10 Best Laptops For Running Solidworks – Full Specs & Reviews 2021

SolidWorks is a high-end computer-aided design tool that deals with modeling and 2-D designs through integrated parametric innovations. It is used to pursue entry-level mechanical course work, prototype designs, and envisioning designs or mechanical products. So, a powerful machine is necessary to work on SolidWorks as a prospective user.

The choice of PC for SolidWorks is very subjective and depends upon the usage and expertise. The PC for SolidWorks should have a high-performance CPU along with a dedicated GPU, Core i7 or above, large storage capacity, and quality display with high resolutions.

Before choosing the best laptop for running SolidWorks first, consider your needs and expertise level. If you are a student or a beginner in 2-D modeling, a basic consumer-grade laptop or gaming machine without a workstation is sufficient. If you are an industry professional then you would need a smooth workstation.

Let’s have a look at the system requirements needed for running Solidworks so that you may understand your basic specifications requirements.

Let’s get started!

SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS FOR SOLIDWORKS:

  SPECIFICATIONS          Minimum System                 Requirements        Recommended System                   Requirements   s
CPU9th Generation Intel Core i510th Generation Intel Core i7 or above
RAM8GB16GB
STORAGE256GB SSD1TB SSD or Dual Storage
DISPLAY15.6-inch FHD with 1920 x 1080 resolutions15.6-inch IPS type FHD / UHD with 1920 x 1080 resolutions
BATTERY2GB NVIDIA GeForce MX1502GB + NVIDIA Quadro or 4GB+ NVIDIA RTX
GPUUp to 8 hoursUp to 10+ hours

Here for your help, I am going to provide you a list of the best laptops for running SolidWorks that are precisely manufactured to handle high-end tools like Solidworks and offer a great bang for your bucks. Have a look!

best laptops for running solidworks

10 best laptops for running SolidWorks

  • Acer Nitro 5 AN515
  • Acer Predator Triton 700
  • Omen by HP 17
  • Microsoft Surface Book 3
  • Lenovo ThinkPad P53
  • Dell Inspiron 15
  • Alienware AW17R4
  • ASUS VivoBook 15
  • Dell XPS9560-5000SLV-PUS
  • ASUS GA502DU

#1. Acer Nitro 5 AN515

Let’s start the list with a non-workstation laptop for students and beginners. It is equipped with late generation CPU and a midrange consumer GPU and a dedicated graphics card.

This model is a great deal with affordable price-tag with powerful specifications. The most highlighting feature of this device is its RAM upgradeability which means that its 8GB RAM can be upgraded to 16 GB which will significantly increase the mechanics of stimulation.

This machine is powered by Windows 10 and features the 9th Generation Intel Core i5-9300H processor with 128GB SSD and 1TB hard drive. This is plenty of storage to save numerous amounts of data.

This 15.6 inches laptop is all-rounder kill for engineering students which can handle stimulations with >100 parts and even greater depending upon how you are doing it.

This is a consumer-grade laptop and you’ll have to sacrifice stability while using it for SolidWorks but if you want the same processing power as workstation than this laptop is for you. Acer Nitro is the best laptop for running SolidWorks at entry-level with a rating of 4.7.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameAcer
SeriesAcer Nitro
Item model numberAN515-54-51M5
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight5.5 pounds
Processori5-9300H
RAM8GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size128GB
Battery1 Lithium-ion battery
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Cool palm rest under loads
  • Good value for money device
  • Great battery life
  • Supports RAID 0
  • Good performance
Cons
  • No Thunderbolt 3 support
  • No SD card reader
  • Dim display
  • Low-quality speakers
  • Plastic built

#2. Acer Predator Triton 700

Acer Predator Triton 700 is an ultra-thin gaming laptop that is capable of handling heavy tools like SolidWorks with ease. With a 7th Generation Intel i7-7700HQ processor, it offers a great deal of processing power and graphics.

It is one of the best gaming laptops with SSD and provides a great storage backup of 512GB PCle SSD in RAID 0 configuration. This combo of processing power and SSD is solid for people who are dealing with SolidWorks as pure concentration. Also, 32GB RAM available in this device is a huge support for loading heavy apps.

This 15.6 inches laptop for high-end usage comes in the market with 15.6 inches full FHD LED-backlit IPS display with 120Hz refresh rate and G-sync technology.

The popular highlight of this laptop is that it doesn’t get hot under heavy loads with dual all-metal aero blades 3D fans mounted on the system. This dual fan system has 5 copper heat pipes to keep the temperature low. Also, it has a customizable RGB mechanical keyboard that offers a smooth typing experience. The sound quality is also up to the mark. All these features are reason to list this laptop among the best laptop for running SolidWorks. The major con of this device is poor battery life. Overall, this gaming laptop has enough power to run SolidWorks so with a little compromise on battery life you can go for this machine.

According to customers, it has ratings of 4.2 out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameAcer
SeriesAcer Predator Series
Item model numberPT715-51-732Q
Operating SystemWindows 10
Product Weight5.4 pounds
Processori7-7700HQ
RAM32GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size512GB
Battery1 Lithium Polymer battery
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080 Pixels
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Great mechanical keyboard
  • Sturdy build
  • Aluminum chassis
  • Ultra-Portable
  • Amazing design
  • Thunderbolt 3
  • Per key RGB keyboard
  • SSD slot that supports RAID 0
Cons
  • Poor battery life
  • Touchpad gets hot under load
  • RGB balance is poor
  • Over-priced
  • No card reader

#3. Omen by HP 17

Another gaming laptop in the list. Yay! This is going to be a beast to run SolidWorks smoothly.

This laptop by HP offers a huge widescreen of 17 inches for people who like cinema-like big-screens in their electronic gadgets. It has a diagonal FHD anti-glare IPS panel with a micro-edge WLED-backlit display and a high resolution of 1080p.

Omen by HP is powered by Windows 10 Home and you can have a huge playground in this device to improve laptop performance windows 10. This Windows 10 OS comes with many unique and latest features so always try to run this machine with Windows 10 OS.

To run SolidWorks smoothly it offers Intel i7-9750H processor and GeForce RTX that provides desktop-grade power with hyper-realistic graphics. Also, it provides 16GB RAM with snappy responsiveness of dual storage solution with 1TB HDD and 256GB SSD.

It is the best laptop for running SolidWorks with some other features which include sleek and modern design, BIOS protection, and recovery that automatically maintains the health of the device and protects it from unauthorized access. Also, it provides a decent choice of connectivity ports.

It has 4.1 stars out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameHP
SeriesOMEN Laptop 17-cb0030nr
Item model number17-cb0030nr
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight7.27 pounds
ProcessorIntel i7-9750H
RAM16GB
Display Size17.3 Inches
Flash Memory Size256
Battery1 Lithium Polymer battery
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Attractive price tag
  • Strong performance
  • 4K panel
  • G-sync display
  • Sleek and modern design
Cons
  • Plastic body
  • Large in size
  • Average battery backup

#4. Microsoft Surface Book 3

This laptop from Microsoft is the most powerful, portable, and the best laptop for running SolidWorks without any hassle. Most importantly it is the only certified laptop to run Solidworks. Cool! It is the fastest surface book yet with a 4x power boost so, if your budget doesn’t issue and you need something stylish and portable then grabbing Surface Book 3 is the best option.

This 15 inches laptop can be a premium choice for SolidWorks professionals. It is powered by the Intel Core i7 processor which comes from the 8th generation computers. Also, it provides enhanced graphics performance with GeForce GTX GPU and 6GB GDRR5 graphics memory.

Surface Book 3 offers a pixel-sense display with a new 15 inches touchscreen that is quite responsive with vibrant colors. This display is designed for pen and touch also.

BOOM! This robust portable laptop and tablet with up to 17 hours of battery life that is just amazing. With this long-lasting battery life, you can effortlessly work for server hours.

Apart from mechanical and engineering works, this is the laptops for financial modeling as well because all these high-end features can serve to run heavy modeling software as well.

According to customer reviews, it has 4.0 ratings out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameMicrosoft
SeriesMicrosoft Surface Book
Item model numberFUX-00001
Operating SystemWindows 10 Pro
Product Weight4.2 pounds
ProcessorIntel Core i7
RAM16GB
Display Size15 Inches
Flash Memory Size512
Battery1 Lithium Polymer battery
Screen Resolution3260×2160 Pixels
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Sleek design
  • Speedy processor
  • Powerful graphics processor
  • USB Type-C port
  • Fast charging feature
  • Above-average battery
  • Comfortable keyboard
Cons
  • Pricey
  • Keyboard base adds weight

#5. Lenovo ThinkPad P53

If you are interested to buy a workstation laptop for your industry work and wanted to save some bucks then this laptop can be your best pick.

It is providing high computing powers like many other competitors but it is several dollars less expensive. ThinkPad P53 is offering Intel i7-9750H, a 6-Core processor that is less powerful than core-i9 but gets the job done very smoothly. A RAM variant of 32GB is incorporated in this device along with 1TB SATA SSD that is well suited with CPU and GPU and collectively they can work like a beast.

P53 has 15.6 inches full HD display with a resolution of 1920×1080 pixels. This full HD display panel has vibrant colors and sharpness which provides good quality graphics.

It is the best laptop for running SolidWorks with some specs like a fingerprint reader and RAM up-gradation options. The port configuration is also suitable for usage. Overall the device is a good workstation laptop with 5 stars, as per customer reviews on Amazon.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameLenovo
SeriesThinkPad P53
Operating SystemWindows 10 Pro
Product Weight5.5 pounds
ProcessorIntel i7-9750H 6-Core
RAM32GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size1 TB
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA Quadro T1000
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Great graphics quality and performance
  • Sky-high memory
  • Attractive Storage ceilings
  • Great keyboard
Cons
  • Marginal battery life
  • A little bit overweight

#6. Dell Inspiron 15

Newest Dell Inspiron 15 is an amazing device of 2020 with Intel 2-Core 4205U Processor, that provides good processing power. This processor has 2MB cache and 1.8GHz clock frequency. Good quality Intel UHD graphics are also provided in this laptop for people who are more likely interested in popping colors and sharpness.

It is the laptop for investment banking with 1TB SATA hard drive,  and this storage type is fast and provides plenty of space for saving data. Although the RAM variant is of 4GB which is a bit low but can serve the students who want to start their career with high-end tools.

The audio system incorporated in this machine is of good quality and clarifies every tone. Also, it is light in weight so students and bankers can carry this device easily from one place to another.

As far as connectivity ports are concerned it provides 2 x USB 3.1 Gen1, USB 2.0, SD Card Reader, HDMI, RJ45, Headphone & Microphone Audio Jack.

According to reviews, this device comes up with a rating of 4.2.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameDell
SeriesD15
Item model numberD15
Operating SystemWindows 10
Product Weight4.8 pounds
ProcessorIntel 2-Core 4205U Processor
RAM4GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Battery1 Lithium-ion battery
Max Screen Resolution1366×768 Lines Per Inch
Graphics CoprocessorIntel
Chipset BrandIntel
Card DescriptionIntegrated
Pros
  • Good price to performance ratio
  • Acceptable battery runtimes
  • Fan behavior is consistent
  • Excellent typing experience
  • Good configurations
  • Cheap price
  • Good battery life
Cons
  • Feeble glare panel
  • No VGA port
  • Hard drive is a bit slow
  • Glossy plastic chassis
  • The screen resolution could be higher

#7. Alienware AW17R4

This laptop from Alienware is another good device in the list that will not disappoint you in terms of graphics and computing power. It is an elite consumer looking gaming notebook and powered by a strong 7th Generation Intel Core i7 processor that easily runs mechanical and CAD tools like SolidWorks. Also, with a dedicated graphic card (NVIDIA GTX) this laptop provides good quality graphics.

The device comes in the market with a beautiful silver color which looks appealing. 16GB RAM and 1TB HDD are mounted in this laptop that is enough to load heavy apps with ease. AW17R4 has prioritized screen size and comes with a wide display screen of 17 inches which is a very huge display with good PPI balance.

One amazing highlight of this machine is the voice command track-point pointing device which makes this device easier to use. Also, it has Tobii eye-tracking technology that is providing a new way to interact with computers. This display screen is an FHD IPS antiglare display that supports vibrant colors and protects the user’s eyes. So, you can work on this device for several hours without damaging your eyes.

It has 3.6 stars out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameAlienware
SeriesAW17R4-7345SLV-PUS
Item model numberAW17R4-7345SLV-PUS
Operating SystemWindows 10
Product Weight9.7 pounds
Processor7th Generation Intel Core i7
RAM16GB
Display Size17.3 Inches
Battery1 Lithium Polymer batter
Screen Resolution1920×1080 Pixels
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Wide display options
  • USB Type-C ports (x2)
  • Tobii eye-tracking
  • High-quality chassis
  • Great price
  • Good keyboard and touchpad experience
Cons
  • Gets hot under load (GPU & CPU gets warm)
  • Fewer internal storage bays
  • Slim but weight is high

#8. ASUS VivoBook 15

This laptop from ASUS is another good addition in the market for industry workers, especially those who use mechanical modeling tools. It is a lightweight device can is easy to carry.

For good processing power, the AMD Quad-Core R5-3500U processor is fixed inside this device with 8GB RAM and 256GB SSD. It is the best laptop for SolidWorks with good processing power and multitasking support.

It has Nano-Edge bezels with an appropriate screen-to-body ratio. This 88% screen-to-body ratio is stunning and provides easy working postures. Screen size is 14 inches with a resolution of 1080p.

The keyboard fixed is ergonomic backlit Chiclet to support comfortable typing even in darker areas. A fingerprint sensor is also mounted to provide data security. Comprehensive connectivity ports are also available with good transfer speed. Overall it is a premium device with all necessary specs. Also for improved laptop performance windows 10 is recommended.

It has 4.4 stars out of 5, as per reviews.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameASUS
SeriesVivoBook F512DA
Item model numberF512DA-EB51
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight3.5 pounds
ProcessorAMD Quad-Core R5-3500U
RAM8GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size256
Battery1 Lithium Polymer battery
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
Graphics CoprocessorAMD Radeon RX Vega 8
Chipset BrandAMD
Card DescriptionIntegrated
Pros
  • Pretty looks
  • Big display
  • Flawless performance
  • Mediocre battery life
  • Low price
Cons
  • Low-quality build
  • Sometimes performance suffers under heavy loads
  • Below-average battery
  • Speakers aren’t up to mark

#9. Dell XPS9560-5000SLV-PUS

Dell is a famous brand because of its good quality laptops so, the list couldn’t be completed without including any Dell laptop.

It is the smallest powerhouse that offers 7th Generation Intel Core i5-7300HQ Quad-Core Processor with a clocking frequency of 3.5GHz which can work without glitches with 6MB cache. This powerful processor works efficiently with SolidWorks.

It has 8GB DDR4 RAM which occurs in the range of minimum system requirements for SolidWorks but it is upgradeable up to 32GB as per need. 256GB SSD is enough to store all necessary files and folders.

This machine has a stunning widescreen of 15.6 inches with a 4K ultra HD infinity-edge touch display. This display is amazing in terms of resolutions, color balance, and sharpness. You can details of every picture clearly without zooming in. whoa! Also, the touch is very responsive with a good refresh rate.

With aluminum chassis, solidly built, and good quality CPU and GPU, it is the best laptops for SolidWorks.

It has 2.8 stars out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameDell
SeriesXPS9560
Item model numberXPS9560-5000SLV-PUS
Operating SystemWindows 10
Product Weight4.41 pounds
Processor7th Gen Core i5
RAM8GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Battery1 Lithium Polymer battery
Screen Resolution3840 x 2160 Pixels
Graphics CoprocessorNVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050
Chipset BrandNVIDIA
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Strong performance
  • 4K touch display
  • Large capacity SSD
  • Premium construction
Cons
  • Sealed chassis
  • Below-average battery life

#10. ASUS GA502DU

Asus GA502DU is a fast and lightweight laptop offering all the necessary specifications for running heavy tools, so according to our review, it’s one of the best laptops for SolidWorks. This laptop is available with 16GB DDR4 RAM. Its storage capacity is also good with 512GB PCle SSD so users will not face any issues dealing with a large amount of data.

A strong AMD Ryzen 7 3750H processor is fitted into this machine that is providing an increased processing speed for necessary tasks. 15.6 inches screen withfull HD display is available here. It has sharp and bright colors. The resolution of 1920 x 1080 provides impressive colors and clarity.

It has a chicklet white backlit keyboard that works smoothly while typing. This machine is a Windows 10 gaming laptop and well compatible with windows 10 home version. USB Type-C port is also available along with a headphone/microphone jack.

It is offering all smart features. Overall, the device has ratings of 3.6 out of 5.

SPECIFICATIONS:

Brand NameASUS
SeriesGA502DU-BR7N6
Operating SystemWindows 10 Home
Product Weight4.63 pounds
ProcessorAMD Ryzen 7 3750H
RAM16GB
Display Size15.6 Inches
Flash Memory Size512GB
Battery1 Lithium-ion batter
Screen Resolution1920 x 1080
Graphics CoprocessorNvidia
Chipset BrandNvidia
Card DescriptionDedicated
Pros
  • Slim design
  • Lightweight
  • Excellent performance
  • Great battery life
Cons
  • Lackluster screen
  • Dim display
  • No webcam

VERDICT:

I hope you have already figured out your best laptop for running SolidWorks according to your usage and project size. Always keep in mind that the device you choose should be upgradeable because your working needs can change anytime. So, before making purchases for any electronic gadget for SolidWorks and other such tools, apart from specifications don’t forget to focus on its upgradeability.

Thanks for having your precious time to read. Thank you!