Best Laptops for SolidWorks – 2024’s Ultimate Picks

SolidWorks is an advanced Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software that requires a powerful computing system with demanding performance and graphics capabilities.

Designing complex 3D models, simulations and renderings requires a system that comes with graphic and performance-intensive capabilities.

Hence, whether you are a designer, architect, engineer, or student, if you are using this software or aiming to learn it, you will need the best laptop for SolidWorks in 2024.

Choosing the right laptop can make all the difference. You will need to find a perfect combination of high processing power, immense graphic capability, lightning-fast RAM and storage, and exceptional display capabilities.

To help you out, I have tested and reviewed some of the best available options in the market that are capable of handling SolidWorks’ demanding requirements.

These laptops are perfectly capable of handling everything, from complex assemblies to rendering photorealistic designs. I have also taken into account other factors that can significantly enhance your workflow and productivity.

Unlock your true design potential with a laptop that perfectly caters to your specific needs and budget. Find it in our ultimate guide below.

Top 10 Best Laptops for SolidWorks Reviewed in 2024

Here’s a quick look at our top recommendations for SolidWorks in 2024.

Due to their immense capabilities, these laptops are also suitable for other applications. If you are looking for a specific device for AutoCAD, perhaps you should consider looking at our list of best laptops for AutoCAD.

Now, without wasting any more time, let’s dive into our detailed guide to these amazing laptops that have been handpicked for you.

1. Acer Aspire 5 – Best Budget Laptop for SolidWorks

It is true that SolidWorks is a demanding software that requires high-end specs, but that doesn’t mean you cannot run it on a low-budget laptop.

If you are a student, just learning the software, or are restricted by a low budget for the time being, you can still run SolidWorks on Acer Aspire 5.

You won’t be able to use the advanced features, but you can download an older version of the software for smooth operation.

Don’t underestimate the performance of this laptop just because of its low price. The laptop is powered by an AMD Ryzen 3 3200U processor, Radeon Powered Vega 3 graphics, 4 GB DDR4 RAM, and 128 GB SSD storage.

With these specs, you are able to run the basic functions of SolidWorks and can learn the foundations of designing and architecture.

Adding to this, the laptop comes with a 15.6-inch Full-HD IPS display that provides you with vibrant and crisp visuals, making it one of the best affordable laptops for SolidWorks.

It comes with multiple ports and some of the latest connectivity options. However, you will not find USB Type-C, which is a bit of a downside.

Moreover, the device comes in a compact and lightweight design which allows you to keep your performance and productivity on the go. It is perfect for students and comes with various other features as well.

Final Remarks

For users who have a low budget but don’t want to compromise on performance, the Acer Aspire 5 is the perfect choice. The laptop comes with reliable specs and satisfactory performance features.

 

2. Acer Nitro 5 – Best Acer Laptop for SolidWorks

Coming to some of the more powerful laptops that can fully harness the true potential of SolidWorks and expand your creativity options, the Acer Nitro 5 is a good option.

This is one of the best gaming laptops for SolidWorks that comes with a wide range of attractive features and is ideal for passionate gamers who want a career in design and architecture.

The laptop is powered by a 12^th Gen Core i5 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Titan graphics, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB Gen 4 SSD storage – specs that are perfect for running SolidWorks and other CAD software.

The multi-core and multi-threaded processor provides you with exceptional performance and combined with 4 GB of dedicated VRAM, the laptop is perfectly capable of handling graphic-intensive needs.

Adding to this, the laptop provides you with a Full-HD IPS display of 15.6 Inch size that comes with a rapid refresh rate. So, not only you will have incredibly sharp visuals for artistic work but also tear-free graphics for gaming.

One of the best features of Acer Nitro 5 is the upgradability. The laptop comes with plenty of room for expansion, including an additional RAM slot and 2 additional storage expansion slots, also making it one of the best laptops for Revit.

Moreover, the laptop also features the fastest and latest killer connectivity options including Killer Ethernet 2600 and Killer Wi-Fi AX1650, providing you a seamless and uninterrupted connectivity.

Additionally, the laptop features advanced cooling technology and thermal management, which keeps the laptop cool even during intense performance.

Final Remarks

A high-end option that comes for a comparatively reasonable price and is perfectly suited for SolidWorks and other CAD-related software. With plenty of room for further expansion, you have limitless performance potential.

 

3. ASUS ROG Strix G16 – Best ASUS Laptop for SolidWorks

For high-end graphics and peak performance needs, you will require a laptop that can handle the most demanding tasks. Rarely does a laptop come close to ASUS ROG Strix G16 in this aspect.

This laptop comes with maxed-out specs and provides you with the fastest processing speed and ultra-powerful computing potential.

It is powered by a 13^th Gen Core i7 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 graphics, 32 GB DDR5 RAM, and 1 TB Gen 4 SSD storage – specs that can handle the most complex designs and rendering in SolidWorks.

The 13^th Gen processor provides peak performance with 14 cores and 20 threads, designed to provide snappy and lightning-fast performance, making it a top contender for the best laptop for SolidWorks.

Combined with the latest RTX-powered GPU that features 8 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, you have enormous graphics potential that can handle even the most intense modeling, editing, design, and rendering work.

Adding to this, the laptop comes with ultra-high bandwidth RAM that belongs to the latest DDR5 generation and features 4800MHz clock speed to provide the most efficient multitasking experience

Hence, no matter how many applications or tabs you are running at the same time, the laptop won’t slow down or crash.

Moreover, with a massive 1 TB SSD storage, the laptop ensures you can store all your projects safely, access them much faster, and get rapid data transfer speeds.

Additionally, the laptop comes with the latest Windows 11 Pro interface, providing you with the latest features and most advanced functionality.

Final Remarks

ASUS ROG Strix G16 is definitely a top-rated and extremely powerful laptop that is designed for the most intense performance. Although a little expensive, the laptop fully justifies the price with its extreme performance capabilities.

 

4. MSI Stealth 15M – Best MSI Laptop for SolidWorks

The only problem with powerful gaming laptops is that they come in heavy and bulky designs which often makes them unsuitable for people who are always on the move.

So, if you constantly travel and need a compact and lightweight laptop without compromising on computing power or graphics potential, then MSI Stealth 15M is a worthy option to consider.

The laptop is powered by an Intel Core i7 11^th Generation processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage – specs that fully satisfy the criteria for the most advanced application of SolidWorks.

You can run the latest version of the application on this laptop along with all the specialized toolsets smoothly, also making it one of the best laptops for Artists.

The laptop comes with a Full-HD IPS display that provides you with high-end resolution and true-to-life colors. Experience incredible contrast and unmatchable clarity that is perfect for architects and engineers working with CAD software.

Adding to this, the laptop comes in an ultra-portable yet powerful design. The slim profile and compact design allow you to always keep the performance on the move and work from anywhere you want.

Moreover, with advanced MSI Cooler Boost technology, the laptop is able to efficiently manage the temperature even during intense performance. It also comes with versatile connectivity options and features the latest Wi-Fi 6 and Thunderbolt connectivity.

Final Remarks

MSI Stealth 15M stands tall as one of the best portable laptops for SolidWorks that comes with immense power and ultimate performance capabilities. With high-end specs and advanced display features, it is an ideal laptop for artists and architects.

 

5. Microsoft Surface Book 3 – Best Touchscreen Laptop for SolidWorks

Speaking of portability, when you are looking for it on the extreme side, nothing can beat the new Microsoft Surface Book 3.

It is an ultra-portable laptop that comes with a detachable keyboard and provides you with tons of advanced features.

The laptop is powered by a 10^th Gen Core i7 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU, 32 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage – specs that perfectly meet the recommended requirements for SolidWorks.

All the specs are packed in the tablet design, which means even when you have detached the keyboard, you can still use all the features and performance capabilities of the laptop.

You will be surprised to know that this laptop is almost 50% more powerful and faster than the Surface Book 2, which really speaks for its true potential.

Because of the detachable design, you also have the possibility of using the laptop in various modes making it one of the best versatile laptops for SolidWorks.

It comes in a compact and lightweight design. You can just take the tablet with you anywhere you go and keep working. The touchscreen functionality also enhances your creative possibilities.

If you purchase the accessories along with the laptop, like a touch pen and dial, you will be able to unleash the true creative potential of this laptop.

Moreover, the laptop comes with a long-lasting battery life that lasts up to 15.5 hours, which really adds to the overall portability.

Final Remarks

One of the most portable laptops on the list that comes with a detachable keyboard and is perfect for users who are always on the move. With its powerful specs and highly portable design, it also makes a top contender for the best laptops for SolidWorks.

 

6. Lenovo ThinkPad E15 – Best Business Laptop for SolidWorks

Coming back to some more affordable options, the Lenovo ThinkPad E15 from 2020 is considered a top-rated pick.

This laptop comes with reliable specs for SolidWorks and is considered one of the top professional laptops that is ideal for users who work in an office. With its classic and sleek design, the laptop perfectly matches the office vibe.

It is powered by a 10^th Gen Core i5 processor, Intel Ultra-HD 620 integrated graphics, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage – specs that meet the requirements for SolidWorks and provide a satisfactory performance.

The laptop comes with a full-HD display that provides incredible resolution and details, perfect for both work and entertainment.

The processor features 4 high-performance cores and 8 threads, with the processing speed maxed at 4.2. Hence, while using the demanding applications, the laptop is sure to meet their needs, making it one of the best professional laptops for SolidWorks.

Adding to this, the laptop comes with high-bandwidth RAM and satisfactory storage capacity, both of which can be upgraded in the future to further enhance the performance of this laptop.

Moreover, the laptop provides you with extensive connectivity options featuring a USB Type C port with both Thunderbolt and DisplayPort support, and multiple other ports as well.

While the laptop might not meet most intense graphical requirements, it is still a good laptop for your average needs as a SolidWorks user or learner.

Final Remarks

A professional-grade business laptop that is designed for office workers. The laptop is perfectly capable of running SolidWorks smoothly and will provide satisfactory performance for the average needs of a user.

 

7. Dell XPS 15 – Best Dell Laptop for SolidWorks

One of my personal favorites, in terms of both design and performance, is the Dell XPS 15. A top-rated and top-performing laptop that often makes it to the top list because of its versatile capabilities.

The XPS series is truly exceptional because it provides immense power and performance capabilities but with a professional style.

The laptop is powered by a 10^th Gen Core i7 processor, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage – specs that make it an attractive choice for engineers, designers, and architects.

One of the truly exceptional features of this laptop is the display. The laptop comes with a 15.6 Inch Full-HD plus display, that offers higher resolution than an FHD one. Also, it features Infinity Edge bezels for maximized visuals and provides 500nits of brightness.

With such extreme brightness capabilities, you will be able to experience incredible contrast and unmatchable clarity, even while working outdoors.

Adding to this, the GeForce Titan GPU features 4 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, which provides you with immense graphic potential that is capable of handling the demanding visual needs of CAD applications making it one of the best laptops for SolidWorks.

Moreover, the laptop supports a 4K+ external display and also features other advanced display technologies like Dolby Vision and Display HDR400. The display covers 100% of Adobe RGB and 93% of the DCI-P3 color gamut.

Final Remarks

Due to its powerful specs and advanced display capabilities, the laptop is considered an ideal choice for SolidWorks and other similar applications. Its masterful design is exceptional on its own, providing you perfect blend of style and performance.

 

8. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio – Best 2-in-1 Laptop for SolidWorks

Another Microsoft laptop that totally steals away the light from all modern laptops in terms of portability and style is the Microsoft Surface Studio.

The laptop is ideal for artists and designers who are seeking limitless creative potential with freedom of both touch and type.

It is powered by an 11^th Gen Core i7 processor, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Titan graphics, 32 GB DDR4 RAM, and 1 TB SSD storage – specs that can be considered the best laptop specs for SolidWorks.

The Surface Studio is considered the most powerful Surface laptop that features an H-series processor which is perfectly capable of handling CAD software even during most intense performance.

With RTX-powered graphics in a compact and lightweight body, the laptop provides you with immense graphical potential and limitless creative possibilities in a detachable tablet design.

Adding to this, the laptop comes with one of the most accurate and advanced multi-touch enabled Pixel displays that provide the most true-to-life colors and are exceptional in both clarity and resolution. The display also provides you with a higher refresh rate.

Moreover, with a Surface Pen, the Slim 2 version that is designed specifically for the Studio series, you will be able to draw directly on the screen and take your creativity to a whole new level.

Although the laptop is not fully detachable, you can turn it into studio mode like never before. While other laptops flip to the back side, leaving the keyboard exposed on the back, this one turns into a studio conversing with the keyboard.

Final Remarks

With a stunningly innovative design and unlimited creative potential, the laptop is an ideal choice for artists and engineers who are seeking the best laptop for SolidWorks.

 

9. Lenovo ThinkPad P16s Gen 1 – Best Lenovo Laptop for SolidWorks

For engineers and architects, who want to work to their fullest and are looking for ideal laptops that could replace their desktops, Lenovo’s workstations are worthy options.

These workstations are designed to provide the most advanced performance to the users, featuring powerful high-end specs and advanced capabilities. Lenovo ThinkPad P16s Gen 1 is one such option that stands on the top.

It is equipped with a 12^th Gen Core i7 processor that features 12 high-performance cores and 16 threads, providing you with immense computing power for even the most demanding software needs.

Combined with NVIDIA T550 GPU that features 4 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, you have access to truly professional graphics, not designed for games but for professional applications.

This combo of integrated and dedicated graphics makes this laptop ideal not only for SolidWorks but also a strong contender for the best laptops for Blender and other designing applications.

Adding to this, the laptop comes with 32 GB high-bandwidth RAM and enormous 1 TB SSD storage, providing you both the speed and efficiency you need for the most intense and demanding work.

Moreover, with a 16-inch display size and WUXGA resolution, the laptop provides you with incredible clarity and detail. It is also packed with other professional features like an HD webcam, advanced fingerprint security, and a backlit keyboard.

Final Remarks

One of the top-rated Lenovo workstations that comes with powerful computing potential and ultimate functionality, perfectly suited for the professional needs of engineers and architects using CAD software like SolidWorks.

 

10. Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 6 – Best Workstation Laptop for SolidWorks

If you are looking for an even more powerful workstation, the Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 6 workstation laptop comes with higher specs and even higher performance capabilities.

It is considered one of the most powerful workstation laptops in the world and is designed for professional-grade intensive performance needs.

The laptop is powered by a 13^th Gen Core i7 processor, NVIDIA RTX A1000 graphics, 32 GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 1 TB Gen 4 SSD storage – specs that can handle even the most advanced and complex tasks.

With a powerful multi-core and multi-threaded processor, the processing speed on each performance core reaches 5.0 GHz during the use of demanding software.

Adding to this, the RTX A1000 is a high-end professional-grade GPU that features 6 GB of GDDR6 VRAM, perfect for graphics-intensive needs of advanced CAD software like SolidWorks.

Moreover, the laptop comes with a 16 Inch Wide UXGA display providing you with higher resolution, better clarity, and extreme-level display capabilities, making it one of the best 16 Inch laptops for SolidWorks.

One of the most distinguishing features is the ultra-high bandwidth RAM that features 5600 MHz clock speed, providing you with the fastest multitasking and instantaneous application loading.

Furthermore, with a massive and fastest Gen 4 storage, the data transfer speeds are much faster and the laptop operates much more smoothly.

Additionally, the laptop also comes with the latest and most advanced connectivity options, features a 1080p webcam with Infra-Red technology for FACE ID and privacy shitter, and also features a fingerprint reader for advanced security.

Final Remarks

One of the most powerful laptops on the list that comes with extreme performance capabilities and most high-end specs. Suitable for the demanding needs of professional architects, designers, and engineers who use the SolidWorks software.

 

How to Select the Best Laptop for SolidWorks in 2024: Buyer’s Guide

Selecting the best laptop for SolidWorks can be a difficult and challenging task, but with the right information, the process can be a piece of cake.

So, to help you out, I have crafted this unique guide that discusses some of the most important aspects that are decisive in the choice of the right laptop.

You must consider these factors before you choose your best laptop for SolidWorks. Let’s get right to it:

Core Power

The very first thing that you must consider and invest most of your budget in is the core power aka the CPU and GPU. It will be the foundation of the overall performance and capabilities of the system.

To run the most advanced version of SolidWorks with all the specialized toolsets, you will need at least a 10^th Gen Core i7 or its AMD equivalent. Higher can be considered better if you are after an advanced design that requires more power.

A multi-core processor provides you with much higher efficiency that will allow you to work consistently without the laptop slowing down or crashing in between a project.

Adding to the processor, the GPU also plays a crucial role, especially with all the rendering and designing work involved.

Integrated GPU is a No-No for SolidWorks. You have to invest in a dedicated GPU. The NVIDIA GTX 1650 provides satisfactory performance but if your budget permits, I highly recommend that you go with an RTX GPU.

Performance Components

Next comes the performance components, which are the RAM and storage. Now, if you have a good budget, I would recommend that you go with DDR5 RAM and PCIe Gen 4 storage.

However, for those who cannot afford the above the DDR4 RAM and M.2 or PCIe SSD can also suffice.

You must ensure that you have at least 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB SSD storage to meet the needs of SolidWorks and for storing its data safely in your laptop, that can be accessed faster.

You must keep in mind that SolidWorks is a demanding software. So, as you move to more advanced projects, you will need higher performance. The laptop must have room for upgradability for futureproofing.

Display & Resolution

Display is also a crucial aspect when looking for the best laptop for SolidWorks. You must find a laptop that comes with at least full HD resolution and supports higher resolution on external displays.

As for display size, it remains more of a personal preference, depending on your usage. I would not recommend going with anything lower than 14 inches, because you will be working on intricate designs that demand precision.

Portability & Compactness

The primary reason for choosing a laptop and not a desktop is the portability factor. So, you must not go with a bulky and heavy laptop that is always weighing you down.

With the advancement in technology, you no longer need to compromise on portability for performance. The modern-generation laptops come in a slim design without compromising on any of the performance aspects. So, choose wisely.

Connectivity & Other Features

Besides the above-discussed aspects, there are also plenty of other features that you should also pay attention to. You must choose a laptop that comes with various connectivity options since you will be connecting multiple devices and peripherals.

You will often have to connect with external displays for presentation or showcasing of your work, or when you are working with multiple monitors. You also might like to work with a keyboard and mouse when you are at home.

So, make sure that the laptop comes with the latest and most reliable connectivity options, both wired and wireless.

Budget Matters

Budget is one of the most crucial factors. If you are new to the software and have a low budget, don’t be disappointed. You can find plenty of affordable options that will run the SolidWorks software and allow you to start your work.

However, an advanced and high-end laptop is always considered a good investment. Especially, those who are going to make a career out of SolidWorks into design, architecture, or any of the related CAD fields.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What laptop should I get for SolidWorks?

It depends on various factors including your budget. If you are only looking for a laptop for professional performance, then I would recommend going with one of Lenovo’s workstations like the ThinkPad P1 Gen 6.

2. Is 16GB RAM enough for SolidWorks?

Yes, 16 GB RAM is considered sufficient for SolidWorks. However, if you are a professional who works with the most advanced designs and multiple layers, then a higher RAM would be more beneficial.

3. Which graphics card is best for SolidWorks?

SolidWorks is graphics-intensive, especially for 3D modeling and rendering work. So, you should go with RTX powered series that comes with advanced cores for high-end graphics performance.

4. Are gaming laptops good for SolidWorks?

Yes, some gaming laptops that come with high-end specs can be considered satisfactory for SolidWorks. The extreme performance capabilities and high-end features of these laptops make them a suitable choice for CAD-related software.

5. Is a touchscreen display necessary for SolidWorks?

It is not necessary. A touchscreen display surely enhances your creative possibilities but professionals often like to work with accuracy and with the trackpad or mouse, they have much higher accuracy. Not everyone has steady hands with surgical precision.

Wrapping Up!

Summing it all up, SolidWorks is an advanced CAD design software that is demanding in terms of performance. While you can run the basic functions with a budget-friendly laptop like Acer Aspire 5, you will need a powerful one to access advanced features.

If I were to recommend one, I would definitely ask you to go with either ASUS ROG Strix G16 or Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 6. If you are not into gaming, then the latter is a much more suitable choice, especially for performance needs.

The above guide provides you with everything you need to know about the best laptop for SolidWorks. Now, with all that information available, you are ready to make the decision. Good Luck!