Student Personal Computer Recommendations

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If you believe that these recommendations are out of date, then please reach out to IT at: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

Do not purchase a Chromebook for taking classes at OTC. Chromebooks can be a good option for general education curriculum, but most degree programs will require software or hardware that cannot, and will not be compatible with ChromeOS.

Gen Ed. Computer Recommendation

OS: Windows 11, macOS 11 Big Sur and newer
CPU: 4+ core processors recommended
RAM: 16 GB or higher
Browser: Microsoft Edge, or Google Chrome
Example Models:
- Apple MacBook Air/Neo
- 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
GPU: A discrete GPU is recommended for heavy design/rendering workloads.
RAM: 16 GB or higher
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 Big Sue, version 11, are considered obsolete.

macOS version 26, Tahoe, is the last macOS version to support Intel-based Macs. Please consider upgrading to a Mac with an Apple Silicon chip.

GPU requirements are not a concern when buying a Mac with an Apple Silicon chip.

OS: macOS 11 Big Sur and newer
CPU: Apple Silicon Pro series processor (M1 Pro and higher)
RAM: 16 GB or higher
Storage: 512 GB recommended, higher encouraged
Browser: Google Chrome for Mac