With its extensive 3D modeling and simulation capabilities, SolidWorks is one of the most popular and powerful CAD software packages for product design and development. However, it demands some serious horsepower from your laptop or desktop computer. If you’re searching for the best laptop to run SolidWorks in 2024, you’ll want one with a potent, new-generation processor, plenty of RAM and graphics muscle, and a high-resolution display to showcase your designs.
In my extensive research and hands-on testing of the latest laptop offerings ideal for SolidWorks, a few standout models rise above the rest. Based on performance benchmarks, real-world use analysis, and overall value, here are my top recommendations on the best laptops for SolidWorks this year:
The Powerhouse: Dell Precision 7770
Sitting at the top of the stack is Dell’s aptly-named Precision 7770 workstation, a true powerhouse built for CAD, engineering and 3D applications. Configurable with Intel’s latest 12th-generation Core or blisteringly-fast Xeon CPUs, NVIDIA RTX professional graphics, ample RAM and storage, a gorgeous 17.3” UltraSharp 4K display, and Dell’s renowned build quality, it has the sheer muscle and screen real estate to handle massive SolidWorks assemblies without breaking a sweat. If budget is no concern and you want the ultimate SolidWorks laptop, this is my top choice.
A Close Second: Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 5
Hot on the heels of the Precision is Lenovo’s venerable ThinkPad P1 mobile workstation, now in its 5th generation. Equipped with similar 12th-gen Intel Core or Xeon CPUs, RTX graphics, 64GB RAM capacity, vast storage options, and a stunning 16” 16:10 display taking visual immersion even further, it gives the Dell a run for best-in-class laptop for SolidWorks honors. Even better, it starts several hundred dollars less than the Precision. If you crave no-compromise performance in a more portable chassis, the Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 5 leads the pack.
The Affordable Powerhouse: Asus ProArt Studiobook 16 3D OLED
This creative powerhouse from Asus offers the unprecedented combination of a 16” 3D OLED display and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti graphics starting under $2,500. Compared to 4K LCD panels, the cinematic 3D OLED screen increases depth perception, avoids motion blur, and serves up true blacks for a more lifelike SolidWorks experience. Backed by new Intel Core i9 processors with up to 32GB RAM and 2TB SSD storage, it has formidable CAD and rendering horses under the hood. If you want a high-end SolidWorks laptop with an immersive 3D display at a more reasonable price point, the Asus ProArt Studiobook 16 3D OLED is a stellar choice in 2024.
Best Value Workstation: HP ZBook Fury 17 G9
HP’s freshly-updated ZBook Fury 17 workstation packs the latest Intel 13th-gen CPUs and NVIDIA RTX graphics into an aggressively priced mobile workhorse ready for intensive design workflows. While maxed-out configs push past $4,000, baseline models start at very reasonable prices for a professional CAD laptop. With RTX performance, ECC memory support, ISV certifications, and HP’s renowned reliability, it brings excellent value to SolidWorks users on a budget. If you want certified workstation-class quality for SolidWorks without breaking the bank, the new HP ZBook Fury 17 G9 delivers the most bang for the buck.
In summary, today’s best laptops for running SolidWorks offer more power, speed, and visual impact than ever before. Packed with cutting-edge components, high-resolution displays, and blazing performance, machines like the Dell Precision 7770, Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 5, Asus ProArt Studiobook 16 3D OLED, and HP ZBook Fury G9 will help you get the most out of SolidWorks for years to come. When choosing your next SolidWorks laptop in the new year, these standout models deserve strong consideration to maximize your CAD design experience.