The 5 Best Laptops for SolidWorks Reviewed
Whether you’re just about to pursue a coding course, or you’ve been envisioning prototype designs for a while and you’re finally ready to bring them to life, SolidWorks is the best software to work with.
Wondering what it is? Well, SolidWorks is a modeling computer-aided design and an engineering computer program that has been designed to be run on Microsoft Windows, although it can be used on IOS in some circumstances.
It offers professionals a simple way to bring 2D and 3D sketches to life, all the while utilizing analytical technologies relevant to physical tendencies, including features, design intent, and parameters.
The best laptop to be able to run this software should offer a high-clocking processor, a large amount of RAM, as well as a functional and fast SSD.
Below, you’ll find five of the best laptops available on the market right now that are suitable for SolidWorks. We’ve also included a helpful buying guide to make the selection process as simplified as possible.
In a hurry? Check out our top pick.
Your hunt for the perfect SolidWorks supported laptop ends with the Lenovo ThinkPad P52.
With this laptop, you’ll be spoiled with impressive workstation compatibility, storage upgradeability, high-end processing components, and so much more.
Pressed for time and don’t have time to read our full review below? No problem. Here’s a quick breakdown of why it’s our winner:
Just under five and a half pounds, this laptop is suitable for use on the go.
Offers up to 128 GB of DDR4 memory and up to 4TB of PCle storage, which ensures no lagging.
It has been tested against 12 military-grade requirements and more than 200 quality checks to ensure it can run in all kinds of conditions (from dust storms to the arctic!).
Its Xeon Processor has been specifically designed with an Error Correcting Code, making it a perfect choice for running complex software such as SolidWorks.
Best Laptops for SolidWorks
1. Lenovo ThinkPad P52
When it comes to choosing a laptop that’s suitable for running SolidWorks, the Lenovo ThinkPad P52 is an excellent choice to consider.
For starters, the Lenovo ThinkPad P52 is powered by both Intel-Xeon-Core processing and the NVIDIA Quadro graphics, so it’s capable of reaching high speeds with impressive resolution.
It features ample cache memory that will ensure the laptop has enough storage space for the CPU to take in data from the RAM. Plus, besides that, the Xeon Processor is specifically calibrated with Error Correcting Code, so it’s super ideal for processing software such as SolidWorks.
You’ll also be able to enjoy a pretty decent workstation, especially given the smaller size of the laptop. It’s capable of rendering VR and has been primed for security, ensuring that all of your files and personal information has been encrypted with TPM.
With regards to OS, you’ll get Windows 7 Pro pre-installed on this laptop, but you can quite easily upgrade your P52 to Windows 10 Pro if you wanted, although Windows 7 will be able to withstand the SolidWorks software.
Its 15.6-inch display allows for a 4k UHD display that is 3840 x 2160 of pixels, and you can purchase it in either a standard or touchscreen design. Thanks to the 100% Adobe Colour Gamut and 400 nit, all colors will look vibrant, while the HD IPS panel allows for immersive viewing angles.
It also provides a match-on-chip fingerprint reader, which allows facial login, with the combined additions of an optional IR camera and Windows Hello.
Not only that, but you’ll also have the option of 4G-LTE, which ensures that an out of range WiFi signal will never be an issue for connectivity, so you’ll be able to create your designs anywhere and everywhere.
Other productivity specifications that this laptop boasts include a backlit keyboard with LED lighting and a spill-resistant design. As for the ports, Lenovo has built-in 3 USB-C Thunderbolts, an HDMI 2.0, RJ45, as well as a card reader and smart card reader.
When fully charged, the 90Whr battery on this device is capable of lasting for up to 10 hours.
To sum it up, the ThinkPad P52 from Lenovo is probably the most ideal laptop for using SolidWorks, courtesy of the Xeon processor.
It has a faster Intel Core i7-8565U processor than older models, which ensures that this laptop will be able to run SolidWorks smoothly, all the while serving as a multipurpose laptop.
2. Razor Blade 15
This upgraded Razer Blade 15 is a great choice if you are looking for a modeling-centric SolidWorks supported laptop that also doubles up as an exceptional everyday device, too.
Powered by an advanced processor, the 10th gen Intel Core i7-10750H processor features a 5GHz of turbo clock speed that ensures no lagging, even while using the software.
The existing NVIDIA GeForce GTX 2070 GPU works in combination with the processor which ensures that larger assemblies and 3D rendering on SolidWorks will run smoothly.
Thanks to the 6 CUDA cores and 8GB of VRAM, this laptop will be able to withstand assemblies for more than 500 assemblies at once, while the Max-Q layout and Turing architecture help to improve the power efficiency.
Though the 16GB RAM might not sound like a lot, it will be able to run both SolidWorks and general everyday use with ease. Not only that, but the 512GB SSD storage unit is capable of rendering data quickly, all the while booting up the Windows 10 OS.
Plus, when it comes to the display, the 15.6-Inch panel features vibrant color and boasts great resolution. The Full HD Panel offers a cumulative display resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and edge-to-edge structural attributes, which is ideal for SolidWorks and creating designs.
Razer has also included an excellent keyboard with Chroma Per-Key RGB backlit support, a responsive touchpad, integrated speakers, and even a webcam. Ideal for taking with you everywhere, this portable laptop weighs just over 4 and a half pounds and features a host of ports, including USB 3.1, Thunderbolt 3, and more.
All in all, this version of the Razer Blade 15 is powerful enough to be able to handle SolidWorks with ease, not to mention other CAD and 3D modeling applications. It’s a great choice to consider.
- More Power, More Cores: The 8-Core 10th Gen Intel Core i7-10875H processor provides the ultimate level of performance with up to 5. 1GHz Max Turbo.
- Studio Ready: The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 Super with Max-Q Design (8GB GDDR6 VRAM) graphics is up to 25% faster than the original RTX 20 Series with more cores and higher clocks.
- Vivid Visuals: The 4K OLED touch display delivers blazing fast 1ms response time and a wide color range covering 100% of the DCI-P3 space, while the HDR 400 True Black ensures deep blacks and vibrant colors.
- Thin and Compact: The CNC aluminum unibody frame houses incredible performance in the most compact footprint possible, while remaining remarkably durable and just 0. 7" thin.
- Innovative Cooling: A unique vacuum sealed, liquid filled, copper vapor chamber spans the heat generating components and is the key to getting maximum performance and user comfort in a compact, thin design.
3. HP Omen 15
Ideal for professionals looking to find a laptop suitable for SolidWorks, the HP Omen 15 is a ‘gaming’ laptop loved by engineers and 3D rendering enthusiasts mainly for its productivity features.
Offering exceptional power, this device is run from a standard Intel Core i7-9750H processor, that is capable of running at a speed of up to 4.5GHz.
The Hexa-core processor is also capable of handling larger assemblies with ease, such as SolidWorks.
The 16GB RAM will allow you to handle basic simulation and 3D rendering with ease and, even if you’re working with lots of parts, the RAM expandable slots will come in handy.
Not only that, but the existing 512SSD PCIe storage unit is one of the quickest we’ve seen, and will allow you to run SolidWorks with ease, as well as save designs.
Boasting a 17.3-inch IPS screen and a display resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, this HP workstation will ensure that you can immerse yourself in your work. Plus, for added productivity, this laptop features a full HD display, edge-to-edge paneling, a custom backlit keyboard, and a responsive touchpad,
One of the only downsides to this laptop is that it weighs over 7 pounds, which might make traveling with it difficult.
On the upside, its handy port arrangement features USB 3.1 Type-A, Type-C, and other essential slots which allows for improved functionality.
HP has also installed Windows 10 Home edition, which will be ready to go straight out of the box, while its battery life full charge will last you 6 hours, which is nearly an entire workday. It’s an ideal choice for professionals.
4. Microsoft Surface Book 3
If you want a high-end convertible that is also suitable for using SolidWorks, Microsoft Surface Book 3 is another good choice to consider.
This convertible ultrabook that can handle just about any CAD project with ease. The Gen Intel Core processor is capable to withstand SolidWorks with ease and is 30% faster than previous Surface Books.
The 15-inch display will allow you to view your 3D models from immersive angles, while the responsive trackpad and full keyboard will help you to stay productive.
The RAM isn’t upgradeable, although it will work just fine if you want to use SolidWorks to draw or draft, while the Solid-state storage module will be able to load smaller assemblies of under 100 parts.
Productive features built-in by Microsoft include front-firing speakers and a dual-microphone setup, that you can use as and when required. In terms of port selection, you get access to the USB Type-A, Type-C, as well as other functional slots.
Plus, though Microsoft promises a near 17-hour battery life, it’s worth noting that running an application such as SolidWorks will most likely pull it down to around 9 hours, which is a longer than average running time for laptops, anyway.
Overall, this laptop is powered by a fast processor and offers maximum durability. It features magnesium cladding and weighs just 4 pounds, so it’s ideal for students and entry-level professionals on the go.
- Most powerful Surface laptop yet, with quad-core powered, 10th Gen Intel Core processors. Now 30% faster than Surface Book 2 15”.
- Fastest graphics on Surface, powered by NVIDIA GTX GeForce GPU.
- Power when you need it. Up to 17.5 hours battery life[1] — plus improved standby that extends battery life when you’re away.
- Robust laptop, powerful tablet, and portable studio in one.
- The connections you need, including USB-A, USB-C, and full-size SD card slot.
5. HP ZBook 15V G5
If you’re a student on the lookout for a functional workstation for both your academic and professional requirements, the HP ZBook 15V G5 is one of the best choices to consider.
Powered by a standard Intel Core i7-8750H processor, this workstation laptop loads quickly and doesn’t lag.
Besides being powered by a lightning-fast processor, the already existing chipset can power up at a speed of around 4.10GHz. There is also 9MB cache storage, which will speed up your SolidWorks experience, even more.
Besides capacity and speed, all of your SolidWorks needs will be handled effortlessly by the Quadro P600 GPU from NVIDIA. Not only that, but the HP ZBook also offers 16GB of built-in RAM, which can be upgraded if necessary.
In our opinion, it is the dual-storage module that takes center stage. HP boasts a 512GB PCIe SSD and a 1TB HDD that is able to enhance the speed of Windows 10 OS, and ensure that you can run SolidWorks without any lagging or buffering.
Not only that, but you’ll also enjoy plenty of productive specifications including a backlit keyboard, functional touchpad, as well as an integrated microphone and speakers.
This ZBook also weighs under 5 pounds, so it’s ideal for use at home and in a coffee shop. There’s also a handy port arrangement including USB, the charger, and other HDMI slots.
Also, while HP states that you’ll get a 10-hour battery run when fully charged, if you’re running SolidWorks, it’s likely that you’ll only get around 8 hours before needing to be recharged.
Regardless, this is a fantastic workstation laptop capable of running SolidWorks simulations easily.
No products found.
Laptops for Solid Works Buyer’s Guide
To help you make the best buying decision, check our breakdown of all the most important factors you’ll want to keep in mind before making a purchase:
Processor
The processor requirements will vary depending on what it is you plan on using SolidWorks for. Modeling relies heavily on the clock rate of the laptop’s processor, which will require around a 3Ghz processor for easy working.
However, if you plan on using SolidWorks for more than that, you’re going to need to go for a processor that has a higher click rate and more internal cache.
Ram
RAM is another important factor to consider before making a purchase. This is because the RAM acts as temporary storage for the current project you are working on.
When the data is stored in the RAM, it means that the CPU can retrieve it very fast. You should select a laptop that has at least 16GB of RAM, although we do recommend selecting one that offers upgradeability.
GPU
The GPU, otherwise known as a graphic card, is another factor to keep in mind. As the GPU cannot be replaced or removed in your laptop as it comes built into the motherboard, it is essential that you get it right.
Usually, a mid-range consumer GPU will be more than enough, although, if you are a professional or you plan on creating more complex assemblies, you’ll likely need to go for a high-end GPU (graphics card).
For more information on hardware specifications for running SolidWorks, watch this video:
Frequently Asked Questions
Which are the most important features for a laptop running SolidWorks?
Above all else, SolidWorks requires a powerful processor that is going to be able to withstand running it without any lagging or slowing down.
When shortlisting options, the best way to do so is to keep an eye out for a processor that has a high turbo speed that will be able to offer good cache memory and a high clocking speed.
Is cache memory important in laptops for running SolidWorks?
Though cache memory might not be as important as the processor, it’s still important that you make sure the laptop you choose offers at least 6MB of cache memory.
This is because, if the CPU comes with great cache memory, it will become a lot easier for the RAM to process data.
Is 16GB of RAM sufficient for running SolidWorks on my laptop?
Yes and no. 16GB of RAM is definitely way more than enough for basic use, including simple rendering, simulations, modeling, and drawing.
However, if you’re a professional or a student and find that you need to create more complex designs and 3D renderings, it’s likely that you’re going to need a bigger RAM, so try and select a laptop that offers upgradeable RAM if possible.