Laptop Recommendations

School of Business:
Business administration
Management information systems

GGC students (twins) studying on their laptops in the library

About

While a laptop is not mandatory, having adequate computing capability is important as you progress through either the business administration or management information systems degrees.

Why a laptop?

In general, a laptop provides more flexibility than a desktop computer or on-campus computers.

Why Windows?

Tablets, Macs (MacOS) and Chromebooks are often unable to operate full desktop versions of software used in many of the business and MIS courses, and some applications are only available for Windows PCs.

Get Microsoft 365, free for GGC students. Microsoft Teams is also free to download from Microsoft.

What to Look for

Updated June 2026

Good
Better
Best
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 (newer gen)
  • RAM memory (affects how smoothly apps run): 16 GB
  • Storage space for files and apps: 256 GB (use OneDrive for extra space)
  • Screen size: 13- to 14-inch
  • Screen quality: clear full HD display
  • Webcam: 1080p built-in
  • Built-in microphone and speakers
  • Wi-Fi 6 compatible
  • Bluetooth capability
  • USB ports: 2 USB-A and 1 USB-C
  • External monitor port: HDMI
  • Battery life (between charges, real-world use): 6+ hours
  • Weight (for carrying between classes) :under 4.5 lbs
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Home
  • CPU: Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 (newer gen)
  • RAM memory (affects how smoothly apps run): 16 GB
  • Storage space for files and apps: 512 GB
  • Screen size: 14- to 15-inch
  • Screen quality: clear full HD display
  • Webcam: 1080p built-in
  • Built-in microphone and speakers
  • Wi-Fi 6 compatible
  • Bluetooth capability
  • USB ports: 2 USB-A and 2 USB-C
  • External monitor port: HDMI
  • Battery life (between charges, real-world use): 8+ hours
  • Weight (for carrying between classes) :under 4 lbs
  • Operating System: Windows 11 Pro
  • CPU: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7
  • RAM memory (affects how smoothly apps run): 32 GB
  • Storage space for files and apps: 512 GB to 1 TB
  • Screen size: 15- to 16-inch
  • Screen quality: sharp high-res display
  • Webcam: 1080p built-in with face login
  • Built-in microphone and speakers
  • Wi-Fi 6 or 6E compatible
  • Bluetooth capability
  • USB ports: 2 USB-A and 2 USB-C
  • External monitor port: HDMI and USB-C video out
  • Battery life (between charges, real-world use): 10+ hours
  • Weight (for carrying between classes): under 3.5 lbs

Explore More

Business Administration Management Information Systems School of Business Degrees and Programs