While there are many low-cost options available on the market, we recommend following the below guidelines to ensure investment in a suitable device that meets our requirements.
The most important prerequisite is that a device can be charged at home and last for the entire school day – at least eight hours. A device also needs to meet these specifications:
Students require a lightweight, portable device that is sturdy enough for daily school use and transported in a solid protective case or bag. The device must be capable of connecting to wireless networks to run Google Apps (Chrome, Drive, Classroom, Docs, and Slides) and feature a physical keyboard (built-in). Please note that families must arrange their own insurance, as the College accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to personal devices.
Chromebook Specifications
Designed for: Web-based learning, Google Workspace, and long battery life.
| Component | Minimum Requirement | Recommended/Preferred |
|---|
| Power/Charging |
| USB-C Charging (Required if using school charging stations) |
| Ports |
| 2x USB-C Ports (One on each side for durability and flexible charging) |
| Memory (RAM) | 4GB | 8GB |
| Screen | 11.6" HD (most common) | 13-14" but 11.6" is most common |
| Auto Update | Must have at least 4 years of updates remaining | Newest model year available |
Why 2x USB-C Ports?
We strongly prefer Chromebooks with two USB-C ports.; having a second port acts as a backup and allows the student to charge the device from either side.
Windows Laptop Specifications
| Component | Minimum Requirement | Recommended / Preferred |
|---|
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home (most common)
MUST NOT be in "S-Mode" | Windows 11 Home or Pro |
| Charging | Proprietary charger is okay, but USB-C PD capable is preferred.
(Required if using school charging stations) | USB-C Power Delivery (Allows use of universal chargers) |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB | 16GB |
| Processor | Intel Core i3/Ryzen 3
(Avoid processors named “Celeron”, “Pentium” or “Athlon”) | Intel Core Ultra /Intel Core i5/Ryzen 5 |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 512GB SSD |
| Wireless | WiFi 5 (802.11ac) | WiFi 6 (802.11ax) |
Important Note on Security: As of October 2025, Microsoft has stopped updating Windows 10. Please verify that any refurbished or second-hand laptop is compatible with Windows 11.
Mac Specifications
| Component | Minimum Requirement | Recommended / Preferred |
|---|
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB | 16GB |
| Processor | Apple M2
NO Intel Chips: Apple has signaled the end of support for Intel chips.
Buying one now means buying a device that is effectively obsolete.
At Your Own Risk: Apple M1. Acceptable for now, but currently 5 years old.
It may stop getting OS updates before the student graduates. | Apple M3 or M4 |
| Storage | 256GB SSD | 512GB SSD |
Purchase information
Several retailers have acceptable device options for our students. Some offer finance options, extended warranties and insurance.
Important notes
Insurance – some insurance companies may consider the College as a workplace, and therefore the device will not be covered by your insurance. We recommend that you confirm details with your insurance provider and ensure the device will be covered at school.
Software – students will need the correct version of software. We recommend using Google Chrome as the default browser. Any other software needed for school will be charged to you through a stationery fee.
NetSafe - BYOD Parent Toolkit
