what you'll need in coes:
COES Laptop Requirements:
Minimum Recommended Specifications
- Operating System:
Windows 11 Professional or Home (64-bit)
- Processor (CPU):
Intel Core i7 (13th generation or newer)
or AMD Ryzen 7 (7000 series or newer)
- Memory (RAM):
Minimum 16 GB RAM
Recommended 32 GB RAM for long-term use and advanced modeling/simulation
- Graphics (GPU):
Dedicated graphics card strongly recommended
NVIDIA RTX-series GPU preferred
Minimum 4 GB dedicated video memory
See list of certified hardware for SOLIDWORKS
- Storage:
Minimum 512 GB Solid State Drive (SSD)
Recommended 1 TB SSD
- Display:
15-inch or larger display recommended
Minimum resolution: 1920 × 1080
- Wireless Connectivity:
Wi-Fi 6 or newer
- Ports/Accessories:
USB-A and USB-C ports and/or adaptor dongle required
Webcam and microphone required for online meetings and coursework
Suggested Laptop Models
The following laptop models and product lines are suggested for the 2026–2027 academic
year based on their demonstrated ability to support engineering applications such
as SOLIDWORKS, Mathcad, simulation software, and other computational engineering tools.
These recommendations are intended as examples of systems that typically meet or exceed
the recommended specifications. Equivalent models with similar specifications from
the same manufacturers are also acceptable.
Dell - Suggested 2026 models:
- Dell XPS 15
- Dell XPS 16
- Dell Precision 3591
- Dell Precision 5690
- Dell G15
Lenovo - Suggested 2026 models:
- Lenovo ThinkPad P1
- Lenovo ThinkPad P16
- Lenovo Legion Pro 5
- Lenovo Legion 7i
HP - Suggested 2026 models:
- HP ZBook Power
- HP ZBook Studio
- HP Omen 16
- HP Victus 16
ASUS - Suggested 2026 models:
- ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16
- ASUS ProArt Studiobook
MSI - Suggested 2026 models:
- MSI Creator Z17
- MSI Stealth 16
- MSI Raider GE68
Additional Guidance
Students are encouraged to compare specifications carefully when purchasing a computer.
New model numbers are released frequently, and equivalent or newer models that meet
the recommended specifications are generally acceptable. Systems with dedicated graphics
cards and higher RAM capacities will typically provide a better experience in upper-level
engineering courses involving CAD, simulation, programming, and data analysis.
Important Notes:
- Apple Mac computers are not recommended for engineering coursework due to limited
native software compatibility and support.
- Chromebooks and low-power tablets are not suitable for engineering applications.
- Systems marketed as “gaming laptops” or “mobile workstations” generally provide the
best long-term performance for engineering students.
