People use AutoCAD for a range of different reasons. Some are recent users who decided to dive in headfirst, while others garnered a lot of professional experience with the software from their job.
Regardless of what your story is, one thing is certain: sure: running software like AutoCAD requires a high-end laptop. However, picking one premium laptop out of a flooded market is not easy. To help with that tough decision, we put together a comprehensive guide that lists some of the best machines out there.
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Who Should Get This
A lot of project managers, organizations, and engineering professionals use AutoCAD software on a large scale basis for various applications.
The software allows users to quickly implement design changes in a way that saves time for the designer. In addition, it helps engineers reduce errors and improves the accuracy of their work. It also cuts out common data transfer issues thanks to the simple file-sharing system.
What’s more? The software has a data scanning facility that helps calculate the exact cost of products and the number of materials needed.
The above benefits show how AutoCAD software plays a vital role across various industries, and why it needs a strong machine to run. If you’re looking for laptops that you can use for minor tasks like writing or data entry, this article may not necessarily be for you.
Best Laptops for AutoCAD: Our Picks
This section covers the best laptops for AutoCAD and breaks down why they do well with the program.
1. Asus Rog Strix Scar III
- Best For: Overall
- Key Features: Great CPU speed and refresh rate. All-out RGB lighting. FHD display. Crisp picture.
- Weight: 5.67 pounds
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
If you want a well-rounded laptop that runs AutoCAD and beyond, look no further than the Scar III. This model has an incredible refresh rate (240Hz), all-out RGB lighting, as well as a full HD display. Everything on the screen looks great in full, vivid color.
You also get Keystone profile technology in addition to a strong 9th generation octa-core Intel processor. That’s backed up by an incredible 32GB of RAM to provide you with ample power no matter what program you’re running.
The only downside here is the durability. This laptop comes with a plastic chassis, which is noticeably weaker than metal. As long as you’re careful, however, you won’t have any issues.
2. Acer Predator Helios 300
- Best For: Power
- Key Features: Strong battery life. Powerful processor. FHD widescreen with IPS display. Comfortable, ergonomic keyboard.
- Weight: 5.07 pounds
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
If you’re after a reliable laptop that will handle all of your workloads without any issue, the Helios 300 delivers. Acer is known for their premium products, and this machine comes packed with a 9th generation Intel core processor, 256GB of SSD, as well as a strong graphics card.
The keyboard is comfortable, the battery life is strong, and the widescreen display looks great whether you’re working in AutoCAD or relaxing with your favorite games/shows. It’s an all-around high performance system.
Just be aware that it doesn’t come with the best battery or audio quality. That makes it a much better at-home or work desk option than a more portable model.
3. MSI GF75 Thin
- Best For: Display
- Key Features: Strong graphics. Reduced lag. Long-lasting battery and portable shell. Excellent contrast ratio.
- Weight: 4.85 pounds
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen Size: 17.3 inches
As the name would suggest, the GF75 Thin is a sleeker laptop that’s capable of running AutoCAD with ease. It has the bright coloration and crisp screen that you would expect with such a model, but manages to cut some excess material and pounds in the process.
Despite its manageability, the device has a stunning 17.3-inch screen that absolutely pops thanks to the amazing resolution. The Cooler Boost 3, which actively reduces both heat and noise, is a nice touch as well.
There aren’t great viewing angles with this product, meaning you need to make sure you only work at a direct angle, but that’s a small issue that won’t affect anyone sitting at a table or desk.
4. Dell G5 15
- Best For: Durability
- Key Features: Slick design. Excellent cooling features. Fast processor and strong build. Easy configuration.
- Weight: 2.2 pounds
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
Most AutoCAD laptops tend to be bigger, and thus more sturdy. Even so, the G5 15 from Dell takes that strength to another level. This is a tough, robust, and incredibly resilient laptop that’s built to last. You’ll get a lot of use out of it, no matter if you use it at home or on the road.
The long-lasting battery backs that up, as does the IPS technology and full HD 1920 x 1080 resolution. Everything looks great on the screen, and the backlit keyboard is a perfect complement to the four-zone customizable lighting.
All of the extra strength is great, but it does add weight to the entire shell. This is not a light laptop, and that’s something you should know going in. Expect power, not portability.
5. MSI GS66 Stealth
- Best For: Gaming
- Key Features: Fast storage unit. Strong cooling technology and powerful battery. Core i7 processor.
- Weight: 4.63 pounds
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
If you’re after a model that can run both AutoCAD and your favorite games, the GS66 Stealth is worth a long look. This computer comes with an extremely powerful i7 processor on top of a GPU with Ray Tracing architecture and a stunning 240 Hz refresh rate.
You also get an NVMe-powered storage unit as well as a clean shell with a striking look. The cooling technology is also worth a mention. No matter how much you press your device, it will never overheat. That’s a big deal if you run power intensive programs.
As this is a gaming laptop, the biggest downside is the price. The graphics and processing power is through the roof, but you should prepare to pay for those specs. The shell is on the heavy side too.
6. Razer Blade 15
- Best For: Rendering
- Key Features: Advanced aesthetics. Tactile, responsive keyboard. Thunderbolt 3 port. Bright screen with 144Hz refresh rate.
- Weight: 4.6 pounds
- Resolution: 2560 x 1440
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
If AutoCAD is your primary goal, the Razer Blade 15 works wonders. This high-quality laptop is all about rendering and processing power, two features that you’ll need to run the program. While it’s a gaming laptop, the top-of-the-line specs make it great for any large job.
As with any premium computer, this model also comes with a great-feeling and responsive keyboard, fully upgradable memory, and plenty of ports so you can plug in whatever you need. The display (and 144 Hz refresh rate) looks great too.
Just be aware that this laptop is on the noisy side. You won’t get a lot of noise all of the time, but if you’re running a lot of programs you’re definitely going to hear the fan.
7. Lenovo ThinkPad P53
- Best For: Workstation
- Key Features: Strong graphics. Sturdy materials. Tough. Good security. Hexa-core processor. Eye protection technology.
- Weight: 5.5 pounds
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Screen Size: 15.6 inches
Lenovo makes a lot of great personal computers, and their ThinkPad P53 is a wonderful choice for users who want a true workstation device. It has an incredibly powerful construction, a sturdy, long-lasting shell, as well as some of the best security features on the market.
The Hexa-Core processor works exactly as advertised, and there’s no doubting the premium display or stunning graphics. It’s also easy on the eyes and runs extremely quickly no matter what you’re doing on it.
This is a powerful laptop, but portability is not its strong suit. It’s great on a desk or at home, but the larger shell and heavy materials make it tough to bring places. Know that before thinking it’s portable.
Best Laptops for AutoCAD: What to Consider?
Graphics Card
Graphics cards are used to render your files faster and with better graphics. A high-end model will greatly increase the performance of your device.
Display
The display is vital for AutoCAD software. Your laptop should have sharp, stunning colors. To do that, look for laptops with full HD and IPS technology.
RAM
The RAM installed on a laptop determines the performance. For AutoCAD software to perform well, you need at least 16GB of RAM. However. , if you’re going to do basic CAD work, you can get 8GB instead.
Processor
If you want your software to run smoothly, you need to go for the fastest quad-core processor possible. Those on a budget should at least look for an 8th Gen Intel’s quad-core i7 processor or 9th Gen Intel’s quad-core i5 processor. However, if you can go all out regardless of your budget, it’s best to get a 9th Gen Intel’s quad-core i7.
Storage
There are two types of storage space: HDD and SSD. SSD is always a better option due to its quick read and write speed. It also tends to improve your laptop’s general performance. However, if you must go for an HDD because of your budget, it’s best to get at least 256GB.
AutoCAD Tips That Will Help You Define Boundaries
- Use the Dimbreak tool if you notice dimension lines crossing to maintain your associative dimension and create smart breaks.
- Use a closed polyline to apply a hatch pattern if you want to define a boundary.
- You can set your resolutions and customize your PDF outputs with the ribbon export.
- Use the intuitive search bar to look for any term in the Autodesk Content Explorer.
Final Words
We hope that this buying guide on the best laptops for AutoCAD helped you make the right choice. This buyer guide will give you a clearer picture of what you should look out for. All you need to do is go for the best laptops for AutoCAD that best fits your needs and budget.
What are your thoughts about our picks? Did we leave out your favorite model? Which one will you try out first? Hit us up in the comments section.
