As an experienced Xactimate user, I understand the unique challenges and requirements involved in finding the best laptop for Xactimate. Whether you're an insurance adjuster, a contractor, or a property restoration professional, having a reliable and high-performing laptop is essential to efficiently create accurate estimates and complete your work on time. In this guide, I'll help you navigate the laptop market to find the right machine tailored to your Xactimate needs.
My process for selecting the best laptop for Xactimate involves reviewing an extensive laptop spreadsheet of recent releases, comparing specs and reviews from both professional and user-generated sources. I then narrow down the top laptops based on topic-specific requirements, such as system compatibility, performance, portability, and price ranges. As a frequent participant in Xactware forums and user communities, I've gained valuable insights into the preferences and pain points of Xactimate users, allowing me to make well-informed recommendations.
When selecting the ideal laptop for running Xactimate, it's crucial to consider factors such as processor speed, RAM, storage capacity, and display quality. A powerful laptop will enable you to run Xactimate smoothly, even when working with large and complex projects. Furthermore, as an Xactimate user, you'll likely benefit from a laptop with a long battery life and a durable build, especially if you're working in the field. In the following sections, we'll dive deeper into these requirements and explore the best laptop options to enhance your Xactimate experience.
Choosing a processor
A CPU is the heart of a laptop. It defines the speed and performance, and all other components are balanced around it to show its full prowess.
Requirements
CPUs come in a few different families, each with their own set of pros and cons. In this article, we'll be looking at Intel Core i3, i5, and i7 CPUs. Starting with Core i3 – these are more budget-friendly CPUs that perform decently enough for a laptop on a budget. Core i5 CPUs – a midrange CPU that balances single-core performance with more cores to offer a little more for multitasking. Core i7 CPUs – single-core performance at its best – but beware of the pricetag!
Recommendations
When shopping for a laptop, you need to ask yourself what you want it for. If you need an AutoCAD 2021 laptop or an Xactimate computer – then your top priority should be single-core performance. I recommend anything from the newest 2 series of processors: Intel Core i3-1005G1 or AMD Ryzen 3 3250U (i3-1005G1 has better benchmarks). If you're on a budget and just need something for Xactimate to play with now and then, I'd say go for the cheapest one available. A reliable choice would be any of these: Intel Core i3-1030G1 or AMD Ryzen 3 3300U (Ryzen 3 has better benchmarks). For those on a budget but still want something really good – go for the cheapest one with an Intel Core i5-10300H (same as above). For those who can afford it – grab anything from the latest 2 series: Intel Core i5-10350G1 or AMD Ryzen 5 3600U (Ryzen 5 has better benchmarks). Finally, if you're willing to spend some money but don't want to break the bank – go for an Intel Core i7-10870H or AMD Ryzen 7 3700U (Ryzen 7 has better benchmarks).
- Core i3/Ryzen 3 is an affordable option for Xactimate laptops
- Core i5/Ryzen 5 is the best bang for your buck if you're on a budget but still want quality
- Core i7/Ryzen 7 is pricey but provides the best single-core performance in laptops
The right graphics card
What kind of graphics do I need for Xactimate?
Graphics cards for Xactimate will depend on your profession and level of experience. If you're a full-time contractor or a hobbyist, an entry-level card will be enough. Non-workstation cards are good for general assemblies with basic parts. However, if you're a student or freelancer with access to the latest professional chips – these cards are more stable and you'll get access to more features.
For those professionals, I recommend these cards:
- GTX 1650 for budget jobs
- RTX 3050 for general work
- RTX 3060 for those who have a bigger budget
Recommended graphics
If you're a student or freelancer with a tight budget – go for a GTX 1650 card, as it will work just fine for basic projects. If you have the money – go for a mid-range card, such as RTX 3060.
- Integrated graphics or GTX 1650 will be enough for simple jobs
- RTX 3050 is recommended for most projects
- if you have a bigger budget, go for RTX 3060
Choosing a memory
Minimum (8 GB)
If you're a novice and not expecting to be doing any heavy duty calculations, 8 GB should be just fine.
8 GB has been the standard for quite some time now, but don't expect it to last long. The new de facto standard for budget laptops is 16 GB, which you can find at around $650.
8 GB might be a wise choice if you're prioritizing the CPU, which is much more critical for Xactimate.
Recommended (16 GB)
If you aren't limited by a very tight budget – you'll most likely end up with a 16 GB laptop. It just seems to do the job for most laptops under $2k. That's the sweet spot for work, gaming, and everything in-between.
A fast SSD can soften the impact of running out of RAM, which might be one of the reasons why I've noticed a slowdown in the continuous climb of RAM capacities in laptops.
Especially if you're buying a bulkier laptop that can be easily upgraded, there's no need to sweat about getting 16 GB.
But make sure it has enough RAM slots to support an upgrade in the future; otherwise, it will be too hard to swap out with another one when necessary (for example, upgrading from 8GB to 16GB).
Best (32 GB)
If you're only running Xactimate on your laptop, 32 GB is only necessary if you typically use lots of large plans that take up lots of memory.
But I doubt any of us are running Xactimate "naked". I'd guess you'll have a browser running in the background and then a couple more applications on the side. In that case, 16 GB would suffice for most needs, but not optimal for professionals who do lots of 3D modelling or CAD-type work on their laptop computers. That's why I recommend 32 GB for anyone going over $2000, where 32 GB laptops are ubiquitous.
On top of that, 32 GB is a sure-fire way to future-proof your laptop against any changes in software or hardware requirements that might come up later on down the line.
- 8 GB RAM is just fine for running Xactimate, but you'll have to be careful with it
- 16 GB RAM is recommended for most laptops under $2k, unless you need more for large plans or running multiple applications at once
- 32 GB RAM is the best choice for anyone going over $2000, where 32 GB laptops are ubiquitous
Choosing the right storage for Xactimate
What is Xactimate?
It's a software that you might be familiar with if you're a construction professional. Xactimate is a construction estimating and bidding software that helps you keep track of estimates, bids, expenses, profit margins, and job site progress. It has helped professionals manage their businesses for more than 20 years now.
Minimum storage space
Xactimate requires 30 GB of free space to install and run. 256 GB SSD should be more than enough for the installation itself and the files needed to start working on a project – especially if you're just starting out or not running other programs in the background.
512 GB SSD is recommended if you're running other programs at the same time as Xactimate or need to work with large files (video). If your needs exceed this, I recommend upgrading to 1 TB SSD as soon as possible – it will make everything easier and smoother.
- Xactimate is an easy to use software for construction professionals
- It requires 30 GB of free space to install and run
- 256 GB SSD should be enough for most people, 512 GB SSD if you're running other programs at the same time as Xactimate or need to work with large files (video)
Deciding on a display
Right resolution for Xactimate work
- FHD is the bare minimum.
- 4K is overkill.
- QHD is usually good enough, unless you're looking for a large screen (15"+).
Panel and image quality
- TN panels are cheap and ubiquitous. They're also bad. The only benefit of TN panels is that they're usually brighter than IPS panels.
- IPS panels are great, but they come with a higher price tag and you should make sure to get one with an "AHVA" or "IPS" label (meaning: wide viewing angles). There are also other decent "IPS" displays like eDP, PLS, or TN+Film – which do not offer better image quality, but can provide a slightly wider viewing angle. In other words, it's a personal preference whether you prefer a display with poorer image quality but wider viewing angle or vice versa.
- OLED screens have been all the rage in recent years and while they're an absolute pleasure to look at – they're also much more expensive than any other panel type.
- when it comes to choosing a monitor for Xactimate work, FHD is the bare minimum
- 4K is overkill, unless you're looking for a large screen (15"+)
- if you're going for a smaller screen, go for QHD instead of 4K
- IPS panels are great, but you should check the viewing angles before buying them
Xactimate FAQs
Q: Which laptops are compatible with Xactimate?
Xactimate is compatible with most modern laptops running Windows or macOS. However, it's always recommended to check the system requirements to ensure compatibility.
What are the system requirements for running Xactimate on a laptop?
The system requirements for running Xactimate on a laptop vary depending on the version of Xactimate you are using. However, here are the minimum, medium, and maximum requirements you should consider:
- Minimum Requirements:
- Processor: Intel Core i3-1005G1 or equivalent
- Memory: 8 GB RAM
- Storage: 256 GB SSD
- Display: FHD (Full HD) with TN panel
- Graphics: Integrated graphics
- Medium Requirements:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-10300H or equivalent
- Memory: 16 GB RAM
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Display: FHD (Full HD) with IPS panel
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650
- Maximum Requirements:
- Processor: Intel Core i7-10870H or equivalent
- Memory: 32 GB RAM
- Storage: 1 TB SSD
- Display: FHD (Full HD) with IPS panel
- Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 3050
Can I use Xactimate on a Mac laptop?
Yes, Xactimate is compatible with macOS. However, it's important to ensure that your Mac laptop meets the minimum system requirements mentioned above.
What is the best laptop for Xactimate?
The best laptop for Xactimate depends on your specific needs and budget. However, here are a few recommendations that offer excellent performance for running Xactimate:
- Lenovo Legion 5 Pro 16: Priced at $700, this laptop offers great value for money.
- HP Victus: Priced at $850, the HP Victus provides a good balance between performance and affordability.
- Dell G15: Starting at $1,230, the Dell G15 is a solid choice for those seeking a powerful laptop.
- ASUS ROG Strix G15: Priced at $1,860, the ASUS ROG Strix G15 is a high-performance option for professionals.
- HP Omen 17: If budget is not a concern, the HP Omen 17, priced at $3,470, offers top-tier performance and premium features.
How much RAM do I need for running Xactimate on a laptop?
The recommended minimum amount of RAM for running Xactimate on a laptop is 8 GB. However, for smoother performance and multitasking, it's recommended to have at least 16 GB or more RAM.
Is a dedicated graphics card necessary for Xactimate on a laptop?
While a dedicated graphics card is not strictly necessary for running Xactimate, it can significantly improve the overall performance, especially when dealing with complex projects. For optimal performance, consider a laptop with a dedicated graphics card such as the NVIDIA GTX 1650 or RTX 3050.
Can I run Xactimate on a budget laptop?
Yes, you can run Xactimate on a budget laptop as long as it meets the minimum system requirements. While a budget laptop may not offer the same level of performance as higher-end models, it can still handle basic tasks in Xactimate. Just keep in mind that more demanding projects might require a more powerful laptop.
What laptops are recommended by Xactware for running Xactimate?
Xactware, the company behind Xactimate, does not specifically recommend any laptops. However, the minimum and medium requirements mentioned earlier should serve as a guideline for choosing a laptop that can run Xactimate smoothly.
Can I run Xactimate on a Chromebook?
Xactimate is not officially supported on Chromebooks. Chromebooks run on Chrome OS, which is not compatible with Windows or macOS applications. If you need to use Xactimate, it's recommended to use a Windows or macOS laptop.
What is the minimum storage requirement for Xactimate on a laptop?
The minimum storage requirement for Xactimate on a laptop is 256 GB SSD. However, it's always a good idea to have more storage space available, especially if you work with large project files or store other data on your laptop. Consider opting for a 512 GB SSD or even a 1 TB SSD for a better experience.
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Comparison spreadsheet
Here's the link to my Xactimate laptop comparison sheet. It contains around 100 best laptops on the market right now.
Table of Best Laptops for {topic}
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
5 Best Laptops for Xactimate
$6801.acer Nitro 5
Xactimate laptop- Superb processor (Ryzen 7 6800H)
- Great graphics card (RTX 3070 Ti)
- Solid display (15.6)
- Terrific memory amount (32GB)
- No IPS Panel (subpar viewing angles)
Alternatives
HP Victus 15
- Strong entry-level gaming performance
- Solid productivity performance
- Display and webcam could be better
- Too much pre-installed software
2.ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53
The ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 is a budget laptop that excels in gaming and productivity, but falls short in webcam and speaker quality.- Superb 1080p gaming performance
- Strong productivity capabilities
- Great price
- Poor webcam, touchpad, and speakers
- Some games appear washed out on display
Summary
The ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 is a budget-friendly laptop that delivers exceptional 1080p gaming performance and strong productivity capabilities. Its great price makes it an attractive option for gamers on a budget. However, the poor quality of the webcam, touchpad, and speakers may be a drawback for some users. Additionally, some games may appear washed out on the display.
Alternatives
$1,110MSI Raider GE68HX
- Excellent processor (i9-13950HX)
- Excellent graphics card (RTX 4060)
- Substandard memory amount (16GB)
- No IPS Panel (subpar viewing angles)
3.Dell G16
The Dell G16 delivers impressive gaming and productivity performance at an affordable price, but is let down by a lackluster display, average speakers, and below-average battery life.- Affordable price
- Powerful performance
- Robust design
- Fast refresh rate options with G-Sync
- Lackluster display
- Below-average battery life
- Average speakers
- Heavier and thicker than competitors
Summary
The Dell G16 is a solid gaming laptop that offers exceptional performance and a robust design at a budget-friendly price. It excels in gaming and productivity tasks, making it a suitable choice for those on a budget. However, it falls short in terms of display quality, battery life, and speaker performance.
Reviews
Alternatives
$1,430MSI Cyborg 15
- Able to play at the highest 1080p settings
- Peppy processor for the money
- Display is dim and disappointing
- Sharp chassis edge can dig into wrists during typing
4.ASUS ROG Strix Scar
ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15: Powerful performance in a compact package, but struggles with heating and battery efficiency.- Sturdy construction
- Fast Wi-Fi 6E
- Excellent response times and no PWM
- Wide color gamut coverage with Dolby Vision support
- Limited display angle
- No biometric login
- Heavy SSD throttling during continuous reads
- High heat and noise emissions under load
Summary
The ASUS ROG Strix Scar 15 delivers impressive performance and gaming capabilities in a compact and lightweight design. It outperforms its larger counterparts and offers updated hardware and features. However, it does suffer from heating issues, less efficient Intel Alder Lake platform, and subpar battery life.
Reviews
Alternatives
Sager NP8875D
- Excellent processor (i9-13900HX)
- Solid display (17.3 Matte G-Sync)
- Average graphics card (RTX 4060)
- Heavy (6.16 lbs)
5.HP Omen 17
HP Omen 17: A high-end gaming laptop with powerful performance for video processing and gaming, but falls short in battery life and noise level.- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Advanced Optimus technology
- Expandable working memory
- PCIe-4 SSD with space for a second SSD
Summary
The HP Omen 17 is a high-end gaming laptop equipped with a Core i9-13900HX and GeForce RTX 4090, making it suitable for video processing, rendering, and QHD gaming. The laptop features a QHD display with 165 Hz, expandable working memory, individual key illumination, and Thunderbolt 4 with Power Delivery. However, it falls slightly below average in terms of RTX 4080 performance, has a high noise level, a clattery case, and meager battery life.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP Omen
- QHD display with a high refresh rate
- Expandable working memory
- Slightly below-average performance for an RTX graphics card
Table of the Best Laptops for Xactimate
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| acer Nitro 5 | $680 |
| ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 | $1,100 |
| Dell G16 | $1,510 |
| ASUS ROG Strix Scar | $2,050 |
| HP Omen 17 | $4,290 |
