Students attending Wellesley High School bring their own laptops, whether the learning is in school or remote. Students choose the type of laptop (Mac, Windows, Chromebooks) and learn to administer their own laptops, preparing them for college and the workforce. As administrators of their laptops, students develop technical skills and independence in caring for and maintaining their technology.

Students who cannot bring their own laptops may request a school-issued laptop for use during the school year.

BYOL (Family Provided) – Mac, Windows, Chromebooks

Here are some general suggestions for a laptop that can last throughout all four years of high school.

Chromebooks have become a cost-effective, versatile, and popular alternative to traditional laptops for everyday student use. However, they do come with some limitations. Notably, Chromebooks are not compatible with the MCAS testing system and the advanced photo and video editing software used in our Art, TV Production, and Evolutions courses. Additionally, accessibility tools, such as speech-to-text and vision support, as well as computer programming applications, function better on Windows or Mac laptops. For students interested in pursuing these fields of study, it is important to consider these restrictions when making your choice.  

Windows S Mode and Windows ARM-based PCs – Students should not use S mode or Windows ARM-based PCs. Windows S mode and Windows ARM-based PCs will limit the ability to run specific applications.

Please use caution when switching out of S mode. Make sure you are aware of the Windows version you are switching to. If you select Pro, you will be charged a fee.

S Mode and Windows Arm-based Resources

Windows 10 vs Windows 11 – Windows 10 will reach the end of support on October 14, 2025. We highly recommend updating Windows 10 devices to Windows 11.

Laptop Extended/Accidental Warranties – We highly recommend acquiring extended warranties that go beyond the default warranties manufacturers offer.

A limited number of loaner laptops will be available on a first-come, first-served basis for students who require an alternative device. Priority for loaner laptops will be given to those whose devices are being repaired and who are currently without a device.

New laptop Suggestions:

Below are the recommended specifications.

Chromebooks:

  • Price Range: ~$400 – $900
  • Processor: Intel Core i3 / AMD Ryzen 3
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Hard Drive: 128GB+
  • Battery Life: 8+ Hours
  • Screen: 12″+ (Full HD 1920×1080 min)
  • Warranty: 3-Year Extended

Windows / Mac:

  • Price Range: ~$700-$1800
  • Processor: Intel Core Ultra 5 / Ryzen 5 / Apple M2+
  • RAM: 16GB (Highly Recommended)
  • Hard Drive: 256GB+ SSD
  • Battery Life: 8+ Hours
  • Screen: 13″+ (Full HD 1920×1080 min)
  • Warranty: 3-4 Year Accidental Damage Protection

Older laptop suggestions:

If you already have a laptop at home, here are general guidelines for bringing an older laptop that will work in our schools.

Laptop Extended/Accidental Warranties – We highly recommend purchasing extended warranties that go beyond the manufacturer’s default warranties.

  • Capable of running the latest version of the native Operating System (OS)
  • Less than five years old
  • Available disk space to install the software (depends on the software needed for courses)
  • The battery can last at least 6 hrs
  • It is suggested for a clean installation of the Operating System and, if possible, install a new battery.

School-Issued Device

Families that cannot bring their own laptops may request a school-issued laptop for use during the school year (including taking it home at night).

For questions, please call 781-446-6210 ext. 5439 or email 1to1coordinator@wellesleyps.org.