I’ve spent a few years as a hobbyist designing 3D models to 3D print, and I’ve also 3D rendered a fair few projects. Based on the factors I used to pick the laptop I use, here’s my guide to the best laptops for 3D modeling and rendering:

I recommend the Macbook Air with the M2 chip as the best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering.

It’s what I use day-to-day, and balances being a lightweight laptop with also packing huge power. I’ve also owned the M1 MacBook Pro, which is also great – the M1 chips are also super powerful.

On a budget? The Acer Aspire 5 is your best bet, priced under 300 dollars and packed with 8GB of RAM.

And for those who want a beast that can handle anything, the Razer Blade 15, originally designed for gaming, boasts a high-performance processor, efficient fan, and is easily upgradable.

Budget Pick
Best Overall
Premium Choice
4.2
5.0
4.5
$379.99$355.00
$1,229.91
$999.00
AMD Ryzen 3
M2 Chip
8-core Intel i7
Radeon Vega 6
M2 10-core
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
8GB - 32GB
8GB-24 GB
16GB (up to 32GB)
256GB - 2TB
256GB - 2TB
up to 1TB
Windows 11
macOS 13.0.1
Windows 10
15.6”
13.3-13.6”
15.6”
1920x1080
2560x1664
1920x1080
Budget Pick
4.2
$379.99$355.00
AMD Ryzen 3
Radeon Vega 6
8GB - 32GB
256GB - 2TB
Windows 11
15.6”
1920x1080
Best Overall
5.0
$1,229.91
M2 Chip
M2 10-core
8GB-24 GB
256GB - 2TB
macOS 13.0.1
13.3-13.6”
2560x1664
Premium Choice
4.5
$999.00
8-core Intel i7
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
16GB (up to 32GB)
up to 1TB
Windows 10
15.6”
1920x1080
03/07/2024 12:04 am GMT

In this guide, I’ll delve deeper into these options and more, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your 3D modeling needs.

Whether you’re a beginner on a budget or a professional seeking premium performance, I’ve got you covered.

Top Picks

Quick Overview

  1. Macbook Air – Lightweight Powerhouse for 3D Modeling
  2. Acer Aspire 5 – Budget-friendly Choice for Beginners
  3. Razer Blade 15 – Premium Performance for 3D Modeling and Gaming
  4. Lenovo Legion 5 – Mid-range Option Balancing Power and Value
  5. Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 15 OLED – Dual Touchscreen Marvel for 3D Design
  6. Apple Macbook Pro – Apple’s Pinnacle of 3D Modeling Performance
  7. MSI GE76 Raider – Large Display for Detailed 3D Rendering
  8. HP ZBook Fury 16 – Professional-grade Powerhouse for 3D Tasks

The Best Laptops For 3D Modeling and Rendering

1. Macbook Air M2 – Powerful & Lightweight

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: M1 or M2
  • GPU: M1 or M2 10-core
  • RAM: 8GB-24 GB
  • Storage: 256GB – 2TB
  • OS: macOS 13.0.1
  • Screen size: 13.3-13.6”
  • Resolution: 2560×1664
Yep, that’s my laptop (running SketchUp)

Pros

M2 chip provides good performance for 3D modeling in apps like Blender.

Up to 24GB RAM configuration to handle detailed 3D assets.

Ultra-thin and light design makes it portable for 3D work on the go.

Cons

Not compatible with Solidworks or 3DS Max

Fanless design may throttle performance during extended 3D rendering tasks.

While not quite as powerful as the Macbook Pro (which we review further down), the Macbook Air still packs more than enough of a punch to handle the best 3D modeling software.

The cheapest option comes with just 8GB RAM, but with the possibility to go up to 24GB, so it can run programs like AutoCAD with ease, along with more demanding software like Blender and Maya (provided you’re not working on huge complex models).

This is hands-down the best laptop for 3D CAD modeling in terms of weight and portability. At 2.7 lbs, it feels like nothing in my backpack.

Just 0.44 inches thick.

One thing to bear in mind, though, if you’re choosing an Apple laptop, is that you will miss out on some Windows-specific tools like Solidworks and 3DS Max. So if you need those specifically, it’s not for you.

The ultra-light form factor makes 3D modeling on the road a breeze.
I Use This Laptop!
Apple MacBook Air M2
$1,229.91

A balance of portability, price and performance with options up to 24GB RAM.

Not as powerful as the MacBook Pro, but still capable for 3D modeling purposes.

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03/06/2024 11:29 pm GMT

2. Acer Aspire 5 – Best Budget Pick

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 
  • GPU: Radeon Vega 6
  • RAM: 8GB – 32GB
  • Storage: 256GB – 2TB
  • OS: Windows 11 
  • Screen size: 15.6”
  • Resolution: 1920×1080
Acer Aspire 5

Pros

Perfectly capable of beginner 3D modeling work. Ideal for the first year or two of your journey

Much more affordable than an Apple Macbook.

Cons

Mid-range processor may struggle with complex 3D models and renders.

Build quality and battery life are just average.

Unfortunately, virtually any laptop under $1,000 is going to reduce the amount of 3D rendering software you can run. However, with a high-value budget laptop like the Aspire 5, you can perform many 3D modeling applications without breaking the bank.

The price we’ve quoted is for 8GB RAM, but it’s also available with 12GB, 20GB, and 32GB. However, bear in mind that even if you go for 32GB RAM, this quad-core laptop still won’t have enough processing power to efficiently run demanding 3D modeling programs like Maya.

That being said, this cheap laptop for 3D modeling still offers solid performance for small and medium-sized projects on many 3D rendering software.

The full HD, backlit display is also pretty impressive for the price. In fact, it’s the same quality display used in the Lenovo Legion 5, which we review below and is a fair bit more expensive.

The Aspire 5 also has a number of intuitive features that make it one of the best rendering laptops for beginners, including a fingerprint reader for quick logins, and Amazon Alexa for voice control.

Budget Pick
Acer Aspire 5
$379.99 $355.00

Solid performance for small to medium 3D modeling projects.

Unbeatable at this price point.

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03/07/2024 12:04 am GMT

3. Razer Blade 15 – Best For 3D Modeling and Gaming

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: 6-core Intel i7
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti
  • RAM: 16GB (up to 32GB)
  • Storage: up to 1TB
  • OS: Windows 10
  • Screen size: 15.6”
  • Resolution: 1920×1080
Razer 15

Pros

Powerful CPU and GPU options for smooth 3D modeling and quick rendering.

Vivid and color-accurate display great for viewing 3D assets.

Cons

Battery life only around 6 hours for productivity.

Expensive, especially for higher-end configurations.

The Razer 15 is one of the most premium gaming laptops on the market and is also worthy of the title of best laptop for 3D design.

One of the main things that set this laptop apart from most of the others on our list is the 6-core Intel i7 processor, as most i7 CPUs only have four cores. This vastly increases the chip’s capabilities and means you can run highly demanding 3D rendering programs a lot smoother.

As with many laptops, there are numerous options when purchasing a Razer 15. You can get 32GB RAM and a higher resolution 3840×21690 for even more beautiful renders.

Alternatively, you can save some cash by going for lower specs. We think the price and specs we’ve quoted above are a good sweet spot for many modelers, though.

Premium Pick
Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop
$999.00

The 6-core Intel i7 processor and 16RAM bring smooth performance to demanding 3D renders.

Cutting edge cooling system means you get access to 100% of your CPU at all times.

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03/06/2024 11:59 pm GMT

4. Lenovo Legion 5 – Best Mid-Range Laptop for 3D Modeling

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050Ti
  • RAM: 16GB – 32GB
  • Storage: 256GB – 2TB
  • OS: Windows 11 
  • Screen size: 15.6-17.3”
  • Resolution: 1920×1080
Lenovo Legion 5

Pros

Excellent cooling keeps temps down during extended renders.

Can be configured with latest AMD or Nvidia GPUs for evolving 3D performance.

Cons

Design is bulky and heavy, not great for portability.

Battery life is short, around 4-5 hours for general use.

If you’re looking for the most powerful laptop for 3D rendering around the $1,000 mark, the Lenovo Legion 5 is certainly one to check out.

This is a really sleek product that packs a punch at good value. It’s marketed primarily as a gaming laptop, but as gaming and 3D modeling are similarly demanding, it’s perfect for modeling, rendering and animation. 

The price we’ve quoted is for 16GB RAM, which will allow you to run most 3D modeling programs smoothly as well as the likes of 3DS Max and Maya. The Legion 5 is also available with 32GB, although this will push the price slightly over $1,000.

Another factor that makes this one of the most capable 3D laptops is the powerful Ryzen chip with 6 ultra-responsive cores, making for super sharp performance. On top of that, the large, full HD, antiglare display allows you to fully immersive yourself within your renderings.

Alternatively, you can go for a cheaper, more portable 15.6” screen. There’s also the chance to choose from numerous NVIDIA GPUs based on your preference.

The Legion 5 is a good option if you’re looking for a great laptop for AutoCAD 2D or 3D modeling, as it provides the specs required at a reasonable price. 

Great Value for Money
Lenovo Legion 5
$1,189.99 $1,000.00

Ideal for professional AutoCAD 2D and 3D modeling without breaking the bank.

6-core Ryzen chip brings peak performance to a large, anti-glare HD display.

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03/07/2024 12:59 am GMT

5. Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 15 OLED – Ideal For Multitasking With Dual Touchscreens

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: Intel Core i9-12900H
  • GPU: GeForce RTX 3070 Ti
  • RAM: 32GB
  • Storage: 2TB SSD
  • OS: Windows 11
  • Screen size: 15.6”
  • Resolution: 3840×1140
Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 15 OLED

Pros

Dual 4K OLED screens are great for 3D modeling on the main display and tools on the second screen.

Nvidia RTX 3070 GPU handles complex 3D projects and rendering well.

Cons

Dual screen design results in reduced battery life.

Dual screen makes Zenbook thicker and heavier than traditional laptops.

The Asus Zenbook Pro Duo is a strong contender for the best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering overall due to both its powerful components and intuitive features.

The standout feature is the secondary screen, which is touchscreen like the primary display. You can use this in different ways, such as an extension of the main display or as a separate Window for different tasks, so it can both provide a larger display panel for modeling and help you to multitask efficiently. 

Both displays are stunning OLED, 4K matte screens with fantastic resolution, and really bring even highly complex 3D models to life in stunning detail.

It uses one of the top graphics cards in the GeForce RTX 3070 Ti alongside 32GB of RAM. That’s more than enough for the likes of Maya, 3DS Max, and Blender, with the capacity to still run other applications smoothly as your model renders.

Other nice features include a built-in IR camera for facial recognition, an ergonomic design improving typing position, an optimized cooling system, and a complimentary 3-month subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud.

Best for Multitasking
Asus ZenBook Pro Duo 15
$2,599.99

Breathtaking dual OLED 4K touchscreen displays for enhanced multitasking.

Seamless rendering courtesy of a high-end GeForce RTX 3070 Ti graphics card and 32GB RAM.

Bundled with a free 3-month Adobe Creative Cloud subscription

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03/07/2024 01:09 am GMT

6. Apple Macbook Pro – Apple’s Best Laptop for 3D CAD Modeling

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: 12-core Apple M2 Chip
  • GPU: 16-core
  • RAM: 32GB – 96GB RAM
  • Storage: 512GB – 2TB
  • OS: macOS Ventura
  • Screen size: 13”, 14”, or 16”
  • Resolution: 3024×1964 Liquid Retina
MacBook Pro 3D modeling with Fusion 360
3D modeling with a MacBook Pro using Fusion 360. It runs perfectly, and I also have Slack and Cura open here without affecting performance.

Pros

Powerful M2 Pro/Max chips deliver excellent 3D modeling and rendering performance.

Brilliant Liquid Retina XDR display shows off 3D assets in vivid detail.

Cons

Very expensive, especially for higher-end configurations.

Limited ports. Will require adapters for multiple accessories.

If you’re in search of the top-tier Apple laptop for 3D modeling, the MacBook Pro, supercharged by either the M2 Pro or M2 Max, is your best bet.

The M2 Pro boasts up to 12 CPU cores, up to 19 GPU cores, and a staggering 32GB of unified memory. On the other hand, the M2 Max comes equipped with 12 CPU cores, an impressive 38 GPU cores, and a whopping 96GB of unified memory.

These specs ensure that the MacBook Pro can handle 3D modeling, rendering, and animation tasks, no matter how intricate or large-scale they might be.

For example, even on my 3-year-old MacBook M1 Pro, I can run Fusion 360, as well as a bunch of internet tabs, Discord, have YouTube in the background, emails, and more.

Here’s a photo of a part I was going to 3D print for my apartment I took in Fusion 360:

The MacBook Pro also offers up to 18 hours of battery life, ensuring you can work throughout the day without constantly reaching for the charger.

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is nothing short of breathtaking. It showcases. It also has great brightness settings, so it’s the perfect laptop for displaying your 3D projects in all their glory.

Unbelievable Battery Life
2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2
$1,999.00 $1,879.55

Amazing performance for 3D modeling with super fast M2 chip and up to 96GB of unified memory.

The 18-hour battery life is unmatched by any other laptop.

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03/07/2024 01:24 am GMT

7. MSI GE76 Raider – Large Display Size & Ideal For Rendering

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: 14-core i7
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
  • RAM: 32GB
  • Storage: up to 1TB
  • OS: Windows 10
  • Screen size: 17.3”
  • Resolution: 1920×1080
MSI GE76 Raider

Pros

Large 17.3″ display provides ample workspace for 3D modeling.

Powerful cooling system keeps temps low during extended renders.

Cons

Not very portable comapred to other picks at over 6 lbs.

Battery life is only a few hours for high-level 3D rendering.

The MSI GE67 Raider is a powerhouse, earning its spot as our top choice for the best 3D rendering laptop with a large display.

Sporting a vast 17.3-inch display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, this model is tailor-made for working on intricate and expansive models.

Under the hood, the Raider is equipped with a 1.9 GHz i7 processor, complemented by 32GB DDR4 RAM with a memory speed of 3200 MHz. Storage won’t be an issue either, thanks to its 1 TB SSD.

When it comes to graphics, this gaming laptop is powered by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060, boasting 6GB RAM, ensuring smooth performance even with the most resource-intensive software. This positions it as a top contender for the best laptop for applications like Maya, Blender, and 3DS Max.

The Raider also offers additional standout features, including the ability to customize each key for enhanced efficiency.

Its state-of-the-art cooling technology, combined with impressive fans, ensures optimal performance. Plus, its long-lasting battery ensures extended modeling sessions without interruptions.

Huge Screen
MSI 2022 GE76 Raider
$1,299.99

A 17.3-inch high-resolution screen ideal for detailed modeling.

Customizable keys, advanced cooling, and a durable battery for uninterrupted work sessions.

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03/07/2024 12:29 am GMT

8. HP ZBook Fury 16 – Best Windows Laptop for 3D Modeling Professionals

  • Price: Check latest price at Amazon here
  • CPU: 16-core Intel 
  • GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4000
  • RAM: 64GB
  • Storage: 2TB SSD
  • OS: Windows 10
  • Screen size: 16”
  • Resolution: 1920×1200
HP ZBook Fury 16, a specialist powerful laptop for 3d modeling and rendering

Pros

Powerful graphics and CPU for awesome 3D modeling and rendering.

Lots of configuration options for additional upgrades.

Cons

Not very portable comapred to other picks at over 6 lbs.

Battery life is only a few hours for high-level 3D rendering.

Rounding off our list is the formidable HP ZBook Fury 16, a must-consider for any professional 3D modeler or animator.

Equipped with a staggering 64GB RAM and an i9 processor, it is a high performance laptop on par with the priciest Macbook Pro models.

It’s further enhanced by a top-tier NVIDIA graphics card tailored for a mobile workstation, ensuring seamless work on even the most taxing 3D modeling software.

The laptop’s high-resolution 16-inch screen adopts a slim bezel design, maximizing the display area and vividly showcasing even the most intricate projects.

Whether your focus is 3D architectural rendering, character modeling, or animation, the ZBook Fury 16 is a prime candidate.

And while this HP model is on the higher end, seven other configurations provide options for budget adjustments.

Professional Pick
HP ZBook Fury 16
$3,919.00

A robust 64GB of RAM and an i9 processor rivals even the most expensive MacBook Pro's performance.

Slim bezel design makes the 16-inch display feel even more roomy.

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03/07/2024 01:34 am GMT

How To Pick A Laptop For 3D Modeling

Best laptops for 3D modeling and rendering Buying Guide

The key specs that make a good laptop for 3D modeling and rendering are RAM, CPU, GPU, and resolution, though some others like screen size still help when 3D modeling.

While less demanding software like AutoCAD and Fusion 360 can run on cheaper CPUs and GPUS, and less than 16GB RAM, the top solutions like Maya and 3DS Max require powerful chips, graphics cards, and 32GB RAM for optimal performance. 

Here’s a look at the minimum laptop specs for 3D modeling software, comparing some of the most popular solutions for modeling and rendering:

Software Minimum RAMRecommended RAMCPU (minimum cores)
Fusion 3604GB6GB 4-core
AutoCAD8GB16GB4-core
Rhino8GB16-32GB2-core
Blender8GB16-32GB4-core
3DS Max8GB16-32GB8-core
Maya16GB32GB8-core
Minimum laptop specs for 3D modeling software

RAM 

RAM (random access memory) is a cornerstone for 3D modeling and rendering. It’s where the processor temporarily stores data for quick access.

While some entry-level 3D software can operate on 4GB RAM, advanced programs like Maya demand at least 32GB for seamless performance with intricate models.

For those who refuse to compromise, the HP ZBook Fury 16, boasting a massive 64GB RAM, stands out as the ultimate choice.

CPU 

The CPU is the brain of your laptop, determining the efficiency and speed of your software.

The number of cores in a CPU is crucial; more cores mean better multitasking.

For those serious about 3D modeling, the Macbook Air and Pro, both equipped with advanced M2 chips, are unparalleled choices, ensuring a smooth and efficient 3D modeling experience.

GPU 

The GPU, or graphics processing unit, is responsible for 2D and 3D graphics processing. A robust GPU ensures your 3D projects render smoothly and efficiently.

For those seeking the best in graphics performance, the Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 15 OLED, armed with the GeForce RTX 3070 Ti, is a standout recommendation alongside the Macbooks.

Its combination of a powerful GPU and other high-end specs ensures that your 3D models are rendered with precision and clarity.

Resolution

Resolution is the measure of how many pixels a laptop screen can display. A higher resolution means your models and animations appear sharper and more detailed.

For those who prioritize display clarity in their 3D modeling projects, the Apple Macbook Pro and Asus Zenbook Pro Duo 15 OLED, both boasting impressive resolutions, are top contenders.

Their screens ensure that every detail of your project is vividly and accurately represented.

Operating System Compatibility with Software

Not all software is universally compatible across all laptop platforms.

For instance, while Solidworks and 3DS Max are staples in the industry, they’re not accessible on Mac systems.

Conversely, Fusion 360 and AutoCAD, despite their popularity, aren’t available on Linux.

Windows laptops stand out in this regard, offering the broadest compatibility with a myriad of 3D modeling applications. This makes them a versatile choice for those who work with multiple software or are still exploring their options.

Budget

The best laptop for you lies at the intersection of your specific needs and your budget.

Key specs like CPU, GPU, and RAM play pivotal roles in determining a laptop’s price, with additional factors like screen size also influencing the cost.

For those on a tight budget, the Acer Aspire 5 from my list offers a commendable balance between cost and performance, making it an excellent choice for beginners with moderate 3D modeling and rendering needs.

On the other end of the spectrum, the Apple Macbook Pro is a top-tier high performance laptop, albeit at a premium price.

Display Size

If you’re someone who values a larger workspace to visualize intricate details of your projects without constantly zooming in and out, the MSI GE76 Raider stands out with its expansive 17.3” display. This size offers a more immersive experience, especially beneficial for those working on detailed and complex 3D models.

For those who prioritize mobility, perhaps frequently traveling between workspaces, the Macbook Air M2 offers a balance with its 13.3-13.6” screen. It’s compact enough to fit into most bags and provides a comfortable viewing area for most modeling tasks.

Are Any Specs Not Important for 3D Modeling?

There are other laptop specs, such as touchscreen and battery life, which don’t directly impact a laptop’s ability to run 3D modeling software. 

However, these specs do impact your own personal experience, so they’re still important to consider when comparing the best computers for rendering.

FAQs

What type of laptop do I need for 3D modeling?

Apple Macs, Asus, and Acer laptops are often considered the best for 3D modeling, although there are also worthy laptops from brands like Dell and HP.

What is the minimum laptop requirement for 3D rendering?

For a lot of 3D modeling, you can get away with 8GB RAM, a 64-bit Core i5 chip or higher, and a decent graphics card. However, demanding programs like Maya require more processing power and at least 16GB RAM and 32GB for optimal performance, along with at least an 8-core CPU.

Do you need a lot of RAM for 3D modeling?

Yes, RAM has a big impact on how smoothly your computer handles 3D modeling. Basic programs like Fusion 360 can run on 4GB RAM, but for programs like Blender and Maya 32GB is recommended.

What processor do I need for 3D modeling?

The 16-core AMD Ryzen 3950 X is one of the most powerful processors for 3D modeling, although 8-core and above Intel chips, as well as Apple’s M2 chip, are also suitable for many of the top modeling and rendering applications.

Do you need a good graphics card for 3D modeling?

Yes, a powerful graphics card is required for running demanding 3D modeling programs like Blender and 3DS Max. NVIDIA GPUs are the most popular (particularly the GeForce 3070, 3080, and 3090 graphics cards).

Is Mac good for 3D modeling?

Yes, an Apple Macbook is a great laptop for 3D modeling and rendering, particularly the latest Macbook Pro (which can pack up to 64GB RAM).

Are gaming laptops good for 3D modeling?

Yes. As gaming is a similarly demanding task to 3D modeling and rendering, many modelers choose gaming laptops due to their powerful CPUs, GPUs, and large RAM.

What laptops are good for blender?

It’s recommended to have at least 16GB RAM and a quadcore processor for Blender, although 32GB RAM will give better performance, so the Asus Zenbook Duo, Macbook Pro, MSI Raider, and Razer 15 are good options.

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