3D modeling and rendering are important skills for creative folks like architects, interior designers, and animators. To do 3D work right, you need a laptop that can handle the tricky software and resource-heavy 3D modeling tasks.
In this blog, we’re checking out the top laptops for rendering and 3D modeling in 2024. We’ve taken into consideration factors like the GPU, CPU, RAM and storage as well as other factors like cost, portability and battery life.
Whether you’re a professional designer or a student just getting started, our list of best rendering laptops in 2024 can come in handy for you. But first, let’s address how to choose an ideal laptop for 3D modeling and rendering.
How to Choose the Ideal Computer for 3D Modeling and Rendering
When delving into the world of 3D modeling and rendering, the significance of appropriate hardware cannot be stressed enough. Let’s look at some critical specifications that should be present in the best computer for 3D modeling, with a specific focus on laptops.
Processor Power
The processor, often deemed the heart of a computer, holds immense importance for 3D-related tasks. When engaging in 3D work, it’s advisable to consider processors such as those found in the Ryzen 5 or Intel i5 series. These processors are robust for managing heavyweight 3D modeling and rendering tasks.
Graphics Capabilities
Within the realm of 3D modeling and rendering, the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) assumes a pivotal role. Opting for a laptop equipped with either an RTX 3060 or RTX 4060 ensures that your system possesses the requisite graphical prowess to fluidly manipulate 3D objects and craft top-notch renders.
Sufficient RAM
RAM, known as Random Access Memory, serves as the active data repository of your laptop. When considering the best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering, a minimum of 16GB of RAM is indispensable. This capacity enables your machine to deftly handle demanding software like Autodesk 3ds Max, eliminating slowdowns and interruptions.
Budget Considerations
The specifications outlined above are suggested for the best laptop for 3D modeling and rendering but may stretch your financial limits. Nevertheless, it’s vital to view this expenditure as an investment safeguarding you against future troubles and disappointments. You want a computer that can optimally meet resource-intensive 3D modeling operations.
In a nutshell, in your quest for the best computer for 3D modeling, it is imperative to prioritize a potent processor, a capable GPU, and generous RAM. These specifications stand as linchpins for achieving optimal results in your 3D projects. Rather than being disheartened by budgetary constraints, regard them as opportunities to accumulate resources for the best computer for 3D modeling, a tool that will truly empower your creative journey.
Top Entry-Level Laptops for Rendering and 3D Modeling
If you are an entry-level interior designer, opting for a high-end laptop for rendering your designs will not be viable. As a beginner in the interior design and rendering realm, going for an entry-level laptop that offers good value for money is the right way. Here we have compiled a list of entry-level 3D modeling laptops along with their salient features to help you find your ideal pick.
HP Victus
This entry-level laptop offers impressive value for its price tag. While it’s predominantly a gaming laptop, due to the technology requirements for gaming and 3D rendering coinciding, it’s more than capable of effectively carrying out heavy-duty 3D modeling and rendering tasks. It has 16GB of RAM, an Intel Core i5-13500H CPU, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU.
Image Credit: hp.com
Pros:
- Great value for the price
- Suited for demanding tasks like rendering
- Generous 16 GB DDR5-5200 MHz RAM (2 x 8 GB)
- 12th Gen i5 CPU
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU
Cons:
- Not the top choice for SolidWorks users
- The display is not very color accurate
Price – $799
Asus TUF A16
The Asus TUF A16 stands out as an excellent entry-level laptop for 3D modeling. It boasts an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS CPU, RX 7600S V8G GPU, and a substantial 12GB of RAM. SolidWorks users will also appreciate its compatibility with workstation GPUs like the RX 7600S.
Read also – 9 Different Types of 3D Modeling
Image Credit: Amazon.com
Pros:
- Exceptional choice for 3D modeling
- Features an AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS CPU
- Equipped with an RX 7600S GPU
- Spacious 16GB RAM
- Ideal for SolidWorks users
Cons:
- Slightly less portable
- The build quality is not the best
Price – $1099
Asus ROG Flow X13
For those who are always on the move, the Asus ROG Flow X13 is a sleek and lightweight option. It boasts a Ryzen 7 6900HS CPU, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU, and 16GB of RAM. This laptop also features a touch screen and two-in-one functionality.
Image Credit: Asus.com
Pros:
- Portable and lightweight design
- Ideal for users on the go
- Ryzen 7 6800HS CPU
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 GPU
- Touch screen and two-in-one capabilities
Cons:
- The tablet mode is not very practical
- The price is high
Price – $1399
Acer Swift X
If you’re seeking an affordable option suitable for light 3D modeling, consider the Acer Swift X. It features an Intel Core i7-12700H CPU, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, and 16GB of RAM.
Image Credit: Amazon.com
Pros:
- Affordable choice for light 3D modeling
- Equipped with an Intel Core i7-12700H CPU
- Features an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 GPU
- Offers 16GB of RAM
Cons:
- The keyboard is not very comfortable to type on
- The performance is not up to the mark
Price – $1399
Asus ROG Strix G16 (2023) –
When it comes to entry-level to mid-range laptops for rendering, the Asus ROG Strix G16 is an excellent choice. It features an Intel Core i9-13980 HX CPU, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, and 16GB of RAM. Its 16-inch display boasts excellent color accuracy.
Read also – 21 Best 3D Modeling Software
Image Credit: Asus.com
Pros:
- A strong choice for mid-range 3D modeling
- Equipped with an Intel Core i9-13980 HX CPU
- Features an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 GPU
- Offers 16GB of RAM
- 16-inch display with impressive color accuracy
Cons:
- The display is not very bright
- The thermals can be a bit of an issue and the laptop can get quite hot under load
Price – $2010
Top Mid-Range Laptops for Rendering and 3D Modeling
Now that we have looked at the entry-level picks for best laptops for rendering, let’s explore some mid-range options that are better equipped than their entry-level counterparts but are still affordable and offer a great bang for the buck.
Asus ROG Flow X16
The Asus Republic Gamer Flow X16 is the big brother of the X13, offering premium features at a somewhat higher price point. With an I9 processor and an RTX 4070, it delivers robust performance for 3D modeling and rendering tasks. However, keep in mind that Intel processors may not be as power-efficient as Ryzen alternatives, impacting battery life.
Image Credit: Asus.com
Pros:
- Premium build quality
- Features the powerful I9 processor
- Equipped with an RTX 4070 for stellar performance
Cons:
- Intel processors might compromise battery efficiency compared to Ryzen counterparts
- Price tag can be on the higher side
Price – $2699.99
Apple MacBook Pro M1 Max (14-inch and 16-inch)
The Apple MacBook Pro M1 Max, available in 14-inch and 16-inch variants, caters to Mac OS enthusiasts. If you’re considering an upgrade from M1 to M2, it might not yield a substantial performance boost. However, investing in more RAM, such as 32GB, can significantly enhance performance. Note that Apple silicon only supports native software that include AutoCAD, Blender and SketchUp among others. It doesn’t support Autodesk 3Ds Max and Solidworks so assess your specific 3D software requirements before opting for this laptop.
Read also – 15 Best 3D Rendering Software Alternatives
Image Credit: Amazon.com
Pros:
- Native software support for Mac OS
- Certified refurbished models offer cost savings
- Opting for M1 Max with 32GB of RAM provides excellent performance
Cons:
- Minimal performance gain from M1 to M2 models
- Limited native software support for specific 3D applications
Price – $2778.30
Asus Zenbook Pro 14 –
The Asus Zenbook Pro 14 boasts a breathtaking 14.5-inch 120Hz OLED NanoEdge display. Under the hood, it’s fueled by the latest 13th Gen Intel Core i9-13900H processors, ensuring that your 3D modeling projects run smoothly and swiftly. The studio-grade NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card takes your creativity to the next level.
Image Credit: Asus.com
Pros:
- Stunning OLED display with vibrant colors
- Powerful Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics
- Solid construction and build quality
Cons:
- OLED screen may suffer from glare in direct sunlight
- Keyboard might feel slightly cramped for users transitioning from larger laptops
- DialPad feature might not be fully utilized by all users
Price – $2099
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i, offers an all-aluminum build for durability. With an Intel Core i9-13900HX processor and an RTX 4080, this laptop ensures top-notch performance for your rendering needs. However, this laptop might lean towards the higher end of the price spectrum.
Image Credit: Lenovo.com
Pros:
- All-aluminum build for durability
- Powerful i9 processor
- Equipped with an RTX 4080 for excellent rendering performance
Cons:
- Price range might not suit all budgets
- RAM is only 4800 Mhz DDR5 (A-DATA brand) and the stock 2 TB SSD is a slower Intel drive
Price – $2796
When hunting for mid-range laptops for 3D modeling and rendering, it’s essential to strike a balance between your budget and the required performance. These laptops provide a range of options to cater to various needs, whether you prioritize raw power, software compatibility, or portability. Consider your specific requirements and weigh the pros and cons to find the ideal laptop for your creative endeavors.
Top High-End Laptops for Rendering and 3D Modeling
Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2023 Model)
If you’re on the hunt for a high-end laptop that’s ready to tackle 3D modeling and creative tasks with finesse, the Asus Republic of Gamer Zephyrus G14 2023 can be your best companion. It offers customizable RAM and an excellent display and its performance with an RTX 4090 is ever reliable for compute-intensive 3D rendering tasks. If you aim for top-notch performance, opting for anything above RTX 4070 is recommended so you can definitely expect great performance from this laptop.
Image Credit: Asus.com
Pros:
- Customizable RAM with 32GB capacity
- High-quality 14-inch, 165Hz 3ms QHD+ display
- Thin and lightweight design with excellent battery life
Cons:
- Expensive, may not be affordable for mid-level designers and 3D artists.
- No 4K option
Price – $3799
Razer Blade 16 Gaming Laptop
When it comes to 3D modeling, power and performance are non-negotiable, and the Razer Blade 16 Gaming Laptop is here to deliver exactly that. From a 3D modeling standpoint, this laptop redefines what you can achieve on the go. It’s equipped with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU and a 13th Gen Intel 24-core i9 HX CPU. For Razer Blade 16, handling complex 3D models, rendering tasks, and simulations is a breeze.
Image Credit: Razor.com
Pros:
- Exceptional Display, the laptop’s display is a visual masterpiece, offering stunning color accuracy and detail.
- Solid and sleek build
- Powerful CPU and GPU
Cons:
- High-Performance, high-price
- As with many high-performance laptops, extended 3D modeling sessions can strain the battery life
- Fan Noise
Price – $4299
Best Laptops for 3D Modeling and Rendering: Comparison Table
Laptop | Price | CPU | GPU | RAM | Storage | Display |
| HP Victus | $799 | Intel Core i5-13500H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 | 16GB DDR5 | 512GB SSD | 16.1-inch FHD IPS display |
| Asus TUF A16 | $1099 | AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS | RX 7600S V8G | 16GB DDR5 | 512GB SSD | 16-inch FHD IPS display |
| Asus ROG Flow X13 | $1399 | Ryzen 7 6900HS | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 | 16GB DDR5 | 512GB SSD | 13.4-inch FHD IPS touch display |
| Acer Swift X | $1399 | Intel Core i7-12700H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050 | 16GB DDR5 | 512GB SSD | 14-inch QHD IPS display |
| Asus ROG Strix G16 (2023) | $2010 | Intel Core i9-13980 HX | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 | 16GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 16-inch QHD IPS display |
| Asus ROG Flow X16 | $2699.99 | Intel Core i9-13900H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 | 32GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 16-inch QHD IPS display |
| Apple MacBook Pro M1 Max (14-inch and 16-inch) | Starting at $2778.30 | Apple M1 Max | M1 Max integrated GPU or AMD Radeon Pro GPU | 32GB unified memory | 1TB SSD | 14-inch or 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display |
| Asus Zenbook Pro 14 | $2099 | Intel Core i9-13900H | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 | 32GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 14.5-inch OLED NanoEdge display |
| Lenovo Legion Pro 7i | $2796 | Intel Core i9-13900HX | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 | 16GB DDR5 | 2TB SSD | 16-inch QHD IPS display |
| Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2023 Model) | $3799 | AMD Ryzen 9 7900HS | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 | 32GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 14-inch QHD+ display |
| Razer Blade 16 Gaming Laptop | $4299 | Intel Core i9-13980HX | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 | 32GB DDR5 | 1TB SSD | 16-inch QHD display |
Conclusion
There are many laptops for you to choose from for a great 3D experience. However, buying the best laptops for 3D modeling and rendering is expensive, but higher specifications ensure smoother work when dealing with intensive software like Autodesk.
For creatives who need to run graphics software on a small laptop, Foyr Neo came to your rescue!
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It’s fast, easy to use, creates quality renders and realistic images, and most of all affordable. Sign up our 14-day free trial to create 3D modeling and renderings.
FAQs
Indeed, achieving resource-intensive 3D modeling and rendering tasks no longer demands investing in a high-end laptop. Cloud-based solutions make it possible by harnessing robust hardware resources typically beyond the reach of most laptops.
Take, for instance, Foyr Neo, a cloud-based interior design software tailored for 3D modeling and rendering. This subscription-based platform operates in the cloud, enabling access from any internet-connected device. With Foyr Neo, you can effortlessly craft and render 3D models for your interior design projects, all without the need for a top-tier rendering laptop.
Absolutely, a capable graphics card is essential for 3D modeling. The graphics card, often referred to as GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), plays a pivotal role in rendering 3D models on your screen. A high-quality GPU enhances your ability to work effortlessly with intricate models and intricate scenes, delivering smoother performance. Moreover, it provides the means to preview your models with heightened realism in terms of textures and lighting.
Although 8GB of RAM suffices for fundamental 3D modeling assignments, it’s advisable to opt for 16GB for improved performance and the capacity to handle intricate models and scenes more seamlessly.
If your projects involve basic models and scenes, and you don’t mind slightly longer rendering times, 8GB of RAM could serve your needs. Nonetheless, for those dealing with complex models, complex scenes, or requiring fast rendering, upgrading to 16GB of RAM is the wiser choice.
Yes, newer MacBook Pros with M1 Max or M1 Pro chips can work well for 3D modeling and rendering. These chips are strong and can manage complex 3D work.
But remember, MacBooks aren’t made just for 3D work. So, they might not be as strong as certain Windows laptops or desktop PCs designed for this. Also, some 3D software may work better on Windows than on macOS.