Deciding on a processor
Processor is the most important spec for ArcGIS performance. A few extra bucks for a first-rate processor might be what keeps a laptop from choking on a full map.
Requirements
To identify the best processors for an ArcGIS laptop, we first need to examine how ArcGIS works.
ArcGIS operates in two modes: Runtime and Web. Runtime mode is when you're using ArcGIS Desktop, typically at work. Here's where you use your big ol' maps and data layers and the rest of the powerful suite of tools that come with ArcGIS. Web mode is when you're using ArcGIS Online or other web services such as Portal for ArcGIS. When running in Web mode, your maps are hosted online and processed by servers. Hence, they're not so dependent on processing power and it's more about the bandwidth and connectivity speed instead. The great thing about this is that there's no software to install on your computer, so it doesn't matter what specs your laptop has – as long as it can connect to the internet and browse a web page with maps, you're good to go!
The difference between ArcGIS Runtime and Web modes affects how we look at processor requirements: If you want a powerhouse machine for work (ArcGIS Runtime), then processors like Xeon W-10855M or i9-11980HK would be best; if you're mostly doing web (ArcGIS Web), then processors like Ryzen 5 3500U or i7-10870H will do just fine.
Recommendations
So which processors we're looking for EXACTLY? First of all, please which processors we're looking for. In short, anything please don't raise your voice like that – Core i5/i7 H-series CPUs from Intel or Ryzen 7 from AMD should be sufficient enough for ArcGIS Runtime mode please don't raise your voice like that: Intel Core i9-11980HK is please don't raise your voice like that because it offers blistering single-core performance that can help you render a map in a few seconds instead of minutes. But if I'm mostly working in web mode (ArcGIS Web), then any CPU from Intel Core i5/i7 or Ryzen 5 will do just fine since they have no issue rendering web maps with cloud computing instead of heavy hardware acceleration which takes advantage of multicore CPU architectures don't raise your voice like that.
if you want a powerhouse machine for work (ArcGIS Runtime), then processors like Xeon W-10855M or i9-11980HK would be best; if you're mostly doing web (ArcGIS Web), then processors like Ryzen 5 3500U or i7-10870H will do just fine.
Choosing a graphics card
How to choose the best graphics for ArcGIS 10
ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Engine, and other ARCGIS products do not require a powerful GPU to work properly. For casual editing in ArcGIS Pro, you can go with an entry-level GPU, such as GTX 1650. If you're working with 3D models in ArcGIS Pro – RTX 2070 will do just fine.
If you're using ArcGIS Engine or other ARCGIS products, then I recommend using the latest-gen Quadro Ampere professional cards. The newest professional cards start with letter A: RTX A2000, RTX A3000, RTX A4000, RTX A5000.
- you can use any GPU for basic editing in ArcGIS Pro, even a cheap one
- Quadro Ampere is best for 3D models and other intensive use cases in ArcGIS Pro
Choosing the right memory for ArcGIS 10, ArcGIS Pro
Minimum (8 GB)
If you are on a tight budget, 8 GB is the way to go. With that said, there are limitations to using 8 GB RAM. You'll be on a tight budget, especially if you're running any kind of high-resource application. I'm talking about the likes of SolidWorks 2021, Photoshop 2021, or CAD programs.
You can still use ArcGIS 10 on an 8 GB laptop – just know that it will feel slow. You can use your laptop for basic GIS tasks like map production or site visits with ease. But again, it's not recommended for more advanced tasks like advanced geocoding or spatial analysis.
8 GB laptops will start at around $120 – $260.
Recommended (16 GB)
If you want to use ArcGIS 10 with less crashes and more efficiency, 16 GB is the way to go. 16 GB laptops are around $200 – $400 in price range. This is also the sweet spot for general purpose laptops that can be used for work, gaming, or anything in between without hiccups. If you're looking for a professional ArcGIS 10 laptop, 16 GB should be enough unless you're running large data sets or heavy-duty GIS tasks with ArcGIS Pro.
Best (32 GB)
ArcGIS Pro and high-resource applications like SolidWorks 2021 require a higher RAM capacity than ArcGIS 10 and other programs that don't need as much memory power. That's why 32 GB laptops start at around $450 – $1200 and they're the best choice if you're running ArcGIS Pro and other memory-hungry programs like SolidWorks 2021 or CADs. Even if you don't plan on doing such intense tasks with ArcGIS Pro in the future – it's still a wise investment because your RAM will last longer than most other components in your laptop when it comes to planned obsolescence (more prone to crashes and bugs.
- 8 GB is the minimum RAM for ArcGIS 10 and low resource applications
- 16 GB is the recommended RAM for ArcGIS 10 and mid resource applications
- 32 GB is the best RAM for ArcGIS Pro and high resource applications
What's the best storage for ArcGIS 10, ArcGIS Pro?
NVMe vs. SATA
ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro are well-known for their demanding performance requirements. Even if you're not a professional and just happen to be in the market for a laptop, it's worth understanding the different types of SSDs and what they can offer.
Storage options for ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro
The SSD capacity for ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro doesn't matter much – storage space requirements are nominal at best. You'd need about 6 GB of free disk space to install the software, but once that's done, there's no need to keep local copies of maps, scenes, or rasters on your machine. That said, the processor you choose will have a greater impact on performance than SSD capacity will. I recommend getting an NVMe drive for ArcGIS 10 or ArcGIS Pro because they are faster than SATA drives.
- NVMe drives are faster than SATA drives, so they're better for ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro
- If you want to install ArcGIS 10 or ArcGIS Pro on your laptop, you'll need about 6 GB of free disk space (but you don't need a lot of disk space after that)
How to choose the right display for ArcGIS 10, ArcGIS Pro?
Right resolution for ArcGIS work
It's hard to find an application that requires anything more than Full HD resolution. There are exceptions of course, but they're rare. For example, if you're working with satellite imagery – then you'll need to get a 4K display or better. But generally speaking, there's [no good reason to get anything higher than Full HD resolution](a reddit thread on full hd vs. qhd) in your laptop.
Panel and image quality
Panel type is a key to many display qualities. Here are three types of panels you need to know:
- TN – the most basic display panel. [Very common in entry-to-mid-range laptops](a laptop with tn display). If properly calibrated, then it's not that bad for non-color-sensitive work.
- IPS/PLS – better in nearly every aspect, nonetheless quite costly, especially professional-grade IPS. [Common in mid-range and premium laptops](a laptop with qhd display).
- OLED – latest, greatest, and the priciest panel technology. Exceptional color accuracy, often paired with HDR. Sometimes found in top-of-the-line models. Meanwhile, image quality consists of brightness, contrast, and color accuracy. These three observable characteristics can vary a lot from model to model. Panel type can be a decent proxy to gauge these metrics roughly. But it's always best to judge them in person or by reviews.
Laptop display recommendations for ArcGIS work
ArcGIS is fairly forgiving when it comes to displays – just get any screen with an IPS panel and it should be fine enough for your needs (though if you want the [best laptop for ArcGIS work](notebookcheck arcgis pro benchmarks) – go for one with QHD resolution).
- Full HD is fine for ArcGIS work
- TN panels are the most common in entry-to-mid range laptops
- IPS/PLS panels are better for non color sensitive work (ie. ArcGIS)
- 4K is not needed for ArcGIS work, and even QHD is overkill (except for satellite imagery)
Laptop FAQs
Q: What are the recommended laptop specifications for running ArcGIS 10?
To ensure smooth performance while running ArcGIS 10, we recommend a laptop with at least a medium-level configuration. This includes a minimum of a 512 GB SSD for storage, an RTX 3050 graphics card for handling complex visualizations, a Full HD IPS display for accurate color reproduction, 16 GB of RAM for multitasking, and an i7-10870H processor for fast data processing.
Can ArcGIS 10 run on a laptop?
Yes, ArcGIS 10 can run on a laptop. However, it's important to note that ArcGIS is a resource-intensive application, so it's crucial to have a laptop with the minimum required specifications to ensure a smooth user experience. If your laptop falls below the minimum requirements, you may experience lag and performance issues.
What are the system requirements for ArcGIS Pro on a laptop?
ArcGIS Pro, the more powerful and advanced version of ArcGIS, requires a higher level of system specifications. For optimal performance, we recommend a laptop with at least 1 TB of SSD storage, an RTX 2070 graphics card, a Full HD IPS or QHD bright display, 32 GB of RAM, and an i9-11980HK processor.
Is a dedicated graphics card necessary for running ArcGIS Pro on a laptop?
Yes, a dedicated graphics card is necessary for running ArcGIS Pro on a laptop. The advanced visualizations and data processing in ArcGIS Pro require the computational power of a dedicated graphics card. Without a dedicated graphics card, you may experience slow performance and limited functionality within the software.
What laptops are compatible with ArcGIS 10?
ArcGIS 10 is compatible with a wide range of laptops. As long as your laptop meets or exceeds the minimum requirements of a 512 GB SSD, RTX 3050 graphics card, Full HD IPS display, 16 GB of RAM, and i7-10870H processor, you should be able to run ArcGIS 10 without issues. However, for a smoother experience, it's recommended to go for laptops with higher specifications.
How much RAM is needed for running ArcGIS Pro on a laptop?
ArcGIS Pro is a memory-intensive application, and we recommend a minimum of 32 GB of RAM for running it on a laptop. With this amount of RAM, you will have enough memory to handle large datasets, perform complex analyses, and multitask without experiencing significant slowdowns.
Can I run ArcGIS Pro on a budget laptop?
While it is possible to run ArcGIS Pro on a budget laptop, it's important to note that the software's performance may be affected by the laptop's limited specifications. To ensure a smoother experience, we recommend investing in a laptop that meets or exceeds the medium-level specifications, as outlined in our previous answers.
Is an SSD necessary for optimal performance in ArcGIS 10?
Yes, an SSD (Solid State Drive) is highly recommended for optimal performance in ArcGIS 10. The fast read and write speeds of an SSD significantly improve the loading times of the software, allowing for quicker data access and analysis. While it is technically possible to run ArcGIS 10 on a traditional hard drive, it may result in slower performance and longer wait times.
What processor is recommended for running ArcGIS Pro on a laptop?
For running ArcGIS Pro on a laptop, we recommend at least an i9-11980HK processor. This high-performance processor will ensure fast data processing, smooth rendering of complex visuals, and overall snappy performance within the software. With a powerful processor, you'll be able to work on large datasets and perform demanding analyses without experiencing significant delays.
How to choose a laptop for ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro?
When choosing a laptop for ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro, it's important to consider the minimum and medium-level requirements outlined earlier. Determine your budget and find a laptop that meets or exceeds these specifications. Additionally, consider factors such as display quality, portability, and battery life to find a laptop that suits your specific needs. It's also worth checking for compatibility with ArcGIS software on the manufacturer's website or contacting their customer support for any clarifications.
As a seasoned GIS enthusiast, I understand the unique challenges faced by users searching for the best laptop for ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications like these demand powerful hardware to handle complex spatial data and perform advanced geoprocessing tasks. With the right laptop, you'll not only enjoy seamless performance but also improve your overall GIS productivity.
To find the perfect laptop for you, I reviewed an extensive laptop spreadsheet of recent releases, comparing specs and reviews from both professional sources and fellow GIS users. I narrowed down the top laptops by focusing on topic-specific requirements and price ranges, ensuring that you get the most value for your money. From testing the compatibility of different GPUs with ArcGIS applications to considering the benefits of high-resolution displays for cartographic work, I've got you covered.
It's crucial to remember that ArcGIS 10 and ArcGIS Pro have distinct system requirements. While ArcGIS 10 can run on more modest hardware, ArcGIS Pro demands a more powerful setup, particularly when working with 3D data or leveraging ArcGIS Pro's advanced capabilities. By targeting the best laptop for both applications, you'll be well-equipped to tackle even the most complex GIS projects, whether you're analyzing environmental changes or creating stunning map visualizations for decision-makers.
4 Best Laptops for ArcGIS 10, ArcGIS Pro
1.ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71
ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71: Powerful and long-lasting, but lacks in audio and display quality.- Sleek, lightweight frame
- Powerful overall and gaming performance
- Excellent battery life
- Very comfortable keyboard
- Weak speakers
- Display could be brighter
- No headphone jack
Summary
The ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71 impresses with its sleek design, lightweight frame, and excellent battery life. It offers powerful overall and gaming performance thanks to Intel's new 11th Gen chips. However, it falls short in terms of speaker quality, display brightness, and the absence of a headphone jack.
Reviews
Alternatives
HP Victus
- 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
ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53: Powerful budget gaming laptop with some shortcomings.- 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 gaming laptop that delivers impressive 1080p gaming performance and strong productivity capabilities. However, it falls short in terms of its webcam, touchpad, speakers, and display quality for certain games.
Alternatives
Acer Nitro 5- 144 Hz
- Steady mainstream gaming performance with 12th Gen CPU and GeForce RTX 3050 Ti.
- 144Hz display for smooth gameplay.
- Core i5 CPU and 512GB of storage are somewhat limited for gaming.
- Middling build quality.
3.HP Envy
HP Envy: A heavyweight desktop replacement with high-end features, perfect for creative apps and light gaming.- Plenty of CPU and GPU power
- New 120Hz screen refresh rate
- High-resolution webcam
- Sleek design
- Merely adequate base screen
- Optional OLED has fewer pixels than before
- Bulky and heavy
Summary
The HP Envy 16 is a bulky and heavy desktop replacement laptop that offers high-end features such as a powerful CPU and GPU, a new 120Hz screen refresh rate, and a high-resolution webcam. It is an ideal choice for those looking to use creative apps and enjoy light gaming.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Strix G15
- High-performance CPU and GPU
- Good workmanship and design
- Skimpy connectivity
- Potential for coil whine in certain situations
4.ASUS ROG Strix G16
ArcGIS 10, ArcGIS Pro laptop- Up to the mark graphics card (RTX 4060)
- Decent display (13.94 IPS-level HDR G-Sync)
- Light (5.5 lbs)
- Massive 4TB SSD
- Run-of-the-mill processor (i7-13650HX)
Alternatives
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i 16
- Strong overall performance
- Display is big, bright and fast
- Some flex to keyboard deck
- Poor battery life
Table of the Best Laptops for ArcGIS 10, ArcGIS Pro
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| ASUS ZenBook 13 UX325EA-EH71 | $730 |
| ASUS TUF F15 FX507VU-ES53 | $1,100 |
| HP Envy | $1,710 |
| ASUS ROG Strix G16 | $2,000 |
