As a SolidWorks user, you must be wondering which are the best laptops to run the software. A good laptop is one with a good processor and enough RAM, for a smooth user experience. The tablet is usually the go-to choice for most people because of its portability at the same time it provides ample RAM and processing power. However, considering the rapid changes in technology, there are many laptops that are better than the tablet and are more suitable for office usage. There is a lot of choice when it comes to the laptops available in the market.
As the world of CAD software evolves, it’s getting more and more difficult to keep up with all the latest changes. Some of the newer software, like SolidWorks®, is growing rapidly, although their release cycle is long and can be very frustrating. One of the best ways to remain up-to-date with this software is to use a desktop that’s designed for the job. Below are five of the best desktops that are specifically designed for SolidWorks®.
If you’re starting to learn SolidWorks, you’re likely going to have to buy a desktop. While most of us spend our time at the office, there’s no reason you need to spend it on a cramped desk, chock full of beakers and Bunsen burners. The problem is that there’s a bewildering array of options out there, all of them claiming to be the best. So, where do you start?
What are the finest SolidWorks desktops? Any kind of design or rendering works best when the software being utilized is of good quality.
Whether you’re an architect or an engineer, every student or professional need the appropriate software and a computer on which to operate it.
Today, there are a plethora of design and 3D modeling software options, but we choose to focus on one of the finest, SolidWorks.
You must have heard of it if you work in this business, and chances are you have even worked on it.
So here is where you’ll discover the finest desktops for running Solid Works smoothly.
It is followed by a guide that will tell you what you need to know when you need to go beyond the choices shown here and make your own decision.
SolidWorks Desktops – Price
Lenovo ThinkStation P340 30DH00J4US Workstation – 1 i7-10700 – 16 GB RAM – 1 TB SSD – Tower – Lenovo ThinkStation P340 30DH00J4US Workstation – 1 i7-10700 – 16 GB RAM – 1 TB SSD – Tower – Lenovo ThinkStation P340 30DH00
$2,264.65
as at 5:11 p.m. on August 14, 2023
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Graphics Card, 10th Generation Intel Core… OMEN 30L Gaming Desktop PC, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Graphics Card, 10th Generation Intel Core…
$2,348.95
9 new items starting at $2,348.94
From $2,204.54, 1 was utilized.
as at 5:11 p.m. on August 14, 2023
Intel Core i9 10900K Custom 10-Core 3D Modelling SolidWorks CAD Workstation Computer Adamant…
$4,299.99
as at 5:11 p.m. on August 14, 2023
The information on this page was last updated at 5:11 p.m. on August 14, 2023.
What is SolidWorks and how does it work?
SolidWorks is one of the most popular 3D modeling, rendering, and simulation programs among professionals.
Dassault Systèmes, the developing business, is one of the world’s biggest software development corporations, having headquarters in France.
Solidworks is a CAD (Computer-aided Design) and CAE (Computer-aided Engineering) program that was first published approximately 25 years ago and is still widely used.
The program mainly use parameters for the creation of geometrical forms and figures.
The use of numeric parameters allows the user to define and specify the figures being produced in great depth.
A model usually begins with a 2D drawing, but it is also possible to begin with 3D from the beginning.
After that, the drawing is given dimensions and characteristics like tangency, perpendicularity, and so on.
Depending on the kind of information included in the final findings, they may be stored in a number of formats.
Solidworks has long been regarded as a reliable option for anyone in need of cost-effective, feature-rich, and efficient 3D modeling software.
It also offers improved optimization and reverse engineering capabilities, as well as the ability to conduct simulations prior to production.
Minimum & Recommended System Requirements for SolidWorks
Any CPU over 3 GHz, ideally a certified video card, 16 GB or more RAM, and an SSD in the system for overall better performance are the minimum requirements for SolidWorks versions 2019-2021.
Both Mac and Windows OS are supported, however only specific Mac OS versions are supported, and only 64-bit Windows OS versions may execute the program.
The kind of desktop you need depends on how you want to use SolidWorks and how much money you have. However, there are a few ideas that may make things easier.
Minimum System Requirements: Intel Xeon E-2144G CPU or higher; 16 GB or more RAM; NVIDIA Quadro P600 or better GPU; 512 GB or larger SSD and extra storage (as needed)
Core i7-10700 CPU or higher; 32 GB or more RAM; NVIDIA Quadro P2200 or better GPU; 1 TB SSD and extra storage, if required
SolidWorks 2023’s Top 5 Desktops:
Best Overall: Thinkstation P340 by Lenovo Workstation
Lenovo Thinkstation P340
Bottom Line: With a choice of configurations to select from and excellent performance, the Lenovo ThinkStation P340 is deserving of becoming your primary SolidWorks desktop.
Characteristics:
Pros
- It is possible to customize it to get a broad range of performance.
- ISV certification improves trustworthiness.
- Excellent performance
Cons
The performance and location of this Lenovo desktop are not by chance, and we have purposefully placed it at the top. This model has mid-range specifications and a mid-range pricing.
Its appearance makes it appropriate for any business setting, but it won’t seem out of place in your home office.
The ThinkStation P340 is equipped with an octa-core processor, the Intel Core i7-10700, which enables hyper-threading.
This CPU’s clock rate varies from 2.9 GHz to 4.8 GHz, which is sufficient for SolidWorks.
Then there’s the NVIDIA Quadro P2200 GPU with 5 GB of VRAM, which runs SolidWorks as well as a mid-range system should.
This has 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD, both of which can be expanded.
Even though this is a little tower, there is still a lot of room for improvement. It’s also available in a variety of various form factors and variations, each suited to different types of users.
With a total of 9 USB ports, including a Type-C connector, the user has plenty of options for connection.
However, just because this is a mid-range model does not imply that it performs poorly. It also comes in a variety of different variations that can carry both small and large loads.
If you need additional power, there are choices for up to 10 Intel Xeons or Core i9s, as well as GPUs up to RTX 5000.
Runner-up: 3650 Dell Precision Workstation
Dell Precision 3650
Bottom Line: The Precision 3650 is yet another option for any mechanical engineering professional or student that needs to run software such as SolidWorks for design or simulations.
Characteristics:
- Intel Core i7-11700 processor
- NVIDIA Quadro P1000 graphics
- Windows 10 Professional (OS)
- 32 GB RAM
- 2 TB SSD storage
Pros
- The most recent connection characteristics
- The cost is reasonable.
- Upgradeable with ease
Cons
- On the main unit, there is no DVD or SD card reader.
- Higher-end versions may be costly.
- It is not possible to install a high-end GPU.
The second workstation is also very dependable, although this one is from Dell. The Precision 3650’s greatest feature is that it can be used as an entry-level machine if necessary.
Choose a better setup, though, and it soon becomes something on which complicated tasks may be completed.
This model has an Intel Core i7 CPU from the 11th generation, which is the most recent.
It has a maximum frequency of 4.8 GHz, and its 8 cores and 16 threads ensure that you don’t have to wait long for instructions to be processed.
An NVIDIA Quadro P1000 GPU with 4 GB of video RAM was utilized for graphics. On SolidWorks, it can therefore handle light to mid-range renderings and simulations.
You get 32 GB of RAM and a 2 TB SSD for storage, with the option to add additional storage drives and RAM.
And, if you need the finest performance right now, Dell provides a wide range of hardware and software customization options.
The chassis may be opened with just a few tools. There are extra PCIe and other free storage, as well as RAM slots, allowing for simple upgrades.
If necessary, you may put on an extra warranty, giving you less worries.
3. 30L HP Omen Desktop — For Non-Professional Users and Students
HP Omen 30L
Bottom Line: If you’re searching for the finest consumer desktop for learning or compiling large SolidWorks projects, the HP OMEN 30L is a computer worth considering.
Characteristics:
- Intel Core i7-10700KF processor
- NVIDIA RTX 3070 graphics card
- Windows 10 Home is the operating system.
- 16 GB RAM
- 1 TB SSD storage
Pros
- Exceptional performance
- Good specifications
- Upgradeability in abundance
Cons
- It lacks features like as ECC memory and ISV certification.
- There are several drawbacks to using a consumer-grade GPU.
- The Home edition of Windows 10 is installed by default, not the Pro edition.
If you’re interested in mechanical software or hardware, you’re undoubtedly aware that professional components are preferred. That is sometimes true for SolidWorks, but not always.
What if you’re a student who doesn’t need the extra security? Or maybe you don’t have the need or money for them right now?
In such scenario, commonplace gadgets, such as this one, may be useful.
This version of the OMEN 30L has a 10th-generation Core i7 CPU, an RTX 3070 GPU for intensive 1080p renderings, 16 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD.
All of technology is housed in a chassis that is both basic and unobtrusive, making it easy to upgrade.
There are many different desktop versions that perform better or worse than this one in terms of performance.
Although it does not compensate for the lack of ECC memory and other features, the desktop’s sheer speed is often useful.
As a result, you can use mechanical CAD or modeling applications as well as enjoy excellent gaming performance. Check out our review of the HP Omen 30L.
4. Desktop Adamant Custom Workstation – Prebuilt Workstation Adamant Custom Workstation Desktop
Adamant Custom Workstation Desktop
Bottom Line: Although you may have to spend a little more, this Custom prebuilt might be a good option to constructing your own SolidWorks desktop. The use of standard components and a solid guarantee, on the other hand, make a persuasive case for it.
Features to look for:
- Core i9-10900K processor
- NVIDIA Quadro RTX 4000 graphics
- Windows 10 Professional (OS)
- 64 GB RAM
- 500 GB SSD + 8 TB HDD storage
Pros
- Minimalist Style
- There are many combinations to select from.
- The warranty term is adequate.
Cons
- Hardware of mediocre quality
- Expensive
- WIFI and Bluetooth versions are not up to date.
It is not always feasible to create a desktop for someone who wants to utilize SolidWorks. There may be many causes for this, but we suspect that additional time and effort are among them.
As an alternative, you might buy a custom-built desktop, such as this one from Adamant.
You’ve got a Core i9 CPU, an RTX 4000 GPU, 64 gigabytes of RAM, and a lot of storage in this case.
With these specifications, you can expect SolidWorks to operate smoothly and without problems.
Unless we’re talking about a very large number of components or highly complicated projects, the specifications should be enough for even the most ardent user.
Of course, all of this comes at a cost, and it is not insignificant.
The good news is that you receive all standard hardware, making upgrades and replacements a breeze.
In addition, the casing chosen is a basic one, with no flashy RGB or other features, making it appropriate for usage in a professional setting.
Should you opt to carry this desktop home or to work, you will also benefit from the existence of a 3-year warranty.
5. Mini Workstation HP Z2 G4 – Excellent Value
HP Z2 G4 Mini Workstation
Bottom Line: The Z2 G4 Mini’s small size is its most appealing feature, but it isn’t the sole reason to purchase it. It may only be helpful for beginner SolidWorks users, but it does have its benefits.
Characteristics:
- Intel Xeon E-2144G processor
- NVIDIA Quadro P600 graphics
- Windows 10 Professional (OS)
- Memory (RAM): 16 GB
- 512 GB SSD storage
Pros
- Exceptionally compact
- Easy access to the internal components
- Performance comparable to that of a workstation, but at an entry-level price.
Cons
- Fans may be very loud.
- Compactness is disrupted by an external power brick.
- Only two RAM slots are available.
A tiny PC is often chastised for its poor performance, but HP has defied the stereotype and created a workstation that fits in the palm of your hand.
Yes, the Z2 G4 Mini is a fantastic innovation from the company that ensures you have access to a workstation even if you have a little area.
A Xeon E-2144G processor with a maximum speed of 4.5 GHz powers the PC.
It, too, has four cores, just like the other desktops on our list, and has the same processing capability as them.
It has an NVIDIA Quadro P600 GPU with 2 GB of GDDR5 graphics memory installed.
In addition, this model comes with 16 GB of ECC RAM and a 512 GB SSD for storage.
As a result, this may be utilized by both novices and those that need light graphics for their job.
This is the minimal minimum set of requirements for someone to operate comfortably using SolidWorks.
However, it is not because of its setup that it is on this list; rather, it is because of the functions that it provides.
Few small PCs provide the performance and additional benefits that this gadget does, thus enhancing its beauty.
Upgradability, ease of access, and good connection are among them. Check out our review of the HP Z2 Mini G4 Workstation.
Buyer’s Guide to the Best SolidWorks Desktops
You must have a good notion of what sort of desktops to search for now that you’ve seen what to look for.
However, 3D modeling or SolidWorks are not things that can be done on the basis of a hunch.
For you to do any real work on the PC, you’ll need a particular minimum set of specifications.
However, this does not imply that you must spend all of your money, since the performance requirement is directly related to your requirements.
We’ll go into this more later, but for now, know that not everyone need a world-record-breaking setup.
Also, depending on the kind of job they perform, some people may need more powerful PCs than the majority.
When you really need the performance that these high-end specifications provide, building a PC makes more sense.
The primary issue is cost, since quality workstations may be very expensive. Building a PC, or at the very least selecting the components separately, may save money on any budget.
Prebuilt options restrict your selections, and you may not always obtain the GPU and CPU you want in the same system.
This is especially true when searching for high-end workstations with a 10th generation Intel Core i9 CPU and a Quadro RTX 8000 GPU at a reasonable price.
This guide contains a lot more of it, and we’ve also tried to answer some additional questions you may have. So be sure to have a look at this.
System of Operation
SolidWorks is only supported by Windows, neither by Mac or any other platform for that matter, therefore you don’t have much option in terms of OS.
Is this to say that it won’t run on an iMac or MacBook? It is possible, but you will require virtualization software to install it on the same system.
Parallels Desktop, VMWare Fusion, and other similar programs enable you to utilize the same iMac as two distinct desktops, one with the native Mac OS and the other with Windows.
So, although the functionality of SolidWorks would be almost same when operated virtually, as in this instance, without any difficulties during installation, the experience would be less than ideal.
This is because the graphics capabilities of Apple’s desktops aren’t top-of-the-line, and SolidWorks won’t be satisfied with just excellent processing.
So, regardless of your budget, a professional Windows Workstation would be a superior choice.
Processor
Solidworks, like most other design and modeling software, is heavily reliant on the processor’s frequency.
This implies that, regardless of the number of cores, the PC you plan to utilize for SolidWorks must have excellent single-core performance.
When doing simulations, the number of cores and threads will be used, necessitating improved multi-core performance.
The task is split across the available cores, with parallelization used to speed up execution.
However, for Solidworks, the number of cores is not nearly as essential as the processing frequency, but there are times when having more cores may be beneficial.
Anything more than 6 or 8 cores is unlikely to provide significant advantages to the typical user, but the clock rate must be more than 3.3 GHz to comply with official guidelines.
The quantity of RAM available has a significant impact on processing, but we’ll get to that later.
So, unless you’re doing anything that requires multi-core processing, it’s best to buy a good Hexa or octa-core CPU with as much clock speed as feasible.
So, although Intel has a small edge over AMD in terms of frequency, the higher costs may be a problem for people on a budget. As a result, AMD offers a cost-effective alternative with performance comparable to Intel.
Xeon processors outperform Threadrippers in terms of single-core performance, but both offer ECC memory.
However, unless you are dealing with extremely complicated arrangements involving sensitive data, you should avoid any of these options since they both need a particular kind of motherboard.
Should You Overclock Your Computer?
You may assume that, with so much emphasis on CPU frequency, there’s nothing wrong with overclocking to increase it.
Except for two major issues, heat and system stability, there is nothing wrong with it.
Internal voltages and temperatures should only be tampered with by those who have a thorough understanding of them or by experts.
Pushing a CPU to its limits without considering thermals will do more damage than benefit.
Overclocking may also cause system crashes, which is a more severe issue for SolidWorks without ECC RAM.
Overall, overclocking is not the greatest option, particularly if you intend to use the CPU for an extended period of time. The boosting feature that both Intel and AMD CPUs provide is a safe and practical option.
Intel’s Turbo Boost Technology and AMD’s Precision Boosting may raise the CPU frequency to safe levels for a certain period of time while monitoring thermals and other system factors.
It, anytime you require temporary overclocking, you may do so without risking frying your computer.
Graphics
For the greatest SolidWorks performance, your desktop should have excellent processing power as well as robust graphics capabilities.
Even the most powerful gaming CPUs seem to be inadequate to meet the graphical requirements.
The amount of cores, as well as their frequency, is the cause for such high graphics needs. Workstation-grade alternatives, such as NVIDIA’s Quadro or AMD’s Radeon Pro series, are required.
These GPUs are superior in a variety of ways, ensuring that your desktop can perform intensive graphics, renderings, and other tasks without crashing.
One of the reasons for this is greater video RAM, which typically makes a big impact, as well as Tensor Cores, which are exclusive to just a few video cards. Ray-tracing video cards may offer greater effects and processing power than standard video cards.
The GPU you choose will have an impact on your budget, since some video cards are very costly.
You may opt for the high-end RTX 6000 or RTX 8000 from Quadro’s RTX range, which are really heavy-lifters.
For entry-level workstations, budget GPUs such as the Quadro P1000 or Radeon Pro WX 4100 are also available.
Others may choose from NVIDIA’s Quadro P1000, Quadro P4000, and even better Quadro RTX 4000 GPUs, while AMD offers some excellent choices as well.
Consumer cards are suitable for students or those who do not need the additional capabilities provided by Quadro or Radeon Pro GPUs. A 4-6 GB GTX GPU is much less expensive, and there will be little change in performance.
These, on the other hand, will not guarantee you as trouble-free SolidWorks use as professional video cards, which is a decisive issue for many.
However, a GPU is only useful if the CPU has sufficient processing power and the newest graphics drivers are loaded.
SolidWorks 2019 additionally makes use of OpenGL 4.5 compatibility, which should be available on any contemporary GPU.
RAM
The processor’s RAM will be a critical tool for processing and execution, particularly when utilizing applications like SolidWorks.
A huge video memory may make a big impact when working with more complex structures and assemblies.
There is no way to go with less than 8 GB of RAM since you will need to update it very soon.
Those who are just getting started may be able to do so, but as the complexity grows, more RAM is required.
Professionally, even 16 GB of RAM may be inadequate, and some users have added even more, such as 32 GB.
It has been shown that adding more RAM to a computer while keeping all other hardware specifications the same may result in significant gains.
In a given PC, replacing 8 GB of RAM with 24 GB will significantly decrease rendering times.
While 32 GB of RAM is the unofficial industry norm, individuals working with millions of components or very complicated designs may need 64 GB.
This, however, is largely dependent on how you plan to utilize SolidWorks.
Certain processors, like as Intel’s Xeon, allow you to add features like error checking, which may be quite useful for certain users.
However, for the average user, that level of dependability comes at a cost that might be better spent elsewhere in the computer, such as purchasing additional RAM.
With a larger budget, things get simpler to determine, but the high cost of ECC-supported hardware may still be an issue for most of us.
Make sure you don’t have to sacrifice other gear in exchange for the higher dependability of ECC-supported CPUs or RAM modules.
Storage
If you haven’t already embraced the advantages of an SSD over a hard drive, now is the time to do so.
This isn’t without cause, since a mechanical drive’s reading and writing speeds are nothing near those of an SSD, which doesn’t have any moving components.
Solidworks will use a significant amount of system resources, therefore you must ensure that storage is not a concern.
An SSD must be placed on the PC in order to optimize the software’s performance.
Because PCIe drives are naturally faster than SATA drives, they would provide superior results.
The storage drive’s size is a personal preference, but it must be on the larger side.
More and faster storage is critical when dealing with big assemblies and graphics-intensive models.
As a result, anything up to and including a 1 TB SSD should do, and even for novices, we wouldn’t recommend anything below that.
There is no greater limit here, and although some of you may not need an 8 TB hard disk like the Adamant desktop (see above), others may.
Connectivity
SolidWorks does not need an external device to operate correctly, save maybe a 3D printer and peripherals, due to the kind of software it is. The Internet connection is the most essential connectivity for you to maintain.
This may be accomplished via either wired Ethernet or wireless WIFI, depending on your preferences.
However, this does not imply that you must be online at all times; the program may operate without being connected to the internet as long as the activation process is completed.
This is a one-time process that each user must complete and can only be completed with an internet connection.
However, certain features of the program will need Internet access, such as downloading new tools, presets, other add-ins, and updates.
As previously said, there aren’t many needs in terms of external connection. All you need are some extra USB 2.0 and 3.0 connections, and a USB Type-C port may be useful for quicker file transfers.
More video ports, regardless of kind, are always nice, and as long as they enable you to connect the monitor(s) you want, they’re worth it.
Accessories
If you don’t have the appropriate peripherals, which in this instance would be a good mouse and keyboard, as well as a suitable display to work on, your setup would be incomplete.
Designing, drawing, and other visual aspects are all part of the SolidWorks experience. As a result, it must have a high resolution so that you may work comfortably and to your heart’s content.
The FHD (1920 x 1080p) resolution is the industry standard, and you’ll need to go higher for a better experience.
As a result, 2K (2048 x 1080p) and 4K (3840 x 2160p) screens are more expensive. On them, color fidelity is all that matters as long as the frame rates are enough.
You’ll mainly be dealing with colors, and complicated designs look best when seen realistically. Some displays may also be turned for additional convenience.
The monitor you choose is a personal decision, since not everyone is happy with the same resolution, screen size, or aspect ratio.
However, there are monitors devoted to the usage of designers that you might consider.
It is preferable to utilize more than one monitor for maximum efficiency, since utilizing two displays allows you to perform various tasks at the same time.
These may be the same size or one larger than the other, depending on your preference. Having an anti-glare display may also be beneficial if you work long hours.
FAQs:
Is it more essential for Solidworks to have a CPU or a GPU?
In SolidWorks, both the CPU and GPU play significant roles, each in their own way. The CPU is in charge of running simulations, creating renderings, and other tasks, while a powerful GPU may help with visuals, which are an essential element of utilizing the program.
Is 8 GB of RAM sufficient for Solidworks 2023?
Perhaps for beginners. Not at all, for any serious user. SolidWorks may be resource intensive at times, therefore a minimum of 16 GB is recommended. However, be prepared to upgrade to at least 32 GB as soon as possible.
Can SolidWorks be used without a graphics card?
It is possible to run SolidWorks without a dedicated graphics card, however this is not advised. It’s design software, and virtually every significant use case requires a powerful GPU with a large number of processors and VRAM, usually the ECC kind seen in professional video cards.
Putting the finishing touches on
The kind of job you perform and the software you use have a big impact on the specifications you’ll require. While some of them may be satisfied with entry-level specifications, others, such as SolidWorks, need a higher setup.
Anyone who stumbles across this guide and the choices it contains will find it quite useful.
If your desktop is your place to work, get the best. If it’s a place to play, get the best. If it’s somewhere to show off your good work, get the best. If it’s a place to look after your family, get the best. If it’s a place to learn, get the best. And yes, if you want the best, get the best.. Read more about is solidworks 2023 stable and let us know what you think.
The best computer to buy in 2023 is the one that you can afford."}}]}
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best desktop computer for SOLIDWORKS?
The best desktop computer for SOLIDWORKS is the Lenovo ThinkCentre M900.
What computers are good for SOLIDWORKS?
A computer with a quad-core processor is recommended.
What is the best computer to buy in 2023?
The best computer to buy in 2023 is the one that you can afford.
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