These days, Autodesk Revit 2023 is the go-to software for all sorts of construction professionals. Its capabilities have expanded far beyond the single-user desktop-installed solutions of old. As such, it's become increasingly important for architects, contractors, and design firms alike to own the best laptop for Autodesk Revit 2023.
But with so many laptop choices available on the market, it can be tricky to decide which one to get. Don't worry, though – I'm here to make the job easier for you. In this guide, I will break down all the specs and features you'll need to buy the right laptop for Autodesk Revit 2023. I will also discuss several budget-friendly options and provide my personal recommendations so that you can make an informed decision. Ready? Let's get started!
The best processor that will work optimally with Autodesk Revit 2023 in 2022
If you're looking to buy a new laptop to run Autodesk Revit 2023, you'll need to pay attention to the processor. In this article, we'll take a look at what's new in the laptop CPU market and what kind of performance you can expect from different processors.
First, let's take a look at what's new in the laptop CPU market. In late 2020, Apple released their own ARM-based M1 system-on-chip modules for use in MacBooks. These chips offer exceptional single-core performance and battery life. In 2021, AMD has managed to take 20% of the CPU market with their 6th generation Ryzen processors. Intel's 13th-gen processors have not yet reached laptops, with 12th generation being Intel's latest.
Both Intel and Apple have adopted hybrid performance/efficiency core designs (based on big.LITTLE) in their silicon chips. This means that there are both high-performance cores and low-power cores in the same chip. The high-performance cores are used for demanding tasks, while the low-power cores are used for less demanding tasks or tasks that can be done with lower power consumption.
In terms of raw performance, AMD's Ryzen models are the best on the market right now. However, if you're looking for a good battery life in a PC laptop, you should look for one with an Intel processor. This is because Intel's processors are more energy-efficient.
When it comes to Revit, single-thread performance is more important than multi-thread performance. This is because Revit is not a very parallelizable application. In other words, it doesn't make use of multiple cores and threads as much as other applications do. Therefore, a processor with a higher single-thread performance will be better for Revit than a processor with a lower single-thread performance but more cores and threads.
The Cinebench R23 benchmark is a good way to compare different processor options. However, I also like to include PassMark and 3DMark scores to get a well-rounded picture of performance.
If you're looking for an affordable laptop, you can expect to pay around $700 for a mid-range processor with an IPS display panel and plenty of RAM (16 GB). For a high-end laptop, you can expect to pay $1,500 or more for the latest generation of processors (Ryzen 3000 or Intel 9 series).
Deciding on a graphics
With Autodesk Revit 2023, you'll need a better graphics card than in previous versions to get the most out of the software. In this section, we'll go over what to look for in a graphics card for Revit and recommend a few of the best options on the market.
As always, Nvidia continues to dominate the laptop GPU market. They've recently released a few RTX 40 series cards, but these are not yet available on laptops (expected in 2023). Nvidia's latest notebook cards are in the RTX 30 series, such as the RTX 3070 Ti.
However, desktop GPUs are now a lot more power-hungry; thus, the gap between power-limited notebook graphics and desktop graphics cards has widened in the past few years. Nvidia has also discontinued Max-Q use for its RTX graphics cards. Now, an exact GPU wattage is determined by a laptop manufacturer (OEM). That results in a wide variance in graphics performance even in laptops with the same GPU chipset.
3DMark can be used to compare different GPUs, but keep in mind that these scores are not indicative of Revit performance; we need to look at specific benchmarks such as Autodesk Revit's GPU test when comparing laptops.
If you're looking for a high-end laptop that can handle multiple applications at once – consider getting one with two graphics cards (SLI or CrossFire).
Here are our recommendations for the best GPUs for Autodesk Revit 2023, based on expected laptop price tags:
- Minimum: GTX 1650
- Recommended: RTX 2070
- High-end: RTX 3080
Picking a good memory
When it comes to laptops, RAM is important, but it's not the be-all and end-all of performance. Revit is a demanding application, especially when working with large models or multiple views. As a result, 16 GB of RAM is the bare minimum for most users, and 32 GB is preferable for most professionals.
However, RAM speed and quantity are directly correlated in Revit – more memory means faster performance, but only if it's fast enough to keep up with your processor. If you're looking for a laptop that will last you for years, then I'd recommend getting one with ECC RAM. It's not required for Revit, but it's still a good idea to have it since it helps protect against single-bit and multi-bit errors.
When it comes to laptops, there are other specs that are less important. For Revit, the most important thing is to have enough RAM to support your workflow. Here are some recommendations:
- Minimum: 8 GB
- Recommended: 16 GB
- High-end: 32 GB
Keep in mind that these are just recommendations. Your needs may vary depending on your workflow.
Revit-Ready Laptops: Your Burning Questions Answered!
Q: What are the recommended laptop specs for Autodesk Revit 2023?
The recommended laptop specs for Autodesk Revit 2023 include a minimum of 16 GB of memory, a graphics card like the RTX 2070 or higher, and a processor like the i5-11260H or higher. These specs ensure smooth performance and optimal productivity while using the software.
Can I run Autodesk Revit 2023 on a laptop?
Yes, you can run Autodesk Revit 2023 on a laptop. However, it's important to ensure that your laptop meets the minimum system requirements for the software. These requirements include at least 8 GB of memory, a dedicated graphics card like the GTX 1650 or higher, and a processor like the i5-10400H or higher. Meeting these specifications will provide a satisfactory experience with Autodesk Revit 2023.
Which laptop is best for Autodesk Revit 2023?
The best laptop for Autodesk Revit 2023 will depend on your specific needs and budget. However, we have a couple of recommendations for you:
- The MSI GF63 Thin is an excellent choice for those on a budget. It offers good performance at an affordable price.
- If you're looking for a mid-range option, consider the ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71. It provides a balance between performance and portability.
- For those seeking high-end performance, the ASUS ROG Strix G15 G513RM and the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16 are both great options. These laptops pack powerful processors and graphics cards, ensuring smooth performance with Autodesk Revit 2023.
What processor do I need for Autodesk Revit 2023?
For Autodesk Revit 2023, it is recommended to have a processor like the i5-11260H or higher. A higher-end processor, such as the i9-11950H, will provide even better performance. A capable processor is crucial for handling complex calculations and rendering tasks in Autodesk Revit 2023.
How much RAM is required for Autodesk Revit 2023 in a laptop?
The minimum requirement for RAM when running Autodesk Revit 2023 on a laptop is 8 GB. However, it is highly recommended to have at least 16 GB of RAM for optimal performance. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking and handling of large project files in Autodesk Revit 2023.
Is an SSD necessary for running Autodesk Revit 2023 on a laptop?
While not strictly necessary, an SSD (Solid State Drive) is highly recommended when running Autodesk Revit 2023 on a laptop. An SSD provides faster data access speeds, resulting in quicker software loading times and smoother overall performance. It also helps with handling large project files, reducing the time needed for data retrieval and saving.
Can a gaming laptop handle Autodesk Revit 2023?
Yes, a gaming laptop can handle Autodesk Revit 2023. Gaming laptops often have powerful processors and graphics cards, which are essential for running resource-intensive applications like Autodesk Revit 2023. However, it's important to ensure that the gaming laptop meets the minimum system requirements for the software.
Are integrated graphics enough for Autodesk Revit 2023 on a laptop?
Integrated graphics, such as those found in many laptops, may not provide the best experience when running Autodesk Revit 2023. While it is possible to run the software with integrated graphics, it is recommended to have a dedicated graphics card like the GTX 1650 or higher. Dedicated graphics cards offer better performance and smoother rendering in Autodesk Revit 2023.
What is the minimum laptop requirement for Autodesk Revit 2023?
The minimum laptop requirement for Autodesk Revit 2023 includes at least 8 GB of memory, a dedicated graphics card like the GTX 1650, and a processor like the i5-10400H. These specifications will ensure that Autodesk Revit 2023 runs adequately, though for optimal performance, it is recommended to have higher specs.
How to choose a laptop that can handle Autodesk Revit 2023?
When choosing a laptop that can handle Autodesk Revit 2023, there are several factors to consider:
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Processor: Look for a laptop with a powerful processor like the i5-11260H or higher. A faster processor will handle complex calculations and rendering tasks more efficiently.
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Memory: Opt for a laptop with a minimum of 16 GB of RAM. More RAM allows for smoother multitasking and handling of large project files.
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Graphics Card: Select a laptop with a dedicated graphics card like the RTX 2070 or higher. Dedicated graphics cards offer better performance and smoother rendering in Autodesk Revit 2023
4 Best Laptops for Autodesk Revit 2023
SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3 Pro 360 2-in-1
Pros and cons
- Excellent processor (i7-1360P)
- Splendid graphics card (Iris Xe)
- Mediocre memory amount (16GB)
Alternatives
Acer Swift 3 SF314-59-75QC
- Compact, lightweight, and ergonomic design
- Sturdy build quality
- High thermals during gaming
- Poor audio quality
ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71
Pros and cons
- Sleek, lightweight frame
- Powerful overall and gaming performance
- Weak speakers
- Display could be brighter
Alternatives
HP Victus
- Delivers smooth gameplay at 1080p.
- Fast SSD.
- Slow response time on display causes noticeable ghosting.
- No VRR support to reduce screen tearing.
ASUS ROG Strix G15
Pros and cons
- High-performance CPU and GPU
- Good workmanship and design
- Limited connectivity options
- Coil whine in certain situations
Alternatives
HP Envy
- Plenty of CPU and GPU power
- New 120Hz screen refresh rate
- Merely adequate base screen
- Optional OLED has fewer pixels than before
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16
Pros and cons
- Strong overall performance
- Big, bright, and fast display
- Some flex to keyboard deck
- Poor battery life
Alternatives
HP Omen 17
- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Expandable working memory
- Slightly below-average performance for an RTX 4080
- High noise level
Table of the Best Laptops for Autodesk Revit 2023
Laptop | Price (approx) |
SAMSUNG Galaxy Book3 Pro 360 2-in-1 | $180 |
ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71 | $730 |
ASUS ROG Strix G15 | $1750 |
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16 | $3390 |