Whether you are deciding what to buy or checking if your current device is ready for campus, this guide will help you make the best decision for your time at Hanover.
Our Primary Recommendation
When you come to Hanover, please bring a Windows or Mac laptop.
What about other platforms?
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- Chromebooks: Present frequent configuration challenges and lack the capability to install the standard software you will need for your coursework. We do not recommend Chromebooks.
How to quickly check what kind of laptop you have:
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- Windows: Look for the Windows key (four-square logo ⊞) between the Ctrl and Alt keys.
- Mac: You will see Command (⌘) and Option keys instead.
- Chromebook: Typically features a Search (magnifying glass) key and Chrome-specific function keys across the top row.
Recommended Hardware Specifications
(To last all 4 years):To ensure your computer stays fast and capable throughout your college career, look for these baseline specs:
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- Processor (CPU): Intel Core i5, Intel Ultra 5, AMD Ryzen 5, or M4 or newer.
- Memory (RAM): 16GB minimum (32GB is ideal for design and multitasking)
- Storage: 512GB or 1TB Solid-State Drive (SSD)
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- Note on Design Gear: Avoid ultra-thin packages packed with high-end hardware, as they are prone to overheating under heavy rendering loads.
Recommendations by Department
While Windows is our campus standard, we recognize that different majors have different hardware needs. Below are our specific recommendations for creative and technical fields.
Art & Design / Engineering
There is a long-standing debate between Mac and Windows for creative work. However, industry giants like Adobe design their premium software suites (Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.) to run at peak performance on both platforms.
If you are a Mac user, we recommend staying away from the Neo for these majors as it only comes with 8 GB of memory. A MacBook Air or Pro would be a better choice to make sure you get 16 GB of memory.
Some modern digital artists prefer Windows because it allows for greater hardware customization and access to "2-in-1" touchscreens for direct drawing. For students in these fields, we highly recommend HP's premium creative lines:
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- HP Spectre x360 14 (2-in-1): Best for digital art and illustration. Features a stunning OLED touchscreen with high color accuracy. Because it's a 2-in-1, you can flip the screen over and draw directly on it with a digital pen while maintaining the full power of a laptop.
- HP Envy 16: Best for video editing, animation, or 3D modeling. This is a powerhouse device featuring a larger display and a dedicated graphics card, which significantly speeds up rendering and complex design tasks.
Buying on a Budget? (Under $1,000)
You don't need to spend thousands of dollars to get a dependable machine. We recommend looking for mid-range business lines from reputable manufacturers that feature at least an AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i5 processor, 16GB of RAM, and an SSD. Avoid anything utilizing an older mechanical Hard Drive (HDD).
The following links feature premium laptops selected to serve students reliably throughout their time at Hanover College. These models meet and, in many cases, exceed the hardware specifications provided to Hanover Faculty and Staff. Both recommendations offer exceptional value for high-performance machines.
Please note that online availability changes rapidly; as of May 22, 2026, these links point to laptops that were in stock at the moment.
Featured Budget Recommendations (Under $800)
Premium Enterprise Options (Over $1,000)
If your budget allows, look into premium enterprise lines (like HP EliteBooks or Dell Latitudes). These offer superior physical build quality, robust cooling systems, and longer warranty periods to protect your investment for all four years.
Questions Before You Buy?
We are happy to help! Please reach out to the IT Help Desk before making an investment so we can ensure your device fits your specific academic path.
Contact the IT Help Desk:
517 Ball Drive, Hanover College - helpdesk@hanover.edu - (812) 866-6899