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Since the nineties the company has produced a range of products, includingSolidWorks 2024for CAD and 3D-modeling.
The website recommends a 64-BitIntelorAMDCPU, at least 16 GB of RAM and an SSD for optimal performance.
Quick List
Best overall
An impressive but expensive offering for your SolidWorks needs.
Read more below
Best for graphics
A powerful if not long-lasting SolidWorks solution.
Best for performance
A powerful mobile workstation that’s heavyweight in every sense of the word.
Best laptop for SolidWorks overall
1.
Whether you buy the original or its successor, both feature theNVIDIARTX 2000 series of cards.
At 14.4 inches the display is not amazingly large for displaying 3D designs.
The 120Hz refresh rate also lends itself well to image rendering or any app that requires constant refreshes.
The 1TB NVMe SSD is the ideal size for storing both SolidWorks software and your creations.
At just under 2 kilos it’s also ideal for those designers who prefer to work in the field.
The SolidWorks website does say that the RTX 4000 series are supported but doesn’t mention these cards specifically.
As always, we recommend contacting SolidWorks before buying.
Read our fullMicrosoft Surface Laptop Studio review.
Best SolidWorks laptop for graphics
2.
There are a number of different configurations available.
The specs listed above are for the model we tested in our original review.
Both of these graphics cards are also certified as compatible with SolidWorks.
Still, even at around two kilograms, it’s a fairly compact unit.
During our tests, even after an hour of moderate use the charge dropped by 25%.
Read what TechRadar NL thought in its fullHP ZBook Studio G9 Mobile WorkStation review.
Best SolidWorks laptop for performance
3.
That said, there are other configurations available.
This suggests the P16 would be ideal for graphical projects.
Various configurations of system RAM are also available.
In terms of storage, the system actually supports up to two SSDs.
Read our fullLenovo ThinkPad P16 Mobile Workstation review.
SolidWorks does develop some applications for macOS, including eDrawings Viewer and DraftSight.
Other programs are designed only to work with Windows 10 or 11.
Still, they may be able to function using virtualization software likeParallels.
This is why we only recommend using macOS if you’ve no other choice.
Can I use a low-spec laptop for SolidWorks?
SolidWorks is pretty resource-intensive, so unfortunately low-specced laptops aren’t likely to work.
However, there is a cloud-based alternative:SolidWorks Cloud.
If you’re working to a budget, we’re tracking thebest laptop for AutoCAD deals.
it’s possible for you to also look for the equivalent Ryzen 5, 7, or 9 CPU.
Graphics performance and GPU
SolidWorks heavily uses GPU for rendering, real-time visualization, and accelerating graphical calculations.
They are optimized for CAD applications and provide better compatibility and performance.
It is essential to choose a laptop with a dedicated graphics card that is certified by SolidWorks.
This program will run with an NVidia GeForce GTX, RTX, or Quadro card.
RAM and storage
Entry-level CAD can run with Solidworks' recommended 16GB as suggested on Solidworks' official website.
Still, the chances are more will be required if you work with huge assemblies or perform extensive simulations.
Considering that Solidworks is all about details, you will want a bright, color-accurate display.
Fortunately, most laptops for Solidworks follow the industry-standard size of 15.6 inches and feature a Full HD display.
This screen size gets you a native display resolution of 19201080.
Also, consider displays with IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology for wider viewing angles and accurate color reproduction.
Look for laptops with robust cooling systems, efficient heat dissipation, and multiple thermal vents or fans.
Proper cooling ensures the laptop operates at optimal temperatures, preventing thermal throttling and maintaining consistency.
