Recommendations for Students and personal purchases for Faculty/Staff

We recommend these minimum specifications for any Apple macOS computer purchased for student use at Brown:

• The Brown Bookstore Technology Center offers Higher-Ed pricing on Apple computers and iPads 
• Laptop models strongly preferred
• Apple M2's, M3's CPU
• 16GB RAM
• 256GB SSD storage
• AppleCare or Safeware (available for purchase at Brown Bookstore Technology Center) extended warranty is recommended for personal purchases

Recommendations for Brown Faculty/Staff purchases with Brown-administered funds

We recommend these minimum specifications for Apple macOS computers purchased with Brown-administered funds (including grant funds). This equipment will ensure effective performance for the expected life of the hardware, and will allow Brown IT support staff to provide service and support. Please refer to the Computer Purchase Policy for additional details on purchasing process and expectations.

• Laptop models strongly preferred
  • Macbook Pro 14" and 16"
  • Macbook Air 13" and 15"
• Recommended configuration for new purchases:
  • Apple M2's, M3's CPU
  • 16GB or 18GB RAM
  • 512GB SSD
  • AppleCare is not recommended for Brown purchases unless the computer is expected to be used in a high-risk area or a remote state with an Apple store nearby.
• Desktop models such as (iMac, Mac Mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro) are available for special use requirements
• Your IT Support Consultant (ITSC) can help provide Apple purchasing quotes with higher-ed pricing. This can include consideration of specialized requirements and configurations for specific task-based purposes.