As a long-time fan of CAD software and a laptop enthusiast, I understand the importance of finding the best laptop for Solid Edge. This powerful and versatile 3D CAD application demands a reliable and high-performance machine to handle complex assemblies and simulations. In this guide, I'll share my insights on selecting the ideal laptop for Solid Edge users, whether you're a professional engineer, a student, or a hobbyist.
To identify the best laptops for Solid Edge, I've reviewed an extensive spreadsheet of recent laptop releases, comparing specs and reviews from both professional sources and everyday users. The selection process involved narrowing down the top laptops based on topic-specific requirements, such as processing power, graphics capabilities, and screen quality, as well as considering various price ranges. It's crucial to have a laptop that can keep up with the software's advanced capabilities, like synchronous technology, generative design, and additive manufacturing.
Throughout my research, I've also taken into consideration the specific needs and preferences of Solid Edge users, such as portability for on-the-go designers, ample storage for large project files, and high-quality displays for accurate color representation. Additionally, I've integrated insights from the Solid Edge community, like the Siemens PLM Software forums and dedicated user groups, to ensure that the recommendations align with real-world experiences. By the end of this guide, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision on the best laptop for Solid Edge tailored to your unique requirements.
Processor Power
These days, the laptop market is incredibly diverse, with a variety of system-on-chip solutions from Apple, AMD, and Intel all offering excellent single-core performance and great battery life.
At the time of writing, Intel is yet to release their 13th-gen processors, with the 12th gen being the latest. Intel’s 11th-gen and Apple’s M1 SoC adopted a hybrid performance/efficiency core design based on big.LITTLE. Meanwhile, AMD has managed to take up a notable 20% of the CPU market with their latest 6th generation Ryzen processors – making them a great choice if you need a good battery life in a PC laptop.
Since Solid Edge is available on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux, the choice of operating system isn't limited to Windows. As this is a 3D CAD application, we're primarily looking for a processor with good single-core performance, though multi-core performance is important for tasks such as rendering. To gauge performance, PassMark scores are relatively easy to find and are relevant to our purpose. If you're looking for a high-end workstation, look for HPC (high-performance computing) benchmarks such as Linpack or Handbrake (video encoding).
For those on a budget, there are some compromises to be made with the CPU performance – depending on your budget and what you're willing to sacrifice. If you're okay with having an underpowered CPU, you can use your budget for a better GPU or even an ultrabook instead of a regular laptop.
To help you decide on the right processor for Solid Edge laptops, we’ve compiled a table of recommended processors for each budget range based on PassMark scores.
| Processor | Price range | PassMark Score |
|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i3-1115G4 | Budget | 1768 |
| Intel Core i5-10310U | Mid-range | 4159 |
| Intel Core i7-1180G7 | High-end | 7633 |
Graphics Power
The laptop Graphics card market is still dominated by Nvidia, though the recent release of their RTX 40 series cards has yet to make it to laptops. Instead, Nvidia's RTX 30 series GPUs are currently the top offerings (such as the RTX 3070 Ti).
It's worth noting that desktop graphics cards have become increasingly power-hungry in recent years, widening the gap between power-limited laptop graphics and desktop graphics. Additionally, Nvidia has discontinued their "Max-Q" label for their RTX graphics cards, meaning that a laptop manufacturer (OEM) will now determine the exact GPU wattage for each laptop—resulting in a wider variance in graphics performance even with the same GPU chipset.
Using Solid Edge on a laptop requires a dedicated GPU, rather than an integrated graphics chip, in order to get the most out of the program. Keep in mind that any laptop with a discrete GPU can also be used for other tasks such as gaming, streaming, and video editing, depending on the model.
When it comes to selecting a graphics card, I recommend using 3DMark scores (specifically the Fire Strike test) to compare graphics performance. Depending on your budget, here are some recommended GPUs for Solid Edge:
| Price Range | Recommended GPU |
|---|---|
| Minimum | GeForce GTX 1650 |
| Recommended | GeForce RTX 3050 |
| High-end | GeForce RTX 2060 |
RAM Matters
Solid Edge is a CAD/CAM program designed for 3D modelling, and its memory requirements are moderate. If you're on a budget, you can get away with 8 GB of RAM; however, 16 GB is the sweet spot for most professionals and 32 GB is ideal for high-end workstations.
In terms of type of RAM, most mid-range laptops come with 16 GB of RAM and high-end – 32 GB or more. Latest-gen Intel and AMD CPUs support DDR4 and DDR5, though DDR5 is still quite expensive and needs time to mature as a technology. If you're looking to buy a laptop with 16 GB of RAM, it's best to look for DDR5 memory modules, especially if you're using SOLIDWORKS or CATIA. However, if you're working with other applications like AutoCAD, Rhino, or Inventor – DDR5 is not necessary.
Do you need ECC (Error-correcting code) memory? Not necessarily. Although it's better for more demanding applications such as rendering or 3D modelling, for Solid Edge it's not necessary.
So, what should you expect depending on your budget? We recommend the following:
- Minimum: 16 GB
- Recommended: 32 GB
- High-end: 64 GB
It's also important to note that if you're looking for an upgradeable laptop – make sure it has an access panel on the bottom and that it's easy to remove/replace the memory module(s).
Laptop FAQs
Q: What are the minimum laptop requirements for Solid Edge?
To run Solid Edge, your laptop should have at least an i3-1115G4 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card. These specifications will allow you to run Solid Edge, but the performance may not be optimal.
What kind of laptop is good for Solid Edge?
A medium-range laptop with an i5-10310U processor, 32 GB of RAM, and a GeForce RTX 3050 graphics card is good for running Solid Edge. This configuration will ensure a smooth performance while working with Solid Edge.
Which laptops are recommended for Solid Edge?
We recommend the Lenovo IdeaPad 5i and Lenovo Legion 5 Pro for running Solid Edge. Both laptops have the required specifications and are optimized for performance. If you're looking for a high-end option, the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 is also a good choice.
Can I run Solid Edge on a gaming laptop?
Yes, you can run Solid Edge on a gaming laptop, provided it has the required specifications. However, it's important to note that gaming laptops are optimized for graphics performance rather than workstation tasks. So, while they may be good for running Solid Edge, they may not be the most efficient option.
How much RAM do I need for Solid Edge?
We recommend a minimum of 16 GB of RAM for Solid Edge. However, if you're working with large assemblies or complex parts, 32 GB or more may be necessary.
Is SSD necessary for Solid Edge?
An SSD is not necessary for running Solid Edge, but it can greatly improve performance. A Solid State Drive (SSD) can reduce loading times and increase the speed of accessing files and documents.
What graphics card do I need for Solid Edge?
Solid Edge requires a dedicated graphics card, and we recommend at least a GeForce GTX 1650 or higher. For optimal performance, a GeForce RTX 2060 or higher is ideal.
Does Solid Edge work on a touchscreen laptop?
Yes, Solid Edge can work on a touchscreen laptop. However, it's important to note that a touchscreen is not necessary for running Solid Edge. It's more of a personal preference and doesn't affect the overall performance.
What processor is required for Solid Edge?
Solid Edge requires at least an i3-1115G4 processor, but we recommend an i5-10310U or higher for optimal performance. The faster the processor, the better the performance you can expect from Solid Edge.
How to choose a laptop for Solid Edge?
When choosing a laptop for Solid Edge, you should consider the recommended specifications, your budget, and your personal preferences. The Lenovo IdeaPad 5i and Lenovo Legion 5 Pro are good options for mid-range laptops, while the ASUS ROG Strix Scar and Lenovo ThinkPad P16 are high-end options. It's important to choose a laptop that meets the recommended specifications and is optimized for performance.
5 Best Laptops for Solid Edge
$2901.Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G1
Solid Edge laptop- First-class processor (i7-12800HX)
- Good display (16)
- Solid memory amount (128GB)
- Enormous 8TB SSD
- No IPS Panel (subpar viewing angles)
- Its screen gives away its price
Alternatives
$300Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G1
- Splendid processor (i7-12800HX)
- Fair display (16)
- No IPS Panel (subpar viewing angles)
- Its screen gives away its price
$7002.Lenovo Legion 5 Pro 16
Solid Edge laptop- Superb processor (Ryzen 9 6900HX)
- First-class graphics card (RTX 3070 Ti)
- Solid display (16)
- First-class memory amount (64GB)
- Bulky (5.48 lbs)
- No IPS Panel (worse viewing angles)
Alternatives
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 9i
- Attractive design
- Strong GPU performance
- Shallow keyboard and weak key feedback
- Slippery and awkward clickpad
3.ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74
ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74: A powerful laptop for Solid Edge users on a budget.- High TGP target for faster performance
- 300 Hz IPS panel with full sRGB coverage
- Multiple SODIMM and M.2 PCIe4 x4 slots
- MUX switch to toggle between integrated and dedicated graphics
- Chassis base and lid exhibit some flexing
- No per-key RGB lighting
Summary
The ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74 features a high TGP target, making it faster than most other GeForce RTX 3060 laptops. It also has a 300 Hz IPS panel with full sRGB coverage, 2x SODIMM, 2x M.2 PCIe4 x4, and a MUX switch, which make it a great option for Solid Edge users who are on a budget.
Reviews
Alternatives
Dell G15
- Impressive gaming performance
- Good battery life
- Poor display quality
- No Thunderbolt support
4.ASUS ROG Strix G15
ASUS ROG Strix G15 with RTX 3070 and Ryzen 5000 delivers exceptional gaming performance.- Exceptional gaming performance
- Good workmanship and sophisticated design
- User-friendly maintenance
- Good input devices
- Skimpy connectivity
- Coil whine in certain situations
Summary
The ASUS ROG Strix G15 offers high performance gaming with its RTX 3070 and Ryzen 5000 CPU, paired with a 300 Hz display. Its sophisticated design, good workmanship, and user-friendly maintenance make it a great option for gamers, but its connectivity may be an issue for some.
Reviews
Alternatives
Acer Predator Triton 500
- High-performance capabilities
- Sleek and robust aluminum case
- Soldered-in RAM and inaccessible SSD
- Fan noise and warm palm rest
$3,4705.HP Omen 17
HP Omen 17 with Solid Edge is a QHD gaming powerhouse.- QHD display with 165 Hz
- Advanced Optimus
- Expandable working memory
- High noise level
- Clattery case
- Meager battery life
Summary
The HP Omen 17 laptop is an impressive high-end gaming machine with a QHD display and advanced Optimus. It is perfect for running Solid Edge software and has expandable working memory.
Reviews
Alternatives
ASUS ROG Zephyrus Duo
- Impressive design, thin and elegant despite dual displays and high-end performance.
- Powerful gaming performance, with a GeForce RTX 3080 Ti GPU and Ryzen 9 CPU.
- Expensive, especially with the configured options.
- Awkward keyboard and touchpad layout.
Table of the Best Laptops for Solid Edge
| Laptop | Price (approx) |
| Lenovo ThinkPad P16 G1 | $290 |
| Lenovo Legion 5 Pro 16 | $700 |
| ASUS TUF F15 FX507ZM-ES74 | $1,300 |
| ASUS ROG Strix G15 | $1,860 |
| HP Omen 17 | $3,470 |
