So we haven't purchased a laptop since 2011, though our HP Pavilion dv7 6000 is on it's last leg. There are so many options and new technologies since then, I figured I would come to you all for a straight answer.

My wife is going back to school for her phd and needs a specific setup for her course work. After going to through the program she will probably use this for developing lectures, statistical research, modeling, and presentations. Her current work/university assigned laptop does not meet the requirements.

Besides the specs below she would like to use my displays and desk when I am not home, which is a thunderbolt dock. Are those ports fairly common on all models?

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While tablets (including a Galaxy Tab, Sony Xperia...etc.), netbooks (computers with an Intel
Atom or equivalent), and Google Chromebooks are quality learning devices, they are not solely
sufficient for the expected needs and do not meet the minimum requirements. Tablets,
netbooks, and chromebooks are not prohibited, but a laptop, as described below, is required. The
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 and newer, as well as the Microsoft Surface Go 2 are acceptable
provided they meet the requirements outlined below. Touchscreen laptops are also supported, but
you may be required to disable the touchscreen functionality during required assessments.

Minimum Requirements
Operating System: Latest version of Windows 11 OR 10 Professional or Premium
(Creators Edition and Home Edition are acceptable; Windows RT, Windows 11S, and 10S are not acceptable)
Memory: 8GB RAM OR higher
Hard drive: 256 GB for SSD hard drive (or higher capacity) OR an external hard drive with 100 GB free
CPU Processor: Intel Processor required (AMD is not acceptable)
Webcam: HD 720P (minimum streaming resolution); attachable USB HD 720P webcam acceptable
Microphone: Integrated in the laptop (through attachable USB webcam acceptable)
Software: Antivirus software (Available for download at the Sophos site).
Security: Privacy Screen (required for on-campus exams, quizzes, and IRATs)

Additional Information on Software for Windows and Apple Laptops For the best experience, use Sophos (for antivirus) or Malwarebytes (for malware scanning). We have had poor experience with the antivirus applications listed below, as they negatively impact several crucial applications required in the first year. If you have the following antivirus software installed, please uninstall them before coming to campus.
Avast
Norton
Kaspersky
McAfee

It is strongly recommended that you do a scan of your machine for viruses (using Sophos) and malware (using Malwarebytes) before coming to campus. If the campus network detects a virus or malware on your system, your computer will be quarantined, and you will not be able to access the Internet until your machine is cleaned.

Additional Information on Types of Laptops We have also discovered some laptops have more trouble than others on our campus. This doesn't mean these laptops won't work, just these brands have had more trouble and logged more service tickets:
Acer
Lenovo
Sony VAIO
Laptops labeled Windows High DPI (these are rare machines and typically used in gaming laptops)

We have had the least number of problems with Apple laptops.

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If you don't mind tinkering a bit, maybe a Framework laptop is up your alley. Granted, I really want one and want someone to get one so I can hear thoughts about it. But I unfortunately finally went down the Apple rabbit hole right about the time that company came about.

Honestly, I love the entire concept of it, but for functionality, you just can't beat interchangeable ports. The new 16 in version coming out soon has six in total. I HATE how laptop decisions often come down to ports. Such a stupid problem to have. So with this thing, you can literally put in whatever you want, then hot swap if you need to.

Just an idea.

https://frame.work/marketplace/expansion-cards

Thanks for the reminder. Framework 16 pre-ordered.

University software apparently not compatible with AMD. Or more likely they can't troubleshoot if a student has performance issues.

FincAg said:

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University software apparently not compatible with AMD. Or more likely they can't troubleshoot if a student has performance issues.

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Interesting. Had no idea the 16in was AMD only. The 13in is still optional with Intel or AMD. Only has four port slots though I think.

I do remember some chatter about AMD software compatibility with a few things a while back. Don't know the background or validity though.

Geez, some of those requirements look like they were written by a psychology professor who knows nothing about IT, but is the only one in the department who can get the printer working.

Those specs are fairly mild and nothing too crazy. I would pick up a Surface Laptop and call it a day. It will last her for several years.

I would also add that 8GB RAM is likely not enough these days, I would get a minimum of 16GB.

These will likely have a Thunderbolt USB-C port, just check the ports to make sure.

To the contrary, i have had good luck with last 2 acers. liked the first one enough to but a second and its still rocking into year three. Check amazon warehouse deals page for new or like new condition.

I recently switched from Asus to Eluktronics. Sounds like a weird Chinese knockoff but based in Delaware. They had much better customization options at a better price.

Sponge said:

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I recently switched from Asus to Eluktronics. Sounds like a weird Chinese knockoff but based in Delaware. They had much better customization options at a better price.

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Could still be based in China. Nearly every tech company is registered in Delaware because they are very friendly to businesses.

What about a Precision? Is 3.5 lbs heavy?

12th Gen Intel Core i7-1265U, vPro (12MB cache, 10 core, 12 threads, 1.80 to 4.80 GHz Turbo, 15W)
16 GB, 1 x 16 GB, DDR5, 4800 MT/s
1 TB, M.2 2230, Gen 3 PCIe x4 NVMe, SSD, Class 35

Well you definitely wouldn't be underpowered. I ran CFD simulations on a Precision. That said, you can usually get really good deals on used ones on eBay.

A Precision laptop would be very good option. As for the weight, 3.5lbs isn't a big deal to me. If it she takes from her backpack to a desk, then shouldn't be an issue. And depending on your dock at home, the Precision should work just fine with the thunderbolt ports.