Best Laptops for 3D Modeling

i7, i9 processor or Xeon Processor?

Let's begin with the processor. You might think since i7 is a faster big sister, the i9 processor being the latest and the greatest, that a program like Solidworks would recommend an i7 or i9 processor.

Actually, for 3d modeling, a Xeon processor beats the heck out of an i7 or even an i9.

Why? Because Xeon processors support Error Checking and Correction (ECC) RAM, which prevents crashes when the computer's capacity is stretched. The Xeon also has greater L3 cache (small batches of memory the processor may use to speed up applications) and supports more cores than even an i9 processor.

What this means is that if you can find a Xeon based processor, you'll have a smoother experience with your 3d modeling. But go ahead and get an i7 processor if a Xeon isn't available.

What kind of Dedicated Video Card Do you Need? 

If you are only doing 2D modeling, you won't need any type of dedicated Graphics Processor Unit (GPU), but since we're concentrating on 3d modeling here, the recommendation is you get a computer with an NVIDIA Quadro card. Mainstream GE Force cards will also work, but they haven't technically been endorsed by so software companies such as AutoCAD.

RAM Required

Eight gigabytes is the minimum amount of RAM required, but most people rarely use only 3D software alone but have lots of other programs running. Therefore 16 gigabytes is a good starting point, and if you will be working with large models, or will be having multiple models up at the same time, consider 32 gigabytes or more.

SSD or Hard Drive

SSD's (Solid State Drives ) are infinitely faster, and therefore better at saving large files. An SSD won't improve your rendering time substantially, but you'll probably be happier overall with an SSD Drive.

Another idea is to have a dual SSD and a Hardrive, with the operating system, and possibly the 3d modeling software on the SSD, and everything else on a hard drive.

Size and Screen Resolution Matter

The advantage of working with a laptop for 3d modeling is the fact that they are portable and lightweight. However, size matters when working on 3d modeling, as does screen resolution. This is a decision you will need to make, give up size for quality?

So look for an ultra-high definition screen with 4k resolution, and frankly the largest screen you can afford in a laptop. You don't want to do 3d modeling tasks on a tiny 13-inch screen. 

Gaming Laptop vs 3D Modeling Laptop? 

Have you thought about just buying a gaming laptop and using it for 3D modeling? Absolutely you can, and chances are you'll get a superior product at a cheaper price. Gaming laptops. generally, have all the same qualities as higher-priced workstations, fantastic graphics, a quality graphics chip, and plenty of hard drive space.

However, there is One Big Caveat . If you work professionally in an architectural firm where you meet with clients, or you're a new college graduate who's working part-time at a professional firm while taking graduate studies, don't expect your Alien gaming machine to be acceptable in a professional environment

For this and several other reasons, stick to a 3D modeling laptop if you are a professional artist. Unless you're a freelance contractor at home, or you plan to dump your computer later,  try to put yourself into a professional's point of view. Do you think you want to explain to a client that you lost a weeks worth of work because your gaming computer temporarily crashed?

Should I buy a MAC?

While you can get a Macbook Pro with the latest i9 processor and pros in cad drawing systems, it is still recommended that you purchase a 3d modeling PC over a Mac. The reasons for purchasing a PC over a Mac are listed.

• First, there are still some programs out there that are available only on a PC platform, or sometimes they work on a MAC but at a degraded rate. 
• Second, since the vast majority of professionals use PCs, it makes sharing and collaborating easier.

Should I buy a Workstation Laptop or Notebook?

While there might be some ordinary notebooks that you can use for 3d modeling and designing, in general, you want a workstation with faster graphics, more RAM, and additional memory. They are not cheap. You'll likely not find one under $1,000.Iif you want to be considered a 3d pro or will be working in a professional environment, we recommend investing in a 3D modeling laptop.

What is ISV certification, is it important when buying 3d modeling laptop? 

ISV stands for "Independent Software Vendors," where software companies such as Solidworks, work directly with computer manufacturers producing workstations to ensure the computer is 100 percent certified to be compatible with the software. So yes, you want to look for ISV certification when buying a workstation.