What to Look for in a Computer to Take to College
By the time you make it to college, a computer isn't simply an option, it's a necessity. With curricula augmented by downloads and videos, and with many schools using online submissions for coursework, your computer will be your most important tool, as well as your entertainment center during downtime. Advances in technology haven't made choosing a computer any easier, with tablets sometimes mentioned as a viable alternative to desktops and laptops. However, your decision should be based on your work style, your school's requirements and your budget.
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Form Factor
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Looking around your campus, it may seem like nobody uses a desktop computer anymore, but that's just not true. An 2011 EDUCAUSE survey found that while 87 percent of students use a portable computer, 53 percent still bring a desktop to their dorm.
Most students choose laptops for their portability, and with advances in graphics, storage and processors, they're often comparable to desktops in the same price range. The big plus to a laptop is the freedom to study and write wherever you want. However, working for long periods on a laptop with a small keyboard and monitor may be uncomfortable and could result in repetitive strain injuries.
Desktops are powerful and upgradeable, and creating a dedicated workspace with more ergonomic comfort may help you to study better. A desktop is also much less likely to be stolen and offers fast graphics to help you enjoy movies and games on your downtime. Portability is practically nonexistent, but you might consider using a tablet, netbook, or even a smartphone for those occasions when you need to be untethered.
A tablet might be a great option for reading online course materials and, if fitted with 3G or 4G connectivity, can even enable research away from crowded campus Wi-Fi zones. However, without the ability to run the same apps as a desktop or laptop, a tablet probably isn't going to be your primary computer.
Speed
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A good rule of thumb is to buy a computer with as much processing power as your budget will allow. A 2011 survey by microprocessor manufacturer Crucial found that most people keep their computers for 4.5 years, so you should expect that the machine you buy as a freshman should get you through your senior year without frustration. Multicore processors are the norm, offering processing power similar to that of multiple single-core chips. Quad-core chips have replaced dual-core even in many laptop models. Another contributor to speed is the amount of installed RAM, and it's never a bad idea to max out your computer with as much RAM as it has the capacity to hold.
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Screen
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You'll be spending untold hours on your computer, and the more screen real estate you have, the better, both to avoid eye strain and to enable you to view multiple documents when necessary. If you're buying a laptop, go for the largest screen size you can see yourself carrying around campus, or buy an external monitor to keep in your room. An external monitor can be raised to eye level, preventing neck strain. A larger screen also comes in handy for watching videos or playing games in your free time.
Operating System
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The eternal struggle of Mac vs. PC looks to continue with no end in sight. Both operating systems have their distinct advantages and disadvantages, and all things being equal you should use the OS that you personally prefer. However, before making a final decision you should look to your school's requirements for guidance. If your courses require platform-specific software, the choice may be out of your hands.
If you're torn, you may consider a third option: Every Mac with an Intel processor includes Boot Camp, which enables you to run a full-on installation of Microsoft Windows exactly as it runs on other machines. You'll need to supply your own copy of Windows, and your hard drive may fill up faster with both Mac OS and Windows applications, but if you love your Mac but need to run Windows apps for some classes, it's a good option.
Buying Tips
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Consider your computer purchase to be a long-term investment. While $300 laptop deals may be attractive, compare their processor speeds and other details to make sure you're really getting a good value for your money. Determine your computer budget and buy the most computer you can for that money. Compare specs and features at trustworthy sites like Consumer Reports, CNet or Computer Shopper before you buy. Read customer reviews for reports from the trenches, too.
Many manufacturers, including Dell, Apple and HP, offer discounts for students, and your school may offer its own deals on both hardware and software. Third-party vendors may sell discounted bundles including a computer and printer or installed software. Factory-refurbished computers may cost hundreds less than the identical new models, while carrying the same warranty and support. A "refurb" is simply a machine that's been returned to the manufacturer, checked and repaired to look and perform as brand new, then resold at a discount.
Remember to budget for the peripherals and accessories you'll need, such as a printer or external monitor. Don't forget a sturdy, protective backpack if you'll be carrying a laptop around. Finally, consider how you'll manage in case you lose your work after a drive crash or because of theft. An external drive provides fast recovery from the first; an online backup service will come to your rescue even if your hardware is gone.
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