Computer Hardware Planning
3 year cycle
Those areas on the 3 year hardware renewal cycle should consult MIT IS&T's recommended computer hardware for the list of acceptable desktop and laptop machines. For users that require Adobe Creative Suite or for users doing video and/ or photo editing and/or web development, the minimum RAM must be no lower than DDR3 16GB and the processor must be no lower than an i7 processor.
4-5 year cycle
For those areas on a 4-5 year hardware renewal schedule and not the usual 3 year, please be aware that you must purchase a mid to high end model machine to ensure the computer has the ability to run newer software at a minimally acceptable performance level 4-5 years down the line. Minimum RAM must be no lower than DDR3 8GB and the processor must be no lower than an i5 running at 2.9Ghz. For users that require Adobe Creative Suite or for users doing video or photo editing or web development, the minimum RAM must be no lower than DDR3 16GB and the processor must be no lower than an i7 processor. We will update these requirements annually as the computer technologies change.
Apple and Dell warranties
Apple does not warranty their machines for more than 3 years so be aware if your machine fails at year 4 or 5 the repair costs could be high depending on the issue. Dell does sell service contracts for more than 3 years, however they are more expensive and may not be available for all makes and models. Make sure your purchase the service contract that is appropriate to the length of time you expect to have to keep your Windows machine.
Macbook Air
Please be aware that we do not recommend the Macbook Air as a primary laptop machine due to its weak WiFi performance and limited number of ports. It is an acceptable second laptop for travel as long as the user understands its limitations and potential connectivity drawbacks. For light weight primary Apple laptop solution, we recommend the current 13" Macbook Pro with Retina Display. At 1 pound heavier than the MacBook Air it has the performance, flexibility, and functionality of a full blown laptop.
The Storage Conundrum
Finally, be aware of the Hard Drive (HD) sizes of the machine you're buying compared to the amount of data on the machine you currently have. Many of the new machines are coming with smaller but faster (and more expensive) solid state HDs while older machines tend to have larger but slower (and cheaper) platter drives. Make sure you have purchased enough storage space on the new machine to move everything from your old machine. So when ordering your new machine, make sure to configure the size of the new HD in the new laptop accordingly.