For Windows, an i5-class Intel processor minimum. An i7 that is at least "fifth generation" is ideal.
For Mac, any M chip is fine.
For Mac, any M chip is fine.
A solid state hard drive (SSD) with minimum of 512GB of storage.
Minimum 16GB of RAM. 32GB or more is recommended.
An integrated graphics card with at least 16GB of system RAM or a dedicated video card with at least 8GB of system RAM. Integrated video cards share system RAM with the OS, so you'll need more to compensate.
If you are planning to major in mechanical engineering, run any graphics-intensive programs (CAD, for instance), a dedicated video card is highly recommended. You simply cannot use CAD without one.
It is recommended that you purchase at least a three-year warranty with accidental damage protection. About half of our students purchase an extended warranty, but only 5% of our students take advantage of the warranty.