Student Personal Computer Recommendations

Owned by KARYN O'DELL
Last updated: Sept 05, 2024 by Plaster, Owen
1 min read

This article will assist students in selecting computers with appropriate specifications for their course work. All laptop computers should come with a microphone and camera.

If you believe that these recommendations are out of date, then please reach out to IT at:

  • helpdesk@otc.edu

  • (417) 447-4578

  • helpdesk.otc.edu

Gen Ed. Computer Recommendation 

  • OS: Windows 11, macOS 11 Big Sur and newer

  • CPU: 4+ core processors recommended

  • RAM: 8 to 16 GB

  • Browser: Microsoft Edge, or Google Chrome

  • Example Models:

    • Apple MacBook Air

    • Dell Inspiron

    • HP EliteBook

    • Lenovo ThinkPad

Tech Ed Computer Recommendation

Tech Ed courses such as GDT, DDT, EMP, MTT require intensive software such as Adobe Creative Suite, AutoCAD, etc. Some CAD software is not available on macOS and Linux operating systems, so Windows 11 is a requirement for programs that use CAD software.

  • OS: Windows 11

  • CPU: 8+ core processors recommended

  • RAM: 16+ GB recommended

  • Browser: Microsoft Edge, or Google Chrome

  • Example Models:

    • Asus ProArt

    • Dell XPS

    • Lenovo ThinkPad

GDT/EMP Mac Recommendation

Please advise that macOS updates faster than Windows, and that macOS versions older than Catalina, 10.15, are considered obsolete. The oldest Apple laptops that can run the latest versions of macOS are the 2018 MacBook Pro and the 2020 MacBook Air.

  • OS: macOS 11 Big Sur and newer

  • CPU: Apple Silicon Pro series processor (M1 Pro and higher)

  • RAM: 16+ GB recommended

  • Storage: 512+ GB recommended

  • Browser: Google Chrome for Mac