What Computer Should I buy?

Windows Laptop

We recommend Windows based Operating Systems, any device that will run Windows 11 is your best choice as this is currently our chosen Operating System across all campuses. 

The majority of software that will be used on-campus will be be usable on Windows 11 devices. 

90% of University owned devices are Windows as it's our primary supported Operating System.

Please ensure that you are not using Windows 10 which goes out of support in October 2025 or Windows 11 S.

 

Apple MacBook

MacBooks are compatible with the majority of our systems.

You can download and install Microsoft Office to them and they tend to offer high performance and have a good lifespan, however these tend to be more expensive than other brands.

Some software may not be available for MacBooks or other Apple devices. It is important to check with your lecturers or software providers if your software would be compatible

Arts and Technology lecturers and courses use mostly Mac environments

 

Chromebook

Chromebooks are cost effective and useful, but only run ChromeOS Operating System. Which only allows for internet browsing and Chrome extensions to be used. Normal software cannot be downloaded or installed to these devices.

DO NOT Purchase a Chromebook if wish to obtain the full Microsoft Office experience by downloading the applications or if your course has specific software you will need to use from home. 

Currently no courses or departments in the University use Chromebooks

 

Linux 

Linux Operating Systems are not recommended as standard as they do not support many software packages that will be typically used on your programme. There may well be exceptions to this in the future. If you are running a Linux device please take extra precautions with your software and feel free to contact us to check your device's compatibility.

  

Specialist software users

If you are looking for a device to run AutoCAD, Solidworks or other graphically intense programs, please make sure the PC you buy meets the following minimum requirements: 

• Processor: 2.5 GHz (3+ GHz recommended)
• Memory (RAM): 16 GB (32 GB recommended) 

Further Specification information can be found at the link below: 

System requirements for AutoCAD 2026 including Specialized Toolsets

 

Disclaimer and further information

Personal devices are not supported by the IT Service Centre, however if you bring your device on-site for assistance, we can offer our advice on compatibility and use of any University systems. 

We do not conduct any hardware repairs on personal devices.

Please ensure that your computer and applications have the latest patches installed and that your virus and threat prevention is working.