This article provides general computer recommendations for students who are purchasing or using a personal computer for coursework, online learning, and common academic software.
Before you purchase a computer: These are general recommendations for students. Some colleges, programs, or degree tracks may require specific hardware, software, or operating system requirements. Students should check with their college or academic department before purchasing a device.
Employee note: This article is primarily intended for student-owned computers. Employees purchasing or using FAU-owned devices should follow their department's purchasing process and any applicable FAU IT standards. Employees can submit a quote request
here.
Important: Google Chromebooks and Pixelbooks are not recommended as a primary academic computer due to compatibility limitations with some learning tools and software.
Windows Device Recommendations ▾
Students using a Windows computer should use a device that supports Windows 11 and meets or exceeds the recommended specifications below.
| Component |
Minimum |
Recommended |
| Processor |
Modern 64-bit processor compatible with Windows 11 |
AMD Ryzen 3000 series or newer, or Intel i5/i7/i9 10th generation or newer |
| Operating System |
Windows 11 |
Windows 11 with current updates installed |
| Storage |
256 GB SSD |
512 GB NVMe SSD or larger |
| Memory |
8 GB RAM |
16 GB RAM or higher |
| Networking |
Wireless adapter compatible with FAU Wi-Fi |
Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 capable adapter |
| Audio and Video |
Audio output |
Webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones |
| Display |
1920 x 1080 resolution |
1920 x 1080 or higher. For desktop setups, a 24-inch or larger monitor is recommended. |
Note: Traditional hard drives and hybrid drives are not recommended. Solid-state drives provide better performance and reliability for modern coursework and software.
Check Windows 11 Compatibility
If you are unsure whether an existing Windows computer can run Windows 11, use Microsoft's PC Health Check tool.
- Go to Microsoft's PC Health Check information page: How to use the PC Health Check app .
- Download and install the PC Health Check app.
- Open the app and select Check now to review Windows 11 compatibility.
Note: Windows 10 and earlier versions are no longer recommended for student use because they are no longer current supported operating systems.
Mac Device Recommendations ▾
Students using a Mac should use a device that supports a current version of macOS and meets or exceeds the recommended specifications below.
| Component |
Minimum |
Recommended |
| Processor |
Apple Silicon M1 chip |
Apple Silicon M1 chip or newer |
| Operating System |
Supported version of macOS |
Current supported version of macOS with updates installed |
| Storage |
256 GB SSD |
512 GB SSD or larger |
| Memory |
8 GB RAM |
16 GB RAM or higher |
| Networking |
Wireless adapter compatible with FAU Wi-Fi |
Wi-Fi 5 or Wi-Fi 6 capable adapter |
| Audio and Video |
Audio output |
Webcam, microphone, and speakers or headphones |
Note: Some academic programs may require Windows-only software. Students should check with their college or department before purchasing a Mac if their coursework requires specialized software.
Devices Not Recommended as a Primary Computer ▾
The following devices may be useful for basic tasks, but they are not recommended as a student's primary academic computer unless the student's college or department confirms they are acceptable.
- Chromebooks and Pixelbooks: Not recommended due to compatibility limitations with some learning tools and software.
- Tablets and iPads: Not recommended as a primary computer unless the program confirms they meet course requirements.
- Devices with 4 GB RAM or less: May perform poorly with modern browsers, video meetings, and academic software.
- Devices with very limited storage: Devices with 64 GB or 128 GB storage may not provide enough space for updates, applications, and coursework.
- Devices running older operating systems: Older unsupported systems may not receive security updates and may not work with current learning tools.
Still Need Help?
For requirements specific to your major, degree program, or coursework, please contact your college or academic department.