Missouri State University: recommended laptop specification

No — this is a recommendation, not a requirement. Missouri State University publishes a suggested configuration: 8GB RAM. You are not obliged to buy a machine that matches it.

Recommended only. Missouri State University publishes this as guidance. An existing laptop that does the job is usually fine — do not buy a new machine on the strength of this page alone.

The published specification

Operating system: Windows 11 (Latest version), or macOS 14 Sonoma (Latest version). Configure to automatically install the latest security updates

Processor: i5 or AMD Ryzen 3 or greater

Memory (RAM): 8GB RAM or greater

What this specification rules out

"Chromebooks, iPads, or other tablets should be considered supplemental and are not sufficient to complete all necessary course work."

Also listed on the same page

Webcam, microphone, and audio output — "A headset is highly encouraged." Access to broadband internet. Sufficient permissions on your device to install and modify software programs. Web browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge. Productivity: Microsoft 365 (free for enrolled Missouri State students)

The verdict: nothing here obliges you to buy. Missouri State University suggests 8GB RAM; treat that as a target, not a gate. A laptop you already own that does your coursework fits.

Source

Taken from Missouri State University's own published page: https://www.missouristate.edu/SOAR/_Files/Handout-ComputerRequirements.pdf. Verified 2026-08-25. Specifications change every intake, so confirm against that page before you buy.

Laptops that meet this specification

One that qualifies: HP 14" HD Everyday Laptop PC See price on Amazon Its listing states 8GB RAM and 128GB storage, which meets the Missouri State University minimum of 8GB / 128GB quoted above — their published specification. It is one machine that clears the bar, not a ranking.

Product links go to Amazon search — as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Links never change the checklist.

Search Amazon for laptop 8GB RAM

See price on Amazon

The search is built from the capacities Missouri State University actually prints, so compare each result against the published specification above before ordering — listings change and this page does not track stock or price.

Missouri State University laptop requirements: common questions

Does Missouri State University require students to have a laptop?

No — this is a recommendation, not a requirement. Missouri State University publishes a suggested configuration: 8GB RAM. You are not obliged to buy a machine that matches it.

What laptop specification does Missouri State University publish?

Missouri State University publishes 8GB RAM, on Windows 11 (Latest version), or macOS 14 Sonoma (Latest version). Configure to automatically install the latest security updates. It is guidance, not an obligation. Confirm against the source page before buying.

What does Missouri State University's specification rule out?

"Chromebooks, iPads, or other tablets should be considered supplemental and are not sufficient to complete all necessary course work."

Where does this Missouri State University laptop specification come from?

Missouri State University's own published page at https://www.missouristate.edu/SOAR/_Files/Handout-ComputerRequirements.pdf. Verified 2026-08-25. Specifications change every intake.

Packing for Missouri State University

A laptop is one line on a longer list. See the full Missouri State University dorm packing list for bedding, storage and the rest of move-in.

Laptop requirements at other schools: Montana State University · North Carolina State University · University of Nebraska–Lincoln · University of Nevada, Reno · North Dakota State University · Northwestern University

Compare every school that publishes one: college laptop requirements table.