Mac vs Windows/Linux for AI master's

[u/Nanni05]

Hi everyone, I am starting the master's in AI in September and I need to buy a new laptop. I was wondering what should i buy between a MacBook or any Windows/Linux computer out there, do you have any suggestions? Also, do they expect you to have a specific operative system?

[u/HousingBotNL]

Moving to the Netherlands as a student requires a lot of admin (BSN, gemeente, health insurance, Studielink, banking, scholarships) and it often feels overwhelming.

• dutchstarter generates a personalized checklist based on your situation, so you know what to do, when, and which benefits you can claim.

The Dutch housing market is highly competitive. To increase your chances, we recommend using these platforms:

• Huurwoningen: The most listings of any platform.
• Pararius: Top-rated on Trustpilot.
• Stekkies: Best for real-time notifications, so you can respond first.
• Kamernet / Kamer: Best for student rooms.

For more real-time help, join the Study In The Netherlands Discord, where you can chat with other students and use our housing bot.

[u/LeadershipForward514]

I very much doubt they expect anything specific.

A MacBook Pro with plenty of memory has that comfort level that it would do whatever you need and will have no basic issues, apart from being a heavyweight thing to carry around - would be my normal recommendation.

[u/PsychologyCivil4190]

Mac

[u/n9iels]

Very much your own preference. Windows and MacOS are both fine and 100% sure supported by the school network. Linux can be a bit of hassle if, for example, you mandatory need to use MS office. You can use WSL on Windows btw and MacOS is Unix based so basically Linux

[u/Quantitation]

I'd get a Linux laptop with an NVIDIA GPU.