SolidWorks compatible ultrabook/laptop/tablet/2-in-1 for Windows 7/8/10/11
SolidWorks compatible ultrabook/laptop/tablet/2-in-1 for Windows 7/8/10/11
I've just begun college part-time, studying Computer Design Tech at a local school while working full-time to cover the costs. My CAD course requires SolidWorks 2014-2015 software. I'm looking for a laptop, tablet, or 2-in-1/ultrabook soon so I can use SolidWorks and browse the internet. I won't be buying right away; I need to save up first. I'm hoping to find something between $1000 and $2000. Thanks! <3
You're considering a new setup. The Surface Pro 3 stands out as the top all-in-one device, especially for students who need versatility. Its pen capability is a standout feature—perfect for taking notes, sketching, and working with formulas or diagrams. I highly recommend pairing it with OneNote for effective note-taking. Regarding your CAD software, the Intel integrated graphics may not perform well depending on your project complexity. For larger tasks, a desktop or laptop with an Nvidia or AMD GPU would be more suitable.
our school desktops use a Radeon HD 7450 card which works well with Solidworms. I was suggested a gaming laptop because it has a separate graphics card and fits my budget. You can find it here: http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00IKF2H12...15&simLd=1
And it's worth mentioning the desktops I use for CAD—my machine runs a midrange Core I-7 with a Radeon HD 7450 graphics card. I compare hardware on Game-debate.com, and even the GTX 780M stands out as noticeably better. That gives me confidence that a gaming laptop should perform well in SolidWorks.
It's a big, heavy machine measuring 17 inches. It’s designed to function as a tank. If that’s the goal, it’s the right choice. I haven’t used Solidworks or this model before, so I can’t say if it’s too much for your studies. You might be working on simple parts like screws with gears or engine components, or something more complex. For basic tasks, a home setup should work fine—either on your personal computer or in the lab. If you’re doing it all at once, a dedicated system is better. With an ASUS laptop, gaming options exist but performance will be limited compared to a full desktop.
Keep in mind that with a system like that you'll have little battery life (4h at absolute best with a new battery), and you'll carrying a 180W power supply that is thick and heavy as well, and cross your fingers for a wall plug where you are. Now if your school has a plug on every seat where you sit, like some rooms where I am at my university, then it's not too bad, else, it might be a problem. The last thing you want, is to pass your cable across the room, and someone trip. Your laptop will flip and fall in spectacular fashion on the floor (I have seen this several times), and now your faith is on how strongly build the system is actually is. Just mentioning some details that some people usually forgets.
You mention several valid considerations. Currently, you study at home with your parents while working and attending school, which means you take four classes each week—CAD and Math. Math doesn’t need heavy computer processing, so you can handle it on paper or using school computers. Your MacBook Pro is aging, and you’re planning a week-long trip to the Bahamas later this year. You worry about missing classwork and falling behind, especially since you’ll be doing CAD projects at sea where power is limited. Your associate’s degree in Mechanical Design Technology is your focus, and part-time study means it will take longer. If you get a laptop eventually, you plan to use it for all of school until you can afford a more powerful machine. You’re also not really into gaming on the go; you prefer handheld consoles instead. As you think about it, the decision feels less urgent, and you’re weighing the cost of a new laptop against your current needs.