General Computer Recommendations
Kent State recommends an Apple or Dell computer because KSU is warranty authorized to repair Dell and Apple on-campus. If students bring other manufacturers we have fewer options for service and support on-campus.
Computers with the specifications below will meet the needs of most students for four years. Students are encouraged to contact their department or program to determine if they have their own recommendations. See the list below for departments known to have requirements at the time of publication.
| Component | Minimum Recommended Windows | Minimum Recommended Macintosh |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Intel® Core™ i5 (13th generation or better) | Apple M2 (or better) |
| Memory | 16 GB or better | |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD or better | |
| Webcam and Microphone | Required | |
| Operating System | Windows 11 | MacOS Sequoia |
| Headset | Recommended | |
| Extended Warranty | 3-4 Year Warranty with Accidental Damage Coverage STRONGLY RECOMMENDED | |
| Battery Life | Minimum of 6-8 hours without charging | |
Chromebooks and Tablets
Chromebooks and tablets are discouraged as a primary computer unless specifically endorsed or provided by your school or department.
Why are Chromebooks discouraged? Chromebooks are cloud-based devices that do not run the Windows or MacOS operating systems and are not compatible with many KSU software applications. Low-cost devices like Chromebooks, Android tablets, and iPads certainly have their place. They can be a great supplementary device for taking notes in classes, but they are limited in what they can do.
Consider a Warranty Upgrade
Kent State University is warranty authorized for the repair of Dell and Apple computers, and can be repaired on the Kent Campus at the Service and Repair Center.
Standard warranties typically provide one year of coverage, and do not include accidental damage. Consider upgrading your warranty to include 4 years of accidental damage protection, such as AppleCare+ or Dell Complete Care.
Where to buy?
Students can get discounted pricing on Apple and Dell! Apple discounts are available at your nearest Apple Store or online at Apple.com. Dell computer discounts are available online via Dell.com. Apple and Dell computers may also be purchased with student pricing at the Kent State University Bookstore.
Specific Requirements for Certain Majors
Some colleges have more specific computer and technology requirements. Below are programs with specific requirements at time of publication.
The College of Architecture and Environmental Design
www.kent.edu/caed/computer-requirements
The College of Aeronautics and Engineering
https://www.kent.edu/cae/computer-requirements
The Ambassador Crawford College of Business and Entrepreneurship
https://www.kent.edu/business/technology-resources-requirements
The College of Nursing
https://www.kent.edu/nursing/college-nursing-laptop-requirements
The School of Media and Journalism
https://www.kent.edu/mdj/technology-requirements
The School of Emerging Media and Technology
https://www.kent.edu/emat/technology-requirements
The School of Visual Communication Design
www.kent.edu/vcd/vcd-required-computer-purchase
The School of Fashion Design and Merchandising
www.kent.edu/fashion/laptop-requirement