8 Best Laptops for AutoCad, 3D Modeling, and other CAD Works in 2024

Introduction to Laptops for AutoCAD and 3D Modeling

Here, I have shortlisted the 8 best laptops for AutoCAD and 3D modeling applications like Solidworks, ArchiCAD, Revit, Catia, MAYA, and other Autodesk versions. Apart from a powerful processor, high RAM, and FHD screen, the important component that matters the most is the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). AutoCAD and every other CAD software define the minimum hardware requirements that you must take into consideration. All the laptops picked here in the list are compatible with any 2D or 3D modeling and provide the necessary precision and speed required to render these graphics-rich tasks. The pros, as well as cons of the top laptops of AutoCAD, are also covered in this guide.

Reviews of Best CAD Laptops

1. MSI WS65 Workstation Laptop

You can’t resist this workstation machine after reading its specifications. After reviewing this laptop, I found it more than perfect for running AutoCAD and any other CAD software like Revit or 3DS Max. Manufactured for architects and professional designers, this CAD laptop has an IPS 15.6-inch anti-glare screen(FHD) for better viewing. The graphics are taken care of by NVIDIA Quadro GPU. The dedicated graphics come with a whopping 6GB video memory for optimum precision in AutoCAD drawings. The high performance is delivered by Intel’s ninth-generation i7  processor and 32Gb RAM. 

The WS65’s performance is impressive, with fast boot times and excellent multitasking capabilities. The cooling system is also efficient, ensuring that the laptop remains cool even under heavy load.

Overall, the MSI WS65 is an excellent choice for professionals who need a powerful and portable workstation laptop. While it is a bit pricey, its impressive specs and performance make it a worthwhile investment for those looking to run AutoCAD smoothly.

Specifications

Weight: 7.6 Pounds | Processor: 9th Gen Intel i7 | Storage: 512GB SSD | RAM: 32GB | Screen Size: 15.6″ | Screen Resolution: 1920×1080 | Graphics VRAM: 6GB | OS: Windows 10 Pro

Reasons to Buy

• Powerful performance
• Thin and lightweight
• Good battery life
• Large display
• Good build quality

Cons (If any)

• Expensive: The MSI WS65 is a high-end laptop, which means it comes with a high price tag.

2. Lenovo P16 Laptop

Lenovo P16 is the best laptop for CAD that comes pre-installed with Windows 10 64-bit professional edition. Work on various CAD software like AutoCAD with its powerful and latest Intel i9 12th generation, 32 GB RAM, and a high capacity 1TB SSD storage drive. The graphics are handled by a powerful NVIDIA RTX A2000 GPU with 8GB VRAM. It comes with a QHD 16-inch screen with a resolution of 2560×1600 for impressive clarity of CAD and 3D modeling.

Specifications:

Weight: 9.38 Pounds | Processor: 12th Gen Intel i9 | Storage: 1 TB SSD | RAM: 32GB | Screen Size: 16″ | Screen Resolution: 2560×1600 | Graphics VRAM: 8GB | OS: Windows 11 Pro

Pros

• Powerful Processor
• Large Display
• Impressive Graphics Card
• Durability
• Expandable

Cons

• Price
• Weight

3. Apple Macbook Pro 

This is again the best workstation laptop that is optimum for running AutoCAD, Maya, Sketchup, or Fusion 360 applications. Macbook Pro has no competition when it comes to speed, power, durability, and battery backup.  It has a large hybrid storage drive of 512 GB SSD. The processing power is provided by the latest Apple M2 Pro chip and is equipped with a RAM of 16 GB. Loaded with Windows Mac OS, the Macbook is capable of running 3D modeling and other designing apps without any hassles. Other key features include 18 hours of battery backup, a retina HDR display, a magic keyboard, and long-lasting durability.

Specifications:

Weight: 3.5 Pounds | Processor: Apple M2 Pro | Storage: 512GB SSD | RAM: 16GB | Screen Size: 14.2″ | Screen Resolution: 3024×1964 | Graphics: Upto 19-core GPU | OS: Mac OS

Reasons to Buy

• Increased Performance
• Improved Graphics
• Robust Security
• Long Battery Backup

Cons(If any)

• Higher Cost

4. Dell G15 5000

No other laptop can beat this high-performance beast that is perfect for AutoCAD and Solidworks. It is loaded with a powerful 12th gen Intel i5, a large 16 GB RAM, and an SSD of 512GB capacity. Required for CAD programs, the laptop is equipped with a dedicated NVIDIA Geforce RTX 3050 4GB GDDR5 graphics chip. It has a beautiful bezel-less 15.6-inch screen with an FHD resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. And for seamless and stunning graphics, the display comes with a 120Hz refresh rate.

Specifications:

Weight: 5.6 Pounds | Processor: 12th Gen Intel i5 | Storage: 512GB SSD | RAM: 16GB | Screen Size: 15.6″ | Screen Resolution: 1920×1080 | Graphics VRAM: 4GB | OS: Windows 11 Pro

Pros

• Impressive Graphics
• Durability
• Upgradable
• High FPS

Cons

• Battery Backup

5. HP Zbook G7 Workstation

HP Zbook is specially designed for AutoCAD, Revit, and other CAD drawings. The laptop consists of a 1.80 GHz Intel i7 10th generation processor. Additionally, it is equipped with 16 GB DDR4 RAM and a 512 GB SSD. Pre-loaded with Windows 10 Pro (64-bit), the laptop has a full HD screen size of 15.6”. The laptop is built with high-quality materials, which makes it sturdy and durable. The MIL-STD-810G certification ensures that it can withstand extreme environmental conditions. Furthermore, this CAD laptop comes with various security features, including a fingerprint reader, HP Sure Start BIOS protection, and a privacy camera.

Specifications:

Weight: 1.0 Pounds | Processor: 10th Gen Intel i7 | Storage: 512GB SSD | RAM: 32GB | Screen Size: 15.6″ | Screen Resolution: 1920×1080 | Graphics VRAM: Integrated | OS: Windows 10 Pro

Reasons to Buy

• Performance
• Build Quality
• Display
• Connectivity
• Security

Cons(If any)

• No dedicated GPU

6. Microsoft Surface Book

This is the latest in the series of surface books from Microsoft that is equipped with a 10th generation i7 processor, 32 GB RAM, and a storage capacity of 512GB SSD. The laptop is equipped with high-end components, including Intel Core processors and NVIDIA graphics, making it capable of handling demanding tasks such as video editing and 3D modeling.

The Surface Book 3 has a sleek and modern design with a detachable touchscreen display that can be used as a tablet or a laptop. The hinge mechanism is sturdy and provides a smooth transition between the two modes. The Surface Book 3 has a long battery life, lasting up to 16 hours on a single charge, making it ideal for users who need to work on the go.

Specifications:

Weight: 3.62 Pounds | Processor: 10th Gen Intel i7 | Storage: 512GB SSD | RAM: 32GB | Screen Size: 13.5″ | Screen Resolution: 3000×2000 | Graphics VRAM: 4GB | OS: Windows 10 Home

Pros

• Design
• Performance
• Display
• Battery Life
• Portability

Cons

• Upgradability
• Heat (on long usage)

7. Dell Mobile Workstation

Dell is a known brand for producing state-of-the-art laptops for AutoCAD and other CAD software. The laptop comes with hybrid storage that consists of a 256 GB SSD for faster booting. The graphics processing unit is comprised of a discrete NVIDIA Quadro T 1000 with 4GB GDDR5 video memory. Powered by Intel Core i5 (9th gen) and 8 GB RAM, the laptop is highly recommended for beginners as well as professional CAD software users.

Specifications:

Weight: 5.5 Pounds | Processor: 9th Gen Intel i5 | Storage: 256GB SSD | RAM: 8GB | Screen Size: 15.6″ | Screen Resolution: 1920×1080 | Graphics VRAM: 4GB | OS: Windows 10 Pro

Pros

• Build Quality
• Anti-glare IPS Display
• Connectivity options

Cons

• Fan noise

8. HP Spectre x360 Mobile Workstation

Hp Spectre is a convertible 2-in-1 Ultrabook that has all the necessary features to use for CAD, modeling, and animation works. This sleek and lightweight mobile gadget comes with a six-core i7 processor, 16GB memory, and lightning-fast 512GB SSD. The laptop features a 15.6-inch 4K touchscreen display, which provides sharp and vivid visuals. The display can also be rotated 360 degrees, which makes it a versatile device for both work and entertainment. The crisp and precise graphics are supported by NVIDIA GeForce 1050 Ti with dedicated graphics memory of 4 GB.

Specifications:

Weight: 4.45 Pounds | Processor: 10th Gen Intel i7 | Storage: 512GB SSD +32 GB Optane | RAM: 16GB | Screen Size: 15.6″ | Screen Resolution: 3840×2160 | Graphics VRAM: 2GB | OS: Windows 10 Home

Reasons to Buy

• 4k Display
• Performance
• Design
• Battery-Life
• Connectivity

Cons(If any)

• Heats up on extended usage

Buy the Best Laptop for AutoCAD Now

All the laptops listed here are high-performing workstations that are ideal for all the CAD and 3D modeling tasks. If you want to upgrade your old workstation laptop or planning to buy a new one, pick the one that is best for your needs this year.