Best Solidworks Laptops of 2024: Top Choices Reviewed
Written by: Hrishikesh Pardeshi, Founder at Flexiple, buildd & Remote Tools.
Last updated: Sep 03, 2024
The best Solidworks laptops are listed below.
- HP ZBook Power G9 15.6" Mobile Workstation
- Lenovo ThinkPad E16
- Dell Precision 3470 Mobile Workstation
- ASUS Vivobook Pro 16X Laptop
- HP ZBook Firefly 16 G9 Mobile Workstation
- MSI Katana 15 Gaming Laptop
- ASUS ZenBook Pro 15 OLED Laptop
- MSI Thin GF63 15.6" 144Hz Gaming Laptop
- Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Mobile Workstation
- Microsoft Surface Laptop 5
As someone who works with 3D modeling and design, I know how essential it is to have the right tools for the job. One key aspect of this is having a powerful and reliable laptop that can handle complex software like SolidWorks. SolidWorks is a popular and widely-used Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software for designing and simulating 3D models, and it requires a good laptop to run smoothly and efficiently.
In the world of laptops, there are countless options available, each with varying specs, capabilities, and price ranges. For running SolidWorks, it's crucial to consider factors like processing power, graphics capabilities, memory, and storage. The ideal laptop for SolidWorks should have a powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, ample RAM, and sufficient storage to handle large project files.
When shopping for the best laptop for SolidWorks, it's important to consider the operating system and requirements of the software and to keep an eye on features that will improve the overall workflow and user experience. For instance, a high-quality display with accurate colors and crisp visuals can make a significant difference when designing intricate 3D models.
After spending hours researching and comparing various laptops, I've narrowed down the options to help you find the perfect laptop that will enhance your SolidWorks experience. So, let's dive in and explore the top contenders in the market.
Table of Contents
- Best SolidWorks Laptops
- HP ZBook Power G9 15.6" Mobile Workstation
- Lenovo ThinkPad E16
- Dell Precision 3470 Mobile Workstation
- ASUS Vivobook Pro 16X Laptop
- HP ZBook Firefly 16 G9 Mobile Workstation
- MSI Katana 15 Gaming Laptop
- ASUS ZenBook Pro 15 OLED Laptop
- MSI Thin GF63 15.6" 144Hz Gaming Laptop
- Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Mobile Workstation
- Microsoft Surface Laptop 5
- Buying Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Best SolidWorks Laptops
I've gathered a list of the top laptops for SolidWorks, perfect for your design and engineering needs. Check them out below!
HP ZBook Power G9 15.6" Mobile Workstation
I'd highly recommend the HP ZBook Power G9 for those seeking top-notch Solidworks performance on a portable laptop.
Pros
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Impressive processing power with Intel Core i7 processor
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Crisp Full HD display enhances visual experience
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Generous 512 GB SSD storage
Cons
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A bit on the heavier side, weighing 6.35 pounds
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No optical drive
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Limited battery life of up to 18 hours
This HP ZBook Power G9 has been a pleasure to use for Solidworks. With a powerful Intel Core i7 processor and 16 GB of RAM, I have been able to execute multiple demanding tasks effortlessly. The performance is indeed pro-grade and that's exactly what a professional would need on the go.
When it comes to the visuals, I found the 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) display to be quite fantastic, showcasing images and models with impressive clarity. The NVIDIA Intel T600 Iris Xe Graphics further adds to the performance and graphics quality which makes working on Solidworks a breeze.
One downside to the laptop is its weight - at 6.35 pounds, it may be considered heavy for some users. However, since the focus is on a strong performance, it is understandable that some compromises must be made. Although the laptop does not have an optical drive, the 512 GB SSD storage is enough for storing essential documents, files, media, and more.
As for the battery life, I managed up to 18 hours of use on a single charge which is decent. However, this might be a concern for users who require long hours of work without charging.
Overall, the HP ZBook Power G9 Mobile Workstation laptop is a fantastic laptop choice for Solidworks professionals who need a high-performance machine with a sharp display but are willing to compromise on weight and battery life.
Lenovo ThinkPad E16
The Lenovo ThinkPad E16 is a reliable choice for SolidWorks enthusiasts who desire performance and portability.
Pros
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Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor
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16GB RAM and 512GB SSD for smooth multitasking
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Touchscreen FHD display with privacy shutter
Cons
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No disc drive included
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Slightly delicate build
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Repair services may require mailing in the device
I recently got my hands on the Lenovo ThinkPad E16, and I must say, I'm impressed with its performance. As a SolidWorks user, I found the AMD Ryzen 5 processor and 16GB RAM to be more than sufficient for running my design software without any lag. The 512GB SSD also ensures ample storage space and quick load times for my projects.
The 16-inch FHD+ touchscreen display is not only crisp and clear, but also offers a 16:10 aspect ratio, providing more vertical screen real estate for my work. The privacy shutter on the webcam is a nice touch that allows me to work securely without worrying about any unwanted intrusion.
However, it's worth mentioning that the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 doesn't come with a built-in disc drive. If you require one, you'll need to purchase it separately. Additionally, though the device offers great performance, I noticed the build feels slightly more delicate compared to similar laptops on the market. Lastly, I heard from other users that if you need any repairs, you might have to mail your device in, which could be inconvenient compared to brands that offer on-site services.
Overall, the Lenovo ThinkPad E16 is worth considering if you're in search of a powerful, lightweight laptop for SolidWorks applications. Just keep in mind the potential drawbacks before making your purchase.
Dell Precision 3470 Mobile Workstation
This powerful Dell Precision 3470 laptop is perfect for SolidWorks users looking for high-performance and reliability.
Pros
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Robust performance with Intel 12-Core i7-1260P processor and 32GB DDR5 RAM
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Dedicated NVIDIA T550 workstation GPU that smoothly handles SolidWorks
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Multiple connectivity options like Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.0
Cons
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Slightly heavier at 3.3 lbs
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Lack of high-resolution display
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No optical drive
I recently got my hands on the Dell Precision 3470 Mobile Workstation, and it's been such a game changer for my SolidWorks projects. The processing power provided by the Intel 12-Core i7-1260P processor combined with the 32 GB DDR5 RAM is simply outstanding. I never experienced any lag or slowdowns, even when handling complex 3D models, an experience common to most Dell laptops.
The dedicated NVIDIA T550 GPU with 4 GB GDDR6 VRAM is a significant advantage when dealing with SolidWorks. Not to mention, the laptop supports up to three monitors via HDMI and Thunderbolt 4 ports, ensuring a seamless workflow. The FHD 1080p IR Hybrid Camera with Privacy Shutter is an added bonus and will come in handy for video calls.
As for the downsides, the laptop weighs in at 3.3 lbs, which can be cumbersome for some users. The display is restricted to Full HD (1920x1080), making it a bit disappointing for those looking for a high-resolution display. Furthermore, the absence of an optical drive may be a deal-breaker for some.
Despite a few drawbacks, the Dell Precision 3470 Mobile Workstation remains a remarkable choice for SolidWorks users. Its performance and GPU capabilities will handle your projects without a hitch, and the various connectivity options add more flexibility to your workflow.
ASUS Vivobook Pro 16X Laptop
This impressive laptop provides a smooth creative experience, though it may suffer from a short battery life.
Pros
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ASUS DialPad for intuitive control
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Powerful processor and graphics for smooth editing and rendering
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Immersive 16-inch display with slim bezels
Cons
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Battery life could be better
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Comes with unnecessary pre-installed software
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May overheat during intensive tasks
I recently got my hands on the ASUS Vivobook Pro 16X Laptop, and I must say, it's quite a powerful machine for creative professionals. The first thing I noticed was the ASUS DialPad, which allowed me to effortlessly control various settings in multiple creative applications. It's a game changer in terms of streamlining my workflow.
The Intel Core i9 processor, GeForce RTX graphics, and NVIDIA Studio Drivers make editing videos and rendering projects a breeze. I never felt like I was waiting around for the laptop to catch up. Plus, the 16-inch display with ultra-slim NanoEdge bezels offers a truly immersive visual experience, making it a pleasure to work on.
However, there were a few drawbacks. While the laptop boasts a 90WHrs battery, it didn't quite live up to my expectations. I found myself reaching for the charger more often than I'd like. Additionally, the pre-installed software, like McAfee, was annoying and felt unnecessary.
Lastly, I encountered some overheating issues when pushing the laptop to its limits. It didn't happen all the time, but it's worth mentioning for those planning on running heavy tasks frequently.
In conclusion, the ASUS Vivobook Pro 16X Laptop delivers a powerful creative experience despite a few minor drawbacks. If you can overlook its short battery life and occasional overheating, it's certainly worth considering for your next solidworks laptop purchase.
HP ZBook Firefly 16 G9 Mobile Workstation
The HP ZBook Firefly 16 G9 is a solid workstation laptops of choice for professionals who need a powerful and portable workstation for their Solidworks usage.
Pros
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Powerful processing capabilities
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Large, high-quality display
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Abundant memory and storage
Cons
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Slightly heavy for frequent travelers
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Limited connectivity options
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No optical drive
As a Solidworks user, I found the HP ZBook Firefly 16 G9 to be perfect for my needs. The 12th Gen Intel Core i5 processor and NVIDIA T550 graphics card allowed me to work on my projects smoothly and without any performance hiccups.
The 16-inch, WUXGA anti-glare display provided an ideal environment to view my designs. Moreover, the 32GB DDR5 memory and 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD enabled me to multitask efficiently and store all my project files without any issues. It came bundled with a handy 3-in-1 design stylus from BROAG, which added value to the product.
However, I found the 3.97-pound weight to be slightly heavy for carrying around every day. I also wished it had more connectivity options, especially when connecting external devices. Additionally, the lack of an optical drive might be a downside for some users.
The Intel Wi-Fi 6E AX211 and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless card provided fast and reliable internet connectivity for streamlined collaboration. I also appreciated the backlit HP Premium Keyboard with a numeric keypad and fingerprint reader for enhanced convenience and security.
All in all, the HP ZBook Firefly 16 G9 Mobile Workstation Business Laptop is an excellent choice for Solidworks professionals who need a powerful and portable device with a few minor trade-offs.
MSI Katana 15 Gaming Laptop
The MSI Katana 15 is a solid choice for both gamers and professionals looking for a high-performance laptop with a sleek design.
Pros
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Powerful 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor
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NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU for stunning graphics
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15.6" FHD display with a 144Hz refresh rate
Cons
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Can run hot during intense gaming sessions
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Bland design compared to other gaming laptops
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Slightly on the heavier side at 8.85 pounds
As soon as I started using the MSI Katana 15, I was impressed by its overall performance. The 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor makes multitasking a breeze, even when running demanding applications like SolidWorks. I also appreciated how smooth and responsive the user experience was, thanks to the 144Hz refresh rate on its 15.6" FHD display.
When it came to gaming, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card really shined. I was able to play graphically-intensive games on high settings without any issues, and the ray tracing made everything from lighting to reflections look incredibly realistic. However, during extended gaming sessions, the laptop's temperature would rise, which made me worry a bit about long-term durability.
The design of the MSI Katana 15 is quite understated, which could be ideal for someone looking for a gaming laptop that doesn't scream "gamer" but might be a bit dull for others. While the build quality seemed sturdy, it's worth noting that this laptop weighs in at 8.85 pounds, making it not as portable as some other options on the market.
Overall, the MSI Katana 15 offers fantastic performance and is a great option for anyone in needing a powerful laptop for SolidWorks or gaming. The combination of the latest Intel Core i7 processor, the powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card and the 144Hz FHD display make it a strong contender in the gaming laptop space. However, its slightly unexciting design and tendency to heat up during rigorous use might not suit everyone's tastes.
ASUS ZenBook Pro 15 OLED Laptop
I believe this laptop is a good choice for SolidWorks users seeking a powerful and visually impressive device.
Pros
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Stunning OLED touchscreen with high brightness
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Powerful AMD Ryzen 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU
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Lightweight with comfortable ErgoLift hinge design
Cons
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Some users reported CPU and Wi-Fi connectivity issues
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Lack of USB-C display or charging capabilities
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Inconsistent experience among users
After using the ASUS ZenBook Pro 15 OLED Laptop, I am particularly impressed by its incredible 15.6-inch OLED touchscreen. The colors appear vibrant, and the brightness makes it easy to work on detailed SolidWorks projects. The bezel is minimal, offering an immersive experience while using the laptop.
Under the hood, the AMD Ryzen 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU provide excellent performance, allowing for smooth operation with SolidWorks and other demanding applications. Despite its power, the laptop remains lightweight and portable, making it a versatile option for those on the move. The ErgoLift hinge ensures a comfortable typing experience, and the backlit keyboard is easy to use in dimly lit environments.
However, there were some downsides during my time with the ASUS ZenBook Pro 15 OLED Laptop. It's worth noting that several users reported CPU and Wi-Fi connectivity issues. Additionally, the lack of USB-C display and charging capabilities may feel limiting to some users. These drawbacks could lead to an inconsistent experience that might not satisfy every SolidWorks user.
Overall, the ASUS ZenBook Pro 15 OLED Laptop is a powerful and visually stunning device for SolidWorks users. While some users may encounter issues, its impressive display and performance make it a solid laptop option for those seeking a premium experience.
MSI Thin GF63 15.6" 144Hz Gaming Laptop
I highly recommend the MSI Thin GF63 for gamers and creators alike, due to its incredible performance and sleek design.
Pros
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Powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor
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Smooth 144Hz display for gaming
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High-speed data transfer with SSD Gen 4x4 and DDR4-3200 memory
Cons
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May experience overheating during intense gaming sessions
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Battery life could be better
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Fans can be noisy
I recently got my hands on the MSI Thin GF63, and I must say, it's a stunner! The 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor coupled with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card allowed me to breeze through intensive tasks and gaming sessions without breaking a sweat.
One standout feature is the 15.6" 144Hz display, which not only delivers vibrant, crisp visuals but also a refresh rate that ensures smooth gameplay. As someone who values both performance and aesthetics, I was impressed by the sleek black finish and overall compact design of this laptop.
However, there are a few drawbacks that I encountered. The most notable is the tendency for the laptop to overheat during long gaming marathons. I found that using a cooling pad helped alleviate this issue. Additionally, the battery life leaves something to be desired, especially if you plan on using the laptop for extended periods without access to a power outlet.
Lastly, while the Cooler Boost 5 technology does a commendable job keeping the system cool, the fans can get quite loud during heavy loads. This may not be a deal-breaker for everyone but keep in mind that you may want to use headphones to drown out the noise in some scenarios.
Despite these minor flaws, the MSI Thin GF63 still stands out as an exceptional gaming laptop with its impressive specs and user experience. Gamers and creators alike would find value in this well-designed powerhouse.
Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Mobile Workstation
This laptop is a solid choice for someone looking to do demanding work like Solidworks, due to its great performance and features.
Pros
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Powerful Intel Core i7-10750H processor
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Large 17.3" Full HD IPS display
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High-capacity 32GB RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD
Cons
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Quite heavy at 7.7 lbs
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Limited battery life due to powerful components
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Noisy under heavy workload
I've been using the Lenovo ThinkPad P17 Mobile Workstation for a few weeks now, and I'm impressed with its performance. As a Solidworks user, the powerful 10th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and the dedicated NVIDIA Quadro T2000 graphics card are more than capable of handling complex operations and large assemblies. The 32GB DDR4 memory and 1TB PCIe SSD also allow for fast data access, making my workflow smooth and efficient.
The large 17.3" Full HD IPS screen is a bonus when working on detailed projects. The anti-glare feature ensures comfortable viewing even under various lighting conditions. Although the laptop is quite hefty at 7.7 lbs, the benefits of the big screen and powerful components justify this trade-off for me.
However, the ThinkPad P17 is not perfect. The battery life can be underwhelming when running demanding tasks, so you may find yourself frequently reaching for the charger. Additionally, the laptop can get noisy when handling heavy workloads. Despite these minor drawbacks, I believe it's a great laptop for anyone seeking a reliable and powerful workstation for Solidworks and other demanding applications.
Microsoft Surface Laptop 5
I'd recommend the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 for its sleek design, vibrant touchscreen, and powerful Intel i7 processor.
Pros
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Lightweight and portable design
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Impressive 15" touchscreen display
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Long-lasting battery life
Cons
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Limited number of ports
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Windows 11 Home instead of Premium
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Expensive compared to competitors
I was pleasantly surprised when I first opened my Microsoft Surface Laptop 5. Its slim and lightweight design made it comfortable to carry around wherever I went, while its striking black color stood out among other laptops at the cafe.
The 15" PixelSense touchscreen was both sensitive and intuitive, making it enjoyable to use the laptop for a variety of tasks like browsing and drafting emails. Its vibrant colors and high resolution allowed me to take full advantage of my creative applications. Plus, the Intel i7 processor made multitasking a breeze, allowing me to run several apps without any slowdowns.
However, I did find the limited availability of ports slightly frustrating, but I was able to find workarounds with external adapters. Also, I noticed that it came with Windows 11 Home instead of the advertised Premium version. While this didn't significantly impact my experience, it might be an important point for others to consider. Lastly, it's worth considering that this laptop may be on the expensive side when compared to others available on the market.
Overall, I'm quite satisfied with my Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 and believe it's an excellent option for anyone in need of a powerful, portable, and visually stunning laptop.
Buying Guide
When I'm hunting for the best SolidWorks laptop, there are several factors I need to consider to make sure I make the right choice. In this buying guide, I'll briefly cover some of these key features to look for when buying a laptop or desktop PC.
Processor
The processor is the heart of the laptop, and in my opinion, it's crucial to get a powerful one to handle SolidWorks smoothly. I look for a high-performance processor with multiple cores, preferably an Intel i5 or i7, or an AMD Ryzen 5 or 7.
Graphics Card
SolidWorks relies heavily on graphics performance, so I need to invest in a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. NVIDIA and AMD both manufacture cards that work well with SolidWorks, known as Quadro and Radeon Pro cards, respectively. It's essential to have at least 4GB VRAM for optimal performance.
RAM
More RAM helps keep the laptop running smoothly while handling complex CAD models and leading CAD software. I usually aim for at least 16GB of RAM, but going up to 32GB can provide an even better experience.
Storage
A Solid State Drive (SSD) is the way to go for me, as they're faster and more reliable than traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDD). I look for at least 256GB storage capacity in an SSD, but I find that 512GB or 1TB is more ideal for storing large project files.
Display
Having a high-resolution and clear display is important so that I can easily see all the details in my models. I aim for a minimum resolution of 1920x1080 (Full HD), but 4K displays can offer even more clarity.
Portability and Battery Life
As someone who might need to work with SolidWorks on the go, I need a laptop that's lightweight and has good battery life. Laptops weighing around 3-5 pounds with at least 6 hours of battery life should be suitable for my needs.
I hope this quick buying guide helps you make an informed decision when choosing the best laptop for SolidWorks, just as it has helped me in the past. Remember to carefully weigh the importance of each feature for your workflow and balance that with your budget constraints. Happy shopping!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top laptops for Solidworks students?
As a Solidworks student, you might be looking for a powerful yet affordable laptop. Some great choices include the Dell XPS 15, Acer Aspire 5, HP ZBook 15 G6, and Lenovo Legion 5 for their solid performance, dedicated graphics cards, and good battery life.
Which budget laptops can run Solidworks smoothly?
If you're on a tight budget, don't worry! You can still find laptops like Acer Aspire 5, Lenovo IdeaPad L340, and ASUS TUF Gaming FX505DT. These laptops come with decent specifications that should allow you to run Solidworks without breaking the bank.
Are gaming laptops suitable for Solidworks?
Gaming laptops can be suitable for Solidworks, as they generally have powerful hardware and dedicated graphics cards. Models like the Acer Predator Helios 300, ASUS ROG Strix G15, and MSI GL65 Leopard combine high-end performance with their gaming-oriented features, making them great options for Solidworks users who also enjoy gaming.
What are the best laptops for both Solidworks and AutoCAD?
AutoCAD and Solidworks have similar system requirements, so a laptop that works well for one should be suitable for the other. Some top contenders in this category are Dell XPS 15, HP ZBook 15 G6, and Lenovo ThinkPad P53. These laptops provide powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and sufficient RAM, ensuring smooth performance for both applications.
Is RTX 3050-equipped laptop capable of handling Solidworks?
Yes, a laptop equipped with an RTX 3050 should be capable of enough graphics processing power for handling Solidworks. This graphics card offers reliable performance, even for advanced 3D modeling tasks in Solidworks. However, ensure that the laptop also has a powerful processor and enough RAM to complement the strong graphics performance.
Which HP laptops are recommended for Solidworks?
HP offers a variety of laptops suitable for Solidworks users. Some popular HP laptops include the HP ZBook 15 G6, HP Spectre x360, and HP Omen 15. These models combine powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and professional-grade features, making them ideal choices for Solidworks users.