Upgrading the memory or processor past this configuration leads you into 13-inch MacBook Pro pricing territory, but only upgrade to that machine if graphic processing for design apps and games are. As we know that the bigger is better so it comes with the bigger screen size of 15 inches and lets you immerse yourself in media. All that a graphic designer mainly wants is excellent color accuracy so for the adjustments of color and intensity of your display, the Macbook holds the true tone technology whereas, for the provision of high pixel density, the brilliant retina display is a part of it. May I suggest that you start by understanding the system requirements for each application you want to use for your graphic design work, and then, review the system specifications of each potential Mac notebook that you might be interested in. Be sure to add 'room for growth' for both the apps and the specs. I graduated in graphic design last year and want to buy a 16' MacBook Pro for my birthday in a few weeks. I mainly use Illustrator, and Indesign, occasionally Photoshop, and XD. Can someone help me spec up a Macbook Pro? I just need to know if I should upgrade the graphic card to the 5500M with 8GB or just the 5500M with 4GB? If you’re looking for a powerful MacBook Pro for your photography needs but don’t want to dish out the cash for the latest model, the previous 15-inch MacBook Pro is still a good option. It features an Intel 6-core I7 processor, 15.4-inch Retina display, and Radeon Pro 560X graphics, making it a fully capable machine that can create amazing.
(Updated May 2020)
NOTE, MAY 2020: Due to COVID-19 response, students need to be prepared for the potential of all courses being online. Expect some courses to be online anyway. Minimum specifications are required to complete course assignments off-campus.
EACH DEPARTMENT HAS DIFFERENT REQUIREMENTS!
Graphic Design undergraduate students must have their own computer by the Fall Semester of their first year.
Graphic Design graduate students must have their own computer by the Fall Semester of their first year.
Macintosh computers are required for Graphic Design students.
![Macbook Specs For Graphic Design Macbook Specs For Graphic Design](https://bizon-tech.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/i/m/img_9033.jpg)
The Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design at NC State was the first program in the University of North Carolina system to require students to have a computer for their studies. This requirement has allowed our students to gain a level of computer proficiency and confidence that is essential in practice. Graphic design integrates computers in virtually every step of the design process from conception to production and in a range of media including print, video, and web. Apple Macintosh is the preferred platform of the graphic design field and is required for our Graphic Design students.
Download the departmental Materials List for more detailed information from the Department of Graphic Design and Industrial Design. Apple mac malware scanner. (Adobe Acrobat Reader required to view this file.)
Each department in the College of Design has different computer requirements. Please read the College’s Student Computing Requirements Information page for general information before spending money on computer hardware or software.
We recommend that your computer meet or exceed the specifications below. Apple store excel. A computer with greater capability (processor speed, RAM, disk capacity) and expandability will be more likely to continue to run required software in later years of college.
This chart provides minimum recommendations for students purchasing new computers. Software requirements are listed at the bottom of the chart. Additional specialized software may be required in other courses, as determined by the instructor. Students may consider the purchase of other software to support their particular goals and learning styles.
Macintosh Computers
Components | Macintosh Desktop | Macintosh Laptop | |
---|---|---|---|
CPU (Processor) or Model | Good iMac 21.5″ or 27″(includes built-in monitor) any current model | Better iMac Pro or Mac Pro, any current model | MacBook Pro, any current 15″ or 16″ model |
System RAM | 16 GB minimum, more preferred | 16 GB minimum, more preferred | |
Hard Drive (Storage) | 512 GB SSD minimum, more preferred (multiple drives are fine) | 512 GB SSD minimum, more preferred (multiple drives are fine) | |
Monitor/Display | 20″ 4K resolution minimum (Consider two monitors for more working space on the computer.) iMacs include a built-in 5K monitor. Monitors from other vendors will work with Apple computers. | 15″ or 16″ display included (Consider a second 4K external monitor for more working space on the computer.) Monitors from other vendors will work with Apple computers. | |
Graphics Processor Unit (GPU)Should have a discrete GPU. | 4 GB VRAM or higher. Avoid integrated graphics processors. | ||
Operating System | Mac OS X version 10.14 or later | ||
Audio | Standard on Macintosh | ||
Network Adapters | Wi-Fi and Wired ethernet connection included. CAT 6 ethernet cable recommended for faster connections in studio. | Wi-Fi is included. Wired ethernet adapter and CAT 6 ethernet cable recommended for faster connections in studio. | |
External Hard Drive for Back-ups | An external drive at least as large as your computer’s internal drive for backing up your computer | ||
Warranty Service | 3-year AppleCare Protection Plan or third-party loss/damage coverage | ||
Software Be sure to check for educational discounts through the College of Design or Wolfpack Outfitters. Additional software may be required for certain courses. | • Adobe Creative Cloud • Microsoft Office 365 (free for NCSU students) | ||
Digital Camera (Sophomore Year) | 8.0 Megapixel or higher, Macintosh-compatible digital camera with case |
Macbook For Graphic Design Student
Questions?
The College’s Information Technology staff will be glad to go over purchase choices or answer any related questions. You can send an email to [email protected] or use this form to contact the College Information Technology staff with specific information about your problem.
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I'm a graphic designer and have always worked on MBP's. I'm about to upgrade again and can't decide if I'm better off getting a new retina display 13' MacBook Pro and a 27' Thunderbolt Display (as I travel around a lot and work in cafes) or keep my current MBP just for travelling and meetings in cafes etc and buy a big old iMac 27' for the office and then just dropbox files between the two. Which do you think is a better/faster option for tonnes of graphics work ie. I have pretty much the whole Adobe Creative Suite on the go at all times :) Thanks. Fl studio apple store.
Macbook Pro Specs For Graphic Design
- Asked by Felicity C from Bulimba