10 Best Laptops for 3D Modeling & Rendering in 2022 (August)

10 Best Laptops for 3D Modeling & Rendering in 2022 (August)

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If you are an architect, engineer, interior designer, construction manager, artist, or student, the best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering is, without any doubt, a must-have. From AutoCAD to SolidWorks, Blender to Maya, these laptops will help you run every program with ease.

The software required for 3D design and rendering is resource-intensive, and you will need a laptop that can meet the basic requirements in terms of performance. If you purchase a laptop that is powerful enough to handle any tasks, you will be able to create designs more efficiently and without any lag.

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There are also other essential features to consider, such as the display, storage, and connectivity, which will determine the speed and quality of your 3D designs. In this article, we look at the important information that you should know before purchasing a laptop along with the 10 best laptops for 3D modeling and rendering that you should consider.

Top 10 Best Laptops for 3D Modeling & Rendering – Overview

Our list of the top 10 best laptops for 3D modeling and rendering in 2022 is based on features, specifications, real-world performance, popularity, user reviews, and compatibility with 3D modeling software such as AutoCAD, Blender, etc.

  1. Asus Zenbook Pro Duo — The best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering in 2022 overall (Editor’s Choice)
  2. Acer Predator Helios 300 — The best value for money laptop for 3D design
  3. HP Pavilion 15 — The best budget-friendly laptop for 3D modeling
  4. Razer Blade 14 — The best laptop for 3D modeling in terms of performance
  5. Dell Inspiron 17 7000 — The best 2-in-1 laptop for 3D design
  6. Apple MacBook Pro 2020 — The best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering by Apple
  7. LG Gram 17 2021 — The best laptop with a 17-inch screen for 3D design
  8. Dell XPS 13 9310 — The best compact laptop for 3D rendering and modeling
  9. MSI GL65 — The best gaming laptop on a budget for 3D design
  10. Apple MacBook Pro Air 2020 — The most affordable laptop by Apple for 3D modeling and rendering

Also see our feature on the most powerful laptops. In case, if you are interested in AutoCAD – visit our article on AutoCAD laptops.

What is the best laptop for 3D modeling?

The Asus Zenbook Pro Duo is our pick for the best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering in 2022 overall.

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Best Overall
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX581 Laptop, 15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge Touch Display, Intel Core i7-10750H, 16GB...
Best Value
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-54-760S Gaming Laptop | Intel i7-11800H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060...
Best Budget-Friendly
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD Storage, Full...
Best 2-in-1
Alienware Area 51M Gaming Laptop, 17.3" 300hz 3ms FHD Display, Intel Core i7-10700K, Nvidia GeForce...
Best Compact
Dell XPS 13 9310 Touchscreen 13.4 inch FHD Thin and Light Laptop - Intel Core i7-1185G7, 16GB...
Best Affordable Macbook
2021 Newest Dell Inspiron 15.6" HD Laptop, Intel 4205U Processor, 8GB DDR4 Memory, 1TB HDD, Online...
Title
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX581 Laptop, 15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge Touch Display, Intel Core i7-10750H, 16GB...
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-54-760S Gaming Laptop | Intel i7-11800H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060...
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD Storage, Full...
Alienware Area 51M Gaming Laptop, 17.3" 300hz 3ms FHD Display, Intel Core i7-10700K, Nvidia GeForce...
Dell XPS 13 9310 Touchscreen 13.4 inch FHD Thin and Light Laptop - Intel Core i7-1185G7, 16GB...
2021 Newest Dell Inspiron 15.6" HD Laptop, Intel 4205U Processor, 8GB DDR4 Memory, 1TB HDD, Online...
Prime Status
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-
-
-
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Reviews
191 Reviews
-
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684 Reviews
-
-
Star Rating
-
-
-
-
Display
15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge touch main display
15.6-inch Full HD display with 144Hz refresh rate
15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS Display
17.3" QHD Display
13.4" FHD touchscreen display
13.0-inch QHD (2560x1600) LED‑backlit display with IPS technology
Processor
10th generation Intel Core i7
11th generation Intel Core i7
11th Generation Intel Core i7
11th generation Intel Core i7
11th generation Intel Core i7
Apple M1 chip
Graphics
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB/RTX 3070
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GPU
Intel Iris Xe
Inter Iris Xe Graphics
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Apple M1 GPU
RAM
16GB
16GB
16GB
32GB
16GB
8GB
Storage
1TB NVMe SSD
512GB SSD
512GB NVMe SSD
1TB NVMe SSD
512GB SSD
256GB/512 GB SSD
Price
$2,299.99
$1,205.00
$826.00
$2,565.00
$1,798.00
$489.00
Best Overall
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ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX581 Laptop, 15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge Touch Display, Intel Core i7-10750H, 16GB...
Title
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX581 Laptop, 15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge Touch Display, Intel Core i7-10750H, 16GB...
Prime Status
Reviews
191 Reviews
Star Rating
Display
15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge touch main display
Processor
10th generation Intel Core i7
Graphics
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB/RTX 3070
RAM
16GB
Storage
1TB NVMe SSD
Price
$2,299.99
Buy Now
Best Value
Thumbnail
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-54-760S Gaming Laptop | Intel i7-11800H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060...
Title
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-54-760S Gaming Laptop | Intel i7-11800H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060...
Prime Status
-
Reviews
-
Star Rating
-
Display
15.6-inch Full HD display with 144Hz refresh rate
Processor
11th generation Intel Core i7
Graphics
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GPU
RAM
16GB
Storage
512GB SSD
Price
$1,205.00
Buy Now
Best Budget-Friendly
Thumbnail
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD Storage, Full...
Title
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD Storage, Full...
Prime Status
-
Reviews
-
Star Rating
-
Display
15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS Display
Processor
11th Generation Intel Core i7
Graphics
Intel Iris Xe
RAM
16GB
Storage
512GB NVMe SSD
Price
$826.00
Buy Now
Best 2-in-1
Thumbnail
Alienware Area 51M Gaming Laptop, 17.3" 300hz 3ms FHD Display, Intel Core i7-10700K, Nvidia GeForce...
Title
Alienware Area 51M Gaming Laptop, 17.3" 300hz 3ms FHD Display, Intel Core i7-10700K, Nvidia GeForce...
Prime Status
-
Reviews
684 Reviews
Star Rating
Display
17.3" QHD Display
Processor
11th generation Intel Core i7
Graphics
Inter Iris Xe Graphics
RAM
32GB
Storage
1TB NVMe SSD
Price
$2,565.00
Buy Now
Best Compact
Thumbnail
Dell XPS 13 9310 Touchscreen 13.4 inch FHD Thin and Light Laptop - Intel Core i7-1185G7, 16GB...
Title
Dell XPS 13 9310 Touchscreen 13.4 inch FHD Thin and Light Laptop - Intel Core i7-1185G7, 16GB...
Prime Status
-
Reviews
-
Star Rating
-
Display
13.4" FHD touchscreen display
Processor
11th generation Intel Core i7
Graphics
Intel Iris Xe Graphics
RAM
16GB
Storage
512GB SSD
Price
$1,798.00
Buy Now
Best Affordable Macbook
Thumbnail
2021 Newest Dell Inspiron 15.6" HD Laptop, Intel 4205U Processor, 8GB DDR4 Memory, 1TB HDD, Online...
Title
2021 Newest Dell Inspiron 15.6" HD Laptop, Intel 4205U Processor, 8GB DDR4 Memory, 1TB HDD, Online...
Prime Status
-
Reviews
-
Star Rating
-
Display
13.0-inch QHD (2560x1600) LED‑backlit display with IPS technology
Processor
Apple M1 chip
Graphics
Apple M1 GPU
RAM
8GB
Storage
256GB/512 GB SSD
Price
$489.00
Buy Now

 


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How to choose the best laptop for 3D modeling

Before buying a laptop, you must understand that having the best and latest 3D software won’t suffice if you don’t have the proper hardware to run it smoothly. To help you find the right one, here are a few technical jargons that you have to be familiar with before buying a laptop for modeling and design, such as:

How to choose the best laptop for 3D modeling

Display

Designers are spoiled for choice when it comes to displays. The combinations of features such as the screen size, resolution, color accuracy, and refresh rate make each laptop unique, and it can be challenging to find the right one.

You will need a laptop with a bright display (preferably over 300 nits bright), color-accurate (minimum 62.5% sRGB), and a high resolution (at least Full HD). The refresh rate refers to how many times per second it draws a new image on the screen, but it is an optional feature. Most laptops come with a 60Hz refresh rate but a laptop with a higher refresh rate will be more responsive and work smoothly.

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CPU

The CPU is the most crucial part of a computer, and this is especially true if you plan to use 3D modeling and rendering software. You might work with Blender, Revit, 3DS Max, AutoCAD, or other similar software that puts a significant strain on your laptop’s processing power.

For your laptop to handle these demanding tools, it will need a robust and powerful CPU. There are three popular brands to choose from regarding processors: Intel, AMD, and Apple’s proprietary M1 chips on MacBooks. These chips are similar in terms of performance, and we recommended getting the latest generation processors as it offers a significant upgrade over its predecessors.

RAM

Random Access Memory or RAM determines whether you have a responsive, hassle-free experience while designing and 3D modeling. It is like the computer’s short-term memory that stores all of the data you are actively working with to be stored and accessed easily, allowing your device to perform faster.

About 8GB of RAM is minimum, but 16GB RAM or more will be perfect for optimum performance. If your device is low on RAM, you can always purchase additional memory if supported. Pro tips: The more RAM your laptop has, the faster it will perform.

Storage

Storage is another vital aspect when it comes to selecting a laptop. You can choose from the traditional Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Drive (SSD), and NVMe SSD (Non-Volatile Memory Express SSDs), with each having its pros and cons.

HDDs are usually cheaper, but they come at a cost as they are slower and less durable than their SSD counterparts. On the other hand, an SSD is much faster but more expensive. NVMe is the quickest type of drive available right now. It is about 3-6 times as fast as SSDs and 5-10 times faster than HDDs.

A minimum of 512GB of storage is recommended if you work with sizeable 3D modeling files, but as it was with RAM, the more storage you have, the better. If you ever run short on storage, you can purchase an external HDD or SSD to store your files securely outside your laptop.

Besides this, if you are looking for an application that can create 2D textures, materials, filters, and 3D models, we strongly recommend you try Adobe Substance 3D. This intuitive software is one of the best cross-platform programs for digital texturing and 3D modeling.

The Top 10 Best Laptops for 3D Modeling & Rendering

1. Asus Zenbook Pro Duo (Editor’s Choice)

Asus Zenbook Pro Duo
Asus Zenbook Pro Duo. Image credit: ASUS/Amazon

The best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering in 2022 overall 

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Display: 15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge touch main display | Processor: 10th generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: GeForce RTX 2060 6GB/RTX 3070 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD

A dual-display of 15-inch PixelSense is perhaps one feature that you never knew you needed, and even though it steals most of the spotlight, the Asus ZenBook Pro Duo is a more than capable device when it comes to performance. It ticks all the boxes for what a designer needs, from the 15.6” 4K touchscreen display with bright and vivid colors to the powerful 10th gen Intel i7 processor that packs a punch.

The Asus ZenBook Pro Duo also has an additional touchscreen display with 4K resolution. Although it might not be what you need, it is certainly a handy addition and lets you multitask seamlessly. This is especially important if you are working on multiple resource-intensive design tasks at once.

Asus Zenbook Pro Duo is capable of handling heavy loads due to good RAM storage. It also has graphics with a ray-tracing feature. Its unmatched ability to multitask, run demanding software, and rendering simultaneously makes it the best laptop 3D modeling and rendering for us.

Pros

Cons

➕ Beautiful dual-displays with touchscreen and 4K resolution ➖ Average battery life
➕ Supports stylus
➕ Powerful GPU

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX581 Laptop, 15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge Touch Display, Intel Core i7-10750H, 16GB...
191 Reviews
ASUS ZenBook Pro Duo UX581 Laptop, 15.6” 4K UHD NanoEdge Touch Display, Intel Core i7-10750H, 16GB...
  • ScreenPad Plus: 14 inch 4K matte touchscreen, giving your endless way to optimize your multitasking experience by extending the screen or split windows and apps on both displays
  • 15.6 inch 4K UHD NanoEdge touchscreen glossy main display
  • Latest 10th generation Intel Core i7-10750H Processor (12M Cache, up to 5.0 GHz) with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060
  • Detachable palm rest and ASUS active stylus pen included. Military Grade : US MIL-STD 810G military-grade standard
  • Fast storage and memory featuring 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD with 16GB DDR4 RAM

 

2. Acer Predator Helios 300

Acer Predator Helios 300
Acer Predator Helios 300. Image credits: Acer / Amazon.

The best value for money laptop for 3D design

Display: 15.6-inch Full HD display with 144Hz refresh rate | Processor: 11th generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GPU | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB SSD

Acer is popularly known for its high-performance gaming laptops that deliver superior performance on a budget, and the Acer Predator Helios 300 is no exception. Armed with the latest Intel Core i7 processor with a speed of up to 4.60GHz and RTX 3060 which features NVIDIA’s award-winning RTX architecture, this device has more than enough power to run demanding 3D design apps with ease.

It features one of the most responsive displays around with a 15.6-inch Full HD unit that has a 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms response time so that you can work, play and create without any delays. The Acer Predator Helios 300 also comes loaded with 512 GB of SSD storage that you can upgrade if you ever need more storage.

The Acer Predator Helios 300 certainly doesn’t disappoint when it comes to price or performance. It is one of the most powerful laptops you can buy for 3D modeling and rendering without burning a hole in your pocket.

Pros

Cons

➕ Latest Intel Core i7 processor and Nvidia RTX GPU ➖ Bulky and heavy
➕ Lots of connectivity options
➕ Great value for money

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
Acer Predator Helios 300 PH315-54-760S Gaming Laptop | Intel i7-11800H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060...
  • Aspect Ratio:16:9
  • Extreme Performance: Crush the competition with the impressive power and speed of the 11th Generation Intel Core i7-11800H processor, featuring 8 cores and 16 threads to divide and conquer any task or...
  • RTX, It's On: The latest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 (6GB dedicated GDDR6 VRAM) is powered by award-winning Ampere architecture with new Ray Tracing Cores, Tensor Cores, and streaming multiprocessors...
  • Blazing-Fast Display: This 15.6" Full HD (1920 x 1080) IPS LED-backlit display with 16:9 aspect ratio features an incredibly fast 144Hz refresh rate and 3ms Overdrive response time for the gamers who...
  • Internal Specifications: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz memory (2 DDR4 Slots Total, Maximum 32GB); 512GB PCIe Gen 4 SSD (2 x PCIe M.2 Slots/1 x 2.5" Hard Drive Bay Available)

 

3. HP Pavilion 15

HP Pavilion 15 2021
HP Pavilion 15 2021. Image credits: HP / Amazon.

The best budget-friendly laptop for 3D modeling

Display: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS Display | Processor: 11th Generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD

Finding a high-end laptop in the sub-$1000 segment is quite the challenge, but it is a task in which the HP Pavilion 15 edition excels. With its latest 11th gen Intel Core i7 processor, 16GB RAM, and Intel Iris Xe graphics, it can efficiently run any 3D design software from AutoCAD to Blender. The processor supports day-to-day tasks including heavy loads. 

This HP Pavilion 15 2021 laptop features a 512 GB NVMe SSD, which gives you enough space to store your projects. It also has a beautiful FHD display with 178° viewing angles and audio by sound experts B&O for an unparalleled design experience on a budget.

Pros

Cons

➕ Runs 3D design software smoothly and efficiently ➖ Sub-par battery life
➕ Durable build quality
➕ Bright and vivid display

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
HP Pavilion 15 Laptop, 11th Gen Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor, 16 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD Storage, Full...
  • INSTANT GRATIFICATION – Experience a laptop with premium performance, so you can spend less time getting more done; it’s like a small PC that’s compact enough to go where you go with a...
  • EPIC ENTERTAINMENT – With audio by B&O, a larger screen-to-body ratio, and a 15.6-inch Full HD micro-edged screen to maximize your view, entertainment on your laptop feels like bringing the theater...
  • IMPRESSIVE GRAPHICS – The Intel Iris Xe Graphics gives you a new level of graphics performance with crisp, stunning visuals, plus the convenience of a thin and light laptop (2)
  • UNSTOPPABLE PERFORMANCE – Get things done fast with the 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 processor, which delivers instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity (3)
  • MEMORY AND STORAGE – Enjoy up to 15x faster performance than a traditional hard drive with 512 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage (4) and experience improved multitasking with higher bandwidth thanks to...

 

4. Razer Blade 14

Razer Blade 14
Razer Blade 14. Image credits: Razer / Amazon.

The best laptop for 3D modeling in terms of performance

Display: 14″ QHD 165Hz | Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX | Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 8GB | RAM: 16 GB | Storage: 1TB SSD

If you seek power, precision, and performance, the Razer Blade 14 combines everything you need from your laptop in one well-rounded package. It is one of the most powerful laptops available today thanks to its latest generation AMD Ryzen 9, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 graphics, and 16GB RAM making it capable of running the most demanding 3D design software without any hitch.

In terms of display, it has a 14-inch panel with QHD resolution, 100% DCI-P3 color space, and a 165Hz refresh rate that is perfect for 3D modeling. Combined with THX spatial audio, long-lasting battery life, and vapor chamber cooling for maximized thermal performance, the world’s most powerful 14” gaming laptop offers a truly immersive experience while designing.

Pros

Cons

➕ Crystal-clear display with QHD resolution and 165Hz refresh rate ➖ Razer is not exactly known for having the best customer support
➕ Lots of connectivity options
➕ Striking lightweight and portable design

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop: AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX 8 Core, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070, 14" QHD 165Hz,...
  • NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series Graphics for Stunning Visuals: Built on NVIDIA’s award-winning 2nd-gen RTX architecture, these GPUs provide the most realistic ray-traced graphics and cutting-edge AI...
  • Whether gaming or creating, AMD Ryzen processors offer ultimate performance: AMD Ryzen 5000 Series processors power the next generation of demanding games, providing one of a kind immersive...
  • Next-gen Displays to Meet Your Needs: 165Hz QHD display for the best of both worlds in fast gaming and ultra clear display
  • Vapor Chamber Cooling for Maximized Thermal Performance: The laptop quietly and efficiently dissipates heat through the evaporation and condensation of an internal fluid, keeping it running smoothly...
  • Customizable RGB Individual Key Lighting: Illuminates in sync with Razer Chroma-supported peripherals and popular games with multiple lighting effects

 

5. Dell Inspiron 17 7000

Dell Inspiron 17 7000
Dell Inspiron 17 7000. Image credits: Dell / Amazon.

The best 2-in-1 laptop for 3D design

Display: 17.3″ QHD Display | Processor: 11th generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: 32GB | Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD

If you are an avid designer and a touchscreen laptop is more suited for your needs, the Dell Inspiron 17 7000 is a great choice. It is a 2-in-1 laptop which means that you can use it normally or as a tablet with a stylus. With the latest Intel Core i7 processor, Intel Iris Xe Graphics, and 32GB RAM, this powerful laptop can crunch any task that you throw at it.

The massive 17.3” QHD screen is one of the best displays among all laptops with life-like and subtle colors, and with its 1TB of SSD storage, you will have plenty of space to store all your 3D design files. Since some 3D modeling applications such as AutoCAD offer mobile apps and support for touchscreens, you can get the best of both worlds with this hybrid laptop.

The Dell Inspiron 17 7000 is a versatile device, and it is highly recommended for those artists who work on a variety of different design software, including those for 3D modeling and rendering.

Pros

Cons

➕ Powerful processor and 32GB of RAM ➖ The fingerprint reader isn’t easily responsive
➕ Stunning 17.3” QHD display
➕ Great battery life

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Dell Inspiron 17 7000 2-in-1 Touchscreen Business Laptop 17.3" QHD, Intel Core i7-1165G7, Window 10...
  • POWERFUL PERFORMANCE]: The Dell Inspiron 17 7000 2-in-1 laptop is powered with the latest 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 Processor (12MB Cache, up to 4.7 GHz) and 32GB high-bandwidth DDR4...

 

6. Apple MacBook Pro 2020

Apple MacBook Pro 2020
Apple MacBook Pro 2020. Image credits: Apple / Amazon.

The best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering by Apple

Display: 13.0-inch QHD (2560×1600) LED‑backlit display with IPS technology | Processor: 10th‑generation Intel Core i5/i7/Apple M1 | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus Graphics/Apple M1 integrated GPU | RAM: 8GB/16GB | Storage: 256GB/512GB/1TB SSD

If you prefer macOS over Windows and Apple over any other brand, then the Apple MacBook Pro 2020 is the best laptop that you can buy for 3D modeling and rendering from the Cupertino-based tech giants.

It is the latest and the most powerful Apple laptop that you can buy with its 10th gen Intel Core i5/i7 processors or Apple’s exclusive M1 chip, which has better single-core and multi-core performance than its Intel counterparts. Also, powering the macOS Big Sur in tandem with the processor is up to 16GB of RAM, and Intel Iris Plus Graphics/Apple M1 integrated GPU for graphics.

The MacBook Pro offers 2.8x the CPU performance of the previous generation, 5x the graphics speed, and up to 20 hours of battery life — the longest of any Mac ever. So you can go through lengthy work sessions undisturbed without ever having to worry about your battery draining or laptop lagging.

Another helpful feature is that MacBooks can run iOS, so you can open the AutoCAD mobile app to improve your workflow. The MacBook Pro is one of the best options in almost every aspect, from the 4K retina display and performance to the battery, and even though it might be a bit expensive, it won’t disappoint you.

Pros

Cons

➕ Stunning 4K retina display ➖ Expensive
➕ Fast performance
➕ 20-hour battery life

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

2020 Apple MacBook Pro with Intel Processor (13-inch, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD Storage) - Space Gray
  • Tenth-generation quad-core Intel Core i5 processor
  • Brilliant Retina display with True Tone technology
  • Backlit Magic Keyboard
  • Touch Bar and Touch ID
  • Intel Iris Plus Graphics

 

7. LG Gram 17 2021

LG Gram 17 2021
LG Gram 17 2021. Image credits: LG / Amazon

The best laptop with a 17-inch screen for 3D design

Display: 17″ QHD (2560 x 1600) display | Processor: 11th generation Intel Evo i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: 16GB RAM | Storage: 2TB SSD

The laptops on this list have mainly featured mid-sized displays, but as a designer, you might need a screen that is even bigger to help you work with fine detail. This is where the LG Gram 17 2021 comes in with its 17-inch display.

The LG Gram 17’s IPS LCD has a QHD resolution with DCI-P3 99% color expression. This big and beautiful display produces crisp images rich in color with an outstanding level of depth, and it is perfect for those designers that will be working with a high level of detail while creating 3D models.

It does not miss the mark in terms of performance either with the latest 11th generation Intel Evo i7 processor, Intel Iris Xe Graphic, 16GB RAM, 2TB of SSD storage, and up to 19.5 hours battery life with a single charge. So whether you are creating 3D models or multitasking, with the LG Gram 17, you can work without worrying about lag or lack of storage.

Pros

Cons

➕ Lots of space with a 2TB SSD ➖ Not great for portability
➕ Large 17-inch display that produces beautiful colors
➕ Impressive battery life of 19.5 hours

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Sale
LG Gram 17Z90P Laptop 17" IPS Ultra-Lightweight, (2560 x 1600), Intel Evo 11th gen Core i7, 16GB...
  • 17" WQXGA (2560x1600) IPS LCD, with DCI-P3 99% color expression
  • Intel Evo Platform Powered by 11th generation Intel core i7-1165G7 Processor with Intel Xe Graphics delivers performance for high-resolution content creation and editing
  • 16GB LPDDR4X 4266mhz RAM delivers a high level of performance for memory-intensive content creation, designing, editing, and multitasking
  • Improve productivity with 2TB (2 x 1TB) PCIe M.2 NVMe SSD for dependable storage accessible in a flash
  • Connect with Confidence: Two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support, two USB-A 3.2 ports, a full-size HDMI port, a microSD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack

 

8. Dell XPS 13 9310

Dell XPS 13 9310.
Dell XPS 13 9310. Image credits: Dell / Amazon.

The best compact laptop for 3D rendering and modeling

Display: 13.4″ FHD touchscreen display | Processor: 11th generation Intel Core i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB SSD

If you love working on the go and portability is the feature you are looking for, then the Dell XPS 13 9310 is an excellent choice. The laptop itself might be compact in size and portable, but it comes with a 13.4” Full HD display with a brightness of 500-nits through which you can see every detail in superb clarity.

The Dell XPS 13 9310 does not compromise performance either with the latest Intel i7 processor, Intel Iris Xe graphics, and 16 GB of RAM, which is fast enough to fulfill all your design needs. You cannot find any better laptop for artists looking for a slim and elegant device that is fast enough to keep up with 3D design software.

Pros

Cons

➕ Compact and lightweight design ➖ Fewer connectivity options
➕ Impressive specs
➕ Enthralling display

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

Dell XPS 13 9310 Touchscreen 13.4 inch FHD Thin and Light Laptop - Intel Core i7-1185G7, 16GB...
  • WINDOWS 11: Free Upgrade to Windows 11 when available (see below)
  • 13.4-inch FHD (Full HD 1920 x 1200) InfinityEdge Touch Anti-Reflective 500-Nit Display
  • 11th Generation Intel Core i7-1185G7 Processor (12MB Cache, up to 4.8 GHz)
  • 16GB 4267MHz LPDDR4x , 512 GB M.2 PCIe NVMe SSD
  • Intel Iris Xe Graphics with shared graphics memory

 

9. MSI GL65

MSI GL65
MSI GL65. Image credits: MSI / Amazon.

The best gaming laptop on a budget for 3D design

Display: 15.6” Full HD display with 144 Hz refresh rate | Processor: 10th Generation Intel Core i5 | Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB SSD

Like Acer, MSI is another brand famous for making value for money laptops, and the MSI GL65 is one of the best budget gaming/performance laptops you can buy. Originally designed for gaming purposes, the MSI GL65 has the right 3D modeling and rendering credentials.

The 15.6-inch display boasts a 144Hz rapid refresh rate and 100% sRGB color gamut for a smooth and lag-free experience with bright and color-accurate visuals. Powering the device is the perfect combo of 10th Generation Intel Core i5 and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 that can handle any 3D design application with a breeze.

The only feature where the GL65 could’ve done better is the battery. It only lasts four hours on a single charge which can be a hurdle if you are working on the go, but as for the specs, it is the best in its price range.

Pros

Cons

➕ Great performance ➖ Battery life could be better
➕ Plenty of storage
➕ Beautiful Full HD display

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

MSI GL65 Gaming Laptop: 15.6" Display, Intel Core i5-10300H, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650, 16GB RAM,...
  • Pushing Power: The 10th Gen. Intel Core i5 processor, delivers high performance to take on any games and applications with ease
  • Supercharged Graphics: The MSI GL65 is powered by NVIDIA GeForce graphics, take on today's most popular games with these performance graphics
  • On the Go Gaming: Designed to be thin and light for gamers to carry around every day for games, study, or work
  • Cool and Powerful: MSI’s exclusive Cooler Boost Technology ensures optimal thermal dissipation. Featuring 2 fans and 6 heat pipes, get the airflow you needfor gaming
  • Customized Keys: Customize each key to your liking and receive real-time in-game status through keyboard lighting, or even watch the lights dance to your favorite tune

 

10. Apple MacBook Air 2020

Apple MacBook Air 2020
Apple MacBook Air 2020. Image credits: Apple / Amazon.

The most affordable laptop by Apple for 3D modeling and rendering

Display: 13.0-inch QHD (2560×1600) LED‑backlit display with IPS technology | Processor: Apple M1 Chip | Graphics: Apple M1 GPU | RAM: 8GB | Storage: 256GB/512GB SSD

The MacBook Pro is more than capable of running complex 3D modeling applications. Still, If you want an Apple laptop that is more compact but does not compromise on performance and is significantly cheaper, the Apple MacBook Air is a solid alternative.

Looking beyond the slimmer and more lightweight design, it has the same powerful Apple M1 chip and GPU, but the 8GB RAM onboard the MacBook Air can only be extended up to 16GB, compared to the Pro’s 64GB. The battery life is just 15 hours as well rather than the Pro’s 20.

You won’t notice much difference between the two laptops as they come with the same processor, GPU, display, and ability to run iOS apps. The MacBook Pro has better performance, and the MacBook Air is lighter and more affordable. It comes down to whether the price is more important to you or the slight performance improvement.

Pros

Cons

➕ Slim and lightweight design ➖ Less powerful than the MacBook Pro
➕ Great value for money/span>
➕ Swift performance

 

Latest Price on Amazon:

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2020 Apple MacBook Air Laptop: Apple M1 Chip, 13” Retina Display, 8GB RAM, 512GB SSD Storage,...
  • All-Day Battery Life – Go longer than ever with up to 18 hours of battery life.
  • Powerful Performance – Take on everything from professional-quality editing to action-packed gaming with ease. The Apple M1 chip with an 8-core CPU delivers up to 3.5x faster performance than the...
  • Superfast Memory – 8GB of unified memory makes your entire system speedy and responsive. That way it can support tasks like memory-hogging multitab browsing and opening a huge graphic file quickly...
  • Stunning Display – With a 13.3” Retina display, images come alive with new levels of realism. Text is sharp and clear, and colors are more vibrant.
  • Why Mac – Easy to learn. Easy to set up. Astoundingly powerful. Intuitive. Packed with apps to use right out of the box. Mac is designed to let you work, play, and create like never before.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the specs to be considered while buying a laptop for 3D Modeling?

The major specs to be considered while searching laptops for 3D modeling are: RAM: 16 GB for optimal performance Storage: It should be a minimum of 512GB of storage Display: It should have a bright display of over 300 nits bright CPU: It should have the best processors such as Intel, AMD, and Apple’s proprietary M1 chips on MacBooks

Which is the best budget-friendly laptop for 3D modeling?

HP Pavilion 15 is the best budget-friendly laptop for 3D modeling.

 

The Top 10 Best Laptops for 3D Modeling & Rendering

Finding the best laptop for 3D design can be complicated, especially for designers if you aren’t tech-savvy with the numerous acronyms, jargon, and limitless variety of different laptops that can quickly overwhelm you with too much information at once.

This is why we put together the list of the most powerful laptops that we could find for every requirement, use, and budget. We hope that this article has helped you find the right laptop for your needs that you will be using for 3D modeling and rendering purposes. Happy designing!


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