Recommended Specs - For most students in Harpur College of Arts and Sciences or the Graduate School, a standard laptop meeting these "Recommended" specs will be sufficient.
| Component | Minimum (Acceptable) | Recommended (Best for 4 years) |
| Operating System (PC) | Windows 11 | Windows 11 |
| Operating System (MAC) | macOS 14 (Sonoma) | macOS 15 (Sequoia or newer) |
| Processor (PC) | Intel Core i5 (13th Gen+) | Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 |
| Processor (MAC) | Apple M2, M3 chip | Apple M4 or M5 chip |
| Memory (RAM) | 16 GB | 16 or 24 GB (unified memory) |
| Storage (SSD) | 256 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD or larger |
| Warranty | 1 year Manufacturer | 3 Year on-site or AppleCare+ |
NOTE: Chromebooks/iPads: While useful for note-taking and browsing, these devices are not recommended as a primary computer. Many academic software packages and exam-proctoring tools (like Respondus or Honorlock) do not fully support ChromeOS or iPadOS.
More School-specific Requirements: Certain programs have specific software needs that may require a more powerful machine or a specific operating system. Always check with your department before purchasing.
- School of Management (SOM): Windows is strongly recommended. Many specialized business applications (like Microsoft Access or specific Excel plugins) are Windows-only. Mac users may need to use [BingView] (Virtual Desktop) to complete assignments.
- Watson College of Engineering: Windows-based laptops are preferred. If using a Mac, ensure it has at least 16GB of RAM to handle the virtualization of engineering software.
- Decker College of Nursing: Laptops are required for clinical documentation and testing. Both Windows and Mac are supported, provided they meet the minimum specs above.
Discounts Available
Apple and Dell both have educational discounts for students (and faculty/staff) available at:
: Check their respective websites for "Student/Academic" stores using your .binghamton.edu email address.
NOTE: ¶¶Òõ¶ÌÊÓƵ does not endorse any of these vendors or their offers other than to provide the options to our students.
Helpful Accessories
- Webcam/Microphone: Most laptops have these built-in, but ensure they are functional for remote sessions or interviews.
- Headphones: Essential for studying in the Library or Union.
- USB-C Adapter: Newer laptops (especially Macs) may require a "dongle" or hub to connect to HDMI or USB-A devices.
- External Hard Drive/Cloud Backup: Always back up your work! We recommend using your Unlimited Google Drive (provided by the University) for cloud storage.
- Bring a ethernet cable for residence halls
Computer Issues?
If your personal computer needs repair, the ITS Help Desk can provide:
- Diagnostic Support: Helping you identify the problem.
- ResCons: On-campus residents can contact their ResCon for assistance with connection issues or software setup.
- Find out how to get a short term loaner laptop from ITS.
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For further assistance: Contact the ITS Help Desk at 607-777-6420 or visit our