Computer Specifications

SID requires students to purchase or have access to a computer capable of running industry-standard software. Laptop computers are strongly recommended rather than desktop computers so that they may be used and easily transported between home, residence, SID studios, and in-class learning environments. Because some standard software programs are not available on a Mac operating system, it is recommended that students purchase computers with a Microsoft Windows operating system. If students choose to use Apple Macintosh computers running a Mac operating system, they will need to purchase and install Windows Bootcamp.

Students are expected to maintain and install software on their own computers. If computer assistance is needed, services such as Geek Squad at Best Buy should be considered.  For university related computing issues, such as email and learning systems, contact Computing and Communications Services (opens in new window)  (CCS), and for educational discounts log in to my.torontomu.ca.

The configuration listed below is intended to serve as a baseline for minimum requirements, but choosing to increase the specifications, such as 32 GB of RAM and a better graphics card, will maintain computer performance when using complex software over the years. Noting individual student circumstances vary, each student should carefully address their needs.

Recommended Minimum Computer Specifications 

• Display: 15” display. An external monitor is recommended for your home setup.
• Processor/CPU: Intel Core i7 or i9 processor (min 20 core, 28mb cache, 5 GHz)
• Windows 11 Pro  
• Hard drive: 1TB Solid State Drive (2TB recommended)
• External hard drive, 8TB capacity (16TB recommended)
• Memory/RAM: 32 GB min (64 GB recommended)
• Graphics Card for PC: NVIDIA or AMD with 8gb VRAM min (12+gb strongly suggested); NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4000 or 5000 series highly recommended 
• Graphics Card for Apple Macintosh: Radeon with 8gb VRAM min (12+gb strongly suggested) 
• 3 Year Onsite/In-Home Service Warranty