Like it or not, for today’s students one of the most important tools you require is a laptop …it’s almost impossible to successfully study the subject or run and manage a project without one.
So whether you’re buying your first one, or simply replacing an outdated model, here we will run through our pick of the best laptops for architectural students.
In terms of the specs to look out for, we’ve broken the fundamentals down into the below three tiers:
- Lower Tier: Suitable for basic drafting and 2D work.
- Middle Tier: Ideal for 3D modelling, light rendering, and more intensive software usage.
- Higher Tier: Best for heavy rendering, complex modelling, and multitasking with multiple high-demand applications.
| Component | Lower Tier | Middle Tier | Higher Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Processor (CPU) | Intel Core i5 / AMD Ryzen 5 | Intel Core i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 | Intel Core i9 / AMD Ryzen 9 |
| Graphics Card (GPU) | Integrated Graphics (e.g., Intel Iris Xe) or Entry-Level Dedicated (e.g., NVIDIA MX450) | Mid-Range Dedicated (e.g., NVIDIA RTX 3050/3060, AMD Radeon RX 6600M) | High-End Dedicated (e.g., NVIDIA RTX 3070/3080, AMD Radeon RX 6800M) |
| RAM | 8 GB | 16 GB | 32 GB or more |
| Storage | 256 GB SSD | 512 GB SSD | 1 TB SSD or higher |
| Display | 13″-15″ Full HD (1920×1080) | 15″-16″ Full HD or 2K (1920×1080 or 2560×1440) | 15″-17″ 4K UHD (3840×2160) or high refresh rate for colour accuracy |
| Battery Life | 6-8 hours | 8-10 hours | 10+ hours |
| Weight | 1.5-2.0 kg (3.3-4.4 lbs) | 1.8-2.5 kg (4-5.5 lbs) | 2.5 kg+ (5.5 lbs+) |
| Ports | USB-C, USB-A, HDMI | USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), USB-A, HDMI, SD card reader | USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), USB-A, HDMI, SD card reader, Ethernet |
| Cooling System | Basic cooling | Dual-fan or advanced cooling systems | High-performance cooling with multiple heat pipes and fans |
Key Takeaways:
- Processor (CPU): Architecture software like AutoCAD, Revit, SketchUp, and rendering software such as V-Ray and Lumion benefit from a powerful CPU, especially for multitasking and large file processing.
- Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated GPU is essential for rendering, 3D modelling, and working with high-resolution textures. Lower tiers may work for basic 2D drafting, but mid to higher tiers are recommended for 3D and rendering.
- RAM: More RAM allows for smoother multitasking and handling of large files. 16 GB is the minimum for comfortable multitasking, while 32 GB is ideal for heavy rendering and running multiple architecture programs simultaneously.
- Storage: SSDs provide faster load times and file access, which is crucial for large architecture files and software. Higher capacity SSDs are recommended for storing larger projects locally.
- Display: A higher resolution display improves detail visibility in design work. Colour accuracy and screen size also play a significant role in rendering and CAD applications, where precision is crucial.
- Battery Life: Higher-tier laptops often provide better battery life, but this can vary depending on usage (e.g., rendering vs. basic drafting).
- Weight and Portability: Architecture professionals who travel frequently may prefer lighter laptops, but keep in mind that higher performance laptops tend to be heavier due to better cooling and higher specs.
- Ports: A variety of ports is helpful for connecting peripherals, external drives, and monitors, which are often used in architecture work.
- Cooling System: A robust cooling system helps maintain performance during intensive tasks like rendering. Higher-tier laptops are usually equipped with better cooling solutions to handle the heat generated by powerful components.
Now lets transfer this into physical laptops, and breakdown what they can offer…
The best laptops for architecture students
Dell XPS 17
A powerful laptop with a massive screen—ideal for architecture and design professionals
The Dell XPS 17 is a great choice for those who need a large, high-quality display for architecture and design work. With its expansive 17-inch screen and options for up to 4K resolution, it offers a spacious workspace that enhances productivity and immersion.
The laptop comes equipped with the latest 13th Gen Intel Core i7 or i9 processors, providing more than enough power for professional applications. Additionally, Nvidia’s RTX 40-series graphics cards support GPU acceleration, making this laptop capable of handling both intensive design tasks and gaming.
Dell maintains its reputation for quality with the XPS 17, featuring a sleek design, excellent build quality, and a keyboard that is comfortable and responsive for extended typing sessions.
Despite its powerful components and large size, the XPS 17 boasts decent battery life, capable of lasting a full workday.
The laptop also includes a range of ports, such as an SD card slot, four Thunderbolt ports, and a USB-C connector, ensuring strong peripheral support. With Wi-Fi 6 for fast wireless connectivity, it’s well-equipped for modern workflows.
However, at 5.37 pounds, it is heavier than many competitors, and its premium features come at a higher price point.
Pros:
- Large, high-quality display options
- Strong performance with Intel i7/i9 CPUs and Nvidia RTX GPUs
- Decent battery life for a device of its size and power
Cons:
- Heavier than many rivals
- Expensive
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | 13th Gen Intel Core i7-13700H / i9-13900H |
| Graphics | Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 – RTX 4080 |
| RAM | 16GB / 32GB / 64GB |
| Screen | 17-inch, 1920 x 1200 IPS / 3840 x 2400 IPS |
| Storage | 1TB / 2TB / 4TB |
| Dimensions | 14.74 x 9.76 x 0.77 in (374.45 x 248.05 x 19.5 mm) |
| Weight | 5.37 lbs (2.43 kg) |
| Ports | SD card slot, 4 x Thunderbolt ports, USB-C |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 |
HP Victus 15
An affordable and capable laptop with discrete graphics—perfect for budget-conscious architecture students
The HP Victus 15 might be marketed as a gaming laptop, but its powerful components make it an excellent choice for architecture students as well. Equipped with either AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core i7 processors, this laptop can easily handle most architecture and design software.
The inclusion of a discrete Nvidia GeForce GTX 4050 graphics card provides additional graphical acceleration, making it suitable for both professional tasks and after-hours gaming.
The Victus 15 offers NVMe SSD storage and up to 16GB of DDR4 RAM, ensuring smooth performance and quick load times. Its 15.6-inch Full HD IPS LED display delivers good quality visuals with adequate resolution for most professional and academic needs.
Design-wise, the HP Victus 15 has a mature and understated look, making it suitable for both classroom and office environments. The laptop is built with decent durability to withstand daily commutes and active student life.
The keyboard is comfortable and spacious, making it great for extended typing sessions, and the laptop stays relatively quiet even under load. Additional features like a decent camera, Wi-Fi 6E, and USB-C connectivity provide the necessary functionality for most students.
The laptop also takes a step towards sustainability, being partially made from post-consumer recycled plastic and coated with eco-friendly paint.
However, the Victus 15 does have its drawbacks. The battery life is mediocre, which is common for laptops in this price range, and at around 5 pounds, it is slightly heavy for frequent portability.
Nevertheless, for architecture students on a budget, the HP Victus 15 offers a good balance of performance and affordability.
Pros:
- Excellent power for the price
- Discrete Nvidia GPU for enhanced graphics performance
- Suitable for gaming after study sessions
Cons:
- Mediocre battery life
- Plain design
- Slightly heavy
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Up to AMD Ryzen 7 5800H / Intel Core i7-13700H |
| Graphics | Up to NVIDIA GeForce GTX 4050 |
| RAM | Up to 16GB DDR4 |
| Screen | 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS LED |
| Storage | Up to 512GB M.2 PCIe NVMe |
| Dimensions | 14.09 x 10.03 x 0.92 in (35.79 x 25.5 x 2.35 cm) |
| Weight | 5 lbs (2.27 kg) |
| Ports and Connectivity | USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E, additional USB ports, and a good quality camera |
| Environmental Features | Partially made from post-consumer recycled plastic, eco-friendly paint |
Asus ProArt P16
A high-performance laptop with outstanding screen and build quality—ideal for architecture students seeking the best of the best
The Asus ProArt P16 is a standout 16-inch laptop engineered for creative professionals who need top-tier performance and specialized features for demanding applications like Premiere Pro, After Effects, and DaVinci Resolve.
By incorporating AI processing, Asus has crafted a machine that rivals the Apple MacBook Pro, with dedicated enhancements for creators.
This laptop’s design prioritizes connectivity, featuring an array of ports that accommodate various accessories, monitors, projectors, and other devices, making it highly suitable for professionals on the move.
The keyboard and trackpad layout is intuitive, and the unique Asus DialPad offers enhanced functionality in creative applications such as Photoshop, allowing quick adjustments like brush size changes.
The touchscreen’s 4096 levels of pressure sensitivity, combined with the included stylus, provide precise control for drawing and other creative tasks. Additionally, the Asus suite of creative software, including AI-driven tools, helps organize digital images and videos efficiently.
Under the hood, the ProArt P16 is equipped with a powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 Processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, making it capable of handling high-resolution video editing, including 4K and 6K footage from professional cameras.
While it may require an external SSD for managing large files, its robust processor and graphics card ensure smooth performance for advanced editing tasks.
Targeted at videographers, photographers, designers, and content creators, the Asus ProArt P16 meets the rigorous demands of the creative industry. It offers a compelling alternative to the MacBook Pro, not only due to its performance but also for its range of features tailored to the needs of creative professionals.
Pros:
- Exceptionally powerful performance for creative applications
- Dedicated features and software for content creation
- Includes Asus Creator Apps and stylus for enhanced functionality
Cons:
- Expensive
- Uses a proprietary power adapter
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 Processor; AMD XDNA™ NPU up to 50TOPS |
| Graphics | NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070 Laptop GPU, 8GB GDDR6; AMD Radeon™ 890M Graphics |
| RAM | 64GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 2TB M.2 NVMe™ PCIe® 4.0 SSD |
| Left Ports | DC-in, HDMI 2.1 FRL, USB 4.0 Gen 3 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 3.5mm Audio Jack |
| Right Ports | SD Express 7.0 card reader, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be) (Triple band) 2×2, Bluetooth® 5.4 |
| Audio | Built-in array microphone, Harman/Kardon (Premium) |
| Camera | FHD camera with IR function for Windows Hello |
| Dimensions | 13.97″ x 9.72″ x 0.59″ ~ 0.68″ (35.49 x 24.69 x 1.49 ~ 1.73 cm) |
| Weight | 1.85 kg (4.08 lbs) |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Home |
| Accessories | Stylus (Asus Pen SA203H-MPP2.0 support) |
HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook
A top-tier Chromebook with exceptional performance and design—best suited for those committed to Chrome OS
While Chromebooks are generally not the go-to choice for architecture students due to their limited app support compared to Windows and MacOS, the HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook stands out as a premium option for those who prefer the Google ecosystem.
It comes equipped with Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, offering top-end performance for a Chromebook, and is complemented by Intel Iris Xe graphics for enhanced visuals.
The Elite Dragonfly Chromebook is packed with enterprise-level security features, including Google’s Titan C security chip and zero-touch enrollment options available in higher-end models, making it a secure choice for professional environments.
The device features an impressive 13.5-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1920×1280 and a brightness of 400 nits, delivering excellent image quality and touch responsiveness.
This Chromebook also offers all-day battery life, which is ideal for on-the-go usage, and has options for additional privacy features, stylus support, larger SSD storage, and mobile broadband on select models.
Despite being lightweight and sleek, the Dragonfly does come at a premium price. Its high cost and the limited capabilities of Chrome OS in handling architecture-specific software may not make it the best choice for architecture students.
However, if you are committed to using a Chromebook and want the best available, the HP Elite Dragonfly is the top choice.
Pros:
- High-speed performance for a Chromebook
- Elegant design with a stunning, touch-capable display
- Long battery life and enterprise security features
Cons:
- Expensive compared to other Chromebooks
- Limited software support for architecture students
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Up to Intel Core i7 |
| Graphics | Intel Iris Xe |
| RAM | Up to 16GB |
| Screen | 13.5-inch, 1920x1280p, 400 nits, touchscreen |
| Storage | 256GB PCIe NVMe |
| Dimensions | 12.4 x 8.7 x 0.7 in (31.4 x 22.09 x 1.77 cm) |
| Weight | Lightweight and portable |
| Battery Life | All-day battery life |
| Additional Features | Enterprise security (Titan C chip, zero-touch enrollment), stylus support, optional larger SSDs, mobile broadband options |
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch
A high-performance laptop with outstanding screen and build quality—ideal for architecture students seeking the best of the best
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (2023) stands out as a top choice for architecture students who want a laptop that excels in performance, display quality, and build.
Unlike many laptops that involve some level of compromise, the MacBook Pro 16-inch offers a near-perfect blend of power and functionality, making it a solid investment for both academic and professional use.
At its core, the MacBook Pro is powered by Apple’s latest M2 Pro and M2 Max processors, which deliver exceptional performance surpassing the standard M2 chip and even most Intel CPUs.
This makes it more than capable of handling demanding architecture and design software with ease. The integrated 19-core to 38-core GPU provides robust graphical acceleration, supporting a wide range of creative applications.
The 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display offers sharp, accurate visuals with ample workspace, perfect for detailed design work. Complemented by Apple’s excellent keyboard and trackpad, it ensures a smooth user experience.
Apple continues to deliver on connectivity and battery life with the MacBook Pro 16. It includes Thunderbolt 4, SDXC, and HDMI ports, ensuring seamless file transfers and peripheral connections.
The battery life is particularly impressive, with over 20 hours of use on a single charge—enough to get through the most demanding days without needing to recharge.
While the MacBook Pro 16 is slightly heavy, weighing between 3.5 and 3.6 pounds, and does not run Windows, these are minor drawbacks for a device that excels in almost every other area.
The higher price tag is also a consideration, but for those willing to invest, this laptop could serve as a reliable workhorse for many years to come.
Pros:
- Exceptional performance with M2 Pro and M2 Max processors
- Outstanding battery life, lasting over 20 hours
- High-resolution Liquid Retina XDR display
Cons:
- Expensive
- Larger size and heavier than some alternatives
- Does not support Windows OS
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Apple M2 Pro (12-core) / Apple M2 Max (12-core) |
| Graphics | Integrated 19-core to 38-core GPU |
| RAM | Up to 96GB |
| Screen | 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display |
| Storage | Up to 8TB |
| Dimensions | 14.01 x 9.77 x 0.66 in (35.57 x 24.81 x 1.68 cm) |
| Weight | 3.5 to 3.6 lbs (1.6 to 1.63 kg) |
| Ports | Thunderbolt 4, SDXC, HDMI |
| Battery Life | Over 20 hours |
Still need help? Here’s more on what you need to know…
How to find the right laptop
When considering and choosing the best option, your decision should largely be based around the system requirements of the programs you will be using.
Your college / university or workplace should be able to advise on this, however for architects and students some of the most common ones are:
- AutoCAD, Revit, Vectorworks, and Archicad for CAD work
- SketchUp, 3ds max, Cinema 4D and rhino for 3D modelling
- Vray, Corona Render and Lumion for image rendering
- Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for graphic work and image editing
In fact it’s quite likely that at some point you will work with all of these!
It’s important to note that these system requirements are above what might be classed as “normal”, and therefore the hardware required is a higher specification and price than your average student computer, but very similar to that of say an engineering student and animator for example.
Therefore these types of computers are not always available “off the shelf”, and do require a good level research to ensure that you buy the right one.
The good news is that other than for specific rendering needs (architecture visualization), the requirements for 2D, 3D and graphic work are quite similar.
What you need to know:
If you want to get into the technical depths of comparing processor and graphics card speed’s then there is an abundance of this information all over the internet (you just need to Google it). Here however (having already done the research), we will highlight only the important aspects that need to be focused on.
For a detailed explanation on each of the key components that help to make up a computer, have a look at the below buyers guide Here
However in short, the most important components are:
- Processor (CPU) – This controls the speed that the software/programs will run at …the more ghz the better.
- Graphics card (GPU) – Controls how fast the screen updates and refreshes, so no screen lag.
- Screen resolution – More pixels equal better quality.
- Memory (Ram) – Controls the computers ability to handle large tasks (such as 3D and rendering work) and enables you to do more tasks at once.
- Storage – Controls the speed of how quickly applications open up and files are accessed.
If you know what programs you will be primarily using, then it’s fairly simple to find the minimum specification for your needs, however we advise that you get the best your budget can stretch to.
This above anything else will help ensure your computers longevity with new and updated programs.
As laptops for example, due to their compact nature and construction, are practically hard to update with new hardware, further emphasizing the need to get it right first time. Desktops on the other hand can be very customisable.
Should you buy a laptop or desktop?
For students, you should really be focusing on a laptop or mac book and ignore the desktop options.
The versatility they offer is far greater and more valuable than the extra power vs cost a desktop offers. As a student you will be working in a variety of locations and often (particularly in a studio environment) won’t be guaranteed to always have the same work space / desk.
So portability and flexibility are key.
You will want to be able to take your computer to the studio, library, tutorials, home, travelling, lectures and crits …to name a few. A desktop just can’t offer this level of flexibility, without a whole lot of hassle.
We are not however talking about lightweight notebooks, these are (and need to be) powerful workstations which whilst being portable are not light, and so good laptop bag is crucial, or at least a well padded sleeve.
For a bag option try the Case Logic Briefcase available here on amazon and for a well padded sleeve, look at the AMNIE Splash & Shock Resistant Laptop Sleeve here.
That said, in monetary terms a desktop will offer far greater performance when compared to a laptop at the equivalent cost, and in an ideal situation you would supplement your laptop with a desktop (but only a lucky few have this luxury!), which is more commonly suited to working architects and practices.
For some, the flexibility a laptop offers when weighed against performance and cost isn’t justifiable and / or they may just prefer desktops. So if a portable solution isn’t required then a desktop can offer better performance, power and memory, along with a much larger workspace (screen).
Choosing an operating system
Second to your computers system requirements, your choice of computer will also be based around its operating system. This is responsible for the running and managing of your computers tasks, such as your files, devices, software and hardware.
The choice of operating is largely based on personal preference and what is often the deciding factor between choosing a PC or Mac. To break them down…
Windows
Windows operating systems are by far the most popular with the number of users being approximately 4 times more than the next rival system from Apple (macOS). This is largely due to them being cheaper, offering more options and variations, being adaptable and open to upgrades and updates being released more frequently.
…and all this had led to them being easier to repair, due to the sheer number of them.
In terms of specific requirements for architecture, there are also still a few programs that cannot be run on a Mac operating system such as 3D Studio Max.
For these reasons, it is far more common for students and colleges / universities to have windows machines. Although a lot of practices prefer to use or are making the transition over to the more design oriented macOS operating systems.
MacOS
Just like anything Apple creates, MacOS is a very well designed and thought out product, its ability to allow you to download and install apps also makes the interface very customisable. As described above however, it does have a few compatibility issues with certain programs but there is a work around for this.
MacOS comes at a premium however, with comparable PC specifications being a lot cheaper, and its parts being a lot harder to upgrade and change, with fewer options available.
They are however very well refined and beautiful objects that are both a pleasure to use and to look at, making them hard to say no to, and if they were cheaper, it would be a no brainer.
Which One?
In conclusion and in terms of design and style, macOS machines usually come out on top with their intuitive usability and seamless integration with anything else Apple, which today is a lot of devices!
That said, windows is more adaptable and works better with non-related apple products with more customization and flexibility at an affordable price.
It is also well worth checking with your college or university to get their opinion, as quite often it is recommended that students go with Windows, simply because there are fewer restrictions and more solutions to problems.
What to consider with a desktop computer
Desktop computers or towers mostly begin without any additional components, such as a monitor or speakers, and often a mouse and keyboard are an optional extra.
So don’t forget that you need a monitor, mouse and keyboard to actually use it, and this is an important factor to consider when assessing and comparing prices.
They also come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours, that offer a level of individuality and to a certain degree the option to save on space. Although the smaller cases tend to be the less powerful specifications.
As mentioned these are a great option if you are on a budget and looking for increased power over portability, due to their capability to carry large amounts of RAM and larger/faster processors.
What to consider with a laptop
Laptops cover a wide range of portable computers with different operating systems from Apple, Microsoft and Google. The keyboard, mouse and screen integrate within a ‘clamshell’ design, making them extremely portable and lightweight.
Screen sizes vary, but for producing architecture and graphic work, look at a minimum 15” width. Although a touch plate mouse is integrated into the keyboard, students and architects will require a separate standalone mouse for efficiency and increased functionality.
You will require a laptop case or bag to not only protect the laptop itself, but to also carry the power cable and any accessories.
Additionally…
What to consider with an all-in-one computer
Perhaps originally and successfully created by Apple with their iMacs, an all-in-one machine combines a computer, monitor and speakers into one complete unit.
This provides a much tidier workspace with less cables and components than the above tower and monitor combination, also making them slightly more portable.
They tend to always come with a nice large screen, that makes them excellent for graphic and 3D modelling work. And unlike a singular desktop the all-in-one desktops often come with a keyboard, mouse and obviously a monitor, so the cost is combined into one purchase.
However highend and powerful specifications can become expensive.
What to consider with a tablet
Tablets (not to be confused with drawing tablets) are handheld portable computers that primarily use touch screen technology for navigation and use. The most popular example of this is the Apple iPad.
The keyboard is built into the touch screen interface, but this can at times be fiddly and so for productivity a detachable keyboard can be used.
With a range of Apple’s iOS, Google Android or Microsoft Windows operating systems available, these are perfect for travelling and commuting when space and portability are important. More on this here.
