SolidWorks is a big deal in computer design. It helps engineers and designers turn their ideas into reality. But to make the most of SolidWorks, you need a powerfull laptop. That’s where our list of the 7 Best Laptops for SolidWorks in 2024 comes in.
Whether you’re a pro or just getting started with CAD, our guide will help you choose the right laptop. Get ready for top-notch processing power, great graphics, and awesome performance.
We’ll introduce you to the best laptops that will take your design skills to the next level.
laptop requirements for SolidWorks
SolidWorks is a powerful 3D CAD software that is used by engineers and designers all over the world. To run SolidWorks smoothly, you need a laptop that meets the minimum system requirements.
Minimum System Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit only)
- Processor: 64-bit; Intel or AMD with SSE2 support
- RAM: 16GB or more
- Graphics Card: A dedicated graphics card that has been officially certified by SOLIDWORKS. For larger assemblies or complex rendering, a higher-end graphics card is recommended.
- Storage: An SSD is recommended for optimal performance. You will need at least 2GB of free disk space to install SolidWorks, but more is recommended for storing your files.
Additional Recommendations
- CPU: A faster CPU will allow you to work on more complex models and assemblies.
- RAM: More RAM will allow you to open more files and work on larger models without experiencing slowdowns.
- Graphics Card: A dedicated graphics card will provide better performance for graphics-intensive tasks such as rendering and animation.
Please note that these are just the minimum system requirements. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use a computer that exceeds these requirements or visite solidworks.com for more details.
Best Laptops for SolidWorks
Mid-Range Laptops
HP Victus 15-fa0025nr
The HP Victus 15 Gaming Laptop is a capable mid-range laptop that can handle most SolidWorks tasks with moderate to high complexity. Its powerful Intel Core i5-12500H processor ensures smooth performance for modelling, assembly, and simulation tasks. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card provides decent performance for rendering and visualization tasks, although it may not be sufficient for the most demanding photorealistic rendering projects.
The 1920×1080 Full HD IPS display is adequate for viewing SolidWorks models, providing sufficient detail and clarity for most design and engineering tasks. However, the 60Hz refresh rate can feel somewhat sluggish when panning and zooming around complex models.
The backlit keyboard is comfortable for extended CAD work, with well-spaced keys and a pleasant tactile feel. The numeric keypad is also a useful addition for users who frequently enter numeric values.
Battery life is only average, with approximately 3-4 hours of continuous SolidWorks usage on a single charge. This may not be ideal for users who need to work on SolidWorks projects on the go without access to a power outlet.
Acer Swift X SFX14-41G-R1S6
The Acer Swift X is equipped with an AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor, renowned for its exceptional performance in handling demanding CAD tasks. This powerful processor effortlessly tackles complex 3D models, intricate assemblies, and sophisticated simulations, ensuring a smooth and responsive user experience.
The NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti graphics card proves to be an invaluable asset for SolidWorks users. This powerful GPU delivers exceptional visual fidelity, enabling users to render high-quality images and animations with impressive realism. Real-time ray tracing capabilities further enhance the visual experience, providing lifelike lighting and reflections.
With 16GB of DDR4 RAM, the Swift X provides ample memory for handling even the most demanding SolidWorks projects. The 14-inch Full HD IPS display offers exceptional clarity, ensuring that every detail of a SolidWorks model is rendered with precision.
The Swift X’s sleek and lightweight profile makes it an ideal companion for on-the-go design work. Its compact size and portability allow users to take their design projects anywhere, while a battery life of around 7-9 hours ensures uninterrupted design sessions.
MSI Thin GF63 12VE-066US
Powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor, the MSI Thin GF63 effortlessly tackles even the most intricate SolidWorks operations, ensuring seamless multitasking and efficient handling of large assemblies and complex simulations. Complementing the processor’s might is the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 graphics card, a graphics powerhouse that elevates the laptop’s capabilities to new heights, providing accelerated graphics rendering and real-time visualization of complex SolidWorks models.
The MSI Thin GF63 boasts a 15.6-inch 144Hz display, a visual masterpiece that transforms your design experience. The high refresh rate ensures smooth and responsive interaction with SolidWorks models, while the vibrant colors and sharp details bring your designs to life with stunning precision.
The GF63 incorporates Cooler Boost 5 technology, utilizing two fans and six heat pipes to effectively dissipate heat and maintain optimal temperatures during extended SolidWorks sessions.
Despite its impressive performance, the laptop maintains a sleek and portable design, making it an ideal companion for designers on the go. Its brushed black finish exudes sophistication, while its backlit keyboard provides comfortable typing in low-light environments.
If you’re using SolidWorks for an extended period, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Firstly, battery life can be a concern, so it’s a good idea to plug in your device to avoid any interruptions. Secondly, heat generation can be a problem, but you can reduce heat by using a cooling pad. Lastly, if you’re working with very large assemblies, RAM capacity may limit your ability to work efficiently. Consider upgrading to 32GB to avoid any issues.
High-End Laptops
MSI Katana 15 B13VGK-484US
Encased within a sleek and understated black brushed aluminum chassis, the MSI Katana 15 exudes a premium feel, complementing any workspace. Its surprisingly lightweight and compact construction makes it effortlessly portable, while the comfortable RGB keyboard and spacious touchpad ensure a user-friendly experience.
The laptop 15.6-inch FHD IPS display with a 144Hz refresh rate delivers a crisp and vibrant viewing experience, ideal for both intricate SolidWorks modeling and everyday tasks. The 1080p resolution strikes a balance between performance and affordability, catering to the needs of most SolidWorks users.
The Katana 15 effortlessly handles even the most complex SolidWorks projects, thanks to its synergistic combination of a 13th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics. Users can expect smooth navigation through intricate assemblies, rapid rendering of photorealistic images, and efficient simulation of large-scale models.
Additionally, the laptop comes equipped with a multitude of useful features tailored to SolidWorks users, including Thunderbolt 4 connectivity, a high-speed NVMe SSD, and support for DDR5 memory. Additionally, the laptop includes MSI’s Dragon Center software, providing comprehensive control over performance and settings.
MSI Crosshair
This laptop boasts a 13th gen Intel Core i7-13620H processor, a 10-core, 20-thread monster. Imagine an army of tiny engineers crunching numbers for your complex models. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card, with its 8GB of GDDR6 memory, is another champion, rendering intricate visuals and handling heavy simulations with ease.
32GB of RAM ensures smooth multitasking, even when juggling multiple Solidworks projects and demanding software simultaneously. The 1TB SSD offers ample storage for your hefty CAD files and keeps your system lightning-fast.
The 16″ Full HD+ display is a decent canvas for your designs, but the 144Hz refresh rate might be overkill for Solidworks (unless you’re also a gamer). The backlit keyboard is a welcome bonus for late-night design sessions, and the overall build quality feels sturdy.
While the specs are impressive, there a color accuracy issues. This could be a dealbreaker for designers who rely on precise color representation. Additionally, overheating concerns arise during extended use, potentially leading to thermal throttling and hindering your workflow.
Premium Laptops
MSI Stealth 17Studio A13VH-053US
The MSI Stealth 17 Studio is here to slay your toughest 3D modeling dragons. This ain’t your average gaming laptop; it’s a fire-breathing beast equipped with a 13th Gen Intel Core i9 and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080, the dream team that’ll have you rendering assemblies in seconds and manipulating intricate models with the grace of a ballerina. And feast your eyes on that glorious 17.3-inch QHD 240Hz display – say goodbye to pixelated edges and hello to jaw-dropping detail that’ll make your designs pop.
But hold on, Solidworks warriors, before you dive headfirst into this digital design paradise. This beast has a few gremlins lurking in its shadows. I have battled with sticky keys that wouldn’t let go (like an overeager handshake), a screen that lacks the smoothness of G-sync or Freesync (prepare for some unwanted stuttering), and a power supply that’s more elusive than a desert mirage. And let’s not forget the heat – this laptop can get hotter than a Texas BBQ, so a cooling pad is your new best friend.
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 16 G634JY-XS97
This laptop packs an i9-13980HX processor, like having eight high-performance cores tag-teaming your models. The RTX 4090 Laptop GPU is the equivalent of a Quadro RTX A5500, so lag and choppy rendering are out of the question.
32GB of DDR5 RAM ensures smooth sailing as you switch between complex assemblies and textures. It’s like having 32GB of lightning-fast RAM at your disposal. And with 2TB of PCIe 4×4 storage, loading files and saving projects is a blink-and-you-miss-it affair. Think NVMe SSD that lets you access files instantly.
The ROG Intelligent Cooling system with liquid metal on the CPU and GPU keeps everything chilled, even during intense rendering sessions. It’s like having three powerful fans working overtime to prevent overheating.
The stunning 16-inch Nebula HDR QHD 240Hz display is like having a high-resolution canvas with accurate colors come to life. Imagine every detail of your 3D models popping out in vibrant clarity.
While the Scar 16 is a beast, it’s not without flaws. I have experienced coil whine, a halo effect around the mouse cursor, and occasional glitches with Advanced Optimus technology. And let’s not forget the battery life – you’ll need to keep it plugged in for extended design sessions.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best laptop for you depends on your individual needs and budget. Consider your typical workflow, the complexity of your projects, and how much portability you require.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices and find the perfect SolidWorks companion. So, unleash your creativity, conquer those complex designs, and bring your engineering marvels to life!
No matter which laptop you choose, remember to invest in a good cooling pad and keep your software updated for optimal performance. With the right tools and dedication, you can turn your SolidWorks dreams into reality.