Best laptop for a college computer science major?

I'm planning to major in computer science in college, and I need a new laptop that will handle programming and coursework effectively. Any recs on laptops that are particularly good for CS students?

When choosing a laptop for a computer science degree, the main factors you should consider are the processor, RAM, storage, and the operating system.

Laptops with Intel i5 or i7 processors, or AMD equivalent, are suitable for most programming tasks, but if you have more demanding tasks or projects like machine learning or game development, you might need a more powerful option.

At least 8GB of RAM is recommended for smoother multitasking between different applications and software. More RAM could be beneficial for running more demanding programs or multiple virtual machines.

As for storage, a 256GB or 512GB solid-state drive (SSD) is preferable to a hard drive (HDD) because SSDs are faster and more reliable.

Lastly, while your laptop's operating system can often come down to personal preference, a lot of programmers appreciate the versatility and power of Unix-based systems. As such, a MacBook or a machine running Linux can be potentially valuable assets.

Here are a few laptops you might consider:

1. MacBook Pro: MacBooks are popular among CS students due to their strong performance, reliability, great trackpad, and UNIX-based OS which is programming friendly.

2. Dell XPS 15: A solid Windows laptop with up-to-date components, robust build quality, and a portable design, making it a trustworthy companion for a CS degree.

3. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon: Provides a good balance between performance and portability, with a top-notch keyboard which is great for coding.

Keep in mind that at the end of the day, the best laptop for you is one that aligns with your personal preferences and needs. So visit a local store, try out some different options, and choose the one you find most comfortable to use.