For today’s Architecture students, a laptop is an ideal machine for handling all the coursework requirements. Not all laptops are created equal. The best laptops for Architecture Students students can compete with a high-end desktop and can handle resource-intensive coursework.
Every architectural student needs a machine that can deliver all the processing power and graphics capabilities needed to run the most demanding architecture applications.
Check out our list of best laptops for architects!
How to Choose the Best Laptops for Architecture Students
The following are factors and specifications to consider when looking for the right laptop that will help you work effectively as an Architect.
Storage
There are currently 2 types of memory on the market. There is SSD or Solid State Drive and there is HDD or Hard Disk Drive. SSD is much faster at retrieving information than HDD. But then compared to SSD, HDD tends to have higher storage capacity at a cheaper price.
SSD is better for files you use regularly and HDD is better for storing files you want to archive. If you only have to choose 1 for your laptop, choose SSD storage. You can always buy an external hard drive for the files you need to store long-term.
Display
Many modern laptops have a wide dynamic range and color accuracy. A good starting point for architects in terms of resolution is 1920 x 1080, but if you’re creating more complicated designs and presenting them to high-profile clients, it would be great to be able to invest in 4K resolution laptops.
Processor
The processor is like the brain of your computer. To use your programs, you need the right processor that can handle them. When it comes to processors, the first thing to think about is what programs or software you are using for your design.
A good starting point for architects is Intel Core i5, but if you have the budget you can go up to i7, i9, or equivalent.
RAM
RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is the short-term memory of your computer. Determines how well your computer can run software for 3D modeling applications that are currently running. This is also involved in multitasking your computer or how many programs can you run without lag?
A good starting point for any architect is 8 GB of RAM. But if you have the budget, it’s even better to buy a laptop with 16 to 32 GB of RAM. Your processes run smoothly and you have no problem with multitasking.
Graphics Processing Unit
The Graphics Processing Unit, GPU helps your computer’s CPU to process the graphics of your programs and software.
By relieving your CPU of the load of graphics processing, your computer can run faster and smoother. This is useful when rendering and using high-quality graphics programs and software. It is perfect for architects who render a lot of projects and mockups.
A good starting point for GPUs is a RAM size of 4GB. But if you have the budget, invest in a GPU with a RAM size of 6 to 8 GB.
Best Laptops for Architecture Students
Below are the best laptops for architects. We selected these laptops based on their features and specifications.
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#1. MacBook Pro 16-inch
Specifications
Storage: Up to 8TB
Processor: Apple M1 Pro 10-core – M1 Max 10-core
Graphics: Integrated 16-core – 32-core GPU
RAM: Up to 64GB
Screen: 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display
The latest Apple M1 Pro is one of the best laptops for architects. It has an extremely long battery life and comes with a wider selection of ports compared with the previous generations, including next-gen Thunderbolt 4 ports and a full-size HDMI port as well.
Apple M1 Pro is expensive, but it’s definitely worth the price.
#2. Apple MacBook Air (M1, 2020)
Specifications
Operating System: OS X 10.11 El Capitan
Processor: Apple M1 chip, 8-core CPU
Screen: 13.3″ with Retina Display
RAM: Up to 16GB
Storage: 1TB SSD
GPU: Integrated 8-core GPU
Second on our list is the MacBook Air (M1, 2020). This device is a more affordable alternative to the MacBook Pro above. The price of MacBook Air is about $900/£900.
The 13.3 inches MacBook Air Retina display enables architects can see even the tiniest details of their projects. It’s also a great device for presenting models and 3D renders to clients because the colors are crisp and vibrant.
See How to Get the MacBook Student Discount
#3. Dell XPS 17
Specifications
Storage: Up to 4TB M.2 PCIe NVMe
Processor: Up to 11th Generation Intel Core i9-11980HK
Graphics: Up to NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GDDR6
RAM: Up to 64GB DDR4-3200MHz
Screen: 17.0″ FHD+ (1920 x 1200) InfinityEdge Non-Touch Anti-Glare 500-Nit – 17.0″ UHD+ (3840 x 2400) InfinityEdge Touch Anti-Reflective 500-Nit
Dell XPS 17 has a striking massive 17 inches screen. Its 4-sided Infinity Edge display makes the device appear sleek. It is the best laptop for architects who want something larger than a 14.4in screen to work on.
#4. HP ZBook Studio G8
Specifications
Storage: 256 GB SSD
Processor: Intel Core i7 2.50 GHz
Graphics: NVIDIA RTX A2000
RAM: 16GB
Screen: 15.6’’ full HD
HP ZBook Studio G8 laptop is as powerful as a typical workstation. The device is fitted with an Intel Core i7 2.50 GHz processor and a NVIDIA RTX A2000 graphic card. ZBook Studio G8 has a nine-hour battery runtime, HP’s Fast Charge technology can bring it back to 50% charge in half an hour, enabling non-stop working not restricted to your desks.
#5. ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15
Specifications
Storage: 1TB SSD
Processor: Intel Core i7-1195G7 Processor 3.0GHz
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce MX450 graphics
RAM: NVIDIA GeForce MX450 graphics
Screen: 14″ FHD Touch + ScreenPad Plus
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15 is arguably one of the best Multi-Screen Laptops for Architects. This touchscreen device offers users a luxurious experience; it can serve as both a screen extension and a personalized interface where you can freely gather and organize your most commonly used functions.
With ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo 15, you’re guaranteed comfortable drawing and writing experiences at the same time.
#6. LG Gram 17
Specifications
Storage: Up to 2TB NVMe SSD
Processor: 11th-generation Intel Core i7
Graphics: Intel® Iris® Plus Graphics
RAM: 16GB DDR4
Screen: 17-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS LCD
LG Gram 17 runs on Intel Core i7 and has a 16GB LPDDR4X 4266mhz RAM. These 2 hardware ensure smooth workflows and speedy processing. You don’t have to worry about your design and 3D rendering lagging.
What is unique and very striking about this laptop is its beautiful screen and overall lightweight build.
The display is a 17-inch IPS LCD screen that has a resolution of 2560 x 1600 pixels. It’s a large screen that looks gorgeous.
The laptop only weighs a measly 2.98 pounds or 1.35 kilograms. It’s perfect for architects who are always on the go and would want a large laptop that they can use during presentations.
#7. Acer ConceptD 7 Ezel Pro
Specifications
Storage: Up to 2TB
Processor: 10th-generation Intel Core i7
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 – 2080
RAM: 16GB – 32GB
Screen: 15.6in 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) 16:9 IPS
Do you have a big budget? if yes, then consider Acer ConceptD 7 Ezel Pro. This device comes with a stunning screen and has one of the most powerful Windows offering super accurate colors.
The flexible hinged design makes it function like a standard laptop and a tablet. Acer ConceptD 7 Ezel Pro is one of the best alternatives to the latest Apple Macbook laptop brand.
#8. LG Gram 17 (2021)
Specifications
Storage: up to 2TB NVMe SSD
Processor: 11th-generation Intel Core i7
Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics
RAM: 16GB LPDDR4XScreen
Screen: 17-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS LCD
The lightweight LG Gram 17 has a smart and attractive design with excellent battery life. Its large screen gives room for multitasking.
#9. Microsoft Surface Book 3
Specifications
Storage: 1TB SSD
Processor: 1.3GHz Intel Core i7-1065G7
Graphics: 6GB NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti
RAM: 32GB
Screen: 15.6-inch IPS PixelSense (3240 x 2160)
The Microsoft Surface Book 3 is a unique laptop for architecture students. This device is a studio and a tablet and thus offers a great multitasking experience. Microsoft Surface Book 3 features a Surface Pen and a Surface Dial tool that will help you sketch, design, and paint easily with your Microsoft Surface Book 3.
#10. HP OMEN 15
Specifications
Storage: 12GB SSD | Wi-Fi 6
Processor: Intel Core i7-8665U quad-core
Graphics: 14″ Full HD 100% sRGB
RAM: 16GB
Screen: 14″ Full HD 100% sRGB
HP OMEN 15 is another great HP laptop for architecture students capable of running both business and design software. It is a 2-in-1 laptop that can also be folded into a tablet, stand-alone presentation screen, or at any angle that best suits your need.
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Sources
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