- Buying a laptop or computer for university
- What laptop or computer do I need for university?
- Should I buy a laptop or desktop?
- Should I choose Windows, Mac or Chromebook?
- How much memory (RAM) and what processor do I need?
- How much storage do I need?
- What screen size should I choose?
- How important is battery life?
- How important is battery life?
- Do I need to buy Microsoft Office 365 software?
- Do I need a more powerful computer for specialist software?
- Do I need antivirus software?
- Do I need a graphics card?
- What other computer features should I check?
- Choosing a smartphone
- Save money when buying a laptop or device
- Borrow a computer
- Financial support for students
Buying a laptop or computer for university
Choosing a laptop or computer for university can be confusing. Use this guide to understand the specifications most students need and what to check before you buy.
If your course uses specialist software, you may need a more powerful computer. Check the software requirements for your course before buying a device.
What laptop or computer do I need for university?
For most students, we recommend:
- a laptop rather than a desktop
- Windows or macOS
- at least 8GB RAM
- at least 256GB SSD storage
- a 14-inch screen or larger
- a webcam and microphone
- enough USB, USB-C or HDMI ports for your needs
- good battery life
- built-in Wi-Fi
For a better long-term experience, consider 16GB RAM and an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor.
If your course uses specialist software, you may need a higher specification device.
Check computers and software available at Herts
Should I buy a laptop or desktop?
A laptop is the best choice for most students because you can:
- study anywhere on campus
- take it to lectures and group work
- join online meetings
- use it at home and on campus
When choosing a laptop, consider its:
- weight
- screen size
- battery life
- available ports, including USB, USB-C and HDMI
A desktop can offer better performance for the price but cannot be carried around campus.
Should I choose Windows, Mac or Chromebook?
Windows
A good option for most students.
- Works with a wide range of software
- Often available at different price points
- Widely used across many courses
macOS (Apple)
A popular choice for creative subjects.
- High-quality screens
- Supports many professional applications
- Usually more expensive than Windows devices
Chromebook
Suitable for basic study tasks such as:
- Writing assignments
- Web browsing
However, some specialist software may not work on a Chromebook.
Tip: Keep your operating system up to date to improve security and performance.
How much memory (RAM) and what processor do I need?
To get the best performance out of your computer try to get as much memory as you can. We recommend:
Minimum: 8GB RAM
Better long-term option: 16GB RAM
Processor: minimum of Intel i3 or AMD Ryzen 3, but for longevity and a better experience, we recommend Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5.
How much storage do I need?
We recommend:
- Minimum: 128GB
- Preferred: 256GB SSD or larger
An SSD, or Solid State Drive, is much faster than a traditional hard drive.
You also have access to Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage while studying at Herts, so you do not need to store everything on your computer.
What screen size should I choose?
This depends on how you plan to use and carry your laptop.
For most students:
- 14 inches offers a good balance between portability and usability.
- 15 inches or larger can be useful for design, creative work and detailed editing.
Remember that larger laptops are usually heavier to carry.
How important is battery life?
Consider how often you will use your laptop away from a power socket.
Compare the advertised battery life of different models before buying, particularly if you expect to use your laptop around campus.
Do I need to buy Microsoft Office?
No. Most students receive free access to free Microsoft applications, including:
- Word
- Excel
- PowerPoint
- Outlook
- OneDrive
You may see Microsoft Office software as 'included' in a laptop deal, but you don't need to buy this as an extra. You will be able to download the Office applications on up to 15 personal devices – for free. You’ll also get personal cloud storage (One Drive) and email. Find out more: Getting started with Office 365.
Do I need a more powerful computer for specialist software?
Some courses use specialist software for:
- design software
- media production software
- engineering software
- Adobe Creative Cloud
If you need specialist software, we recommend:
- Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 processor, or better
- 16GB RAM
- 256GB SSD storage or larger
Specialist software is also available on University computers, and some software can be accessed remotely.
Check computers and software available at Herts
Do I need antivirus software?
Yes. Your device should:
- have antivirus protection enabled
- have a firewall enabled
- receive regular security and operating-system updates
Most modern Windows and Mac computers include built-in security features. Make sure these are switched on and kept up to date.
You can also choose additional antivirus software if needed.
Find out more about protecting your computer from viruses
Do I need a graphics card?
Most students do not need a dedicated graphics card.
You may need one if your course uses:
- 3D design software
- video editing software
- animation software
- CAD software
Check your course or software requirements before spending extra money on a dedicated graphics card.
What other computer features should I check?
Wi-Fi
Most laptops include Wi-Fi as standard.
If you are buying a desktop computer, check that it has built-in Wi-Fi or supports a Wi-Fi adapter.
CD/DVD drive
Most laptops no longer include a CD or DVD drive, and most students will not need one.
If you do need one, you can buy an external USB drive.
Warranty
Check the warranty before buying your computer, including:
- how long the warranty lasts
- whether the battery is covered
- repair options
Choosing a smartphone
A smartphone gives you quick access to University services including email, StudyNet and the Herts Mobile app.
When choosing a phone:
- look for good battery life
- choose a device that supports modern Wi-Fi standards
- check for student discounts
- compare contracts and prices
Buying a second-hand phone
You do not need the latest or most expensive phone, but check that a second-hand device is still supported by its manufacturer.
Before buying, check:
- the age of the device
- which operating system it uses
- whether it still receives security updates
- how long the manufacturer will continue supporting it
Avoid devices that are no longer supported or will stop receiving updates soon. Unsupported phones may become less secure, and some apps may stop working correctly.
Read the NCSC guidance on buying second-hand devices
Save money when buying a laptop or device
Before buying:
- compare prices from different retailers
- check for student discounts
- look at student offers through UNiDAYS and other student discount schemes
- check what software you can already access through Herts before paying for it separately
You can also look at The Edu Store.
Most students can access Microsoft 365 applications including Word, Excel and PowerPoint without paying separately while they study.
Not all University software licences cover personal devices. Some software installed on Herts Windows computers can be accessed remotely from Windows or Mac devices.
Borrow a computer
Herts has a limited number of laptops available for short-term loan.
Find out about computer loans for students
Financial support for students
Financial support for buying a computer
You may be able to get financial help with study-related costs.
Student Funding and Financial Support (SFFS) provides financial information and support for Herts students.
Find financial support on Ask Herts
You can also find information about grants, bursaries, scholarships and allowances.
Find out about financial support from Herts