It is a known fact, 3D modeling is one of the most complex tasks for your computer. Not every laptop has the capacity to handle software such as AutoCAD, Revit, and 3D Max required by 3D design and applications projects.
Before identifying or purchasing a laptop for this purpose, remember it’s wise to single out a device that features a powerful CPU and an excellent GPU for these tools to perform at their best.
Since 3D modeling requires graphically-intensive tasks, there’s much more than just quick processing and high resolution. Let’s put it simply, most 3D modeling tasks aren’t just for any laptop out there.
But don’t fret! This post covers the 6 best laptops for 3d modeling and can help you narrow down your options.
Acer Predator Helios 300
You can’t talk about 3D modeling and rendering without mentioning the Acer Predator Helios 300. As one of the best gaming laptops on the market, this machine has all it takes to handle 3D designing tasks regardless of their complexity.
Looking at its core features, it packs a 15.6-inch screens display with 1920×1080 pixels. You’ll have a fantastic viewing experience as this high-resolution capacity will enable you to see diverse colors in great detail.
It’s powered by an Intel Core i7-10750H processor that makes room for considerably faster modeling plus rendering. Also, the 16GB RAM makes processing more straightforward, quicker, and fun. The final models need substantial storage space, and Acer has got you covered with a 512GB SSD unit.
Besides, you’ll be glad to know that this device features a pretty user-friendly upgrading process. If you feel like its processing and speed aren’t fast enough, you can easily upgrade its RAM. Thanks to this laptop’s 144Hz refresh rate, you won’t have any trouble working on your project and during your gaming hours.
Another fantastic feature is the predator sense console that enables you to modify the overclocking frequency, profiles, and fan speed based on your needs. Equally, it has a powerful HD webcam, integrated speakers, and an interactive touchpad.
Pros
- Port selections are decent
- Powerful processor
- Strong build quality
- Innovative cooling tech
- Extremely rapid refresh-rate
Cons
- Short battery life
- Lack of portability
MSI GL65 Leopard
The MSI GL65 Leopard is more than a gaming notebook. It’s also an excellent 3D modeling resource. If we’re to talk about its specs, it has a notable Intel Core i7-10750H CPU capable of managing 3D modeling requirements. It does this while offering reinforcement to CPU-intensive simulations and renders.
Plus, the HyperThreading support and 5GHz turbo clock speed make this laptop perfect for various modeling applications such as SketchUp. You can easily manage graphic-intensive processes like photo-realistic rendering, courtesy of the RTX 2070 GPU. Add to that the Ray-tracing support and 8GB RAM, you’ll realize that this is among the best graphics cards you can rely on.
That’s not all! This laptop features 16GB DDR4 RAM that can process files at 2666MHz. The upgradeable RAM clubbed with the 512GB SSD unit offers the best solution for retrieving projects, applications, and files at a supersonic speed.
Owing to the symmetrical setup of heat pipes and fans, MSI eliminates throttling. As far as the display is concerned, it comes with a 15.6-inch 1080p screen boosted by a 100% sRGB color gamut. Such a display makes gaming and video editing enjoyable!
MSI has an all-inclusive connectivity suite, including a Type-C output, 3 USB ports, and the WI-FI 6 standard. Other productivity-centric features include a silky trackpad, 720p webcam, and the SteelSeries backlit keyboard.
Pros
- Color accurate screen
- Top-notch graphic card
- Future-proof processor
- Upgradeable RAM
Cons
- Lacks Thunderbolt 3 support
Asus ZenBook Pro Duo
Are you seeking precision, performance, and power all at once? Look no further than the Asus ZenBook Pro Duo. As a top-of-the-range 3D computer, this laptop excels in every modeling aspect.
Regardless of your skills, your creations will look stunning, courtesy of the 4K UHD screen that comes with gorgeous visuals. If you’d like to manage your project in-house, then the ZenBook Pro Duo is worth considering.
Apart from the multithreading technology and the 5.0GHz turbocharged clocking speed, the machine also packs a powerful graphics card with 6GB of VRAM. With this, you can comfortably run complex CAD applications such as Maya and CATIA.
Working on massive data sets plus worried about space? Asus ZenBook gives you a reason to smile. It comes with a 1TB SSD unit so you can store all your final renders and 3D files without stressing yourself about disk space.
This powerful gadget also packs a decent set of speakers, LED illuminated keyboard, and an intuitive ScreenPad Plus that comes with a palm resting support. What’s more, it has a reliable thermal design perfect for minimizing heat generation.
But all these breathtaking specs come at a price. The ZenBook Pro Duo from Asus lists alongside the most expensive 3D modeling laptops on the market. But if you’ve got enough cash to spare, you won’t regret buying this potent machine!
Pros
- Brilliant GPU
- Massive RAM support
- Beefy processor
- Display offers a great visual experience
Cons
- Very expensive
- Lower screen refresh rate
Razer Blade 15
This super-slim machine has more to offer than just its sleek and portable design. From the 15.6-inch high-definition display to the massive SSD storage, the Razer Blade 15 meets all the needs of a 3D designer.
Its 16GB RAM can handle multitasking with a lot of ease. Plus, it brings forth an expansive 512GB SSD that’s fast and capable of loading the provided Windows 10 OS rapidly. Furthermore, the GeForce RTX 2070 GPU coupled with 8GB of VRAM allows you to smoothly run software units such as Blender that favor CUDA cores.
Razer comes with USB Type-A, Type-C, Thunderbolt 3 ports, wi-fi 6 connectivity model, plus Gig Ethernet support. Its battery gives you a 6-hour backup, and thereby ranks among the best laptops more so when rendering, CAD, plus GPU-intensive 3D modeling.
Besides that, this gadget has a 6-processor that enables you to render most of your work right from your laptop. Measuring just 0.78 inches, the Razer Blade 15 is by far the most portable option to go for.
Pros
- Excellent display
- Lightweight yet powerful
- Intuitive thermal design
- Excellent port arrangement
- Resourceful GPU
Cons
- Inadequate storage support for professionals
- You might need more RAM for more extensive rendering work
ASUS ROG Zephyrus M
Asus ROG Zephyrus M is an impeccable machine designed for high-end gaming. It works perfectly for high-end rendering and 3D modeling, which is pretty good for both 3D designers and gamers.
In terms of specs, it features a 9th Gen Intel Core i7-9750H CPU that brings in 6 cores and a 4.5GHz turbo clocking speed. It not only caters to multithreading for handling AutoCAD but also viewport rendering, which involves a GPU accelerometer.
Aside from the backlit RGB keyboard, device also packs a responsive touchpad that enables you to alternate between various work profiles or scenarios. This includes Turbo mode, balanced mode, alongside the Silent mode.
It’s ultra-slim and has an aluminum brushed finish that gives it a sophisticated look. And when it comes to storage space, this laptop brings forth what every designer craves. It comes packed with 1TB HDD and 256GB SSD storage!
That’s great as you won’t have to search for extra space and storage capacity. ROG Zephyrus M comes with protective specs that facilitate the increase of airflow, thus cooling the machine.
Pros
- Supreme graphic performance
- A lot of storage space
- Portable and slim chassis
- Protection system against heat and dust
Cons
- Battery life is average
- It heats up a lot
- HP Zbook 15 G5
HP Zbook 15 G5
If you’re looking for a perfectly balanced and immensely powerful workstation, you might want to try the HP Zbook 15 G5. It’s among the best laptops for 3d modeling out there. Its build packs dual storage capacity, ensuring it’s a leader in the market.
It features a 9MB L3 cache that reduces the access time for carrying out essential tasks. It has an Intel Core i7-8750 CPU that determines the general performance of the laptop. As for the flash memory, you’ll enjoy 32GB RAM and a dual-storage unit that’s simply amazing.
This workstation comes with a 1TB HDD and a 1TB SSD necessary for handling all kinds of storage requirements related to professional 3D modeling. It features an HD webcam, a minimalistic touchpad with a fingerprint reader, and an integrated microphone grouping.
Besides, this laptop parades a highly durable chassis. And as far as port management, HP Zbook 15 G5 has two USB 3.1, three USB 3.0, and a Thunderbolt 3 port.
Pros
- Brilliant storage module
- Ideal for CAD-centric activities
- Reliable processor for CPU-GPU cohesion
- Exceptional build quality
Cons
- Underwhelming display
Final Thoughts
As you can see, you’ve got a lot of viable options when it comes to choosing a laptop for 3D modeling. The most recommended laptop for 3D designers would have to be the Acer Predator Helios 300. But that doesn’t rule out the other gadgets in this list.
They’re all up to the task, and you can pin down the most fitting laptop for you based on your objectives and budget. With these devices in mind, be prepared for a smooth graphic-rich experience!