Nowadays, all, architectural designs are conceived digitally with laptops and tablets. Therefore, it has become mandatory for architects to invest in a powerful laptop to use heavy designing applications and CAD software. While looking for a computer for designing and drafting, aspiring architects don’t need to invest in an expensive or extremely powerful laptop. Although it is better to invest in a laptop that can last until your school ends. However, if you are short on budget and looking for a laptop that can easily handle heavy workloads, the following laptops might solve your problem. In this article, we will be discussing pros, cons and key features of some of the best laptops for architecture students in detail.
Dell XPS
Dell XPS is a mid-range laptop that tops our list due to its impressive processing speed and compact design. It is a lightweight laptop and features a wide 15.6″ FHD touchscreen display. The powerful GPU can support heavy workloads without lowering the processing speed of the device. The 16 GB RAM is sufficient enough for running heavy designing programs with ease. Moreover, the 16GB RAM is customizable, which means you easy easily save all your projects and assignments within the laptop. Since this device gives plenty of customization options, you can install an HDD to improve the storage space. The battery can easily last for 8 hours within a single charge.
Pros
• Powerful processor
• Long battery life
• Storage space is customizable
• 15.6″ FHD touchscreen display
• Lightweight and travel friendly
Cons
• Slightly expensive for students
• Doesn’t have an ethernet port
Microsoft Surface Book 3
If you are a Windows user and looking for a device similar to Apple’s MacBook Pro, you can opt for Microsoft’s Surface Book 3. It is yet another popular laptop for college and university students as it is lightweight and travel friendly. Similar to MacBook Pro, the Surface Book is also used by architects. This is a new version of the surface book series. The exterior is made of aluminum which makes the body strong and sturdy. Similar to other laptops mentioned in the list, this laptop is also customizable. You can increase the RAM as per your budget and storage needs.
Pros
• RAM is customizable
• Thin and light body
• Battery can last for over 6 hours
• Travel friendly
• Touchscreen display
Cons
• Limited USB ports
• Small screen size
Acer Predator Helios 300
Acer Predator Helios 300 is another popular laptop among gamers, artists, and architects. Although this laptop is specifically made for gamers, it is a top-rated laptop among architects and video editors due to its versatility and high processing speed. Apart from using at school, you can also use it for games or editing videos if you want. The laptops’ cooling system performs exceptionally well for keeping the system cool, especially during heavy workloads. The only drawback of the laptop is its short battery life. However, if you are looking for a multifunctional laptop and don’t mind the limited battery life, you can consider buying this laptop.
Pros
• Fast processing speed
• Multifunctional laptop
• Powerful cooling system
• Memory can be upgraded
• Budget-friendly
Cons
• Short battery life
• Heavy body
In Conclusion
Although professional architects can consider using a traditional desktop computer, however, if you are an aspiring architect student, it is better to invest in a device that you can easily slip in your backpack while attending classes. These laptops we discussed in this post aren’t too expensive and can easily last for 3-4 years without frequent upgrading or repairs.
