It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when shopping for the best laptop for architecture students. There are so many options out there that you may find yourself with a severe case of decision paralysis. To help you out, we put together this in-depth buying guide, plus a list of our top recommendations!
Disclosure: TheGradCafe is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Best Laptops for Architects – Our Top Picks
- MacBook Pro 16” – Best Laptop for Architecture Students Overall
- MacBook Air M2 – Best Ultraportable Laptop for Architecture Students
- HP Pavilion 17 – Best Budget Laptop for Architecture Students
- ASUS Zenbook Pro Duo – Best Dual-Screen Laptop for Architecture
In this article, we discuss laptops capable of running the software that architects use for their 3D modeling. If you’re looking for a more affordable device for your studies that doesn’t necessarily need to run these programs, check out the best iPads for grad students instead. You can even check out some planner apps to help you stay organized in school!
How to Choose the Best Laptops for Architecture Students
When you’re looking for the best laptop for an architecture student like you, it’s vital to consider a variety of factors. Without taking these criteria into consideration, there’s a good chance you might waste money buying a laptop that doesn’t fit your needs.
Which Programs Will You Be Using?
Before you even begin shopping around for machines, you should first make a list of the programs you know you’ll use. Then, you can list the software you think you might also use along the way. It’s a good idea to do this and check each software’s recommended specifications. Although you can technically get by with just the minimum requirements, it’s better to exceed those by a mile to ensure you won’t feel any lag or similar issues during use.
We also recommend exceeding the recommended specs if and where you can. Architecture and 3D software are regularly updated to add new features and improve performance. Some companies even release new versions of their software product yearly. These updates can help improve your experience all around, though they will also likely bump up recommended specifications. Thus, exceeding recommended specs allows you to worry less about whether your machine will be able to handle your software in a few years.
Budget
Before you look at the rest of the factors below, it might benefit you to establish a budget first. Doing so will help you set a hard limit on how much you are willing to spend. A hard limit will allow you to eliminate machines that exceed this number, thus narrowing your selection pool and making it easier to decide.
It’s worth mentioning, however, that if you’d like for your software to run smoothly without lag while leaving room for more advanced or complex rendering down the line, you should be prepared to spend a fair bit of money. Some of the more resource-hungry and demanding architecture software may require purchasing a higher-end laptop.
Operating System
When it comes to laptops, there are two popular operating systems: Windows and macOS. Chrome OS is another operating system frequently found on portable computers, but it isn’t remotely useful if you’d like to run design and rendering software. Thus, you only really have to choose between Windows and macOS.
Both operating systems have advantages and disadvantages, but in the end, the decision will come down to personal preference. Just don’t forget to check whether your software is compatible with your chosen OS!
That said, it’s worth mentioning that many design professionals and creatives choose Apple machines for their daily workhorses. There are many reasons behind this, such as macOS’s ease of use and compatibility with the best design and rendering programs available today.
Processor/CPU
There are three major players in the processor game: Intel, AMD, and Apple. They have many product lines, but only some will be capable enough for an architecture student’s needs. When choosing your processor, consider the options below:
- Intel: Core i5, Core i7, Core i9, Xeon
- AMD: Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, Ryzen 9, EPYC
- Apple: M1 (and M1 Pro or Max) or M2
Intel and AMD’s processors get more powerful from i5 to i9, while Xeon is their top-of-the-line processor. AMD goes from Ryzen 5 to 9, with EPYC as their top-of-the-line product.
Apple’s M1 and M2 processors are beasts on their own. They are extremely capable, so much so that we’d be happy to recommend even the basic M1 processor for your needs.
Just remember — when choosing your processor, remember to look at clock speeds. Clock speeds look like a number followed by GHz, such as 3.0GHz. Check your software’s recommended requirements to see what clock speed you need.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Your GPU, also known as your video card, is what lets your computer project an image onto your display. There are two kinds: integrated and discrete. An integrated GPU is built into your processor. Discrete GPUs are additional pieces of hardware separate from your CPU.
Integrated graphics, such as AMD Radeon Graphics or Intel Iris Xe graphics, can be enough for your needs. However, you must ensure that a laptop’s integrated graphics can run your software. Again, check the programs’ recommended requirements!
Display
When it comes to your laptop’s display, start with a minimum of Full HD (FHD) 1080p, which is a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Many displays exceed FHD, giving you more pixels to work with and a smoother, sharper display overall.
Consider whether you need a touchscreen. You may also want to look into color-accurate displays, as some software may ask for them.
Memory/RAM
Memory, also known as RAM, is your computer’s short-term memory. It’s what your computer uses to store data and files that it needs quick access to. We recommend a minimum of 8GB of RAM, but it’s usually best to start with at least 16GB. 16GB will give you plenty of wiggle room and allow you to multitask.
You might notice that you can configure some laptops to have 24GB, 32GB, or even 64GB of RAM. While 64GB might be overkill, 24 or 23GB are both good options if you know you’ll be multitasking while using resource-intensive software.
Storage
Storage has come a long way since the days of the floppy disk. Nowadays, hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs) are more accessible than ever. Hard disk drives still tend to be just a bit cheaper than SSDs. However, we still recommend buying SSDs, for these reasons:
- HDDs are mechanical and have moving parts, making them delicate and prone to problems. SSDs, on the other hand, are shock-resistant
- SSDs can read data up to 10x faster and write data up to 20x faster than an HDD
If you want your computer to perform faster, SSDs are the clear winner.
As for how much actual storage space you need, we would recommend a minimum of 512GB. Your laptop’s operating system and architecture software take up space on the drive. That means if you only had 128GB to work with, that would be full in no time. 512GB will allow you to install multiple architecture software while leaving enough room for your project files.
Don’t forget — you can always plug in additional storage or use the cloud!
Ports and Connectivity
Some computers come with optional 5G or LTE connections, so you can have a data connection wherever you go. You probably don’t need to spend a few hundred dollars more for 5G/LTE connectivity when you can use your mobile phone’s hotspot, but the decision is yours to make.
As for ports, it’s a good idea to consider what accessories and peripherals you use frequently. Not all laptops come with many ports these days — some can even come with only a couple of Thunderbolt 4 ports. And although Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports are very versatile, they really aren’t enough if you need to plug more than one or two items in. Ask yourself if you need:
- USB-A ports to plug external storage and peripherals like mice or keyboards into
- An HDMI port to connect your laptop to a projector or second monitor
- An ethernet port to connect to the internet via LAN cable
- A card reader
Portability
One of the biggest and most obvious reasons people buy laptops is that they are portable. Thus, it only makes sense to choose a machine that’s relatively easy to bring around with you. That means choosing a light enough laptop to carry throughout the day. It also means selecting a model with the right size and form factor.
Of course, if you don’t think you’ll be bringing your laptop out much, you can focus on specifications instead. Laptops will always be portable — even when they’re bulky and heavy!
If you’d rather have an even more portable device for your schoolwork, you can consider buying a tablet for school. Tablets are great at almost everything, except that they can’t run the architecture software you might need.
Battery Life
There’s no doubt that battery life should be considered when choosing the best laptop for architects — even if you’re still in school. There’s a good chance you might need to work while on the go or even make presentations during meetings, and the last thing you want in that situation is not to have access to your laptop.
Choose a laptop with enough battery life to last you through your day. It’s a good idea to buy a laptop that advertises at least six to eight hours of use per charge for basic tasks and general productivity.
Be aware that if you use a higher-spec laptop with power-hungry internals and a discrete GPU, your battery won’t last nearly as long under full load. Bring your charger with you to be sure!
User Upgradeability
Not everyone will worry about a laptop’s user upgradeability. But if you’re handy and techy enough and the machine design allows it, you can upgrade your computer if you feel like it’s starting to struggle with some of the things you need to do. You can swap out some parts on your computer if some are beginning to fail or struggle. Or, you can augment your computer’s capabilities by adding more components such as memory or storage.
It’s worth noting that some manufacturers deliberately design their computers to be non-user upgradable. Apple computers are guilty of this, so configure upgrades into your initial purchase if you feel like you need to.
Best Laptop for Architecture Students: Top Contenders
| Laptop | Description | Link |
MacBook Pro 16” |
Best Laptop for Architecture Students Overall | Check Price |
MacBook Pro 14” |
A Smaller, More Affordable Version of the Best | Check Price |
MacBook Pro M2 13” |
A Powerful, More Portable Apple Laptop | Check Price |
MacBook Air M2 13” |
Best Ultraportable Laptop for Architecture Students | Check Price |
Dell XPS 17 |
Best Windows Laptop for Architecture with a Large Display | Check Price |
Dell XPS 13 |
A MacBook Air Alternative for Windows Users | Check Price |
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 |
Best MacBook Pro Alternative for Architecture | Check Price |
HP Pavilion 17 |
Best Budget Laptop for Architecture Students | Check Price |
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo |
Best Dual-Screen Laptop for Architecture | Check Price |
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio |
Best 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop for Architecture Students | Check Price |
1. MacBook Pro 16” – Best Laptop for Architecture Students Overall
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 14” x 9.8” x 0.66”; 4.8lbs
- Operating System: macOS
- Processor: Apple M1 Pro or M1 Max
- Display: 16.2” Liquid Retina XDR at 3456×2234 resolution and 254 pixels per inch (PPI), adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, P3 wide color
- GPU: Integrated; 16 cores on M1 Pro, 32 cores on M1 Max
- Storage: 512GB or 1TB; upgradeable to 8TB
- Memory: 16GB, upgradeable to 32GB or 64GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- 1x SD card reader
- 3x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C (supports DisplayPort and charging)
- 1x 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack
- 1x HDMI
- 1x MagSafe 3 charging
- Battery: Reported up to 14h web browsing, 21h for AppleTV playback
- More information here
Apple’s 16-inch MacBook Pro is the top-of-the-line model for the product line. There’s no denying that it’s a beautifully-designed machine, but what’s more important is that it is powerful enough to run just about any software you need — even if you multitask. Of course, the biggest downside is the price. However, MacBooks are known to last for half a decade or more, especially when properly cared for.
Besides being one of the best computers for architects, we also believe that the MacBook Pro 16” is one of the best laptops for grad students in creative fields.
It’s worth mentioning that Apple does tend to update its MacBook Pro line every year. However, there is no guarantee just yet as to whether the company will release the M2 Pro/Max MacBooks in 2022. There are some rumors of a potential November release, but there are also sources saying that they may not be ready until 2024.
Pros
- Top of the line and extremely powerful
- Great battery life
- Plenty of ports for your needs
- Configurable with more RAM and storage
- HDMI port for a second monitor
- Amazing display
Cons
- M1 Max is overkill and not good value for most workloads
- On the heavier side
- Camera notch can be an eyesore for some
- Expensive
2. MacBook Pro 14” – A Smaller, More Affordable Version of the Best
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 12.31” x 8.71” x 0.61”; 3.5lbs
- Operating System: macOS
- Processor: Apple M1 Pro or M1 Max
- Display: 14.2” Liquid Retina XDR at 3024×1964 resolution and 254 pixels per inch (PPI), adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, P3 wide color
- GPU: Integrated; 16 cores on M1 Pro, 32 cores on M1 Max
- Storage: 512GB or 1TB; upgradeable to 8TB
- Memory: 16GB, upgradeable to 32GB or 64GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- 1x SD card reader
- 3x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C (supports DisplayPort and charging)
- 1x 3.5mm headphone/mic combo jack
- 1x HDMI
- 1x MagSafe 3 charging
- Battery: Reported up to 11h web browsing, 17h for AppleTV playback
- More information here
If you like everything about the 16-inch MacBook Pro but don’t want such a large, heavy laptop and a massive price tag, don’t worry. The 14-inch MacBook Pro is the smaller, more affordable version. And just because it’s smaller doesn’t mean that it’s compromised on performance by any means. The 14” version has almost all the same internals as the 16”, with the only difference being in the base model, which offers 8 cores instead of 10.
Like the MacBook Pro 16”, the 14” model is due for a refresh. However, Apple has not yet announced a launch date. If you’d rather get your hands on the M2 Pro/Max versions, you may have to wait until 2024.
Pros
- Smaller and more portable than the 16”, but just as powerful
- Great battery life
- Plenty of ports
- HDMI
- Configurable with more updates
- Beautiful display
- More affordable than the 16” version
Cons
- Expensive
- Still somewhat heavy
- Battery life not as good as 16”
3. MacBook Pro M2 13” – A Powerful, More Portable Apple Laptop
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 11.97” x 8.36” x 0.61”; 3lbs
- Operating System: macOS
- Processor: Apple M2
- Display: 13.3-inch Retina display at 2560 x 1600 resolution and 227 PPI, P3 wide color
- GPU: Integrated
- Storage: 256GB or 512GB, upgradeable up to 2TB SSD
- Memory: 8GB, upgradeable to 16GB or 24GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C
- 1x 3.5mm jack
- Battery: Reported up to 17h web browsing, 20h for AppleTV playback
The 13” MacBook Pro M2 is another great offering from Apple. It occupies a slightly awkward spot in between the similarly powerful MacBook Air M2 and the higher-end, much more powerful 14 and 16-inch models. Nevertheless, this laptop is an excellent choice if you’re looking for something light and portable but extremely capable of running just about any architecture software you need, provided it’s macOS compatible.
Pros
- Small and portable, but very powerful
- Lightweight enough to not be uncomfortable to carry around
- Amazing battery life
- Has cooling fans to help it perform at its full potential
Cons
- Only two Thunderbolt ports, you will need a dongle or USB hub to plug more peripherals in
- The MacBook Air is just as good and more affordable
4. MacBook Air M2 13” – Best Ultraportable Laptop for Architecture Students
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 11.97” x 8.46” x 0.44”; 2.7lbs
- Operating System: macOS
- Processor: M2
- Display:
- GPU: Integrated, 8 or 10-core
- Storage: 256GB or 512 GB SSD, upgradeable to 2TB
- Memory: 8GB, upgradeable to 16GB or 24GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- 1x MagSafe 3 charging port
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C
- 1x 3.5mm jack
- Battery: Reported up to 15h web browsing, 18h for AppleTV playback
The MacBook Air M2 brought about a new era in this line of laptops. It ushered in a sleek new redesign and a polarizing display notch that people either love or hate. It also introduced the new Midnight colorway, a deep dark blue. Despite all the changes, however, the Air is just as great as its predecessor and performs even better thanks to the upgraded M2 processor.
The Air M2 is practically a 13” MacBook Pro in a thinner, lighter form. To accommodate this ultraportable form factor, Apple cut the battery life down by a couple of hours and removed the cooling fans from this machine. So, while the Air is completely silent in use, it may throttle and struggle under heavy loads. You may occasionally need to supplement cooling with an external cooler.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight and portable
- Amazing battery life
- Powerful and extremely capable laptop, even for an ultraportable
- Brings back MagSafe 3 charging
Cons
- The base model’s 256GB SSD is reportedly slower than the higher model’s 512GB SSD (choose wisely)
- Midnight colorway is a fingerprint magnet
- Notch can be an eyesore
5. Dell XPS 17 – Best Windows Laptop for Architecture with a Large Display
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 14.74” x 9.76” x 0.77”; 4.87 to 5.34lbs
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home/Pro
- Processor: 12th Generation Intel Core
- i5-12500H
- i7-12700H
- i9-12900HK
- Display: 17-inch
- FHD+ 1920 x 1200, anti-glare, InfinityEdge non-touch
- UHD+ 3840 x 2400, anti-reflective, InfinityEdge touch
- GPU:
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe or Intel UHD
- Discrete NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 4GB or 3060 6GB
- Storage: 512GB / 1TB / 2TB / 4TB SSD
- Memory: 8GB / 16GB / 32GB / 64GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
- 4x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C
- 1x eDP port
- 1x 3.5mm jack
- 1x SD card slot
- 1x Lock slot
- Battery: About 10 – 11 hours depending on use and configuration
If you want a larger screen on which to do your architecture modeling, the Dell XPS 17 9720 is a fantastic option. This laptop is extremely configurable, so you can get it to the exact specs you prefer from the available choices. The Dell XPS 17 is an excellent Windows machine with a sleek and beautiful design and thin, barely-there screen bezels. It’s definitely premium — and you’ll notice in the price.
Pros
- Beautiful large display options; touch and non-touch available
- Discrete GPU options available
- Sleek and classy design
- Has four Thunderbolt 4 ports
Cons
- Heavy!
- Expensive – you can buy an equivalent MacBook Pro with the M1 Pro/Max chips
- Battery life is “just okay”
- Only Thunderbolt ports
6. Dell XPS 13 – A MacBook Air Alternative for Windows Users
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 11.63” x 7.86” x 0.55” ; from 2.59lbs
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home/Pro
- Processor: 12th Generation Intel Core
- i5-1230U
- i7-1250U
- Display: 13.4-inch FHD+ 1920×1200 anti-glare InfinityEdge
- Touch or non-touch available
- GPU: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Storage: 512GB / 1TB
- Memory: 8GB / 16GB / 32GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C
- No 3.5mm jack, USB-C to 3.5mm jack adapter included in box
- Battery: Reported up to 12 hours streaming via Netflix
If you want an ultrabook but don’t want macOS, consider the Dell XPS 13 instead. This Dell laptop is a great option if you want something incredibly slim and light to tote around wherever you go while still offering strong performance.
Our main problem with this version of the XPS 13 is that Dell made the questionable decision of eliminating the 3.5mm jack, opting to include a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter in the box instead. Unfortunately, this adapter is easy to lose. On top of that, there are only two Thunderbolt ports, so if you’re charging and need to use earbuds, you’re all out of ports!
Pros
- Beautiful, slim laptop is a real competitor to the MacBook Air M2
- Gorgeous display with incredibly slim bezels
- Decent battery life
- Extremely portable
Cons
- Slim form factor sacrifices the 3.5mm jack, giving you an easy-to-lose adapter in the box instead
- Only two thunderbolt ports!
- MacBook Air M2 is around the same price with better performance and battery life
- Integrated graphics might not be enough for some architecture software
7. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 10 – Best MacBook Pro Alternative for Architecture
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 12.43″ x 8.76″ x 0.60”; Starting from 2.48lbs
- Operating System: Windows 10 Pro 64 (you can downgrade to this version from Windows 11 Pro), Windows 11 Home, Windows 11 Pro
- Processor: 12th Generation Intel Core
- i5-1235U
- i5-1240P
- i5-1250P
- i7-1260P
- i7-1270P
- i7-1280P
- Display: 14-inch
- WUXGA 1920 x 1200 IPS, anti-glare, low power, 100% sRGB
- Touch
- Touch with PrivacyGuard
- Non-touch
- 2.2K 2240 x 1400 IPS, anti-glare, low blue-light, 100% sRGB
- 2.8K 2880 x 1800 OLED, anti-smudge and reflective, low blue-light
- WQUXGA 3840 x 2400 IPS, Dolby Vision™, glossy, HDR 400, low blue-light
- WQUXGA 3840 x 2400 IPS, anti-smudge and reflective, touchscreen with Dolby Vision™, low blue-light, HDR 400
- WUXGA 1920 x 1200 IPS, anti-glare, low power, 100% sRGB
- GPU: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Storage: Up to 2TB SSD
- Memory: Up to 32GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.1
- Optional nano-sim card slot
- 2x USB-C Thunderbolt 4
- 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1
- 1x 3.5mm combo jack
- HDMI
- Battery: Reported up to 16 hours
The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon is an excellent alternative to the MacBook Pros listed above. The only downside to this capable machine is that it does not offer a discrete GPU option, which means you may run into some problems with some architecture software. For most cases, however, this is one of the best laptops for architecture students and, when configured well, can last you for many years to come.
If you would like a discrete GPU option, Lenovo also has the ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 5, which comes with options up to the Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080Ti.
Pros
- Includes plenty of security features
- Highly configurable and can be set up exactly how you want it
- Plenty of display options, each one beautiful
- Lots of ports
- Great MacBook Pro alternative
Cons
- Integrated graphics may not be enough for some architecture programs
- Expensive
8. HP Pavilion 17 – Best Budget Laptop for Architecture Students
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: Unspecified; 5.25lbs
- Operating System: Windows 11/11 Pro
- Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7
- Display: 17.3” FHD 1080p IPS, 100% sRGB, anti-glare
- GPU: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Memory: 16GB or 32GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi, Bluetooth
- 1x USB Type A
- 1x AC smart pin
- 2x SuperSpeed USB Type-A
- 1x HDMI
- 1x RJ-45 ethernet
- 1x 3.5mm combo jack
- Battery: Reported up to 7.5 hours
If you’re looking for an affordable laptop for architecture school, look no further than the HP Pavilion 17. This Intel i5-powered machine is just powerful enough to run the vast majority of architecture software out there, with the only downside being the lack of a discrete GPU. But, for the price, you can get a 1TB SSD with as much as 32GB of RAM. There’s no shortage of ports, either.
The HP Pavilion 17 offers a large display for all of your design and modeling work, but don’t expect amazing battery life! This laptop provides a middling 7.5 hours or so, depending on use.
Pros
- Affordable yet powerful
- Massive, color-accurate display
- Full-sized keyboard with a numpad makes it easier to enter dimensions into architecture software
- Tons of ports
- Has a backlit keyboard (not always present in more affordable laptops)
Cons
- Integrated graphics may have trouble with some architecture software
- Heavy
- Battery life is “just okay”
9. ASUS Zenbook Pro Duo – Best Dual-Screen Laptop for Architecture
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 12.74″ x 8.85″ x 0.70”- 0.77″; from 3.75lbs
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home/Windows 11 Pro
- Processor: 12th-Generation Intel Core
- i5-12500H
- i7-12700H
- i9-12900H
- Display:
- 14.5-inch, 2.8K 2880 x 1800 OLED 120Hz, 100% DCI-P3 color, touch
- Second display ScreenPad™ Plus 12.7″ 2880 x 864 IPS 120Hz
- GPU:
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe or
- Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti
- Storage: 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB SSD
- Memory: 8GB, 16GB, or 32GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi, Bluetooth
- 1x DC-in
- 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A
- 1x Micro SD card reader
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C
- 1x 3.5mm combo jack
- 1x HDMI
- Battery: Reported up to 7 hours only, even with 2nd display off
If you’ve ever wanted an extended display on your laptop without having to bring an external portable monitor around, the ASUS Zenbook Pro 14 Duo OLED is a great option. It’s expensive, but it gives you two amazing displays to help you with your architectural work. Its internals are no slouch, either. In this machine, you’ll find 12th-generation Intel chips. Plus, there’s a discrete GPU option!
Pros
- Discrete GPU option available
- Powerful internals; configurable
- Amazing, color-accurate OLED displays
- Plenty of ports
- Supports stylus pen, included
Cons
- Price
- Form factor takes some getting used to
- Keyboard and touchpad are flush against the edge of the laptop
- Sad battery life
10. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio – Best 2-in-1 Convertible Laptop for Architecture Students
Specifications:
- Size and Weight: 12.72” x 8.98” x 0.746”; 3.83lbs (i5) or 4.00 lb (i7)
- Operating System: Windows 11 Home
- Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core
- i5-11300H
- i7-11370H
- Display: 14.4” PixelSense Flow display, 2400 x 1600 (201 PPI) 120Hz, Dolby Vision® support, touch
- GPU:
- Integrated Intel Iris Xe
- Discrete Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050Ti
- Storage: 256 GB / 512 GB / 1TB / 2TB SSD
- Memory: 16GB or 32GB
- Ports and Connectivity:
- WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1
- 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C
- Dedicated charging port
- Battery: Reported up to 18 hours
The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is a unique machine with an interesting 2-in-1 form factor. This laptop has a touch display compatible with a stylus (sold separately) if you prefer to use one. Additionally, it’s highly configurable and even includes a discrete GPU option. Configured properly, this machine can go toe to toe with some of Apple’s offerings.
Pros
- 2-in-1 convertible display is unique and allows you to use this laptop/tablet hybrid however you please
- Excellent battery life
- Discrete GPU option available
- Beautiful display
Cons
- Pricey
- Stylus pen sold separately
- Processors are now a generation behind
How We Tested the Best Laptops for Architect Students
As we considered which computers were good contenders for the title of best laptop for architecture, we did a fair amount of research. We considered factors like:
- The most popular software used in architecture and their recommended specifications
- Prices
- Each laptop’s specifications
- Laptop reviews and ratings
- The laptop brands’ reliability and reputation
We made sure to include only machines that we know can run the majority of the programs used in architecture. We also used our own experiences with some of the laptops on this list. Finally, we polled architects and architecture students to find out which laptops they use daily for their work or studies. Looking for other recommendations? We also found dorm room essentials for the upcoming semester.
What Software Do Architects Use?
One of the first things you’ll need to consider as you’re shopping for an architecture laptop is the type of software you’ll need to use. These programs will play a big part in determining what kind of specs you need on your machine. After all, there’s no point in buying a laptop that won’t be able to do the work you need!
We put together a list of some of the most commonly used architecture programs to help you figure out what kind of specifications you’ll need to worry about while you shop. Remember that the specifications listed below are simply the minimums. You will want specifications that more than meet the ones below — you might even want to go for some of the higher-spec machines!
1. Rhino 3D
Minimum Specifications:
| Windows | Mac |
|
|
Rhino 3D came out in 1998 and has since then become one of the best and most popular programs used in architecture. On Rhino 3D, you can enter your physical and digital models to create your complex 3D models. This software also provides clean and clear design documentation. If you become adept enough at this tool, you can also create professional renders and animations.
2. AutoCAD
Minimum Specifications:
| Windows | Mac |
|
|
AutoCAD by AutoDesk is one of the most popular programs used in architecture and has been since it was first released in 1982. It has come a long way since its release, through decades of use by students and professionals alike. Many users choose AutoCAD as one of the early steps in the creation of 3D models. This software allows you to create basic drawings representing your buildings and designs. Once completed, you can transfer your drawings to other programs to continue advanced 3D modeling.
3. Revit Architecture
Minimum Specifications:
| Windows | Mac |
|
|
Revit Architecture is another software solution brought to you by AutoDesk. This software provides users with tools to help them create building models effectively. Modern architecture uses the building information modeling concept (BIM), something which Revit Architecture is specifically designed to do well.
4. SketchUp
Minimum Specifications:
| Windows | Mac |
|
|
SketchUp is a favorite of many architects and architectural students because of how effective it can be while also providing plenty of uses in the real world. In 2006, Google bought SketchUp. And though it eventually sold it again, the tech giant implemented many exciting and useful features that remain in the program today.
SketchUp is popular because you can download and use it for free, albeit on a limited basis. It’s also an excellent program for creating simple or complex 3D models relatively quickly.
5. Maya
Minimum Specifications:
| Windows | Mac |
|
|
Maya is, almost unsurprisingly, another AutoDesk product. However, rather than being more of an architecture-focused program, Maya is a 3D program also used for visual effects. Because of its nature, many don’t believe this program belongs in the world of architecture. But, of course, there are also plenty of people who think it does. Those who choose to use Maya like it for its freedom, as the program allows design experimentation with fewer constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
What laptop is best for an architecture student?
The best laptop for your needs will depend on which programs you will use and how heavily you’ll be working your computer. Architecture software tends to be quite resource-intensive, so you’ll want specs that can meet or exceed the program’s needs. Our recommendation for the best laptop for architects and architecture students is the MacBook Pro 16”. For a cheaper and smaller version, try the MacBook Pro 14”.
What laptop specs do I need for architecture?
The best way to find out what specifications you need for this field is by checking the recommended requirements for each program you think you’ll use. For example, you’ll want to check what AutoCAD or Rhino3D needs to function properly without lag on your machine. Once you know the recommended specs, we also suggest that you purchase a machine that exceeds those requirements just for a bit of “future-proofing.”
Is the MacBook good for architecture?
Yes! The newer MacBook Pros are excellent and incredibly powerful machines capable of running the architecture software you need — and more. With Apple’s M1 and M2 silicon, even the MacBook Air (M1 or M2) can run your programs without much trouble (though you may need external cooling if it gets too hot). Choose the model that suits your needs and budget best, and remember you don’t have to buy a maxed-out 16” version if it’s overkill for your use cases.
How much RAM do architects need?
We recommend a minimum of 8GB as most architecture software requires this amount in their minimum specifications. However, it’s generally a good idea to get more than you think you need when it comes to RAM. Thus, we suggest at least 16GB.
Conclusion
Buying a laptop is a big decision that you’ll need to put a lot of thought into, especially if you know you’re likely to spend thousands on a computer. It’s crucial that you establish a budget and take your time considering every available option to be sure you make the right choice.
We hope that this buying guide and our list of recommendations has helped you find the best laptop for architecture students! If you think that we missed an item that should be on this list, please let us know in the comments below!
Are you thinking about going into interior design instead? Check out this ultimate guide on master’s in interior design!
Chriselle has been a passionate professional content writer for over 10 years. She writes educational content for The Grad Cafe, Productivity Spot, The College Monk, and other digital publications. When she isn't busy writing, she spends her time streaming video games and learning new skills.
![When to Apply for Grad School: The Simple Guide [2026/2027]](https://blog.thegradcafe.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/08/When-to-Apply-to-Grad-School-350x250.png)
