Personal Computer Hardware Recommendations
Should I buy a Mac or a PC?
When deciding what kind of computer to buy you should check with
your academic advisor to see if your area of study prefers/requires
a certain type of computer. If your area has no preference the
choice is up to you. In general, areas of study that use business
applications heavily are better served by a Windows computer and
areas of study using graphics and multimedia applications are
better served by a Mac. Both platforms are supported by IT and the
Help Desk.
Should I buy a tablet?
Tablets are good for some things and not for others. If you
primarily take notes, create basic text documents, use email and
surf the web, a tablet may be for you. To learn more, visit the Tablet
Purchasing Frequently Asked Questions page.
Should I get a laptop or desktop?
The choice of laptop or desktop depends on your individual wants
and needs. In general, desktop computers are cheaper and easier to
upgrade in the future. Laptops are slightly more expensive but
enable mobility. The vast majority of Butler students bring a
laptop or other mobile device to campus, but the choice is
yours.
How do I get discounts on computers?
Visit the discounts page to purchase computers and other
devices for personal use at special Butler pricing.
New Computer Hardware Recommendations
| New Computer Hardware Recommendations |
| Specifics |
Windows |
Macintosh |
| Processor: |
2GHz - Dual Core |
2.4 GHz Duo |
| Memory (RAM): |
4 GB |
2 GB |
| Hard Drive: |
200 GB |
250 GB |
| Wireless/Network Card: |
Wireless: 802.11 n, Ethernet |
Wireless: 802.11 b/g/n, Ethernet |
| Optical Drive: |
24X DVD-ROM/DVD-RW |
SuperDrive |
| Removable Storage: |
8 GB USB Flash |
8 GB USB Flash |
| Operating System: |
Windows 7 |
OS 10.7 |
| Backup Storage: |
120 GB minimum |
120 GB minimum |
Existing Computer Hardware Requirements
| Hardware Requirements for Your Current
Computer |
| Specifics |
Windows |
Macintosh |
| Memory (RAM): |
2 GB |
2 GB |
| Hard Drive: |
100 GB |
120 GB |
| Wireless/Network Card: |
802.11 b/g, Ethernet |
802.11 b/g Extreme Ethernet |
| Optical Drive: |
16X DVD/CD-RW |
SuperDrive |
| Removable Storage: |
8 GB USB Flash |
8GB USB Flash |
| Operating System: |
Windows Vista or higher |
OS 10.5 or higher |
| Backup Storage: |
120 GB |
120 GB |