Laptop Buying Guide for Computing Degree Students

This comprehensive laptop buying guide is intended for new students joining the computing degree program. It aims to provide guidance on selecting an appropriate laptop for your academic needs. Please note that specific laptop models are not recommended, as individual experiences may vary. The following guidelines will assist you in making an informed decision.

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1.  Existing Laptop: If you already possess a laptop in working condition, without major defects such as a broken screen, there may be no need to purchase a new one. Consider upgrading the RAM to 8GB and adding an SSD to enhance performance. These upgrades are cost-effective and will significantly improve your laptop's speed, ensuring its suitability for the duration of your degree. If your battery life is less than one hour, it is advisable to replace the battery.

2.  Budget Considerations: If you do not currently own a laptop, determine your budget and the amount you are willing to spend. If your budget exceeds 150,000 units of currency, you should consider purchasing a new laptop. However, if your budget is lower, refer to the following paragraphs for guidance on more affordable options.

For New Laptops:

When selecting a new laptop, aim for the following specifications:

• Screen: Opt for a 1080p (or higher) IPS or OLED screen. Consider the weight of the laptop as you will be carrying it throughout the day. Screen size can be chosen based on personal preference.

• Processor: Select an Intel 12th generation or higher (i5/i7/i9) processor. Intel 11th-generation processors are also suitable if the price is favorable. Alternatively, consider an AMD Ryzen 5/7/9 5000 series or higher.

• RAM: Choose a laptop with a minimum of 8GB RAM (preferably 16GB). Note that some laptops have non-upgradable RAM, so this decision is crucial.

• Storage: Opt for an SSD (Solid State Drive) with a capacity of 512GB, although 256GB will suffice. Avoid laptops with traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDD).

• Battery: Most new laptops offer satisfactory battery life, so this aspect should not be a major concern.

• GPU: For the computing degree program, integrated GPUs that come with most laptops are sufficient. However, if you plan on playing games, different requirements apply.

Avoid the following:

- i3 or Ryzen 3 processors

- 720p screens or TN panels

- Hard drive-based machines

- Less than 8GB RAM

For Used/Refurbished Laptops:

If you are considering used or refurbished laptops, the following specifications are recommended for a budget of approximately 70,000-80,000 units of currency:

• Screen: Aim for a 1080p (or higher) IPS or OLED screen. Screen size should be chosen based on personal preference.

• Processor: Select a laptop with an 8th generation or higher (i5/i7) quad-core processor. You can verify the processor's specifications by conducting a simple online search.

• RAM: Choose a laptop with a minimum of 8GB RAM (preferably 16GB).

• Storage: Opt for an SSD with a capacity of 512GB, although 256GB will suffice. Avoid laptops with traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDD).

• Battery: A battery life of up to 3 hours is considered sufficient.

• GPU: Similar to new laptops, integrated GPUs are adequate for the computing degree program.

Avoid the following:

- i3 or Ryzen 3 processors

- Dual-core processors

- 720p screens or TN panels

- Hard drive-based machines

- Less than 8GB RAM

Limited Budget

For those with a limited budget, consider the following recommended specifications, which can be adjusted based on affordability:

• Screen: Choose a 1080p IPS screen. For lower budgets, a 768p screen may also be available.

• Processor: Opt for an Intel Core i5/i7 processor. Ensure that the processor is quad-core.

• RAM:  Preferably 8GB, but if a laptop is being sold with 4GB, ensure it can be upgraded to 8GB.

• Storage: A solid-state drive (SSD) is highly recommended.

• GPU: Similar to previous categories, integrated GPUs are sufficient for the computing degree program.

Avoid the following:

• - i3 or Ryzen 3 processors

MacBooks:

If you are considering purchasing a MacBook, the following options are viable:

• Used/Refurbished MacBooks: A recommended choice is the 2015 MacBook Pro 15-inch (not 13-inch) with 16GB RAM. If possible, aim for a 512GB SSD. The pricing may vary, but an approximate range is around 100,000 units of currency.

• New MacBooks: It is recommended to choose models with M1 or M2 processors. Avoid selecting models with Intel processors for new MacBooks. The base model of the M1/M2 MacBook series will provide sufficient performance for the entire duration of your degree, although they may be more expensive.