As a dedicated user of Autodesk Fusion 360, I understand the importance of finding the best laptop for Fusion 360 that not only handles the software's demands but also optimizes your workflow. Fusion 360 is a powerful CAD/CAM software, used by professionals and hobbyists alike for product design, engineering, and manufacturing. To assist you in your search for the perfect device, I have meticulously reviewed an extensive laptop spreadsheet of recent releases, comparing specs and user-generated reviews to narrow down the top choices tailored for Fusion 360 users.
When it comes to finding the best laptop for Fusion 360, it's crucial to consider the software's system requirements and the unique preferences of users within the application category. For instance, a high-performance GPU is essential for smooth viewport navigation and complex model rendering, while a fast CPU ensures quick calculations and simulations. Additionally, a high-resolution display and generous RAM are highly desirable for an efficient workflow and improved multitasking capabilities.
As an experienced Fusion 360 user, I am familiar with the challenges faced by professionals working on intricate projects, such as managing large assemblies and running multiple simulations. I have taken these factors into consideration while analyzing the top laptops, ensuring that the selected devices offer the optimal balance of performance, reliability, and value for money. By focusing on the specific needs of Fusion 360 users, this guide aims to provide you with the essential information to make an informed decision and invest in a laptop that enhances your productivity in this versatile and powerful software.
Deciding on a processor
If you're on the hunt for a laptop that can run Autodesk Fusion 360 smoothly, then it's time to dig deep into the specs. A powerful processor is one of the most important features of a laptop, so it should be one of your top priorities.
Requirements
When choosing a processor for an Autodesk Fusion 360 laptop, it's crucial to know what the program needs. That's because most tasks are not parallelizable and will be handled by only one core. That means that more cores won't help with most Fusion 360 tasks. If you're primarily using Fusion 360 for CAD or CAM, then go for a high-end processor like Intel Core i9-11900H. It's worth noting that the number of cores doesn't matter much for Fusion 360, but single-core speed does – so make sure your CPU is capable of running at least 3.5GHz per core (it will show up in benchmarks). For example, AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS would be perfect – it can clock up to 4.3GHz per core!
Recommendations
Here are some great processors for running Autodesk Fusion 360:
- i5-1135G7 – if you're looking for the best cheap laptop for Fusion 360
- i7-10875H – if you want a middle-range laptop for Fusion 360
- i9-11900H – if you're looking for the best laptop for Fusion 360
- if you're primarily using Fusion 360 for CAD or CAM, go for a high-end processor like Intel Core i9-11900H (but make sure it can run at least 3.5GHz per core)
- if you're looking for the best cheap laptop for Fusion 360, get an i5 or i7 processor (and make sure it can run at least 3.5GHz per core)
- if you want a middle-range laptop for Fusion 360, get an i7 processor (and make sure it can run at least 3.5GHz per core)
- if you're looking for the best laptop for Fusion 360, get an i9 processor (and make sure it can run at least 3.5GHz per core)
The right graphics card
Basic laptops
If you're on a tight budget and only want to use Fusion 360 occasionally – an integrated graphics chip should be enough.
An integrated graphics chip is the cheapest option for any laptop, so this will likely be your first choice if you're on a tight budget. You'll notice performance hitches, especially when dealing with large assemblies. But for small assemblies, an integrated graphics chip should work just fine.
But, if you want to go the extra mile and buy a laptop that has a dedicated GPU – I recommend going for one of these cards:
- GTX 1660 Ti
- RTX 2070
I recommend GTX 1660 Ti over RTX 2070 because it is less expensive and better suited for basic assemblies. However, if you're looking to get something with RTX and Nvidia Max-Q technology – the RTX 2070 is worth considering.
- if you're on a tight budget, get an integrated graphics chip (like Intel UHD Graphics 620)
- if you want to spend more money, get a laptop with an Nvidia Max-Q graphics card (like RTX 2070)
Memory that will work optimally with Autodesk Fusion 360
Minimum (8 GB)
8 GB used to be the standard for RAM capacity for the longest time. In 2021, 16 GB is becoming the new de facto choice for budget laptops, starting at around $650. If you can't go above that, 8 GB is still alright. In fact, it might be a wise choice if you're prioritizing the CPU, which is much more critical for Autodesk Fusion 360.
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. These days a fast SSD can soften the impact of running out of RAM. That 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.
Best (32 GB)
If you're only running Autodesk Fusion 360 on your laptop, 32 GB is only necessary if you typically use lots of sample-based instruments (each running Multi-GB orchestral libraries & ROMpler style plugins, for example). But I doubt any of us are running Autodesk "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, while perfectly capable, is not optimal for the best laptop for Autodesk Fusion 360. 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.
- you'll most likely end up with a 16 GB laptop
- 16 GB is a sure-fire way to future-proof your laptop.
Decorations (links, key phrases, TL;DR, images):
The best storage that will work optimally with Autodesk Fusion 360 in 2021
When should you get a laptop with an SSD?
To answer this question, let's break it down into two simple questions:
- What do you need your laptop for?
- How much are you willing to spend on it?
The answer to the first question is easy – if you're buying a laptop solely for AutoCAD 2022 or Fusion 360, then an SSD is necessary. If you're using other programs in addition to CAD software, then there are less rigid requirements. If you need to carry around large files, use specialized software, or edit video – I'd recommend getting a laptop with an SSD.
The answer to the second question is harder – in general, if you can afford it, I'd recommend getting a laptop with an SSD. That said, if your budget is tight and can't stretch more than $1,000 – then don't worry about the size of the drive. Instead focus on other aspects like RAM or display quality.
Common storage sizes in SSDs for laptops
The vast majority of laptops come with either 256 GB or 512 GB drives these days. Generally speaking, these are enough for AutoCAD 2022 and Fusion 360 workloads respectively. On the other hand, there are exceptions where AutoCAD 2020 can exceed 1 TB of storage space per year – in which case I would recommend looking at 1 TB or 2 TB laptops.
- SSD is necessary for AutoCAD 2022 and Fusion 360 workloads
- there are less rigid requirements for laptops used for other programs or for file transfer/editing/video editing/etc.
Fusion FAQs
Q: Which laptop is best for Autodesk Fusion 360?
When it comes to Autodesk Fusion 360, you want a laptop that can handle demanding 3D modeling and rendering tasks. For the best performance, we recommend laptops with dedicated graphics cards and powerful processors. Some top contenders for Autodesk Fusion 360 are the Dell G15, Sager NP8875D, HP Omen 17, and the ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo 16 GX650PY-XS97. These laptops offer excellent performance and are built to handle the requirements of Autodesk Fusion 360.
What are the recommended laptop specifications for Autodesk Fusion 360?
To ensure a smooth experience with Autodesk Fusion 360, we recommend a laptop with at least a GTX 1660 Ti or an RTX 2070 graphics card. For optimal performance, a laptop with an i7-10875H or an i9-11900H processor is highly recommended. In terms of storage, a minimum of a 512 GB SSD is recommended to ensure fast and efficient file access. Additionally, 16 GB to 32 GB of RAM will provide enough memory for multitasking and handling large projects in Autodesk Fusion 360.
Can I run Autodesk Fusion 360 on a laptop?
Yes, you can run Autodesk Fusion 360 on a laptop. However, it's important to note that Autodesk Fusion 360 is a demanding software that requires a powerful laptop with dedicated graphics and a capable processor. Laptops with integrated graphics may struggle to provide a smooth experience, especially when working with complex 3D models or performing rendering tasks. For the best performance, it's recommended to use a laptop that meets or exceeds the minimum and recommended specifications outlined earlier.
How much RAM is required for Autodesk Fusion 360 on a laptop?
For Autodesk Fusion 360, it's recommended to have a minimum of 16 GB of RAM. This will allow you to work with complex projects and multitask without experiencing significant slowdowns. However, if you work with particularly large or complex models, or if you use other resource-intensive software alongside Autodesk Fusion 360, you may benefit from having 32 GB of RAM. Having more RAM will provide additional headroom and ensure a smoother experience overall.
Is a dedicated graphics card necessary for Autodesk Fusion 360 on a laptop?
While it is technically possible to run Autodesk Fusion 360 on a laptop with integrated graphics, a dedicated graphics card is highly recommended for the best performance. Integrated graphics may struggle to handle the demanding 3D modeling and rendering tasks required by Autodesk Fusion 360. A dedicated graphics card, such as the GTX 1660 Ti or the RTX 2070, will provide the necessary power to handle these tasks smoothly and efficiently, resulting in a better overall experience.
Can I use a gaming laptop for Autodesk Fusion 360?
Absolutely! In fact, gaming laptops often make excellent choices for running Autodesk Fusion 360. Gaming laptops are designed to handle demanding tasks, including resource-intensive games and applications. With their powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and ample memory, gaming laptops can easily meet or exceed the recommended specifications for Autodesk Fusion 360. So, if you already have a gaming laptop or are considering purchasing one, rest assured that it should perform admirably with Autodesk Fusion 360.
What processors are compatible with Autodesk Fusion 360?
Autodesk Fusion 360 benefits from having a powerful processor to handle complex calculations and rendering tasks. Processors such as the i7-10875H and the i9-11900H are excellent choices for running Autodesk Fusion 360 smoothly and efficiently. These processors offer multiple cores and high clock speeds, allowing for quick and responsive performance. It's important to note that while lower-tier processors, such as the i5-1135G7, may be capable of running Autodesk Fusion 360, they may struggle with larger and more complex projects.
Are there any specific storage requirements for Autodesk Fusion 360 on a laptop?
When it comes to storage requirements for Autodesk Fusion 360, having a fast and spacious SSD is key. We recommend a minimum of a 512 GB SSD to ensure you have enough space to store your projects and files. Additionally, an SSD will provide faster read and write speeds, allowing for quicker project load times and file access. While a larger capacity SSD, such as a 1 TB SSD, can offer more storage space, it's not necessarily a requirement unless you work with a large number of large projects or files.
What screen size is recommended for working with Autodesk Fusion 360 on a laptop?
When it comes to screen size, it largely depends on personal preference and how you like to work. However, for Autodesk Fusion 360, we recommend a laptop with a screen size of at least 15 inches. This will give you enough screen real estate
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Table of Best Laptops for {topic}
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
6 Best Laptops for Autodesk Fusion 360
$6801.acer Nitro 5
Autodesk Fusion 360 laptop- Awesome processor (Ryzen 7 6800H)
- Very good graphics card (RTX 3070 Ti)
- Awesome display (15.6)
- Very good memory amount (32GB)
- No IPS Panel (worse contrast)
Alternatives
$610ASUS Vivobook 15
- Solid memory amount (40GB)
- Featherweight (3.74 lbs)
- Garden-variety processor (i3-1215U)
- Middle-of-the-road graphics card (UHD Graphics)
2.Lenovo LOQ
Autodesk Fusion 360 laptop- Terrific processor (i7-13700H)
- Great graphics card (RTX 4050)
- Monumental 2TB SSD
- Numpad
- Run-of-the-mill memory amount (16GB)
Alternatives
HP Victus
- Delivers smooth gameplay at 1080p.
- Fast SSD.
- No variable refresh rate to reduce screen tearing.
- Slow response time on the display.
3.ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53
ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53: Budget gaming laptop with powerful performance, but lacking in webcam and speakers.- 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 gaming laptop that excels in delivering superb 1080p gaming performance and strong productivity capabilities. However, it falls short in terms of its webcam and speakers, and some games may appear washed out on its display.
Alternatives
ASUS TUF Dash F15
- Lightweight and well built
- Good performance and competitive pricing
- Quirks affecting everyday ergonomics
- Ports squeezed together on the left edge
4.Lenovo Legion Pro 5
Lenovo Legion Pro 5 offers great performance and value, but beware of hotspots and limited battery life.- Good build quality and design
- Good screen and IO
- Competent CPU with multiple GPU options
- Competitively priced
- No Thunderbolt or biometrics
- Obvious hotspots during gaming
- Poor speakers
- So-so battery life
Summary
The Lenovo Legion Pro 5 is a well-built and competitively priced laptop with a good screen and plenty of performance. However, potential buyers should be aware of hotspots during sustained loads, limited battery life, and the lack of impressive speakers.
Reviews
Alternatives
$2,840Lenovo Legion Pro 5
- Strong performance for the price
- Quality build and port selection
- Display quality and battery life are just decent
- Bulky and heavy
5.HP Omen 17
HP Omen 17: A high-end gaming laptop with powerful performance for video processing and rendering, but with some drawbacks like high noise level and meager battery life.- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Expandable working memory
- PCIe-4 SSD (space for a second SSD)
- Individual key illumination
- Slightly below-average performance for a RTX 4080
- High noise level
Summary
The HP Omen 17 is a high-end gaming laptop that delivers powerful performance for tasks like video processing, rendering, and QHD gaming. It features a QHD display with 165 Hz, expandable working memory, and a PCIe-4 SSD. However, it falls slightly below average in performance for its RTX 4080, has a high noise level, a clattery case, and a meager battery life.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP Omen
- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Advanced Optimus technology
- Slightly below-average performance for a RTX 4080
- High noise level
6.MSI Raider GE78 HX 13VI-079US
MSI Raider GE78 HX: Power, Portability, and Aesthetics in One Gaming Laptop- Comfortable keyboard
- Solid gaming performance
- Colorful display
- Plenty of ports
- Difficult to upgrade components
- Loud fans during intensive gaming sessions
Summary
The MSI Raider GE78 HX impresses with its robust internal configuration, delivering exceptional gaming performance and handling demanding work applications with ease. Its compact form factor and abundance of ports make it a great choice for gamers on the go, while the colorful display adds depth to the gaming experience. However, the laptop can get noisy during intensive gaming sessions, and upgrading components can be challenging.
Alternatives
MSI Titan GT77HX 13VI-042US Pro Extreme
- Excellent mechanical keyboard
- Class-leading Mini-LED display
- Uninspired design
- Short battery life
Table of the Best Laptops for Autodesk Fusion 360
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| acer Nitro 5 | $680 |
| Lenovo LOQ | $880 |
| ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 | $1,100 |
| Lenovo Legion Pro 5 | $2,630 |
| HP Omen 17 | $4,290 |
| MSI Raider GE78 HX 13VI-079US | $5,450 |
