Best Laptops for Revit: Top 5 Laptops for Revit and other BIM software

Revit is a popular Building Information Modelling (BIM) software proprietary to Autodesk used by contractors, designers, architects, landscape architects, MEP engineers, and structural engineers. The software allows its users to design a building, organize its components in 3D, annotate the designed model with 2D drafting elements as well as access to building information from the model’s database. If you’ve never used Revit on a laptop before, and wondering which laptop is best for running Revit and other similar BIM software, then keep reading. We have compiled a short list of some the best laptops for Revit available right now. But before we proceed to the list, let’s first get an idea about Revit’s system requirements.

Revit vs. AutoCAD

Both Revit and AutoCAD are Autodesk flagship products. However, AutoCAD is predominantly used as a drafting tool to create geometric lines that represent the real world. Revit is primarily known as a BIM software providing comprehensive solutions for the entire building project team. While AutoCAD does an okay job in creating geometry that represents reality Revit creates modes which contain real-life information.

The new Autodesk Revit 2019 software now offers new and improved features which can now support multi-discipline teams through a project’s lifecycle. Revit is 4D BIM capable which means you can plan and track stages in the building’s lifecycle, from concept to construction then maintenance and demolition.

Why are there different versions of Revit?

Revit was originally designed as a software for architects. This, however, has changed over time as the software has expanded to include versions that have been specifically designed for structural engineers (Revit structure) and mechanical, electrical and plumbing firms (Revit MEP). The following features are new in 2019:

High-level detail for concrete and steel

A more immersive design experience, users can now design more in 3D

An enhanced interface which puts users in full control of the screen real estate and so much more

Revit system requirements:

RAM – while the amount of RAM needed normally depends on a particular project, the minimum memory required when using Revit is 4 GB RAM. The recommended memory is 16 GB and up to 32 GB RAM if you work with larger models or tend to use the software alongside other programs like Photoshop.

Processor : Revit requires a high frequency CPU regardless of your processor core count. Revit requires a bare minimum of single- or Multi-Core Intel Pentium, Xeon or i-Series processor or an AMD equivalent with SSE2 technology. For multitasking, Autodesk will use multiple cores up to 16 cores complex near-photorealistic rendering models.

Storage : It is recommended to use an SSD as the primary drive. Its high speeds will allow you to launch applications, load files and allows your system to boot faster than any hard drive. To install Revit, you need at least 5 GB free disk space.

Display resolution : Revit recommends a maximum of Ultra-High (4k) Definition Monitor and a bare minimum resolution of 1280 x 1024 with true color. An IPS display is also recommended, as it offer better viewing angles and better colors.

GPU : in Revit’s case the only use of the video card is to display the model on the screen which means the software’s video card requirements are low. Revit recommends a bare minimum display adapter capable of 24-bit color or DirectX 11 capable graphics card with Shader Model 3 for advance graphics. However, having a dedicated graphics card is always helpful when doing design work.

Now that you have an idea what types of laptops we’re looking at, let’s get to the list!

Best Laptops for Revit:

Acer Aspire E 15  E5-576G-5762

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Fitted with 8th Generation Intel Core i5-8250U, GeForce MX150, 8GB RAM Memory, 256GB SSD, the 15.6’’ Acer Aspire has all the recommended system requirements for Revit. Take advantage of Revit’s newest multi-thread functionality as the processor clocks at 3.4GHz and actually has 4 cores. The laptop is packed with endless appealing features incredible performance, excellent battery life and an attractive design aesthetic bound to impress.

Acer Aspire E15 features a Full HD IPS widescreen display with a matte finish and a 1920 x 1080 resolution. The matte finish is particularly useful if you are on your computer for longer hours while the IPS technology provides better viewing angles and more accurate colors.

Although the laptop is entirely made of plastic, it’s beautifully designed for a smooth and clean look, Acer E 15 has a convenient compartment door which makes it quite easier to upgrade your memory and hard drive. The only downside is that when dealing with extremely large models, the laptops starts to feel sluggish. But if you are a beginner on a tight budget the Aspire E15 is perfect for you.

Dell G5 15 5587

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This 15.6’’ gaming laptop comes with the latest set of hardware configuration and high-performance graphics perfect for Revit. The laptop features the latest 8th Generation Intel Core i7-8750H processor and 16 GB of RAM. The Dell G5 15 5587 RAM is expandable up to 32 GB through the memory card slot. The laptop comes with dual storage compartment with a 128 GB SSD and 1 TB HDD. The HDD stores all your data and files while the SSD helps you boot the system much faster. The laptop’s graphics are handled by NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti graphics with 4GB GDDR5 dedicated memory.

The laptop features a full HD IPS display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution giving you sharper visuals from every possible angle. The laptop delivers superior color richness and stunning clarity. The display is anti-glare providing an uninterrupted working experience.

The Dell G5 15 5587 features an ultra-sleek design and build. The black metal finish gives the laptop a rich and professional look. Launched as part of G series gaming notebooks, this laptop has so much more to offer, and the internals prove just that.

Asus VivoBook Pro 17 N705FD-ES76

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If you are looking for a bigger laptop for Revit, the Asus Vivobook N705FD-ES76 laptop is a great choice. It offers lots of great features such a powerful 8th generation Intel Core i7-8565u Processor (up to 4.6 GHz), a solid NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 4GB dedicated graphics chip, 8GB DDR4 RAM, 256 SSD + 1 TB HDD and a fingerprint sensor all at an amazingly good price.

The VivoBook Pro 17 features a full HD widescreen display with a 1920 x 1080 resolution and 72% NTSC color gamut. The display offers flawless graphics as well as deeper, richer and more accurate colors for every type of content.

The VivoBook Pro 17 has a slimmer and lighter design and build than most laptops within its class. The laptop is easily portable and features a full-size backlit keyboard comfortable for typing even in low-light settings.

Lenovo Legion Y7000 Gaming Laptop

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Lenovo Legion Y700 gaming laptop is equipped with the powerful Intel Core i7-8750H Processor, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Discrete Graphics and hybrid storage of 128 GB SSD and 1 TB HHD.

Lenovo Legion Y7000 is fitted with a large 17.3’’ Full HD screen and 300 nits of brightness. The large display with a 1920 X 1080 resolution give users a larger than life viewing experience and tear-free graphics which is much needed when using Revit.

The Lenovo Y7000 amazingly unique build truly gives the laptop a clean, compact and competitive look. The laptop has breathtakingly stunning sleek aluminum design and a full-sized white backlit keyboard. The laptop is quite light, and it has been designed to achieve the ever elusive balance between performance and portability. The Y7000 might be pricier than other laptops within its range it’s an excellent purchase considering the laptop has way better specs.

MSI P65 Creator 8RE-020

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MSI have always been known for their powerful gaming laptops, but it doesn’t mean that they don’t care about other types of users. The MSI P65 is a truly impressive laptop designed particularly for creative professionals. The laptop not only exudes class it comes out as a perfect choice for Revit users. From the laptop’s clean and professional exterior to its internals which boasts the new Intel Core 8th Gen Core i7-8750H, 16GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB NVMe SSD, and the NVIDIA GeForce GTX1060 6G GDDR5 graphics card.

The laptop features a 15.6’’ full HD IPS display with a 16:9 ratio, 100% SRGB, and a 1920×1080 resolution.

MSI P65 features a powerful hardware configuration and a robust design which is perfect for those looking for high performance and durability in a PC. MSI has toned down the laptops design from the black and red aesthetic to a more executive look. The full-size keyboard is user-friendly and comes with backlit keys letting you work even in a dimly lit environment. The overall body and build of the laptop is lighter and thinner making it portable. This laptop will power through any type of work you throw its way.