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New Laptop Guide

Students can bring a laptop they have or choose to buy a new laptop from any vendor.

These hardware specs include recommendations to equip your device with the power, speed, and memory to be Niner Ready. Be sure to see college-specific IT needs for additional guidance.

The NinerTech Store offers Niner Ready Bundles with a laptop that meets the hardware specifications and a warranty at a discounted price for students. In addition to competitive pricing, the NinerTech Store provides on-campus support right in the Popp Martin Student Union.

Financial Aid

Your initial financial aid offer will not be increased for a laptop purchase. If you need additional aid to cover the laptop purchase, see these FAQs.

Warranties

Hardware specs recommend a 4-year warranty that includes parts and labor. If you need a new laptop, you should be able to choose warranty options from any vendor. To keep it simple, Niner Ready Bundles package together a laptop and 4-year warranties and include accidental damage and on-campus support from the NinerTech Store. The Dell ProSupport Plus warranty includes 24/7 tech support. The Mac NinerCare warranty includes theft protection for the first year.

Repairs & Support

On-campus in the Popp Martin Student Union, the NinerTech Store provides warranty service and support, including laptop repair, software installation, OS reinstallations, health checks, tune-ups, RAM upgrades. For a detailed list, see the NinerTech Store website.

Other Tips

Tip #1 Pay for good design

You will use your laptop day-in and day-out. Choose sleek over clunky for on-the-go learning. Opt for a design that is made to protect the display and resist wear and tear over the next few years.

Tip #2 Go for long battery life…you will use it!

Six hours of battery life is the MINIMUM specification you should purchase. If you can get 10+ hours of battery life in your budget, go for it.

Tip #3 Don’t spend money on common software

As a UNC Charlotte student, you can install Microsoft Office, Endnote, antivirus software, and more software for FREE. Once you’re registered, visit software.charlotte.edu to download.