Computer Recommendations for Incoming Students
dwaldron May 15th, 2008
The College of Wooster recommends the Apple Macintosh and Dell lines of laptop and desktop computers for incoming students. Most retail chains like Best Buy or Circuit City offer back to school deals on computers. While these deals offer a lower sticker price, they don’t always include useful products like extended warranties, accidental damage protection, and productivity software. Extended warranties are a good idea. A logic board replacement can cost upwards of $900. A four year warranty will ensure that the computer will last throughout the student’s four years at Wooster. Both Apple and Dell offer extended warranty options. Apple provides Applecare protection on the Macbook, Macbook Pro, and iMac lines. Dell offers a four year warranty with onsite service. Should a hardware issue occur the student can call Dell and a technician will be dispatched to repair the system. Accidental damage protection through Dell also covers a laptop should liquid be spilled on the system, which happens often in dorm rooms. A normal warranty does not cover this damage.
Microsoft Office works on both Windows and Macintosh systems and is recommended by the Office of Information Technology. Dell bundles on the University page include a copy of Microsoft Office 2007 student edition. While the Apple bundle does not include a copy of Microsoft Office, it can be purchased at most retail stores, including the College’s Wilson Bookstore.
To simplify the computer purchase process, we have partnered with Dell and Apple to create recommended configurations for laptops and desktops. These recommendations can be reviewed on are partner websites which can be accessed via the computer sales page. This site also features information on Windows Vista and Office 2007. Questions about computer purchases can be directed to Mary Schantz, Manager of User Services, at mschantz@wooster.edu.