Minimum Requirements
Feature | Minimum Recommended | Preferred | Rationale for Recommendation |
Display | 11″ screen | 12.5″-15″ screen | Standard screen size, going bigger or smaller with the display is at the discretion of the user |
Processor | Intel Core i5 (Windows/Mac) | Intel Core i7 (Windows)
Apple M1 or M2 (Mac) |
The latest Windows operating systems and applications written for it will require advanced processors to be used effectively. |
Memory | 8GB | 16GB | Memory demands for Windows and Mac OS will require at least 8 gigabytes (GB) of memory. |
Hard disk | 256 GB | 256 GB Solid State Drive or higher | A USB powered external hard drive is recommended for saving your files. You may also use your Unlimited Milton Academy Google Drive space to save classwork. |
Wireless Networking | 802.11a/n 5GHz capability | 802.11a/ac 5GHz capability | This will allow machines to operate on the 5GHz wireless frequencies that provide increased throughput and roaming performance over some previously installed wireless adapters. |
Video RAM | 512 MB | 1 GB | Windows and OS X will require a more powerful graphics card. |
Operating system | Windows 10, Mac OS 12 (Monterey) | Windows 10, Mac OS 12 (Monterey) | This choice is at the discretion of the user. Use caution when updating to the newest Mac OS. We recommend waiting until the first update is released. |
Battery | 3 Cell Battery | 3 Cell Battery or larger | 3 cell batteries provide optimum life for the laptop when students are in classes for long periods of time |
Warranty | 4 Year Limited Warranty | 4 Year Warranty with Complete Care(PC) or 3 year AppleCare | The warranty will cover the hardware in the laptop for 4 years in the case of defective parts. We suggest you give thought to a plan that will cover accidental damage. |
Suggested Devices – As of May 2023
Please note your child may qualify for educational pricing using their Milton Academy email address.
Mac
Apple Macbook (any configuration meeting above requirements)
PC
Lenovo ThinkPad X13 Gen 2 (13″ Intel) (any configuration meeting above requirements)
Suggested Accessories
- External Drive (size min 1TB)
- Wireless Mouse (user preference)
- Backpack with padded device area and/or padded laptop sleeve
- If you have a laptop with only USB-C ports a USB Hub with USB 2.0 & HDMI is highly suggested. Example link.
School-Provided Software
- Milton Academy will provide Anti-Virus software to all students free of charge
- Milton Academy students can access Microsoft Office at no cost through this link