Note: Each week in our Asked & Answered series we’ll be choosing one of your questions and answering them. Pop your questions in the comment section below.
You Asked: “What is the best kind of computer to bring to Queen’s?”
We Answered: These days, almost every student on campus has a computer. While there are ample public machines to use, and free wifi on every corner, bringing your own will make your life a lot easier.
You have a couple of options to decide between, but our vote is for a fast, light, and uber portable machine!
Mac vs PC:
Our top pick for your college machine is the Apple MacBook. That said, if your faculty requires special programs, a PC might work best for you (overall, Arts students are safe using a Mac, and almost all other students can always run Windows on their’s). Commerce students, who pretty much live in Excel and Powerpoint might prefer the Window’s version of Office. Otherwise, the warranty, portability, and user friendly nature of the MacBook has us at hello!
Laptop vs Desktop:
While a laptop is more likely to be lost or stolen, you are an adult in a campus full of other wealthy adults. Theft is low. Free wifi is everywhere on campus, as are power outlets. Meaning you pretty much have zero excuses not to be doing work if you have a laptop. Pro or con, you decide?
While the keyboards and monitors of desktop machines offer a bit more of a luxurious working environment, why not pair your lappy with a cheap big screen and keyboard. You’ll have the best of both worlds. Note: all rez rooms come full connected with speedy reznet.
Shiny and New vs Used:
You will be spending more time on your computer than you can imagine. For Facebook, for fun, for downloading, oh yeah, and for work. If you invest in one thing (other than your college tuition) during your time at Queen’s – a solid machine should be it. Invest in the warranty if you get a laptop, and always buy new. These is nothing worse than a slow, virused machine.
Overall:
Buy new, get a laptop, and get a Mac if your program allows. If you are feeling extra geeky, get a monitor, speakers, and a keyboard to hook up to your mobile beauty. That way you’ll have a home office and home theatre all from the confines of your rez room.
Last Word:
The Queen’s Campus Computer Store offers some great discounts on both buying and renting machines, and are your best bet for quick and friendly repairs. Be sure to take advantage of their deals, or check out if your preferred vendor offers a student discount. Each year (towards back to school time) Apple offers some killer student pricing.
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No question: get a mac laptop. Good post
These days it seems like a laptop is the best way to go. Portability is key – from taking notes in class, to studying on the go, why be tied down to a desktop computer. I also agree, if your workload allows – get a mac. (Aka no commie courses)
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