This post was most recently updated on June 20th, 2023
Solid Works is a modelling and engineering computer-aided programme used to contemplate prototype designs. It allows professionals to develop a vast range of programming applications correlated with editing, prototyping, modelling and visuals.
However, you can’t just run these heavyweight apps on any given laptop. If you don’t have a laptop with the required configurations to run the app, you can’t develop software based on SolidWorks.
Keeping that in mind, the very first thing you should consider before buying a laptop for SolidWorks is to determine what kind of user you are and that will eventually help users to keep their budget and needs intact.
An engineering student may not need a laptop with a workstation GPU because of minor projects, however, if you are a person committed to bigger projects working for heavyweight multinational companies, a consumer-grade laptop won’t cut it, instead, you should consider buying a workstation laptop with a powerful processor, large graphics and flash memory along with a workstation GPU with a lot of VRAM.
Now that you are well aware of what your needs are, time to look for the best laptops for SolidWorks online and get the best possible deal. The tricky part is, however, that’s the most difficult part of the process because a lot of choices available in the market can easily distract you away from your priorities.
- 128GB DDR4 RAM
- 4TB PCIe SSD storage space
- Intel Core i7-10750H processor
- Quadro T2000 4GB GPU memory
- 512GB PCIe SSD
- 16GB DDR4 RAM
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor
- GeForce RTX 2060
- 64GB DDR4 RAM
- Intel 6-Core i7-8850H processor
- Fingerprint sensor
- 2TB SSD
And to help you with your purchase, our product expert team have assembled some of the best laptops for SolidWorks and enlisted in the article after some solid research and first-hand experience.
Is gaming laptop good for SOLIDWORKS?
It all depends on your budget. If you are looking for a laptop that will be able to run SolidWorks, but you are on a tight budget, then you should look at some of the more recent integrated graphics processors. These will allow you to use the software, but they may not be as fast or powerful as if you had a dedicated GPU.
If you have more money to spend, then a dedicated graphics processor is going to provide the best performance in most cases. Some of the higher-end processors can even compete with gaming-grade GPUs in terms of performance.
The more important factor to consider than whether it is a gaming laptop or not is whether it has a dedicated graphics processor or not. If it does, then it should be able to run SolidWorks just fine.
Is 12 GB RAM enough for SOLIDWORKS?
There’s a good chance that 12 GB of RAM is enough for SOLIDWORKS. That being said, if you have a lot of tabs open in your browser, other programs running in the background, and/or multiple files open at once, it’s possible that you will run out of memory.
Also keep in mind that newer versions of SOLIDWORKS are designed to utilize more RAM, as our product development team continues to enhance the software and make it better. So if you’re using an older version of SOLIDWORKS with 12 GB of RAM, you might be fine. But if you upgrade to the latest version, it’s possible that you will run into performance issues because your computer isn’t equipped with enough memory.
A lot depends on what type of work you’re doing with SOLIDWORKS and how heavy your assemblies are. Since we don’t know exactly what kind of work you do or what type of machine you have, it’s impossible to give a definitive answer regarding how much RAM you need.
But we can tell you this: According to our benchmark tests, the average time required to open an assembly increases by about 20 per cent when the number of features doubles from 20 to 40. The average time required to rebuild an assembly increases
Top 12 Best Laptops For SolidWorks
Also, the article is drafted with a pretty handy buying guide to keep the process as simple as possible. So sit tight, read the article carefully and get yourself a deal according to your needs and budget.
1.Lenovo IdeaPad L340 Gaming Laptop
Features
- 15.6 inches full HD display
- Windows 10
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU memory
- 8GB DDR4 RAM
- Intel Core i5-9300H Processor
- 512GB NVMe SSD
- 1920×1080 resolution
- 4GB VRAM
Review
Not many laptops can handle heavy graphics-intensive apps and if you want a laptop for SolidWorks and other high intensive photo editing apps, Lenovo IdeaPad L340 might just be the perfect option for you to have.
Not only does it is an efficient machine when it comes to 2D and 3D drawing, but it is also designed with an 8MB cache clearing capability which is vital to the overall speed and efficiency of the laptop.
- The iCore5 9300H processor is a heavyweight working powerhouse that enables you to run graphic intensive editing apps with ease.
- The Lenovo IdeaPad L340 is equipped with an integrated 4GB RAM for graphics as well as NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 GPU memory to cope with intense graphics associated with Photoshop editing apps such as SolidWorks and CAD.
In addition to these high-end features, Lenovo IdeaPad L340 comes with an open GL and DirectX support to help you with intense gaming sessions plus to accommodate high-end graphic intensive apps.
The turbo speed clock feature offers instant access to every data file with a single click.
The built-in Bluetooth and Dolby audio sound system ensure a smooth and fantastic gaming experience as well as a perfect feature to have if you want to try SolidWorks mechatronics based apps.
Drawbacks
As you would expect from a budget laptop, Lenovo IdeaPad L340 is a laptop that works immaculately with basic SolidWorks apps but as far as the real heavyweight apps are concerned, this entry-level laptop certainly won’t cut it.
2.Razer Blade 15 Base Gaming Laptop
Features
- 15.6″ FHD screen
- Intel Core i7-10750H 6 Core 5.0GHz turbo clock processor
- 16GB RAM
- 512GB SSD storage unit
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 GPU memory
Review
A working powerhouse, Razer Blade 15 is a fantastic option to have only if you have enough budget to invest in a professional laptop.
Insanely capable of handling SolidWorks apps based on 3D modelling, Razer Blade 15 provides smooth operation even in the most intense working sessions.
- Razer Blade 15 is equipped with one of the most powerful Intel iCore7 10750H 6 core 10th generation 5.0 GHz turbo clock processors which ultimately helps in crafting intense calculations required to develop SolidWorks applications.
- The integrated 8GB GeForce RTX 2070 GPU memory offers great enforcement to an already powerful operating system and ultimately results in better than ever working as well as great gaming experience if you are a gaming fanatic too.
With Razer Blade 15, you can enjoy an exemplary graphic experience with the MAX-Q quality while working on mechatronics and CAD-based apps.
The 144Hz full HD display is perfectly capable of maintaining sRGB colours without any concerns of system crashes even while running graphic intensive apps such as SolidWorks. Also, it comes with a solid 16GB RAM and a 512GB SSD storage that works well with the number one ranked windows 10 OS.
Drawbacks
Generally, you won’t expect any negatives in such a professional laptop but they say nothing is perfect, same goes with the Razor Blade 15. The fan sounds weird sometimes and the system is prone to overheating after extensive use of heavy apps.
3.Lenovo ThinkPad P53s
Features
- 16GB RAM
- 15.6 inches full HD screen
- NVIDIA Quadro P520
- 512GB SSD
- Fingerprint sensor
- Intel Core i7 9750H processor
Review
A workstation laptop like never before, Lenovo ThinkPad P53s is certainly rated as one of the best machines if you want to develop graphic intensive apps on SolidWorks.
Equipped with more than enough graphics memory, Lenovo ThinkPad P53s offers a smooth and crash-free operation if you are into developing SolidWorks application software.
- The powerful Intel Core i7 9750H processor clocks a magnificent speed of 2.6 GHz which helps in the smooth running of heavy operations.
- Also, the NVIDIA Quadro P520 offers integrated 4GB GPU memory offers great help to an already amazing operating system to run heavy SolidWorks apps on your laptop with ease.
Lenovo ThinkPad P53s is also among the very few workstation laptops with a 12MB smart cache memory to help you with clearing junk files and ultimately boosts the speed of your laptop.
Also, the 16GB DDR4 RAM work immaculately with the 512GB SSD and keep the operating system running flawlessly even in the most intense working sessions.
Drawbacks
Though Lenovo ThinkPad P53s almost fills in every single spot you would want from a laptop for SolidWorks, it just misses out on the PCLe NVMe module and though it barely affects the performance of the laptop, it still counts as a drawback of this otherwise nearly perfect machine.
4.HP ZBook 14u G6
Features
- 14 inches IPS Full HD display
- 16 GB RAM
- 1TB SSD
- Intel Quad-Core i7-8565U processor
- Wi-Fi 6
- Windows 10
- AMD Radeon Pro WX 3200
Review
One of the very few SolidWorks approved laptops, HP ZBook 14u G6 is a working powerhouse not only in terms of handling SolidWorks but also some other graphic intensive software such as AutoCAD and Rivet.
A near-perfect combination of a 32GB RAM and 2TB PCIe NVMe SSD offers one of the fastest operations in terms of saving and opening large and heavy data files with ease.
- The powerful Intel Quad-Core i7-8565U processor clocks a speed of 4.6GHzwhich means it is certainly capable of controlling larger assemblies with utmost ease.
- You will also get a SolidWorks approved and certified AMD Radeon Pro WX 3200 accompanied with an integrated 4GB DDR4 VRAM that supports you in multiple graphics-intensive operations such as the Al enhanced 3D modelling, Ray Tracing, photo editing and even offers open GL support to make your life easier than ever before.
The 14 inches IPS display offers a magnificent resolution of 1920×1080p with some of the best additional features such as the narrow bezel and anti-glare technology.
The custom keyboard packs with features like backlit, spill resistance and an ultra-responsive touchpad.
Drawbacks
The only thing that worries me is the below-average battery life of this otherwise pretty decently featured laptop.
5.Acer Predator Helios 300
Features
- 15.6 inches full HD display
- Intel i7-10750H processor
- 512GB NVMe SSD
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB
- 16GB Dual-Channel DDR4
- Wi-Fi 6
- RGB Keyboard
Review
Primarily designed to accommodate high-end games, this high-performance gaming laptop is equipped with all the right features to be your go-to machine for SolidWorks based editing software.
The interactive Windows 10 OS makes your viewing experience much better on the 15.6 inches screen plus you will certainly enjoy much better CAD visuals with the Acer Predator Helios thanks to its ultra-modern LED-backlit technology.
- The powerful HexaCore Intel i7-10750H processor is capable to clock a turbo speed of 5.0GHz which is certainly more than enough to handle graphic intensive chores such as drafting, modelling, designing, prototyping and CAD rendering.
- With the induction of an integrated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 graphics card incorporated with 6GB VRAM, the Acer Predator Helios can handle any parametric model and heavy-duty designing chores without any concerns.
Also, the 16 GB dual-channel DDR4 RAM works as a perfect backup to an already powerful processor of Acer Predator Helios.
The 512GB NVMe SSD feels a bit underwhelming storage space considering its other high-end features but you can always upgrade that part via an integrated M.2 slot induced primarily for that purpose.
The all impressive cooling system incorporates an Aero Blade 3D fan and an airflow improvement amplifier which means you don’t have to worry even a bit about overheating.
Other important features include a backlit keyboard, multiple connectivity options, a potent acoustic system and a rechargeable battery.
Drawbacks
Though the Acer Predator Helios incorporates every possible feature to be a perfect option for SolidWorks as well as pro gaming, the fact that it weighs quite high as compared to other high-end models high-end makes it a less attractive option for people in need of a portable laptop.
6.OMEN 15 Gaming Laptop
Features
- 32GB DDR4 RAM
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super Max-Q
- 512 GB PCIe NVMe SSD
- 15.6″ Full HD display
- Windows 10 home edition
- RGB Keyboard
Review
Famously known for its popularity among gaming fanatics, OMEN 15 incorporates every trait to be the best laptop for SolidWorks.
Talking about its compatibility with SolidWorks software, the 32GB RAM partners well with the 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD to boost the speed of the system plus makes it easy for a professional to save heavy data files without any concern.
- The high-performance Intel Core i7-10750H processor with 6 Cores clocks a turbo speed of 4.5GHz, enough to accommodate graphic intensive software such as SolidWorks.
- OMEN 15 is also equipped with the much needed NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super Max-Q GPU which is a vital feature to have on a laptop if you want to use it for gaming or pro-level SolidWorks based tasks.
The latest Windows 10 OS works pretty well with the magnificent 15.6 inches full HD screen to provide a brilliant display.
The keyboard incorporates features like a backlit and responsive touchpad which makes your life easier while working even in dark hours.
Drawbacks
The only negative point I could find in an otherwise nearly perfect laptop for SolidWorks is its comparatively high weight of 7 pounds which ultimately makes it a less desirable option for field workers.
7.2021 Lenovo ThinkPad P17
Features
- 17.3 inches full HD display
- 128GB DDR4 RAM
- 4TB PCIe SSD storage space
- Intel Core i7-10750H processor
- Windows 10 Pro
- Quadro T2000 4GB GPU memory
- 1920×1080 pixels
Review
Workstation laptops often turn out to be the best equipped with features to accommodate high-end graphic intensive software like SolidWorks and Lenovo ThinkPad 17 is no different to that reputation.
A workstation laptop like no other, Lenovo ThinkPad certainly is a machine that can run even the heaviest software with ultimate ease.
- The all impressive 10th Gen Intel 6-Core i7-10750H processor provides more than enough power of 5.0 GHz to run this high-end workstation laptop that ultimately results in the smooth working of high-end software.
- The most impressive thing about the ThinkPad P17 is its quite generous and overwhelming RAM of 128GB, more than any laptop on the list, plus it also has a 4TB PCIe SSD which makes for a perfect combination to store and run heavy data files with extremely fast speed.
It’s no surprise that a high-end workstation like the Lenovo ThinkPad P17 comes with an amazing Quadro T2000 4GB graphics card which qualifies in the same category of GPUs as the 1660Ti in terms of power, however, the requirement is only a decent GPU and not a powerful one if we talk about SolidWorks so that thing is more than enough to accommodate what you need in terms of your professional assignments.
Drawbacks
Lenovo ThinkPad P17 is a near-perfect machine for people who works on high-end graphic intensive software such as SolidWorks or Revit, however, the only negative aspect of the laptop is its weight which is around 8 pounds and that’s quite heavy if you are a frequent traveller or a field worker.
8.Dell G5 15
Features
- 15.6 inches full HD screen
- 256GB SSD
- 1TB SATA
- NVIDIA GTX 1650
- Windows 10 home edition
- 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H
- 16GB RAM
Review
Not many computers can handle your SolidWorks based apps without crashing the .exe files and that’s where the trouble begins for professionals.
A powerhouse in terms of handling heavy workloads especially graphics-intensive programmes and software, Dell G5 is surely your go-to option if you are getting tired of being stuck in the middle of nowhere now and then while working on a high profile project on your present laptop.
You are in need of a machine that comes with a decent built-in GPU, a powerful processor and a large chunk of ROM and RAM and Dell G5 15 provide exactly what you need at this time of trouble.
- The powerful 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H chipset backed by an integrated NVIDIA GTX 1650 and 4GB VRAM, works well to accommodate large .exe files with ease.
- Also, the combination of 16GB DDR4 RAM and 256GB SSD with 1TB HDD works well to launch and store heavy files in a blink of an eye.
The Dell G5 15 unlike many other high-end models is designed with a much more advanced and better cooling system.
The dual-fan cooling system keeps the processor always at an optimal temperature even while running heavy graphics-intensive apps. You can also access the more advanced options to configure your windows with the Windows 10 home edition.
Drawbacks
Dell G5 15 is almost a perfect mid-level laptop to use with SolidWorks based apps in a such a price tag but the one thing that bothers me is its below-average battery life which may concern users working in a field environment where they don’t have the luxury to charge their laptops now and then.
9.ASUS TUF
Features
- 15.6 inches 120Hz full HD IPS display
- 512GB PCIe SSD
- 16GB DDR4 RAM
- Windows 10 Home
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor
- GeForce RTX 2060
- Gigabit Wi-Fi 5
Review
If you are slightly out of budget and still wants to pursue your professional life by working on SolidWorks based applications, ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop might be the best alternative for you to start your professional career.
The system is certainly capable of handling basic mechatronics plus you can also develop 2D and 3D models thanks to a few relevant attributes that come with it.
- The AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor provides more than enough power to the system to process multiple threads, gives better performance while designing, modelling and prototyping which is the basic idea of using SolidWorks based apps.
- The more powerful RTX 2060 GPU with an integrated 6GB VRAM aids the processor quite well to enhance the overall performance while dealing with the graphics-intensive workload.
The 16GB DDR4 RAM is quite a significant number if you think of the laptop as a mid-level machine and that ultimately helps in launching heavy files and prototypes in quick succession.
In addition, the 512GB SSD although seems quite an underwhelming number, it still provides a decent chunk of speed while rebooting your Windows 10 OS home edition.
Also, the 15.6 inches full HD IPS display comes with handy Nano Edge panels and provides a slightly bright visual experience thanks to the more than handy 1920×1080 pixel resolution.
Drawbacks
Generally, when you buy a budget level machine, it is obvious that you would have to compromise on some attributes and that’s evident with this budget level laptop that comes with quite a few drawbacks such as the below-average cooling system and mediocre 4-hour battery life.
Also, the laptop is not designed to accommodate advanced 3D modelling and designs but that is what you are willing to compromise on the very first day.
10. Razer Blade 15 Advanced Gaming Laptop
Features
- Intel Core i7-10875H Octa-core processor
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Super Max-Q
- 15.6” FHD 300Hz display
- 16GB RAM
- 1TB SSD
- 8GB DDR6 VRAM
- CNC Aluminium
Review
A great option to have if you are a gaming fanatic or into using SolidWorks based modelling apps for your professional endeavours.
The 15.6 inches full HD screen incorporates vibrant colours, edge-to-edge panelling and offers a display resolution of 1920×1080 pixels which is a vital trait to have if you are into using SolidWorks and creating structural modelling and designing.
- The Razer Blade 15 runs on a powerful 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10875H Octa-core processor, capable of clocking a turbo speed of 5GHz which is more than enough to accommodate SolidWorks and that too without any lag.
- The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 partners well with the processor to accommodate large and heavy files plus 3D rendering in a smooth manner. Also, the system is backed up by 6 Cuda cores and 8GB VRAM that ultimately results in the smooth sailing of at least 500 files simultaneously.
Razer Blade 15 can also save you some extra bucks in terms of expenses related to power thanks to features like Max-Q layout and Turing architecture.
The combination of 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD works well to launch and store heavy data files with ease plus makes rebooting your Windows 10 OS easier than ever before.
Drawbacks
Although the Razer Blade 15 is equipped with all the right features to be a world-leading laptop for SolidWorks except for a pretty mediocre battery life of 5 hours and for a pretty expensive machine like Razor Blade 15, it is pretty unacceptable.
11. 2020 HP ZBook 15 G5
Features
- 15.6 inches full HD display
- 64GB DDR4 RAM
- Intel 6-Core i7-8850H processor
- Fingerprint sensor
- Windows 10 Pro
- 2TB SSD
- 1920x1080p resolution
Review
A decently featured workstation laptop designed to accommodate both academic and professional endeavours related to SolidWorks based apps.
HP ZBook 15 G5 is a perfect choice for students in need of a laptop for their academic tasks or who want to start their professional careers as structural designers using SolidWorks.
- The standard Intel 6-Core i7-8850H processor with a speed of 4.10GHz runs the whole thing at a rapid pace and that too without any lag.
- The 64GB DDR4 RAM combines with a 2TB SSD to handle heavy and large data files smoothly plus it helps in the smooth running of graphics-intensive software without crashing .exe files.
In addition, the HP ZBook 15 G5 is equipped with a backlit keyboard with a functional touchpad plus a built-in microphone and speakers.
The weight of the unit is just under 5 pounds which means it is a desirable option for people who like to carry their laptops home for work.
The rechargeable battery provides an overwhelming worktime of 8-10 hours which is a decent enough work time for professional users.
Drawbacks
The only thing that made it here is its mediocre webcam which is quite an important feature for a laptop regardless of the work you do.
12.ASUS ROG Zephyrus S
Features
- GeForce GTX 1070
- 8GB VRAM
- 24GB DDR4 RAM
- Military-Grade Chassis
- Windows 10 Home
- 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD
- 15.6” 144Hz IPS display
Review
Equally capable of handling your intense gaming sessions as well as your professional tasks regarding SolidWorks and other graphics-intensive apps.
ASUS ROG Zephyrus A is a technical beast having a sufficient 1TB SSD storage space means you don’t have to worry about storing huge files anymore.
- The powerful Intel i7-8750H Processor runs the system smoothly and even while handling heavy software like SolidWorks.
- The integrated GeForce GTX 1070 and 8GB VRAM backs an already powerful system well to handle graphics-intensive tasks without any concern of crashing.
In addition, the 24 GB DDR4 RAM ensures the rapid and smooth running of heavy apps. The ASUS ROG Zephyrus SS is ultra-slim yet durable as hell thanks to its military-grade chassis, the unit will last longer and can endure even rough usage.
Drawbacks
The overall unit is built brilliantly and works extremely well with SolidWorks but one thing that bothers me is the below-par battery timing of this otherwise pretty decent laptop for SolidWorks.
BUYERS GUIDE
Even though you know what models to choose from now, it is advisable to know some important traits before getting into the final decision.
Chipset/Processor
The processor is the core of a laptop and is responsible for providing the main power to the system to run everything including heavy graphic intensive apps such as Revit and SolidWorks.
The min power that is required to run such heavy apps is 3GHz while you need to have a processor with at least 3-4 cores, the more the numbers the more powerful your processor will be and you will be able to work smoothly.
RAM
It is the most important thing to consider after Processor before you get to choose a model to purchase. Ram basically gives you quick access to heavy data files all while running graphic-intensive apps. To avoid crashing and lagging, a laptop should have at least 16 GB of RAM to run heavy files like SolidWorks.
Battery
To work on SolidWorks based apps, you need to have at least a work time of 5-6 of work time in hand. So it is advisable to stay away from those laptops having a meagre 1-2 hour battery timing.
Storage Space
SolidWorks based data files require a lot of storage space and low storage space means below-par performance, file crashes and low processing.
Large and heavy files require fast processing as well as time to load and operate, so you must have at least 512GB worth of storage space to avoid lagging.
FAQs
What kind of laptop would be able to run SolidWorks?
A processor is the lifeblood of a laptop and any laptop having an intel i7, Xeon, AMD Ryzen or a processor having 4-6 cores would work perfectly fine with SolidWorks.
Do gaming laptops good enough for SolidWorks?
Yes, they are, gaming laptops often are equipped with more than enough features to accommodate SolidWorks. Any laptop with a powerful processor, decent GPU, good RAM and overwhelming storage space will do and generally, gaming laptops have all these traits in abundance.
What role does cache memory play in a laptop?
Cache memory helps in picking and processing computational data from RAM way faster than normal because its access is way quicker than RAM’s access and to run SolidWorks your laptop must have at least 6MB of cache memory.
Final Say
Now that you’ve come this far, you are surely well aware of what your needs are and how to get the best out of your budget. And that’s exactly the sole purpose of this article, to bring clarity. And if you have that clarity in your mind now, that’s enough to make us happy.
Laptops are expensive products and it’s better to research well before buying such an expensive item. Now that you’ve done that part, choose wisely what to buy and get the best out of it to start your professional career.
