As an architect, you know that a reliable and powerful laptop is the foundation of any successful business.
But there are many brands, specs, and features to consider when choosing a laptop for your unique needs – especially if you regularly use design software such as SketchUp or Revit.
In our post we’ve found the best laptop for Sketchup & Revit that you can use.
How do you determine what’s best for your workflow? Have no fear! In this blog post, we’re breaking down some of the most important factors to consider when selecting a new laptop designed with architects in mind.
Discover which model will suit your specific needs and provide years of carefree computing!
Our Top 5 Picks For You!
What Are The Sketchup & Revit Laptop Requirements?
The official list of requirements recommended for Sketchup and Revit laptops is as follows:
- Intel i5 or i7 Series processor or AMD equivalent with SSE2 technology (2.1+ GHz).
- 8+ GB of RAM (the more, the better)
- Comes with Microsoft Windows 10 64-bit Enterprise (or Apple iOS equivalent).
- 3D class video card with 1 GB of memory or higher.
You will get away with more basic modelling with slightly lower specifications, but if you have the above, you can run these programs easily.
Best Laptop for SketchUp & Revit 2023 (Best For You)
- MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) – Best Laptop For Running SketchUp & Revit (Editor Choice)
- Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) – 2nd Best Laptop for Sketchup & Revit
- MSI GL62M – Best MSI Laptop for Sketchup
- Acer Predator Helios 300 – Best Acer Laptop for Sketchup & Revit
- Dell Inspiron 13 – Best Dell Laptop for Sketchup & Revit
- Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop – Best Powerful laptop for SketchUp
- ASUS ROG STRIX
- HP Pavilion
- Lenovo Y700
- Dell XPS 15
- Dell Precision
- ASUS VivoBook
- HP Spectre x360
- ASUS ZenBook 15 Laptop – Best for control
- Acer Swift SFX14 – Best for Budget
- Acer Nitro 5 AN517 – Best for Large Size
- Alienware R4 RTX – Best for Connectivity
1.MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021)– Best Laptop For Running SketchUp & Revit
The MacBook Pro 14-inch laptop is an absolute powerhouse for design software like SketchUp and Revit. It runs on the powerful eight-core M1 Pro or Max chip, with plenty of RAM for intensive tasks – making it capable of running AutoCAD and 3D modelling software like Maya, 3DS Max, and Fusion 360. Plus, you can also run iOS on the same device, opening up the mobile version of AutoCAD if that fits into your workflow better. When it comes to endurance, the MacBook Pro has you covered with its incredible 17-hour battery life.
You won’t have to worry about its power failing while in the middle of a project! This laptop is simply unparalleled in design work and easily the best you can buy right now.
2. Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) – 2nd Best Laptop for Sketchup & Revit
The new Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022) has been designed to provide excellent performance when running Sketchup & Revit – things that the more expensive MacBook Pro models would be able to do.
On the outside, it is thinner and lighter than any previous model, and the larger, brighter screen makes it perfect for working on complicated projects.
Thanks to the M2 chip from Apple and its integrated graphics, Sketchup & Revit can be used without problems. And with a battery life of over 16 hours, you can work on tasks throughout the day without having to worry about it being dead by evening.
It’s a great alternative for those who want a quality laptop without spending an arm and a leg.
3. MSI GL62M – Best MSI Laptop for Sketchup
This laptop from MSI is the perfect addition to the Revit laptop family. It provides excellent value, with a 15.6″ Full HD display and powerful processor that maxes out at 2.8 GHz, as well as 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB of SSD storage space. This combination should provide exceptional performance for programs like Sketchup and Revit.
Even better, it has a lightweight build that weighs only 4.85 pounds. Plus, it features Cooler Boost technology for additional cooling when it’s pushed to its limits and comes complete with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 GDDR5 graphics card with 2 GB of dedicated graphics memory – meaning architects who need maximum performance on their software can have access to it at an incredibly reasonable price.
4. Acer Predator Helios 300 – Best Acer Laptop for Sketchup & Revit
This laptop from MSI is the perfect addition to the Revit laptop family. It provides excellent value, with a 15.6″ Full HD display and powerful processor that maxes out at 2.8 GHz, as well as 8 GB of RAM and 512 GB of SSD storage space. This combination should provide exceptional performance for programs like Sketchup and Revit.
Even better, it has a lightweight build that weighs only 4.85 pounds. Plus, it features Cooler Boost technology for additional cooling when it’s pushed to its limits and comes complete with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 GDDR5 graphics card with 2 GB of dedicated graphics memory – meaning architects who need maximum performance on their software can have access to it at an incredibly reasonable price.
5. Dell Inspiron 13 – Best Dell Laptop for Sketchup & Revit
If you’re in the market for a laptop that can keep up with Sketchup, consider the Dell Inspiron 13. This powerful yet affordable laptop packs plenty of punch, making it perfect for 3D modeling. Performance-wise, the machine is fitted with an Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and an MX 450 GPU.
Together these components make sure any will run like clockwork – and during our tests, this proved to be true as the laptop handled Sketchup projects without breaking a sweat.
Furthermore, the device comes equipped with a vibrant 13.3-inch QHD display which works great for 3D modelers. All in all, if you’re looking for a capable and reliable machine to run Sketchup, the Dell Inspiron 13 is well worth a look.
6. Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop
The Razer Blade 15’s thin bezel is a game changer, allowing me a more immersive experience and no unpleasant dead angles when zooming in on my device. Even better, the 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution of the IPS panel allows for excellent clarity.
The high-end configurations of the product, namely the 12th gen Intel Core i7 processor and RTX 3070 graphics card, make it ideal for running complex software such as Revit and SketchUp without any issues.
With powerful resolution and faithfulness to color variation from different angles, the Razer Blade 15 is pushing laptop technology to the next level.
7. ASUS ROG STRIX
ASUS has crafted a powerful beast of a machine in the ROG STRIX, which packs an Intel i7 Core processor with 2.8 GHz processing power and 16 GB of RAM that can be upgraded.
This small wonder is also loaded with 1 TB hybrid drive storage and a 5.6-pound frame that measures only 0.9″ thin! It’s perfect for running graphics-intensive programs like Sketchup or Revit, as this laptop proudly features an NVIDIA GeForce graphics card with 4 GB of dedicated memory.
If you’re looking for a Windows alternative, you can rest assured knowing it is equipped with Chrome OS, which offers up to 9 hours of battery life on one charge. With such an incredibly slim and lightweight package, power, and features, there isn’t anything else like this on the market today!
8. HP Pavilion
The HP Pavilion series is an excellent high-end graphical machine. Intel i7 Core processor is 1.8 GHz but can be pushed up to 4.0 GHz with Turbo Boost technology. The 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of SSD storage capacity are nothing to complain about.
One handy addition to this setup is the 15.6″ display, LED-backlit. The keyboard is also conveniently backlit when inspiration for your next design strikes late at night.
What makes it an excellent laptop for Revit and similar programs is its NVIDIA GeForce 940MX graphics card with a dedicated 4 GB of visual memory. In addition, at only 4.67 pounds, it is relatively lightweight. All in all, it looks sleek and is perfect for the design professional.
9. Lenovo Y700
The Lenovo Y700 has what it takes to tackle graphic rendering and design applications without any issues. It is equipped with an Intel Quad-Core i7 processor and 16 GB of RAM, allowing you to work on high-end projects faster than ever.
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M graphics card also acts as a powerful companion, offering 4 GB of dedicated memory for smooth performance. Not only that, but the laptop also features a 17.3-inch display for an immersive experience when tinkering with complex images and designs.
Furthermore, its 1 TB plus 128 GB of hybrid storage space allows massive files to be stored without worrying about running out of room. To top it off, the laptop utilizes a thermal cooling system that keeps the device from overheating even when running intensive programs like Sketchup.
This laptop ticks all the boxes needed for an ideal graphic rendering and design device from specifications to convenience.
10. Dell XPS 15
The Dell XPS 15 is great for professionals requiring a powerful machine to run advanced rendering software. It packs impressive specs and features, including a 3.5 GHz Intel i7 core processor, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of solid-state storage.
Its NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960M graphics card provides decent graphical capabilities, backed by an additional 2 GB of dedicated memory for more demanding tasks.
Although the 15.6″ screen satisfies the general needs of most users, its touchscreen capabilities provide even more flexibility for those who need it. The RAM can also be upgraded to 32 GB if needed, making it suitable for professionals with intensive software demands.
Those needing extra visualization benefit from several USB ports and an HDMI port to support an external monitor.
Furthermore, its low weight of just 3.9 pounds makes this powerful machine easy to carry around wherever you go.
11. Dell Precision
If you are looking for the ultimate in high performance when working with programs like Sketchup and Revit, take a look at this reliable option from Dell. Sleek and lightweight design offer portability that is ideal for on-the-go computing.
An Intel i7 Core processor with up to 3.90 GHz processing speed is powering this laptop up, which ensures lightning-fast performance, 16 GB of RAM, and 256 GB of SSD storage space – sufficient enough to meet the recommended requirements without fail.
Furthermore, the NVIDIA Quadro M1200M graphics card provides a staggering 4 GB of dedicated graphics memory for superior visuals, making it suitable for serious work usage.
Plus, its 15.6″ UltraSharp wide-view display features antiglare protection that ensures you can keep working regardless of light sources or ambient environment.
This laptop weighs only 3.92 pounds and offers up to 11 hours of battery life per charge – ideal for those who need a dependable power guarantee on long days of work.
12. ASUS VivoBook
Whether you are studying video game design, graphics rendering programs like Sketchup and Revit, or both, the ASUS VivoBook is a trustworthy choice that appears on various “best of” lists.
It features an Intel i5 Core processor with 1.6 GHz of processing speed as well as a great visuals package with 16 GB of RAM, 1 TB of HDD Storage, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 670M GPU with 3GB dedicated memory, and a 15.6″ antiglare Full HD NanoEdge display.
Additionally, its ergonomic keyboard allows for extensive word processing tasks, and users benefit from the included fingerprint sensor for added security for data information.
And although it is powerful enough to handle other applications such as 3D modeling software systems, it is still quite lightweight at only 0.8″ thick and 3.7 pounds. Overall, this laptop is an excellent choice for those looking for performance within their graphical rendering programs.
13. HP Spectre x360
The HP Spectre is a one-of-a-kind laptop with versatile features that make it an excellent choice for those who need something beyond the ordinary. It sports power and speed with its Intel i7 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and 512 GB of SSD storage space – ideal for handling heavy tasks like design projects.
The addition of a dedicated graphics card allows you to have faster gaming or multimedia experiences, making this device both strong and capable.
But perhaps its most unique feature is the responsive stylus pen/touchscreen, which makes it a great option for creative operations or notebook utility; plus, there’s a fingerprint reader and facial recognition capabilities for an added layer of security.
As part of Amazon’s Choice list for many valid reasons, you can trust the HP Spectre if you’re looking for a laptop with enough power combined with customizable capabilities.
14. ASUS ZenBook 15 Laptop – Best for control
The ASUS ZenBook 15 Ultra-Slim is equipped with an expansive operation area that makes multitasking a breeze.
Measuring 5.65 inches, the touchpad offers an improved level of precision and responsiveness. To make multitasking even easier, the manufacturer has added App Switcher as well as pinned icons for quick access.
What’s more, it can even double as a mini monitor for enhanced control. Even writing and drawing on the device is made easy with its versatile mouse support option. By activating this feature on Revit projects, operations are simplified even further.
Data entry never felt so much simpler either since the controller can be quickly transformed into a numeric keypad!
15. Acer Swift SFX14 – Best for Budget
The Acer Swift SFX14 laptop is surprisingly affordable compared to other laptops released to support Revit applications. Despite the low price, this model has solid specs that make it an ideal choice for running Revit smoothly and easily.
Under the hood is a Ryzen 7 5800u CPU and RTX 3050 Ti GPU delivering great performance, plus 16GB of RAM that allows for the simultaneous running of multiple programs or one or two additional apps when working with Revit.
The 14-inch screen may present some difficulty if you are new to compact models for extended use. However, it does offer a 100% RGB LED-backlit IPS display with 300 nits brightness and a 16:9 aspect ratio, allowing for realistic colors and great viewing quality.
16. Acer Nitro 5 AN517 – Best for Large Size
With the impressive 17.3-inch screen size of the Acer Nitro 5 AN517, you can observe details on Revit with clarity and ease. This is all thanks to its very powerful configuration – the Intel Core i7-11800H processor, RTX 3050 GPU, and 16GB of RAM offer reliable and powerful performance.
Additionally, Acer equipped this model with CoolBoost technology to boost the speed of the cooling fan by up to 10%. With these features and more, you won’t have to worry about any lags or overheating while working on any demanding projects.
However, despite all these benefits, this laptop is not as portable as most due to its large size. Nevertheless, it is still a great choice for anyone that needs to run multiple programs at once and make the most out of their Revit renderings!
17. Alienware R4 RTX – Best for Connectivity
The Dell product Alienware R4 is well-renowned for its robust Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 compatibility, which ensures an effortless connection with the Internet and other systems.
With such amazing features, I have rarely experienced a break in connectivity while using this device. Secondly, compared to many other gadgets in its segment, Alienware R4 provides an extended battery life that promises no power failure while running Revit applications.
Moreover, its large 1TB capacity makes it possible to store a multitude of projects instantly when required. What’s more impressive is that with 16GB RAM, it can continuously run with Revit & SketchUp applications without any issues of lagging or crashing.
The Intel processors and NVIDIA RTX 3070 together cost quite a bit, but they are worth the investment.
In all, this Dell product totally deserves attention, especially for those who demand reliable processing and experience minimal fail points during work hours!
Buying Guide for a laptop for Sketchup & revit
1. Get a powerful processor
When shopping for a laptop for SketchUp and Revit, one of the most important things to look for is a powerful processor. These two programs can be very demanding on a computer, so you’ll want to make sure that you get a laptop with a processor that can handle the workload. Look for laptops with Intel Core i5 or i7 processors.
2. Get plenty of ram
Another important thing to look for in a laptop for SketchUp and Revit is plenty of RAM. These programs can also be very demanding on a computer’s memory, so you’ll want to make sure that you get a laptop with at least 8GB of RAM. If you can find a laptop with 16GB of RAM, that would be even better.
3. Get a dedicated graphics card
If you’re going to be using SketchUp and Revit for 3D modeling or rendering, then you’ll want to make sure that you get a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. These cards can provide the extra power needed to run these programs smoothly. Look for laptops with NVIDIA GTX 1060 or 1070 graphics cards.
4. Get a large display
Another thing to consider when shopping for a laptop for SketchUp and Revit is the size of the display. These programs can benefit from having a larger display, so you may want to consider getting a laptop with a screen size of 15 inches or more.
5. Get an SSD drive
Finally, when shopping for a laptop for SketchUp and Revit, you’ll want to make sure that it has an SSD drive. Solid-state drives are much faster than traditional hard drives, which can come in handy when working with large files in these programs.
FAQ’s
Will my graphics card be enough for revit?
Choosing the right graphics card for a software program like Revit is incredibly important. You want to make sure that the card you pick will be able to handle the graphical capabilities of this program, as well as any additional content that you might throw its way. Before you invest in a new graphics card, it’s worth doing some research into what cards are compatible and best suited for Revit. Speak to other users, read reviews and dig around online forums – this will help guide you when selecting the right graphics card that best meets your needs.
Does revit work on mac?
Yes- Revit is available on mac & easily work on it on your system. This software from Autodesk is the perfect fit for computer-aided design and can assist in creating detailed building models, documentation, and coordinated systems.
Which laptop is best for SketchUp and rendering?
What kind of laptop do I need for SketchUp?
For running a Sketchup, you should need to have a laptop that has the following specifications
- Intel i5 or i7 Series processor or AMD equivalent with SSE2 technology (2.1+ GHz).
- 8+ GB of RAM (the more, the better)
- At least Microsoft Windows 10 & 64-bit Enterprise (or Apple iOS equivalent)
Which laptops are best for Revit?
When searching for a laptop that is best suited for Revit, users should pay particular attention to the components/specs of their potential purchase. Optimal performance comes from having strong specs that include a powerful processor, plenty of RAM (ideally 16GB or more), and lots of storage (SSD preferred).
The top 3 Laptops for Revit are:
1.MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021)- Best Laptop For Running Revit
2. Apple MacBook Air (M2, 2022)
3.MSI GL62M
Which processor is best for Revit?
When considering the ideal processors for use with Revit software, the record is clear: the more cores you have, the better. Cores are processing units within a single CPU that can independently take on tasks and faster their completion. Intel i7 processors with six cores provide amazing results when using such software. Ryzen processors take things even further with eight cores, but for ultimate performance, Xeon and Threadripper processors designed specifically for these kinds of tasks offer up to 12 or more cores in one CPU. This makes them invaluable tools for serious Revit users who demand nothing less than peak performance from their hardware.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing the best laptop for Revit or Sketchup can be tough with all of the different options on the market. We hope our post has helped to make your decision a little easier.
If you found this information helpful, please share it on social media so we can help more people find the perfect laptops for their needs. Thank you for reading!
