Natwerk Designs

Which laptop/desktop is best for 3d programs?

Hi, I'm currently a Interior Architectural Design major and I need help choosing a laptop that's fit for me! I'm currently using a Dell 14" Studio Laptop and the spec is as follows: Intel Core i5-430M 2.26GHz (2.53GHz Turbo Mode, 3M cache) 6GB Shared Dual Channel DDR3 at 1066MHz Programs I mainly use are: Adobe photoshop, illustrator, premiere pro (time to time) Auto Cad, 3dsmax SketchUp & V-Ray (Almost ALL the time) I couldn't afford a desktop at the time, so I bought a laptop so that I can use it while I'm on the move, and as a desktop by hooking it up to a monitor when at home. I've had no problems using Adobe programs, however now that I'm using 3d programs, it's lagging like crazy.. I thought SketchUp was considered a light program, but as the models get more complicated, and as I started using Vray and other rendering programs (like shaderlight pro) it's starting to lag SO MUCH. I'm waiting around for it to stop lagging and it's wasting way too much of my time. I'd like a recommendation for which laptop/desktop spec would best fit for the programs to run as smoothly as possible. My budget is around $1000-1600. I personally wanna get an iMac or a Macbook Pro,. but I'm not sure what other Interior Designers would suggest.. so Please!! HELP!! :D

Public Comments

1. Despite their lessened likelihood to pick up viruses, iMac's and Macbooks are expensive, but your budget sounds about right for one. Also, there aren't as many applications for Mac's as there are for Windows machines... but I guess that's what Boot Camp software is for.
2. According to the computer programs you commonly use, you'll need one with at least a quad, and 6-8GB of RAM, and a good gpu. Your budget is pretty flexible, so consider these: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834214279 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152239 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16834152211