It’s an undeniable fact that portable computing machines with low performance and components are unable to run heavy applications such as AutoCAD. For that purpose, the only way you can run those heavy applications is to invest in the best laptops for AutoCAD.
Having said that, some highlighting features of an AutoCAD compatible laptop might include a powerful processor, ample amount of RAM (Random Access Memory), an updated graphics card along with good storage at the same time.
However, choosing a laptop with so many features will cost you a lot of money and you simply can’t take any risk. So, I’m here to help in this regard with a compiled list of some top-notch laptops based on positive customer feedback, my personal experience, and a justified price tag.
You can also check best laptops for solidworks for both heavy work and 3D modeling.
So, let’s dive right into the main topic without any further ado:
Contents
- Top 10 Best Laptops for AutoCAD and 3D Modeling Apps:
- 1. Acer Predator Helios 300 – Best Laptop for AutoCAD 2022:
- 2. Apple MacBook Air – Best Portable and Lightweight Laptop for AutoCAD:
- 3. ASUS VivoBook 15 – Best Budget Laptop for AutoCAD:
- 4. Apple MacBook Pro – Best Laptop for AutoCAD and Revit:
- 5. HP Envy – Best HP Laptop for AutoCAD:
- 6. ASUS VivoBook F510UA-AH55 – Thinnest Laptop for AutoCAD:
- 7. Acer Nitro 5 – With Backlit Keyboard:
- 8. ASUS TUF Laptop – Powered by AMD Components:
- 9. MSI GL63 – Best Laptop for the Money:
- 10. Lenovo IdeaPad L340 – With 9th Gen. Processor:
- Buying Guide: Things to Consider Before Purchasing an AutoCad Laptop in 2022:
- Frequently Asked Questions:
Top 10 Best Laptops for AutoCAD and 3D Modeling Apps:
# | Laptop Name | Processor | RAM | Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
1. | Acer Predator Helios 300 | Core i7, 9th Gen. | 16GB DDR4 | |
2. | Apple MacBook Air | Core i5, 10th Gen. | 8GB DDR4 | |
3. | ASUS VivoBook 15 | AMD Ryzen 5 | 8GB DDR4 | |
4. | Apple MacBook Pro | Core i5, 8th Gen. | 8GB DDR4 | |
5. | HP Envy | Core i7, 8th Gen. | 16GB DDR4 | |
6. | ASUS VivoBook F510UA-AH55 | Core i5, 8th Gen. | 8GB DDR4 | |
7. | Acer Nitro 5 | AMD Ryzen 5 | 8GB DDR4 | |
8. | ASUS TUF Laptop | AMD Ryzen 5 | 8GB DDR4 | |
9. | MSI GL63 | Core i7, 8th Gen. | 8GB DDR4 | |
10. | Lenovo IdeaPad L340 | Core i5, 9th Gen. | 8GB DDR4 |
1. Acer Predator Helios 300 – Best Laptop for AutoCAD 2022:
Acer Predator Helios 300 tops our list for being the best laptop on the market that can be utilized for running a number of applications. As a matter of fact, Acer has done a pretty good job in introducing a beast like Helios 300 that is overcrowded with multiple qualities. As far as the first expressions are concerned, the laptop is pretty smooth and sleek. Besides, it’s compact and portable enough to be maneuvered around from one place to another. One thing that I liked the most regarding Acer gaming laptop is that it offers complete value to the user. That is, I’ve tried extremely heavy and memory consuming apps on it and it has never disappointed me up till now.
Coming towards some main features that you need to know, the brand new Predator Helios has been backed by a powerful 9th gen. core i7 processor. This processor can easily run softwares like Adobe Photoshop or AutoCAD within a blink of an eye.
Besides, with a dedicated 6GB VRAM offered by Nvidia GTX 1660 Ti, it’s extremely easy to complete different rendering tasks. The machine utilizes the GPU to its fullest and helps to load the graphics smoothly.
Talking of the RAM, the best Acer laptop for AutoCAD comes with a 16GB DDR4 RAM running at 2666 MHz. With this much speed and memory, running heavy applications is just like eating a hot piece of cake for this laptop.
At last, what matters the most regarding this computing machine is that it comes with a 144 Hz display. Besides, the ergonomics are really appreciable as the laptop comes with an RGB backlit keyboard along with a sophisticated touchpad.
- Powerful core i7 processor.
- Perfect for running AutoCAD.
- Nvidia GTX 1660 Ti for smooth graphics.
- Compact and portable body.
- Backlit keyboard with 144 Hz display.
- 512GB SSD offers ample storage.
- Heating issues might be common.
- Cooling fans make irritating noise.
- A bit expensive.
Final Views:
One of the reasons I’ve listed Acer Predator Helios 300 on the top of my list is that it offers a complete package from every perspective. Go for it if you need to run heavy applications such as AutoCAD or Adobe Premiere Pro with a single click.
2. Apple MacBook Air – Best Portable and Lightweight Laptop for AutoCAD:
No one can beat the class and elegancy of Apple when it comes to discussing the portable computing machines i.e. laptops for AutoCAD and Civil 3D. Having said that, Apple has introduced a laptop that is breaking all popularity records and is getting extremely famous among the tech geeks. Talking of the design which is elegant, slim, and sleek at the same time. Besides, the laptop is extremely lightweight and this is why it gets an edge over best gaming laptops under 1000. As for the price, you already know that to enjoy the luxuries of Apple, you have to pay a good amount of money. But let me tell you that Apple MacBook Air will barely cost you around 1300 bucks which is nothing considering the qualities it has got.
Coming towards some prestigious features of the laptop, it offers a wide 13.3″ Retina display combined with True Tone technology. The display is smooth and full of colors at the same time.
The backing of an advanced core i5, 10th Gen. processor makes it easier for the laptop to run Civil 3D, AutoCAD, or Adobe softwares within a blink of an eye.
Besides, what intrigued me the most regarding Macbook Air is that it comes with a Magic Backlit keyboard along with a Touch ID configuration. In short, you can easily put your trust in this laptop and it won’t disappoint you at all.
Lastly, the presence of an 8GB DDR4 ram is sufficient enough to run heavy applications without any hassle. Besides, Intel Iris graphics also play its part to ensure a smooth designing experience.
- Retina display with True Tone technology.
- Elegant, thin, and sleek design.
- Easy to handle.
- Powerful core i5 processor.
- 8GB DDR4 memory runs AutoCAD smoothly.
- Perfect for people who are always on the move.
- A bit expensive.
- Frequent updates might irritate you.
Final Views:
Apple MacBook Air is hands down, one of the top-notch laptops for running heavy programs and softwares. I’d suggest you to consider it if you are in the need of a powerful portable computing machine with exceptional display and performance.
3. ASUS VivoBook 15 – Best Budget Laptop for AutoCAD:
Apologies if I already scared you with the two beast laptops above. Now is the time to pay heed towards the need of people who have a limited budget range. For that purpose, I’ve kept Asus VivoBook 15 at third position as it offers many qualities at a reasonable rate. Besides, what I liked the most about this laptop is that it has a similar design to that of Apple laptops. Slick, slim, sleek, and elegant is what I called it upon my first expressions. On the other hand, the best laptop for AutoCAD will cost you no more than 600 bucks. So, it’s already a bargain for you especially if you can’t spend a hefty amount on other computing machines.
Heading towards some important features, Asus laptop has been powered by AMD Ryzen 5 processor. One thing is pretty much sure that the processor won’t disappoint you even if you are doing multitasking with it.
Contrary to that, the display of Asus VivoBook 15 is simply top-notch. The 15.6″ full bezel-less display along with anti-glare technology will allow you to see better graphics without any worries.
Talking of the GPU, one of the best laptops for AutoCAD comes with Radeon Vega 8 graphics card. With dedicated VRAM, it is thus easier for the laptop to finish all rendering tasks with ease and convenience.
Last but not the least, Asus laptop has got an 8GB DDR4 memory to speed up all task processes within a short time. In addition, the presence of an ergonomic backlit keyboard will help you to stay away from fatigue while you are indulged in making different 3D designs.
- Thin and elegant shape.
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor.
- Updated graphics card decrease rendering time.
- Perfect for people with a limited budget.
- Ample amount of storage available.
- 8GB DDR4 random access memory.
- Overheating issues are common.
- Use the laptop with a cooling pad for better interface.
Final Views:
One of the best laptops for AutoCAD from Asus is available at an extremely affordable rate. So, what are you waiting for? Go get it as soon as possible or it will run out of stock immediately.
4. Apple MacBook Pro – Best Laptop for AutoCAD and Revit:
For professional architects, designers, and structural engineers, Apple Macbook Pro works as a leverage for them and I’m not kidding at all. I’ve used this sleek, and elegant beast from Apple for multiple real-world designs and to be honest, it didn’t lag or jammed even once throughout my work experience. Besides, the security that this laptop offers is up to the mark. I mean I never had any privacy or security breaches concerns whenever I used this laptop. Well, one thing that will discourage you to get this laptop is its hefty price tag. You shouldn’t be thinking about it even with a 1000 dollar budget.
Well, enough of the TED talk, coming towards the main features, MacBook Pro features an 8th gen. core i5 processor. It runs at around 2.6 GHz and will help you to run different applications at once.
Retina display with True Tone Technology is the trademark display of Apple. Making designs while looking at the screen of MacBook Pro was literally the most soothing experience for me.
Talking of the storage space, the best laptop for revit comes with a 256GB SSD that can easily store a good amount of data. At last, the presence of 8GB DDR4 ram is more than enough to do multitasking without facing any problem.
- Retina display is simply exceptional.
- Smooth, sleek, and slim design.
- 256GB SSD for storing multiple projects.
- Intel Iris Graphics for better rendering process.
- Keeps your data protected from security breaches.
- Expensive price tag.
- Not recommended for beginners.
- Battery may drain fast.
Final Views:
Apple MacBook Pro had left me speechless when I utilized it for AutoCAD and Revit for the first time. I’d like you to consider it especially if you are aiming for a long-term replacement.
5. HP Envy – Best HP Laptop for AutoCAD:
It’s simply impossible to keep a brand as famous and as popular as HP away when it comes to running heavy software’s related to 3D modeling. I’d like you to take a look at HP Envy in this regard that has been loaded with top-notch components to ensure a beast performance. Other than that, it comes with a justified price tag of only around 1000 bucks. In short, it’s a perfect option to choose especially if you are an AutoCAD professional.
Coming towards the main specs, this awesome laptop comes with a large 17.3″ full HD display. So, this display offers discrete details of different designs you are working on.
On the other hand, what I liked the most regarding one of the best laptops for AutoCAD is that it comes with a 1TB of storage space. Believe me, it’s more than enough even if you are storing some heavy design projects on it.
Last but not the least, HP laptop for AutoCAD has been backed by a 16GB DDR4 memory. The laptop utilizes this memory quite efficiently and thus offers a perfect multitasking experience at the same time.
- Extremely powerful processor.
- Ample amount of random access memory.
- Long-lasting battery.
- Perfect for running 3D modeling apps.
- Justified price tag.
- Overheating issues are common.
- Design is not that classy.
Final Views:
HP Envy is regarded as one of the best laptops for AutoCAD and other 3D modeling apps. It is available within a justified price tag of around 1000 dollars. So, better get it before it runs out of stock.
6. ASUS VivoBook F510UA-AH55 – Thinnest Laptop for AutoCAD:
Well, I’m very well aware of the fact that delivering a laptop with a promising design is an art Apple has mastered. However, Asus is now getting extremely famous for introducing some of the thinnest and slimmest laptops within an affordable budget. So, if you are not into MAC OS or are low on budget, you can easily consider getting Asus VivoBook F510UA-AH55. It’s one of the best portable laptops available at a reasonable rate and that’s a fact even I can’t deny.
First things first, one of the best budget laptops for AutoCAD is equipped with a 15.6 WideView display. The screen offers a full pixilated display and helps you to see discrete details of different projects.
The backing of a powerful core i5, 8th Gen. processor enhances the overall working performance. Apps like AutoCAD, Revit, or Adobe Photoshop literally takes less than a minute to start.
One last thing you need to know about this laptop is that it has got an 8GB DDR4 memory along with 128GB SSD. The combination of SSD and DDR4 RAM speeds up all the tasks without any hassle.
- WideView, full HD screen.
- Thinnest laptop for AutoCAD.
- Lightweight body.
- 8GB DDR4 ram with 128GB SSD.
- Affordable price tag.
- Charging issues might be common.
- No other major issues.
Final Views:
Asus has made everyone its fan with the introduction of the thinnest AutoCAD laptop in the market. I’d surely go for it especially if I needed a portable computing machine with some beast qualities.
7. Acer Nitro 5 – With Backlit Keyboard:
The next laptop on our list comes from Acer which is a popular gaming brand is famous for producing some of the best gaming computing machines. In this regard, Nitro 5 comes in with all relevant features that an artist needs to ensure a better app running interface. That being said, this laptop is also an affordable one and will cost around 600 bucks only. So, it’s a perfect opportunity to get it before the brand decides to elevate its price yet again.
Talking of the processor, Nitro 5 has been backed by Ryzen 5 which is extremely efficient especially when it comes to running applications like AutoCAD or Revit.
On the other hand, the presence of AMD RX560X graphics makes the rendering quick and convenient. The graphics also offer a smooth app running interface.
With the presence of a backlit keyboard, a slim and sleek design, an 8GB DDR4 memory along with a 256 GB SSD, it’s one of the best laptops for AutoCAD in 2022.
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- An affordable machine for running AutoCAD.
- Slim and sleek body.
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor.
- Perfect for long-term use.
- Backlit keyboard with a full HD display.
- Overheating issues are common.
- Battery drains fast.
Final Views:
Nitro 5 is the ultimate beast when it comes to multitasking and running heavy applications. Better go for it especially if you are suffering from limited budget issues.
8. ASUS TUF Laptop – Powered by AMD Components:
It would be fair to say that TUF by ASUS is by far the best laptop if you take versatility into perspective. I mean there is nothing this laptop can’t do. You can run heavy applications like AutoCAD and Revit on it. You can play games on it or you can utilize this laptop as a graphic designer and it won’t let you down at all. Besides, what surprised me the most regarding this laptop is that it’s also available at a justified price tag. It’s a complete bargain for those who want to enjoy an endless gaming or multitasking experience at the same time.
One of the best laptops for AutoCAD, first of all, comes with AMD Ryzen 5 processor which is famous for providing ample speed to the laptop to run multiple heavy softwares at once.
Additionally, the presence of RX560X graphics card turns the tables around with a beast level gaming experience. It also finishes all the rendering projects within a short time.
In the end, a 15″ full HD display with a 60 Hz refresh rate is nothing more than a blessing in disguise for gaming maniacs and hardcore designers.
- Powerful AMD Ryzen processor.
- RX560 graphics card improves user interface.
- Backlit keyboard.
- Full HD 60 Hz display.
- Justified price tag.
- Smooth, compact, and portable.
- Overheating might cause problems.
- Noisy fans.
Final Views:
TUF by ASUS is indeed an overpowered computing machine with top-notch specs and an affordable price at the same time. Better get it before it’s too late.
9. MSI GL63 – Best Laptop for the Money:
MSI was the manufacturer that claimed the throne of, “Best Gaming Brand Award 2018” with some top-notch computing machines. In this regard, what I liked the most in its newest laptop i.e. GL63 is that it is a perfect option to run heavy programs and softwares without any problems. Besides, the gaming laptop also offers a whole new level of utilizing all resources to design complex 3D structures in a single go. That’s one of the reasons MSI is regarded as one of the best laptop brands even in 2022.
First things first, MSI gaming laptop has been equipped by a strong and efficient core i7, 8th gen. processor to fasten the overall speed, thus resulting in a better app running interface.
On the other hand, Nvidia GTX 1650 graphics card is also installed within the laptop. Hence, the overall rendering and design making experience becomes quite smooth and lenient.
Lastly, I really liked the overall design of this laptop as it gives an aesthetic look with a backlit keyboard along with a sleek body. That was one of the reasons I chose this laptop for my future tenures.
- Sleek and slim body with backlit keyboard.
- Core i7, 8th generation processor.
- Justified price tag.
- 8GB DDR4 memory.
- Battery drains fast.
- A bit weighty.
Final Views:
MSI GL63 should be a top priority for you especially if you are a professional designer or architect who wants to utilize multiple applications at once without any hassle.
10. Lenovo IdeaPad L340 – With 9th Gen. Processor:
We’ll be wrapping our guide on the best laptops for AutoCAD with one last addition from Lenovo. IdeaPad L340 is a beast when it comes to providing optimal performance without any hassle. Besides, it has got an elegant shape and that’s the main reason I keep it in high regard.
The laptop has been powered by an updated core i5, 9th gen. processor to ensure fast and quick surfing as well as app running experience.
The presence of Nvidia GTX 1650 graphics card also makes it easier for the laptop to finish rendering projects within a short time. Besides, it also improves the smoothness of heavy applications.
- Slim and sleek body.
- Blue backlit keyboard.
- Justified price tag.
- 8GB DDR4 memory.
- Powerful processor with an updated graphics card.
- Customer support is unresponsive.
- No other major issues.
Final Views:
Check out the latest Lenovo laptop if you want to utilize multiple 3D modeling apps at once without facing any lag or jamming issue.
Top 3 Recommendations:
Being a tech geek, I’ve had the experience of using almost every laptop that I’ve listed above. So, based on my experience, the top 3 picks are as follows:
- Apple MacBook Air if you need a powerful machine with a sleek and slim design.
- Acer Predator Helios 300 as it’s the best laptop for AutoCAD.
- ASUS VivoBook 15 if you have a limited budget range.
Buying Guide: Things to Consider Before Purchasing an AutoCad Laptop in 2022:
When it comes to running heavy applications like AutoCad, you simply can’t rely on cheap workstations. That is, the laptop you need for AutoCad must have an efficient CPU, GPU, random access memory, and enough storage. How are you going to judge whether a laptop could fit your requirements of running AutoCad smoothly or not?
Don’t worry! This section is going to guide you to the right path of choosing a perfect AutoCad laptop. Sit tight! Give this section a thorough read and you’ll have enough knowledge to make a wise decision.
Take a look:
CPU (Central Processing Unit):
CPU, commonly called a processor plays a pivotal role in improving the overall speed of a laptop. That said, the first thing you should consider in an AutoCad laptop has to be a powerful and fast processor.
Both Intel and AMD offer processors that could handle heavy applications. In terms of Intel, you should aim for a laptop with a Core i7, 9th gen. or a core i5, 10th gen. processor. Anything below this will keep your laptop stuck and jammed.
On the contrary, the AMD Ryzen series, i.e. Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 7 could meet the demand of running applications like AutoCad without any hassle. Keep those processor entities in mind the next time you are about to purchase an AutoCad laptop.
Graphics Card:
A good graphics card enhances the overall rendering speed of any heavy-duty project or task. That said, if combined with a powerful processor, a good GPU could help you minimize the extra rendering time quite well.
Cutting right to the chase, in terms of graphics card, the laptop you choose should have an Nvidia GTX or AMD Radeon graphics interface.
If you check the list I’ve mentioned above, most of the laptops there have either Nvidia GTX 1660Ti or AMD Radeon Vega 8 graphics card. So, keep this option in mind before you decide to purchase an AutoCad laptop in 2022.
RAM:
RAM or random access memory increases multitasking interface of a laptop. Furthermore, it gives a boost to overall rendering speed and helps both processor and GPU to perform ideally.
If you want to enjoy hassle-free AutoCad without any jamming or hanging issues, then you need to get yourself a laptop with at least 8GB DDR4 memory.
Although I recommend a powerful work machine with 16GB ram, 8GB would also do the wonders for you and you’d find such a laptop at an affordable rate too.
Storage:
Storage does matter as you’d be saving a lot of stuff related to the AutoCad. Along with that, you’d also require saving movies, songs, and TV serials, etc. as you won’t be working on AutoCad only.
In this aspect, I suggest you get a laptop with 512GB SSD at least. You could also try a combo of SSD and HDD as it works out for the best especially for heavy-duty tasks and for extra storage options.
You can also learn more about mastering AutoCAD guide here.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Which is the best laptop for AutoCad?
I’d choose Acer Predator Helios 300 laptop any day, especially if I have to run heavy applications such as AutoCad or Adobe, etc. The laptop features a powerful core i7 processor, Nvidia GTX 1660Ti graphics card, and offers a 144Hz full HD display at the same time. Other extras include a backlit keyboard, Nvidia G-Sync, and dual cooling fans. With such cool specs and features, Acer Predator Helios 300 would be an ideal choice for AutoCad.
2. Is MacBook Air good for AutoCad?
Yeah, it’s a compact and lightweight work machine that features an AMD Ryzen 5 processor along with a 13.3” Retina display. The integrated Intel graphics could also improve its rendering speed. Plus, it’s got the backing of 8GB DDR4 ram as well. Considering these specs, I must say that it’s a powerful yet compact and portable laptop option for AutoCad.
3. How much RAM do I need for AutoCad?
8GB DDR4 is the minimum requirement to run AutoCad without any hurdle. However, if you get a laptop with 16GB DDR4 memory, then it would be icing on the cake as such a machine would never get stuck and could improve all AutoCad related tasks’ speed without any issues.
Wrapping Things Up:
Well, that would be all from me regarding the best laptops for AutoCAD. Make sure that you make a wise decision by going through each review thoroughly. Better go for sophistication as you’d need a compact and portable machine for future business meetings.
Don’t forget to ask any questions you have in mind. I’d get back to all your queries as soon as possible.
Good Luck!!
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