An Architect friend recently asked my views on a laptop that he wanted to buy for his designing assignments. His query for a reliable laptop for running architecture software and applications efficiently inspired me to compile the ten best laptops for architecture students as well as professional architects. All the shortlisted laptops are capable of running ArchCAD, Revit, Vectorworks, SketchUp, V-Ray, Studio Max, and 2d or 3D modeling applications.
While shortlisting these laptops, due consideration has been given to the specifications and features of the laptops. The minimum hardware requirements to run digital drafting software include at least an Intel i5 processor, 8 GB of RAM, at least 2 Gigabytes of GPU VRAM, a full HD screen of a minimum of 15 inches’ size, and at least 512 GB of storage space. The other metric to take into account is the operating system. I have picked all the laptops with Windows operating system since it is capable of supporting a large number of application types as compared to Mac or Linux systems.
Reviews of laptops best for architecture aspirants
1. Microsoft Surface Book 3
Microsoft Surface book is one of the favorite laptops among Architects right now. This laptop is preferred, thanks to a powerful Intel i7 8th generation processor and detachable pixel sense touch screen with a high resolution of 3240×2160 pixels. The display is pepped to display the digital drafts and designs that even Apple MacBooks can’t do yet. The enhanced graphics is powered by a dedicated NVidia GTX 1660 Ti GPU.
Weight: 3.6 Pounds| OS: Windows 10 Pro | Screen Size: 15 Inch|Screen Resolution: 3240×2160|CPU: i7 processor|RAM: 32 GB |Storage: 512 GB| Battery Life: 17 hours| Price: Check Latest Price on Amazon
2. Lenovo ThinkPad P71
The ThinkPad comes with a scratch-proof matte-finish body and the full numeric keyboard makes it easy to use to feed in the dimensions of your designs. The laptop is powered by a high-end kaby lake i7 processor and 16 GB RAM which is capable of handling Revit, VectorWorks, and other architecture design applications. The high-speed 128GB SSD allows faster booting and lightning-fast file access and downloads whereas the 500 GB SATA HDD takes care of your data files. The FHD screen is powered by the latest IPS technology for better viewing angles much needed by professional architects.
Weight: 7.3 Lb | OS: Win10 Pro | Screen Size: 17.3 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor|RAM: 16 GB |Storage: 128GB SSD+500 GB HDD| GPU: NVidia 2GB| Price: Click Here to Check Price
3. Dell G3 Laptop
This laptop is packed with media-focused features and supports an attractive design. There is solid-state drive storage for instant access to architectural designs while the NVidia GeForce 1650Ti GPU means you can enjoy graphics-hungry applications without any lags. Moreover, the screen exhibits a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels backed by In-Plane Switching technology for enhanced sharpness and wide viewing angles.
Weight: 6.28 pounds | OS: Win10 Home | Screen Size: 15.6 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor| RAM: 16GB |Storage: 512GB SSD| GPU: NVidia 4GB| Price: Check Latest Price on Amazon
4. Acer Aspire 3 Model 2021
The low price and sturdy design make the Acer Aspire a great choice for both amateur and professional architects. Although the laptop is economically priced, the performance far exceeds the expectations with powerful and latest 10th generation Intel i5 processor, Intel graphics, and full HD display. The laptop is equipped with an HD camera that allows you to chat with colleagues or friends in crystal clear images.
Weight: 7.8 pounds | OS: Win10 Home | Screen Size: 17.3 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1600×900 |CPU: i7 processor| RAM: 12GB |Storage: 512 GB SSD | | Price: Check Latest Price on Amazon
5. ASUS S510UN
Asus is a respected brand that offers high-performance machines at a reasonable price tag and Vivobook is no exception. It features the latest 8th generation i7 processor in conjunction with NVIDIA GeForce MX150 GPU to handle all your architectural work smoothly. Furthermore, the laptop comes with a wide View display which lets you see sharp images even at a wide angle of 178 degrees. It has a thin profile with only 0.7 inches thickness and the thin bezel measuring 0.3 inches further enriches the viewing experience.
Weight: 3.7 pounds | OS: Win10 Home | Screen Size: 15.6 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor| RAM: 8GB |Storage: 512 GB SSD | GPU: NVIDIA MX150 2GB| Price: Check Here to Check Price
6. HP ZBook 15 G4 Mobile Workstation
This is a workstation model specially manufactured for professionals in designing fields like architecture and other resource-demanding software programs. The laptop is equipped with high-performing hardware that includes an Intel i7 processor, 8 GB RAM, and dedicated graphics with 4GB VRAM. The full numeric keyboard helps in fast typing that increases productivity at work. Ideal for multitasking you can create and edit blueprints without any lags or slow-downs.
Weight: 8.15 pounds | OS: Win10 Pro | Screen Size: 15.6 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor| RAM: 8GB |Storage: 1 TB SATA | GPU: NVIDIA Quadro 4GB| Price: Check Latest Price on Amazon
7. Lenovo 330 Ideapad
It is a new model from Lenovo that has the right ingredients required for running the programs related to architectural work. The powerful NVIDIA GeForce 940MX is definitely a plus feature that helps architects to complete their CAD designs effectively. The laptop has speed, vibrant graphics attractive metallic finish, and five hours of battery backup. You can enjoy the mesmerizing sound, thanks to Dolby audio dual audio speakers. You can work for a longer duration since it has an anti-glare screen to protect your eyes from screen radiations.
Weight: 6.16 pounds | OS: Win10 Home | Screen Size: 17.3 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor| RAM: 12 GB |Storage: 1TB + 16 GB Optane Memory | GPU: NVIDIA GTX 1050 2GB| Price: Check Latest Price
8. MSI WS65
If you are looking for a lightweight yet high-performing laptop, this laptop model from MSI needs a mention in this list of best laptops for architects. The powerful hardware configuration and robust design of this laptop are perfect for architects who want durability and performance at the same time. MSI workstation is wrapped with 9th gen. Intel i7 processor, 32 GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD. It has a user-friendly full-size keyboard with a numeric pad and moreover, the keyboard comes with backlit keys to let you work in dimly lit areas.
Weight: 7.6 pounds | OS: Win10 Pro | Screen Size: 15.6 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor| GPU: NVIDIA Quadro RTX 3000(6GB) | RAM: 32GB |Storage: 512 GB SSD | Price: Check Latest Price
9. Lenovo Y700 17.3″
Both gamers and architects will love the powerful configuration of this beast machine. Designed for gaming and designing, Lenovo Ideapad Y700 is equipped with a powerful Intel i7 processor and a whopping 16 GB RAM. A large 17.3 Full HD Inches screen offers a larger-than-life viewing experience, much needed for analyzing blueprints and digital drafts. It has a hybrid storage space comprising of 1TB SATA hard drive and 512 GB Solid State Drive for quick booting. The state-of-the-art speakers let you enjoy crystal clear music while you work on your drafts.
Weight: 7.72 pounds | OS: Win10 Home | Screen Size: 17.3 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor| RAM: 16 GB |Storage: 1TB SATA+ 512 GB SSD | GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GT960M 4GB | Price: Check Latest Price on Amazon
10. Dell Inspiron 5502
This one is the best option for architecture students looking for a budget laptop equipped with high-end specifications. The graphics controller in the form of Intel Iris Xe will not let you feel sluggish performance even when running heavy CAD programs. All the hardware including CPU, RAM, and Hard-drive available in this laptop are generally found on high-priced flagship models. Dell Inspiron 5502 laptop comes in platinum silver color. The laptop comes pre-installed with Windows 10 Home OS.
Weight: 5.74 pounds | OS: Win10 Home | Screen Size: 15.6 Inches |Screen Resolution: 1920×1080|CPU: i7 processor| RAM: 8 GB |Storage: 256 SSD | Price: Check Latest Price on Amazon
The Best laptops for Architects to Unleash Creativity
All the laptops that have earned a place on this list are powered to run all the programs required in architecture engineering. So whether you are a drafting professional or an architect, you will find one perfect laptop that meets the hardware specifications and suits your budget. I hope the complications associated with buying the best laptop for your architectural needs will be satisfied by picking any one product from the above list.
I would be glad to answer any technical question that’s been bothering you about the best laptop for your needs. Feel free to mention it in the comments section below.
Thanks for sharing best laptops, bcz i’m Architect Designer.
What are your thoughts on the MacBook Pro running bootcamp?
I’ve had great experience with my mbp in terms of longevity.
At my previous workplace, they use this setup.
I know the price point is higher, just worried about longevity of pcs.. have had bad experiences of having to replace every 2 years whereas the MacBook has lasted a good 6+ years,.
Windows gives you aplenty of choices but yes you can use a Mac-book Pro running dual-operating systems. Make sure the the hardware is god like having at-least 2GB of dedicated graphics memory and atleast 8 GB of RAM.
Can Mac book pro used CAD?
Hi,.. what about the MacBook air
Is this okay for architects?
S510UQ-BQ572, Intel, Core i7, 8550U, 1,80 (4,00GHz Turbo) GHz, Core 4, 8 GB, 15,6, 1920×1080, SSD 256 GB, Free DOS, NVIDIA GeForce 940MX 2GB GDDR5, 1x 10/100/1000 Ethernet,802.11ac,GbitLAN,Bluetooth 4.2, ne, 1, USB 2.0 2, USB 3.0 1, 1,7 kg, USB 3.1 1, USB Type-C 1
Thanks in advance!!
Yes, You can go for this configuration.
Hi. Would this be suitable for an architectural technology student? thanks
newegg.ca/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834234986
ASUS TUF Gaming FX504GD-RS51 15.6″ Intel Core i5 8th Gen 8300H (2.30 GHz) NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 8 GB Memory 1 TB FireCuda SSHD (8 GB SSD Cache) Windows 10 Home 64-Bit Gaming Laptop
The configuration looks perfect for architecture software. Yes, You can go for it.
hi, Is this okay for architect students?
hp pavilion x360 2020 model? intel i5, Nvidia 940mx 2gb gddr5, 8gb ram? can it run enscape, cad or sketchup?
is huawei matebook x pro ok?
The specs of matebook pro x are impressive but pros include its build quality and since it comes with a thin profile, you will face some heat dissipation issues. Its better to go for a laptop brand that has already established itself.
Is omen 15 ryzen 5 is good or asus tuf a15 ryzen 5
Configuration wise both are good for architects but brand wise you should go for HP Omen
I can´t decide between the MSI GL62M 7RD & the Acer Nitro 5. So, what laptop would you choose for architecture?
MSI is more robust, both performance-wise and build-quality wise.
Do Vivobook S and Vivobook Pro both suit the use of CAD design, Rhino, Revit and graphic design (e.g. PS/AI) for an architecture student?
Thanks!
Vivobook Pro is much costlier than Vivobook S but if you can afford you should go for Pro version since it comes with 4 GB VRAM and minimum of 16 GB RAM.
Would you choose Lenovo legion y520-15-80WK00JYHH for 3D drawings?
Looking to get this for architecture school / a little gaming what do you think is it ok?
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 OC with 6GB GDDR5
8th gen intel core i7-8750 6 core, 9mb cache, up to 4.1ghz
15.6 inch FHD 1920 x 1080 60Hz IPS Display NVIDIA G SYNC
16gb ram ddr4 2666MHz
256GB SATA M.2 SSD
Thankyou
Yes, You can go with this configuration.
Sir .. MacBook air good for architecture??
Thank you for this – what would be a best relatively ‘budget’ laptop for vectorworks 2018, for a balance between durability and weight (as sometimes used on site)
You can buy Asus Vivobook from the above list since it is a lightweight and reasonable priced.
Im looking to get this for architectural drawings and rendering — Dell Inspiron 3552 With 15.6-Inch Display, Celeron N3060 Processor/4 GB RAM/500 GB HDD/Intel HD Graphics Black. Please give your opinion on it.
Would you say those quadro p4200 are worth it for architecture software? ( revit, cad, sketchup, adobe )
Hello, I was thinking of getting a laptop to use AutoCAD, Revit, 3dmax and a little Photoshop. I wanted something light and capable of handling those programs. What would be your recommendation? I thought of an hp Envy 13 or an spectre, but I’m not sure. Thank in advance!
Hello most of these laptops are quite expensive and above my budget
please could you tell me some of the least expensive laptop suitable for architecture
I’m an architecture student please I need your assistance.
Hi!
Thank you so much for this list. I was lost earlier this year during my search for a new laptop.
Are there any light(er)weight options that meet these hardware & system requirements? In the 2 lb region, perhaps? I will hopefully be transitioning to all e-books in future but thus far, carrying around an Acer E15, in addition to textbooks and everything else (necessary items) in my backpack has been a real hassle on my back.
Helloo!
I have a question: is a mac book pro, 8 gb ram version, suitable for architecture programs? I heard that for rendering programs it would be better to have a 16 gb version. But it is much more expensive.
What do you think? Is the 8 gb version enough?
Here are the details about the laptop I wanted to buy: Mac Book Pro 13/ 4-core i5, 8 GB, 512 GB SSD, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655
8GB is enough for rendering programs. And you can always upgrade the RAM in future if need arises.
Is macbook pro suitable for architecture?
Thanks
Yes, with technological advancements, now autodesk fro Mac is available and you can also run Revit by using a platform “Frame” on MacBook.
What do u think of this laptop for architecture? Mainly for 3Ds max + VRay rendering, CAD, Revit and Lumion.
Laptop Dell, DELL INSPIRON 15 WITH GTX 1060 6GB IN STOCK 7th Generation Intel® Core™ i7-7700HQ Quad Core (6MB Cache, up to 3.8 GHz) Windows 10 Home Single Language (64bit) 16GB, DDR4, 2400MHz; up to 32GB (additional memory sold separately) 128GB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive (Boot) + 1TB 5400RPM Hard Drive (Storage) NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 1060 with NVIDIA® Max Q Design technology, 6GB GDDR5 video memory 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS Anti-Glare LED-Backlit Display
Thanks
Yes, the configuration is perfect for 3DS Max/Lumion/Revit and VRay rendering.You can definitely buy it.
Hello,
Thank you for the informative list of laptops.
There is a laptop I was considering which is the dell XPS 15 and I would like your insights on this laptop.
The specs for this laptop is:
8th Generation Intel® Core™ i7-8750H Processor
Windows 10 Home 64bit English
16GB 2x8GB DDR4-2666MHz
NVIDIA® GeForce® GTX 1050Ti with 4GB GDDR5
M.2 512GB 2280 PCIe Solid State Drive
I would like to know if it is ‘strong’ enough to run certain architectural programmes such as Rhino, autoCAD, adobe softwares etc…
Thank you!
The configuration seems to be good. It will be better if you go for windows 10 Professional instead of Home edition.
Do you think macbook pro 13ich iş enough for 3d max,solidworks and some other 3d modelling
Program like there?
Configuration iş 8th gen i5, 8gb ram,256ssd,intel iris plus graphics 655
Hi,
Having had a Macbook Pro for 8 years it’s time to upgrade. I really want another Macbook because it has lasted so well and long, however I had to use another laptop for Revit as never bothered installing bootcamp. It is such a pain transferring documents over / using two laptops.
I’m now really unsure whether to buy another Macbook and use bootcamp or Frame. What are your thoughts on these as I have used them? do they reduce performance?
Although I do love the Macbook its specs don’t match with windows computers – doesn’t come with I7 etc.
Many Thanks for any advice!
Brogan
Have a look at this configuration https://amzn.to/2XK3QAx. It is a Macbook Pro with i7 processor and 512GB SSD and bootcamping will not slow down this system.
My daughter is studying now first year B.Arch and i would like to buy the best laptop for her. Please suggest me
Manvitha! You can go for a Lenovo brand since it has the least number of service issues. Have alook at this link. https://amzn.to/2NY7LVY. It is a lightweight, robust machine with i processor, 512 GB SSD, 8GB RAM and 2GB dedicated graphics which is perfect for architecture students.
hello, I was thinking of buying ASUS VIvoBook S14 for architecture studies. With the following configuration:
Intel® Core™ i7-8550U, 16 GB, 14″
Windows® 10 Home (64 Bit), HDD , 1 TB , 5400 U/Min.
SSD , 256 GB, Intel,SSD , 256 GB, Intel® UHD-Grafik 620
Will be thankful for your feedback!
Instead of integrated Intel graphics 620, buy a laptop with dedicated graphics card with 2GB video memory.
I meant Lenovo Y730
I am an architecture student, confused between the Surface Pro i5 8GB RAM, and the 15 inch Macbook Pro which I’m currently using. I love the Macbook but I’m tempted to switch to the Surface Pro because of the Pen and also because I’m afraid my Mac may slow down if I run Windows using bootcamp.
Surface Pro definitely has an edge over Macbook pro. You can sketch on the already existing imagery with the recording saved. Surface pro is mobile and you can take it to site for taking photos, on the spot drawing. Moreover it is compatible with Autocad, Revit or Rhino.
What do u think of this laptop for architecture? Mainly for 3Ds max
Hi, I’m second year of B.Arch. We mostly use Rhino, Vray, Adobes, CAD. I’m thinking of buying Lenovo ThinkPad P52 (20M9000XUS) Mobile Workstation Intel Core i7 8th Gen 8850H (2.60 GHz) 16 GB Memory 512 GB SSD NVIDIA Quadro P2000 15.6″ Windows 10 Pro 64-Bit.
However, I read some reviews that people complained about the thermal throttle issue.
Any suggestions?
Thank you In advance.
Thermal throttling is not a problem but a feature of graphics card. When you run heavy programs and the cooling system of laptop is unable to control heat, it lowers down the performance a bit. So you can buy P52 or P52s models or can buy p71 workstation as mentioned in this list. Just take care like never keep the laptop on bed or in heated environment while working.
I am thinking to get asus vivobook s512, i7 but others keep telling me to get gaming series. The thing is like I don’t like gaming series style.I want light and thin laptop because it is portable. My friends are saying when it comes to rendering, gaming series are the best, but bussiness laptop are not good. Can you give me advice which laptop should I buy?
Hi there,
Is it right that Legion Y740 | 15″ Gaming Laptop | Lenovo is the best one out there?
Hey, what are your thoughts on this specs:
Intel Core i7-7500U 2. 7-3. 5Ghz Caché L3 4Mb
RAM: 8Gb DDR4
1Tb storage
Screen: led 15.6” hd
Video: NVIDIA GeForce 940 GDDR5 2Gb
Thank you in advance!
I would NEVER buy another Dell. In 2008, I spent about $2,400 (a lot of cash for a computer back then) for what would soon become an overpriced paperweight. Their customer service was either horrible or non-existent. Never again. Utter trash.
I was thinking of buying DEll XPs 15 with configuration of 32gb ram 512gb upgradable and 4gb nvidia graphics card 1650 ti with i7 processor
Yes, this is a perfect combination to run architecture programs.Check this mode Dell XPS 7590
Is lenovo IdeaPad s540 81NG00BWIN, good for architecture student? And what are your thoughts on MSI gf63 thin and Asus tuf laptop.
Since both lenovo ideapad and MSI gf63 fall under the same price range, you must go for a MSI gaming laptop that is robust in both built and performance.
Hi Subash!
Which do you think is better- Acer Nitro 5 or Asus Vivobook? As an architect to support rendering and cad
Thankyou so much
Acer Nitro 5 is definitly a clear choice here. You can check Acer Nitro 5 AN515 It is good for all the drawing and designing programs.
Hi how is asus zen book 15
Specs – Processor 8th gen Intel Whiskey Lake Core i7-8565U, Clock Speed 1.8 GHz Max Turbo Frequency 4.6 GHz
Fast storage and memory featuring 1TB Solid State Drive with 16GB DDR3 RAM
Backlit keyboard, Windows 10 Pro with Windows Hello
Display 15.6″ IPS Full HD
Yes, the specifications of this laptop are perfect to run any architect software
Hello, im an interior designer and im between buying one of these three laptops, can you please help me?
MSI Stealth GS66 15.6″ Gaming Laptop – Intel® Core™ i7, RTX 3060, 512 GB SSD
DELL XPS 15 9500 15.6″ Intel® Core™ i7 Laptop – 1 TB SSD
APPLE MacBook Pro 16″ (2019) – Intel® Core™ i7, 512 GB
Which one?
Go for MSI stealth, it is a robust and a good GPU to handle all the drawings and designing work.
Do we have any touch screen laptop with stylus that would perform brilliantly , working with 3ds max on touch screen would be fun with stylus .