Best Laptop for Solidwork

 

Whether you work on entry-level mechanical coursework or envision designs and prototype development of large-scale mechanical products, nothing beats SolidWorks. But, for optimal performance, you need a solid laptop too, right? Which is, of course, not easy to pick with a million options out there.

Well, not anymore. In this guide, we’ve shortlisted the top ten best laptops for SolidWorks, especially for you.

Here’s what we will cover today:

• System requirements for SolidWorks
• Best laptop to run SolidWorks reviewed
• FAQs about SolidWorks laptops
• Our verdict & recommendations

Minimu & Recommended System Requirements for SolidWorks

The minimum system requirements are listed, keeping the basic academic and 2D modeling requirements in mind. SolidWorks comes with several resources, and the system requirements are different for each. The recommended set of specifications is provided as the baseline for 3D modeling, simulations, and rendering.

	Minimum System Requirements	Recommended System Requirements

CPU	9th Gen Intel Core i5	8th Gen Intel Core i7 or better
RAM	8GB	16GB
Storage	256GB SSD	1TB SSD or Dual Storage
Display	15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)	15.6-inch IPS type FHD / UHD (1920 x 1080)
GPU	2GB NVIDIA GeForce MX150	2GB+ NVIDIA Quadro or 2GB+ AMD Radeon Pro
Battery	Up to 4 Hours	Up to 8 hours

10 Best Laptops for SolidWorks

NAME
	Razer Blade 15	CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 8GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Battery: Up to 6 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	HP ZBook Firefly 15	CPU: 1.8GHz Intel Core i7-10510U RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 4GB NVIDIA Quadro P520 Battery: Up to 14 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	MSI GS66	CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H RAM: 16GB Storage: 1TB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 8GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Battery: Up to 8 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Dell G3 15	CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Battery: Up to 6 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Acer Predator Helios 300	CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Battery: Up to 6 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	ASUS VivoBook Pro 16X	CPU: 3.3GHz AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX RAM: 32GB Storage: 1TB SSD Display: 16-inch 4K UHD IPS (3840 x 2400) GPU: 4GB NVidia GeForce‎ RTX 3050 Ti Battery: Up to 8 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Lenovo Legion 5	CPU: 3.2GHz AMD Ryzen 7 5800H RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Battery: Up to 8 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	ASUS TUF FX505	CPU: 2.3GHz AMD Ryzen 7 3750H RAM: 16GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Battery: Up to 4 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Lenovo IdeaPad L340	CPU: 2.4GHz Intel Core i5-9300H RAM: 8GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Battery: Up to 9 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON
	Acer Aspire 7	CPU: 2.1GHz AMD Ryzen 5 5500U RAM: 8GB Storage: 512GB SSD Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080) GPU: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Battery: Up to 10 hours	CHECK ON AMAZON

In the subsequent sections, we shall enlist 10 of the best laptops and workstations, which are precisely manufactured for handling tools and applications as demanding as SolidWorks. Our selections are restricted to heavy and pricey workstations or only high-end professional requirements.

We listed high-end models on the top, mid-range notebooks below, and budget laptops at the end. Even these budget models are relevant for basic drawing, part simulation, modeling, and rendering.

1. Best Laptop for SolidWorks and Gaming: Razer Blade 15

Razer Blade 15

• CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 8GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070
• Battery: Up to 6 hours

$1,616.99

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The new and improved Razer Blade 15 is a good choice if you are looking for a drawing and modeling-focused SolidWorks supported notebook that also doubles down as a high-end gaming laptop.

The 10th gen Intel Core i7-10750H processor with 5GHz of attainable turbo clock speed makes way for faster calculations. The 6 cores on this chipset are capable of Hyper-Threading and make sure you are at ease with the basic simulations. With this processor at the helm, you can also work on multi-sheet modeling and drawing without lags or hiccups.

The existing NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 GPU works in tandem with the processor and helps you handle larger assemblies and GPU-accelerated 3D rendering. Handling assemblies for more than 500 parts is possible courtesy of the CUDA cores and 8GB of VRAM. Besides that, the Max-Q layout and Turing architecture help improve the power efficiency.

The 16GB RAM might not sound like a lot but can still handle error-free assemblies with ease. The 512GB SSD storage unit is capable of rendering data faster than while quickly booting up the Windows 10 OS.

When it comes to the display, the 15.6-inch panel is extremely vibrant and boasts excellent visibility, especially if you are looking to view the renders with clarity. The Full HD Panel offers a cumulative display resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels while boasting slimmer bezels and the edge-to-edge structural attribute.

The renders, simulations, and 3D models look better with the 144Hz refresh rate which also helps improve the gaming experiences. So if you want a laptop to run SolidWorks and gaming, you won’t be disappointed with the visual experience.

Razer brings forth an excellent keyboard with Chroma Per-Key RGB backlit support, followed by a responsive touchpad, integrated speakers, and a functional webcam. This notebook weighs 4.63 pounds and features a host of functional ports, including USB 3.1, Thunderbolt 3, and more. The battery on display also offers a steady 6-hour backup.

This version of the Razer Blade 15 is an exceptional model under a $2,000 price point that supports SolidWorks and other advanced CAD and 3D modeling and rendering applications like AutoCad with ease.

PROS

• Powerful GPU featuring Turing Architecture
• Supports RAY Tracing and AI-Assisted Rendering
• Class-leading display
• Decent battery
• Sleek chassis

CONS

• Overheating issue
• Fan noise issue

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2. Best HP SolidWorks Laptop Under $2K: HP ZBook Firefly 15

HP ZBook Firefly 15

• CPU: 1.8GHz Intel Core i7-10510U
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 4GB NVIDIA Quadro P520
• Battery: Up to 14 hours

$1,840.00

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The HP ZBook Firefly 15 is a SolidWorks-approved laptop, and it will handle not only SolidWorks but also other demanding CAD-based software, such as AutoCAD. This device is a game-changer and brings forth a lot of computing prowess for enhanced professional productivity.

Powering this laptop is a standard Intel Core i7-10510U processor, capable of turbo clocking at a speed of up to 4.9GHz. The quad-core processor is capable of handling larger assemblies with ease. HP offers you access to the SolidWorks certified NVIDIA Quadro P520. The best thing about this GPU is that it offers OpenGL support and even makes way for Al-Enhanced 3D modeling, photo editing, Ray tracing, and other GPU-intensive tasks.

The 16GB RAM is plenty allowing you to handle simulation and rendering with ease. Even if there are more than 500 parts to work with when it comes to creating assemblies. The good 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage unit is one of the fastest on the market, allowing you to save and open larger assemblies with ease. In terms of OS, HP offers Windows 10 Pro edition, straight out of the box.

This HP model offers a 15.6-inch IPS screen, with a display resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The Full HD display features a narrow bezel, and Anti-Glare paneling, making way for great use even outside.

The custom backlit spill-resistant keyboard is a great productivity add-on, followed by a responsive touchpad and a brilliant speaker system. HP comes with a built-in command unit that dedicates processing steam based on requirements. You also get a handy webcam-microphone combo on this computer for Zoom meetings. And it even features an IR privacy camera for face authentication with Windows Hello.

HP ZBook Firefly 15 is a relatively lightweight workstation laptop tipping the scale at 5.5 pounds. The port arrangement is decent, with the company featuring one Thunderbolt 3, 1x USB Type-A 3.1 Gen1, an HDMI 1.4b, and other essential slots for improving functionality. The battery isn’t class-leading but still manages to churn out around 6.5 hours on moderate usage.

The HP ZBook Firefly 15 is a SolidWorks certified laptop, a great choice by mid-level SolidWorks experts.

PROS

• Exceptional processor with ECC memory
• Quadro GPU is workstation grade
• Handles Photorealistic rendering with ease
• Upgradeable RAM for bigger assemblies
• 2 Thunderbolt 3 ports

CONS

• Moderate battery life
• Expensive

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3. Best MSI Laptop for SolidWorks: MSI GS66

MSI GS66

• CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
• Battery: Up to 6 hours

$1,169.99

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There aren’t many better laptops on the market for CAD applications than the MSI GS66. Powered by a 10th gen processor and a high-end graphics card, this laptop is more than capable of handling anything you throw at it. If there were any Solidworks recommended laptops list, this one would’ve made it to the top.

Powering the device is the Intel Core i7-10750H chipset, capable of reaching maximum clock speeds of up to 5GHz. The processor is ably assisted by the RTX 2070 GPU, which allows you to render designs with ease. As the graphics card supports DLSS and RTRT technologies, it becomes easier to stimulate physical processes like vibrations and fluid flow.

Drawing inspiration from the CAD workstations, the MSI GS66 accommodates 16GB of high-speed RAM. The existing chunk of system memory works perfectly with the Hexa-core processor and supports better parametric evaluations, models, and renders.

We expected a bigger storage unit than the 1TB SSD module. Still, the solid-state drive holds good for booting up the Windows 10 OS, in a heartbeat, making it a great windows laptop as well.

The 15.6-inch display is sharp and boasts excellent viewing angles. The overall resolution of 1902 x 1080 pixels is also a commendable addition. Coming to the screen refresh rates, the 240Hz allotment is more of a gamer-friendly attribute but still has a role to play when engineering CAD processes are concerned.

Professionals and college students can also make use of the backlit keyboard and the hi-Res acoustic setup. Keeping the device cooling within permissible standards is the innovative Cooler Boost 5 setup, with 7 heat-dissipating pipes to work with. The advanced thermal layout has your back if you end up working on multiple applications like Catia, FreeCAD, and SolidWorks.

The MSI GS66 also features a pretty diverse connectivity suite, including USB Type-C, Type-A, HDMI, and high-speed wireless standards. Battery backup at 8 hours is still pretty good considering the beefed-up specs sheet. Overall, the loaded MSI GS66 is an excellent bet to run SolidWorks and other CAD processes.

PROS

• Sharp screen
• Upgradeable RAM
• Future-proof processor
• Excellent thermals
• AI-enhanced graphics

CONS

• Heavy

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4. Best Dell Laptop for SolidWorks: Dell G3 15

Dell G3 15

• CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
• Battery: Up to 6 hours

$1,699.00

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The Dell G3 15 is easily one of the best laptops for SolidWorks and other CAD software like AutoCAD, Fusion 360, and other 2D and 3D modeling. Despite being a gaming notebook, the feature sets are compatible with diverse professional requirements.

As SolidWorks is more of a CPU-intensive application, the Intel Core i7-10750H chipset is certainly a feature to look at. At 5GHz, the turbo clock frequency of this mobile SoC readily validates its single-core prowess of the same. The Hexa-core chipset is ably assisted by the RTX 2060 GPU. The existing graphics card and 6GB of video RAM, work in tandem to project the best possible CAD renders.

While the Turing-based GPU takes care of GPU-accelerated modeling tasks, especially the industry-grade renditions, it gets adequate support from the 16GB DDR4 RAM. Dell incorporates a decent chunk of system memory to speed up the CAD processes while making it easier for the device to lend assistance to the featured processor.

As far as storage requirements are concerned, the Dell G3 15 is probably the best option to invest in. The smaller, 512GB SSD boot drive is good enough for managing Windows 10 OS and the associated applications. It is also capable of accommodating completed projects and renders. Besides, Dell also accommodates a pretty reliable, 15.6-inch screen, exhibiting an overall resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.

Other relevant display-focused attributes include anti-glare properties followed by the power-efficient LED-backlit technology and narrow bezels, sitting atop the IPS panel. When it comes to professional productivity, you get access to a WASD-compatible backlit keyboard, metallic palm rest, and an innovative thermal layout that is led by dual fans and strategic vents.

However, the laptop is everything but portable as it weighs close to 5.18 pounds. However, the port arrangement adheres to a host of professional requirements, with Type-C, USB 3.1, HDMI 2.0, and the elusive Thunderbolt 3 being the standard inclusions. You can also expect Dell to make way for Gig Ethernet and Wi-Fi 5 support for establishing faster connections.

The battery life at close to 6 hours, which is on par with other similar models. The Dell G3 15 is a reliable machine for SolidWorks and relevant 2D and 3D processes, regardless of the vertical. A favorite for people who need a Dell laptop for SolidWorks.

PROS

• Hexa-core processor
• A decent chunk of RAM
• Powerful GPU
• Class-leading thermal layout
• Alienware Command Center for device control

CONS

• Heavier than usual
• Not suitable for high-end gaming

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5. Best Acer Laptop for SolidWorks: Acer Predator Helios 300

Acer Predator Helios 300

• CPU: 2.6GHz Intel Core i7-10750H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
• Battery: Up to 6 hours

$1,329.00

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Primarily retailed as a gaming laptop, the Acer Predator Helios 300 is also a reliable choice for your CAD-specific processes and applications, including SolidWorks.

Acer houses the Hexa-core, Intel Core i7-10750H chipset, excellent even for the most demanding processes, including drafting, designing, modeling, CAD rendering, and simulations. With 6 cores and the turbo boost clock frequency of 5GHz to rely on, the Predator Helios is the perfect choice for almost every professional task at hand.

The mobile SoC is paired with a reliable and AI-enhanced, RTX 2060 discrete graphics card. With 6GB of VRAM to spare, the GPU can easily handle parametric models and renders without breaking a sweat.

You also get access to 16GB RAM, best suited for supporting the processor with disk caching, model processing, and even simulations. The dual-channel system memory also keeps system slowdowns to a minimum.

Coming to the storage space, you get a 512GB NVMe-compatible SSD. If space feels slightly restricted, you can always consider upgrading the same via the M.2 slots.

Acer offers the Windows 10 Home OS, which is interactive and looks better when viewed on the 15.6-inch 1080p screen. The LED-backlit technology improves the CAD visuals.

The Predator Helios 300 also addresses the thermal design, courtesy of the AeroBlade 3D Fan and the associated airflow improvement amplified by at least 45 percent. Overheating is not something you need to worry about with this laptop.

Other relevant and essential specs include a backlit keyboard, potent acoustic setup, and a relatable connectivity suite, comprising Type-A, Type-C, and HDMI 2.0 ports. Wireless connectivity isn’t an issue either courtesy of the Wi-Fi 6 and BT 5.0 standards.

Despite the bells and whistles, the Predator Helios 300 offers close to 6 hours of battery backup, making it one of the best SolidWorks-compatible laptops to purchase.

PROS

• 10th gen processor
• RTX 20-series GPU for better rendering
• Decent battery backup
• Upgradable storage space
• Ingenious thermal tech

CONS

• Heavier than usual
• Lacks Thunderbolt 3 support

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6. Best for Bussines: ASUS VivoBook Pro 16X

ASUS VivoBook Pro 16X

• CPU: 3.3GHz AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX
• RAM: 32GB
• Storage: 1TB SSD
• Display: 16-inch 4K UHD IPS (3840 x 2400)
• GPU: 4GB NVidia GeForce‎ RTX 3050 Ti
• Battery: Up to 8 hours

$1,649.99

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The ASUS VivoBook Pro 16X is a high-end professional notebook that doubles down as the perfect machine for SolidWorks. It’s also perfect for creating simulations or rendering using Catia, or Fusion 360.

Powering this laptop is an AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX CPU, capable of clocking at 4.6GHz when turbo-boosted. This makes the chipset worthy enough for the more intricate calculations. There are 6 cores at the helm for initiating ‘multi-sheet drawings,’ rendering, and simulations with more than 500 parts. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU with 4GB VRAM is a pretty addition, allowing you to take care of larger assemblies and photorealistic rendering.

The 32GB RAM is a great addition, especially if you are a mechanical engineer associated with the intricate design and development of products. The 1TB solid-state storage drive loads assemblies quicker than HDDs and also makes way for fast boot-ups. ASUS features Windows 11 Pro edition as the featured OS.

The display on this laptop is excellent, featuring a 16-inch 4K UHD screen, based on the In-Plane Switching technology. However, with a display resolution of 3840 x 2400 pixels, you can certainly expect sharper visuals. The 178-degree Wide-angle display and the 100 percent sRGB color gamut are other commendable additions.

The touchpad, on the other hand, is resourceful enough, followed by the inclusion of a decent webcam, integrated microphones, and professional-grade speakers. The GPU design and the Turing architecture ensure that the cooling system on this device is sleek and efficient, with anti-dust technology being the more preferred option.

When it comes to structural innovation, this is a productive and portable model, measuring a mere 0.60-inch, in terms of thickness. The device weighs 4.3 pounds and stacks in USB Type-C and other functional ports. The battery is class-apart, capable of offering 8 hours on a single charge.

Nevertheless, the ASUS VivoBook Pro 16X is a resourceful device for SolidWorks Professionals provided you prefer working on the move.

PROS

• Fast PCIe SSD
• 4K Display
• Commendable Keyboard
• Brilliant aesthetics and design
• Powerful battery life

CONS

• Expected a better GPU for the price

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7. Best Lenovo Laptop for SolidWorks: Lenovo Legion 5

Lenovo Legion 5

• CPU: 3.2GHz AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
• Battery: Up to 8 hours

$1,069.00

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Your quest for the best SolidWorks Lenovo laptop ends with the Lenovo Legion 5. Here is a machine that stacks all the relevant features, high-end processing components, storage upgradeability, and more.

The AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor is a standout performer, capable of reaching clock speeds of up to 4.4GHz. However, it is the onboard cache memory that stands out as it offers ample space for the CPU to pull in data from the RAM. Besides that, the existing CPU is specifically calibrated with Error Correcting Code, making it one of the best choices for intricate SolidWorks-specific computing.

The chipset is more than capable of handling some of the most complex aspects of SolidWorks, including Finite Element Analysis and Computational Fluid Dynamics.

You also get a decent NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050Ti GPU that is paired with a 6GB VRAM. This unit helps you handle large assemblies with ease, besides using the existing CUDA cores for exceptional GPU-accelerated rendering performances.

When it comes to RAM support, 16GB seems good enough to start with. The storage, on the other hand, has a good 512GB SSD module that does an excellent job. In terms of OS, you get Windows 10 Pro pre-installed on the device.

The 15.6-inch display is a standard addition with Lenovo making way for 1920 x 1080 pixels as the cumulative display resolution. The Full HD IPS panel is sharp and boasts excellent viewing angles.

Other productivity specs include a backlit keyboard, responsive touchpad, and an HD webcam. This SolidWorks laptop feels more like a workstation and weighs almost 5.28 pounds. The battery on this device is capable of lasting for up to 8 hours.

To sum it up, the Legion 5 from Lenovo is probably one of the best laptops for using SolidWorks, courtesy of the AMD Ryzen 7 processor.

PROS

• Anti-Glare screen
• CPU supports multithreading and can handle multi-sheet drafts
• Certified SolidWorks GPU for 3D modeling

CONS

• GPU could be better

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8. Best ASUS for SolidWorks: ASUS TUF FX505

ASUS TUF FX505

• CPU: 2.3GHz AMD Ryzen 7 3750H
• RAM: 16GB
• Storage: 512GB SSD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
• Battery: Up to 4 hours

$999.99

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Although the ASUS TUF FX505 isn’t the most beefed-up notebook for your SolidWorks and relevant parametric modeling work, it’s one of the best options under the sub-$800 range on the market.

Besides, the processing system is capable of developing basic mechatronics systems, without any hassles. Not just that, this standard clamshell notebook from ASUS also features a host of relevant productivity-enhancing attributes for making 2D and 3D modeling more rewarding.

With an AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor at the helm, this model is at least 12 percent faster than a comparable i7 processor, specifically the i7-9750H CPU. The Zen+ cores and SMT support relevant to this mobile SoC ensure better designing ideation, planning, and prototyping. Some SolidWorks processes can use multiple threads simultaneously, like opening multiple files and this CPU is great for this purpose.

For single-threaded modeling and rendering of complex electrical and mechanical components, the boosted clock speed of 4GHz comes in as a handy resource. As far as the graphics-intensive workload is concerned, SolidWorks can immensely benefit from the RTX 2060 GPU and 6GB of dedicated VRAM. Despite a majority of parametric modeling software solutions being processor-intensive, a good GPU can speed up renders and projects in a virtualized environment.

When it comes to memory allocation, the 16GB RAM is pretty fast and can manage basic files and prototypes. Besides, the 512GB SSD is a workable allotment as a majority of projects, files, and renders take up quite a lot of space. However, the storage unit is still fast enough to be a boot drive for the Windows 10 Home OS.

The 15.6-inch screen is adequately bright, courtesy of a standard, 1920 x 1080-pixel count. However, ASUS brings in the NanoEdge paneling to increase the functional screen real-estate and amplify the visual quality. And if you are into leisure gaming, display-focused attributes like 120Hz refresh rate, come in handy.

The ASUS TUF FX505 also assumes a more productive form factor, courtesy of the durable MIL-STD-graded chassis, reliable keyboard with backlit support, and the advanced ADC-powered thermal layout. Despite being a rugged inclusion, the model still weighs less than 4.85 pounds.

This is one of the few SolidWorks laptops on the market that allows you to choose between gaming and professional modes, as per the SenseMI enhancement, to allocate resources and modify autonomy, accordingly.

However, the standard battery backup of up to 4 hours is pretty mediocre but acceptable, considering the AMD processor’s higher TDP levels. As far as connectivity is concerned, you get access to USB Type-C, USB 3.1, HDMI 2.0, and Wi-Fi 5 support. Overall, the ASUS TUF FX505 is strictly a budget-specific notebook for running SolidWorks and other relevant CAD applications like Catia, eDrawings, and more.

PROS

• Powerful processor
• Good-range GPU
• Durable structure
• Efficient thermal layout
• Reliable keyboard

CONS

• Heats up a fair bit
• Not for advanced 3D designs and renders

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9. Best to Run SolidWorks on a Budget: Lenovo IdeaPad L340

Lenovo IdeaPad L340

• CPU: 2.4GHz Intel Core i5-9300H
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SDD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
• Battery: Up to 9 hours

$667.99

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Are you looking for a budget notebook that can handle entry-level SolidWorks requirements with ease? The new IdeaPad L340 from Lenovo is one such model that makes it easier for you to work on 2D and 3D drawing, modeling, and even basic level rendering.

Processing power is rendered by the Intel Core i5-9300H which can reach turbo clock speeds of up to 4.1GHz. What stands out is the 8MB cache memory, capable of speeding up the calculations, by a significant margin! Despite being an i5 chipset, you get OpenGL and DirectX support. Besides this HyperThreading SoC, Lenovo also packs in the mid-range GTX 1650 GPU from NVIDIA, paired with 4GB of video RAM.

The existing GPU, combined with the processor, supports Turing shading and even makes way for cooler gaming and professional performances. Besides that, Lenovo offers 8GB of built-in RAM that allows you to handle smaller assemblies with ease. The 512GB solid-state storage unit is fast and loads the existing Windows 10 OS faster as compared to a conventional HDD.

In terms of display, you get access to a decent 15.6-inch screen with full HD capabilities. The existing 1920 x 1080-pixel resolution makes way for sharper viewing angles and advanced clarity. Apart from that, you get a near-perfect backlit keyboard on this machine paired with a revolutionary touchpad and an integrated webcam-microphone combo for video conferencing. However, the stereo speakers with Dolby Audio support are the standout performers.

This innovative laptop weighs 4.84 pounds and brings forth a decent arrangement of ports, including USB 3.1 Type-C, USB 3.2 Type-C, and a few more. The battery on this device under $1000 is capable of a 9-hour backup. Overall, IdeaPad L340 is an entry-level notebook if you are looking to work on the SolidWorks platform, either as a student or a basic trainee.

PROS

• Decent processor with HyperThreading support
• Upgradeable memory
• Decent keyboard
• Sharp and vibrant display
• Resourceful battery

CONS

• Only for entry-level SolidWorks tasks

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10. Budget Acer Laptop for SolidWorks: Acer Aspire 7

Acer Aspire 7

• CPU: 2.1GHz AMD Ryzen 5 5500U
• RAM: 8GB
• Storage: 512GB SDD
• Display: 15.6-inch FHD IPS (1920 x 1080)
• GPU: 4GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
• Battery: Up to 10 hours

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The Acer Aspire 7 is probably the best notebook for a student or entry-level professional who is new to SolidWorks and looking to gain some expertise on a comparatively cheap option.

Powering the device is an Intel Core AMD Ryzen 5 5500U processor, capable of turbo clocking at 4GHz. Despite packing in only six cores, the HyperThreading technology allows you to perform intricate SolidWorks modeling with ease. The 6MB cache memory is another standout feature that speeds up the calculations.

When it comes to the GPU, you get the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 from NVIDIA. Despite being an entry-level consumer-grade GPU, 4GB VRAM comes across as a decent addition, when it comes to handling basic 2D modeling and drawing.

In terms of memory, you get 8GB RAM with expandable dual-channel compatibility. While this processing configuration is good enough for assemblies that comprise 100 parts or less, it is the 512GB SSD unit that restricts storage.

The 15.6-inch screen supports the In-Plane Switching technology and offers a cumulative display resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The Full HD panel also offers a wide-screen viewing experience. Productivity takes center stage with Acer featuring a full-sized keyboard with Numpad and a responsive trackpad. You also get access to high-end speakers with minimal audio distortion, paired with an HD webcam and resourceful microphone array.

This model features an aesthetic chassis and weighs an acceptable 4.74 pounds. In terms of the port arrangement, you get hold of 1x USB 3.2 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB 2.0 Port, and other functional slots. In terms of connectivity, Acer offers decent premium wireless standards, including dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.1. The battery on this device offers a 10-hour backup.

Overall, this is the best budget-friendly laptop for students who currently have online schooling and are primarily interested in drawing, drafting, and modeling using the SolidWorks tool. Assemblies can be simulated and rendered easily for less than 100 parts.

PROS

• Excellent processor for the price point
• Upgradeable memory
• More than a decent screen
• Backlit keyboard
• Good battery life

CONS

• Basic GPU
• Underwhelming base clock speed

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FAQs About Best Laptops For SolidWorks

Still, got queries? We’ve got you covered. Let us answer some of the most asked questions about SolidWorks laptops online.

Which is the most important component in SolidWorks laptops, precisely for professional usage?

SolidWorks is primarily a CPU-intensive tool, and therefore you need to concentrate the most on the processor. The best approach is to opt for a processor that has a higher turbo clocking speed for facilitating faster calculations, decent cache memory, and ECC memory if you are into more intricate simulations.

Which is the best GPU for high-end SolidWorks functionality?

When it comes to the choice of GPUs, only the workstation-grade models offer the best performance for SolidWorks. While some of the more preferred ones include AMD Radeon Pro and NVIDIA Quadro, we would suggest NVIDIA for better GPU accelerated rendering, courtesy of CUDA cores.

What is the role of cache memory in laptops for SolidWorks?

If the CPU comes with decent cache memory, it becomes easier to pick computational data from RAM and process it way faster. Cache access is quicker as compared to RAM access, and for a good SolidWorks, the notebook must have a minimum of 6MB to speed up calculations.

Is 16GB of built-in RAM sufficient for running SolidWorks?

Initially, 16GB is more than enough for all the basic rendering, simulations, modeling, drawing, and operational analysis. However, if your assemblies have errors and they keep growing in size courtesy of more complex prototypes, you might have to consider expanding the same.

Can SolidWorks be used on laptops with Integrated Graphics cards?

If you have a powerful CPU and an integrated GPU like Intel HD 4000, you can run a majority of SolidWorks operations like flow simulations, stress analysis, 2D drawing, and more. Unless you are working with a lot of assemblies with photorealistic modeling, an integrated GPU would also suffice. However, it is always good to have a dedicated GPU to minimize pressure on the CPU and make 3D modeling and viewing possible.

Will my SolidWorks performance suffer if the chipset doesn’t support HyperThreading?

A majority of operations initiated using SolidWorks are largely sequential and use single threads. This is why unless you are rendering larger assemblies while using multiple cores once or indulging in multi-sheet drawing, HyperThreading isn’t of much use.

Why is Intel Xeon one of the best SolidWorks-supported processors?

Intel Xeon Processor comes with decent clock speed, but the actual advantage is the built-in ECC or Error Correcting Code memory, which helps you with intricate calculations involving concepts like Fluid Dynamics and Error Analysis.

How to enhance SolidWorks performance on your existing laptop?

If you have a mid-range notebook and you are looking to optimize the performance of SolidWorks, move to the Visual effect section of Windows and select the best performance while setting the option for it to optimal. Disable add-ins, boost the clock speed of the processor, and enable the Rigid more for subassembly solving. This optimizes performances by 10 to even 15 percent.

Verdict

Although each one of the mentioned laptops supports SolidWorks based on your level of expertise, the final selection takes your budget, professional possibilities, and portability preferences into account.

• If you want power while not spending a lot of your budget, nothing beats the Lenovo Legion 5. It is a good resource to have, primarily due to the high-end processor and newest RTX GPU.
• If you are looking for a complete, future-proof device for running CAD software like AutoCAD and SolidWorks consider getting the Razer Blade 15, which even works as a high-end gaming machine, along with as working SolidWorks laptop.
• For portability seekers, the MSI GS66, XPS 15 from Dell are handy device. In contrast, budget-friendly students and professionals can opt for the Acer Predator Helios 300 for entry-level working.