Introduction
Choosing the right laptop as an architect isn’t just about speed—it’s about buying smart. Whether you’re an architecture student building your first 3D models or a seasoned BIM manager coordinating entire project teams, your hardware can either supercharge your workflow or hold it back.
This guide showcases the top 10 laptops for architects in 2025, reviewed through the lens of real architectural roles:
- Architecture Students looking for value, portability, and dependable graphics
- Junior Architects managing CAD, Revit models, and tight deadlines
- Archviz Artists focused on rendering, animation, and visual storytelling
- BIM Managers running clash detection and federated model coordination
- Project-Running Architects who need performance across site, studio, and client-facing tasks
Every machine has been assessed not just on paper, but in terms of how it fits into these workflows. You’ll find quick-reference summaries with:
- Price Range
- Pros & Cons
- Best For
Whether you’re future-proofing your setup or looking for the best value to get started, this list is curated to help you make the right investment for where you are in practice—or where you’re heading.
Note: all shop links are UK based, but you should be able to easily change the region on the website to suit your own location.
Acer Predator Triton Neo 16
Shop link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Predator-Verified-AI-Powered-processor-PTN16-51-932N/dp/B0CZBVRSXT?th=1
Price Range: £1,400–£1,800
Pros:
- High-resolution 16-inch 3.2K IPS display with 165Hz refresh rate
- Intel Core Ultra 9 185H processor and NVIDIA RTX 4070 GPU
- Sleek, professional design suitable for both gaming and creative work
- USB 4 support and dual M.2 slots for storage expansion
- Solid battery life for a high-performance laptop
Cons:
- Soldered RAM limits upgradeability
- GPU performance slightly below average for RTX 4070
- Average audio quality
Best For: Architecture students, junior architects, and BIM managers seeking a balance between performance and portability.
Overview
The Acer Predator Triton Neo 16 (2024) offers a compelling mix of performance and design, making it a suitable choice for professionals in architecture and design. Equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra 9 185H processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 4070 GPU, it handles demanding applications like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray with ease. Its 16-inch 3.2K IPS display with a 165Hz refresh rate ensures crisp visuals, beneficial for detailed design work and real-time rendering.
Design and Build
The Triton Neo 16 sports a sleek, silver-grey aluminium chassis that exudes professionalism. Weighing approximately 2.05 kg and measuring 18.82 mm in thickness, it’s relatively portable for a high-performance laptop. The understated design makes it suitable for both office environments and client presentations.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the Triton Neo 16 performs admirably, though its RTX 4070 GPU operates slightly below average compared to other laptops with the same GPU. Nevertheless, it handles complex 3D models and rendering tasks efficiently. The soldered 32GB LPDDR5X RAM is ample for most architectural workflows, though the lack of upgradeability may be a consideration for future-proofing.
Display and Audio
The 16-inch 3.2K IPS display delivers vibrant colours and sharp details, covering a wide colour gamut and offering Calman-certified colour accuracy. This is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise colour representation. However, the audio quality is average, which may necessitate external speakers or headphones for presentations or collaborative sessions.
Connectivity and Features
The laptop includes a comprehensive selection of ports, including USB 4, HDMI 2.1, and dual M.2 slots for storage expansion. These features enhance its versatility, allowing for easy connection to peripherals and external displays. The inclusion of an AI-powered webcam and decent battery life further add to its appeal for professionals on the move.
Considerations
While the Triton Neo 16 offers a strong balance between performance and portability, the soldered RAM limits future upgrade options. Additionally, the GPU’s performance, while sufficient for most tasks, is slightly below average for an RTX 4070. Despite these considerations, it remains a solid choice for architecture students and professionals seeking a high-resolution display and robust performance in a portable package.
MSI Cyborg 15 AI
Shop link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/MSI-Cyborg-Inch-Gaming-Laptop/dp/B0CS6VSZ51?th=1
Price Range: £1,200–£1,600
Pros:
- Upgraded Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 GPU
- Support for up to 96GB DDR5 RAM
- Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
- Lightweight design at 1.98 kg
Cons:
- Display covers only 45% NTSC colour gamut
- Modest battery capacity at 53.5Wh
- Plastic chassis may lack premium feel
Best For: Architecture students and junior architects seeking a budget-friendly laptop with enhanced performance for 3D modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The MSI Cyborg 15 AI (2024) is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, featuring Intel’s Core Ultra 7 155H processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 4060 GPU. These enhancements provide improved performance for architectural applications, making it a viable option for those entering the field or working on less demanding projects.
Design and Build
Maintaining its cyberpunk-inspired aesthetic, the Cyborg 15 AI features translucent elements and a slim profile. Weighing just under 2 kg, it’s portable enough for students and professionals on the move. However, the plastic chassis may not offer the durability found in more premium models.
Performance
The combination of the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor and RTX 4060 GPU ensures smooth operation in software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit. While it may not match the capabilities of higher-end workstations, it handles moderate 3D modelling and rendering tasks effectively.
Display and Audio
The 15.6-inch FHD display with a 144Hz refresh rate offers smooth visuals. However, its limited colour gamut (45% NTSC) may not be ideal for tasks requiring precise colour accuracy. Audio output is adequate for general use, but external speakers or headphones are recommended for presentations or detailed audio work.
Connectivity and Features
The Cyborg 15 AI includes a range of ports: USB-A, USB-C (with DisplayPort support), HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It also supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring stable wireless connections. The keyboard is backlit, aiding in low-light environments.
Considerations
While the MSI Cyborg 15 AI (2024) offers improved performance over its predecessor, its display limitations and plastic build may be drawbacks for some users. However, for architecture students and junior professionals seeking a budget-friendly option with enhanced capabilities, it represents a compelling choice.
Alienware M18 R2
Price Range: £1,900–£3,500
Pros:
- Exceptional performance with Intel Core i9-14900HX and NVIDIA RTX 4080/4090 GPUs
- Expansive 18-inch QHD+ display with 165Hz refresh rate
- Robust build quality with ample upgradeability (up to 64GB RAM, multiple storage slots)
- Customizable Cherry MX low-profile mechanical keyboard
- Comprehensive port selection, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and SD card reader
Cons:
- Hefty weight at approximately 3.9 kg (8.6 lbs), limiting portability
- Short battery life, averaging around 3 hours under typical usage
- Premium pricing may be a consideration for budget-conscious users
Best For: Architecture students, archviz artists, and BIM managers seeking a desktop-replacement laptop with top-tier performance and upgradeability.
Overview
The Alienware m18 R2 is a formidable machine that blurs the line between high-end gaming laptops and mobile workstations. Equipped with Intel’s Core i9-14900HX processor and options for NVIDIA RTX 4080 or 4090 GPUs, it delivers exceptional performance for demanding architectural applications such as Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray.
Its expansive 18-inch QHD+ display with a 165Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, making it ideal for detailed design work and real-time rendering. The robust build quality and ample upgradeability options, including support for up to 64GB of RAM and multiple storage slots, provide a future-proof solution for professionals.
Design and Build
The m18 R2’s design is both bold and functional. While its size and weight make it less portable, the sturdy chassis and premium materials convey durability and quality. The customizable Cherry MX low-profile mechanical keyboard offers a tactile typing experience, beneficial for extended work sessions.
For architecture students and professionals who primarily work from a fixed location, the m18 R2 serves as an excellent desktop replacement, offering the flexibility of a laptop with the power of a workstation.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the m18 R2 excels, often outperforming competitors in both synthetic and real-world scenarios. Its advanced cooling system ensures sustained performance during intensive tasks without significant thermal throttling. This makes it particularly suitable for archviz artists working with complex scenes in software like Lumion or Twinmotion.
BIM managers will appreciate the m18 R2’s ability to handle large, federated models in applications like Navisworks, ensuring smooth navigation and efficient clash detection processes.
Connectivity and Features
The m18 R2 offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including multiple USB-A and USB-C ports, Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, Mini DisplayPort, Ethernet, and a full-size SD card reader. This extensive connectivity facilitates easy integration with various peripherals, external displays, and storage devices.
The inclusion of a high-quality 1080p webcam with IR sensors supports Windows Hello facial recognition, enhancing security and convenience for professionals.
Considerations
While the m18 R2 offers top-tier performance, its substantial weight and limited battery life may be drawbacks for users requiring mobility. Additionally, the premium pricing may be a consideration for budget-conscious individuals. However, for those prioritizing performance and upgradeability, the m18 R2 represents a worthwhile investment.
Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 10
Price Range: £2,800–£3,600
Pros:
- Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and NVIDIA RTX 5080 GPU
- 16-inch OLED display with 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 coverage
- Advanced cooling system with tri-fan design and vapor chamber
- Comprehensive port selection including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1
- Robust build quality with aluminium chassis
Cons:
- Hefty weight at approximately 2.72 kg (6 lbs)
- Short battery life, especially under heavy workloads
- High price point
Best For: Archviz artists, BIM managers, and architects requiring top-tier performance and display quality for complex 3D modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 10 (2025) stands out as a powerhouse in the realm of high-performance laptops, tailored for professionals in architecture and design. Equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 5080 GPU, it delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray. The 16-inch OLED display offers a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut, ensuring accurate and vibrant visuals crucial for detailed design work and real-time rendering.
Design and Build
The Legion Pro 7i features a sleek, eclipse black aluminium chassis that exudes professionalism. Despite its robust build, it weighs approximately 2.72 kg (6 lbs), which may impact portability. The laptop’s design includes a full-sized keyboard with per-key RGB lighting and a spacious touchpad, enhancing usability for extended work sessions.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the Legion Pro 7i excels, handling complex 3D models and rendering tasks efficiently. The advanced cooling system, featuring a tri-fan design and vapor chamber, ensures sustained performance during intensive workloads. However, the laptop’s weight and short battery life may be considerations for users requiring mobility.
Display and Audio
The 16-inch OLED display delivers stunning visuals with a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 coverage. This is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise color representation. Audio quality is enhanced with a quad-speaker array, providing clear sound for presentations and collaborative sessions.
Connectivity and Features
The Legion Pro 7i offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and an SD card reader, facilitating easy connection to peripherals and external displays. The inclusion of Lenovo’s AI Engine+ allows for performance optimization and customization of RGB lighting, enhancing productivity in architectural applications.
Considerations
While the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 10 (2025) offers top-tier performance and display quality, its hefty weight and short battery life may be drawbacks for users requiring mobility. However, for professionals prioritizing performance and display quality, it represents a compelling option.
Razer Blade 16
Price Range: £2,700–£4,300
Pros:
- Ultra-thin design (14.9–17.4 mm) with a lightweight chassis (2.14 kg)
- Powerful AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and NVIDIA RTX 5090 GPU
- 16-inch QHD+ OLED display with 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 coverage
- Advanced cooling system with vapor chamber and dual-fan design
- Comprehensive port selection including USB4, HDMI 2.1, and SD card reader
Cons:
- High price point, especially for top-tier configurations
- Limited RAM upgradeability due to soldered memory
- Battery life may be modest under heavy workloads
Best For: Archviz artists, BIM managers, and architects requiring top-tier performance and display quality for complex 3D modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The Razer Blade 16 stands out as a premium option for professionals in architecture and design. Equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 5090 GPU, it delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray. The 16-inch QHD+ OLED display offers a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut, ensuring accurate and vibrant visuals crucial for detailed design work and real-time rendering.
Design and Build
Razer has achieved a sleek and lightweight design with the Blade 16, measuring just 14.9–17.4 mm in thickness and weighing 2.14 kg. The CNC-milled aluminium unibody chassis provides durability without compromising portability. This makes it suitable for professionals who require a powerful yet mobile workstation.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the Blade 16 excels, handling complex 3D models and rendering tasks efficiently. The advanced cooling system, featuring a vapor chamber and dual-fan design, ensures sustained performance during intensive workloads. However, the soldered RAM may limit future upgrade options, and battery life could be modest under heavy use.
Display and Audio
The 16-inch QHD+ OLED display delivers stunning visuals with a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 coverage. This is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise colour representation. Audio quality is enhanced with a six-speaker array, providing clear sound for presentations and collaborative sessions.
Connectivity and Features
The Blade 16 offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including USB4, HDMI 2.1, and an SD card reader, facilitating easy connection to peripherals and external displays. The inclusion of AMD’s Ryzen AI technology provides additional capabilities for AI-assisted workflows, enhancing productivity in architectural applications.
Considerations
While the Razer Blade 16 offers top-tier performance and display quality, its high price point and limited RAM upgradeability may be considerations for some users. However, for professionals prioritizing performance and portability, it represents a compelling option.
ASUS TUF Gaming A14
Shop link: https://www.amazon.co.uk/ASUS-FA401UV-7-8845HS-GeForce-Windows/dp/B09T9JH2D3?th=1
Price Range: £1,200–£1,500
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design (1.46 kg)
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor with RTX 4060 GPU
- 14-inch 2.5K IPS display with 165Hz refresh rate
- Exceptional battery life (~10 hours)
- MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability
Cons:
- Maximum RAM limited to 16GB
- Lacks Ethernet port and full-sized SD card reader
- Fans can be noisy under heavy load
Best For: Architecture students, junior architects, and professionals seeking a portable yet powerful laptop for 3D modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The ASUS TUF Gaming A14 (2024) stands out as a compact powerhouse, blending portability with robust performance. Equipped with AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 4060 GPU, it handles demanding applications like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray efficiently. Its 14-inch 2.5K IPS display with a 165Hz refresh rate ensures smooth visuals, beneficial for detailed design work and real-time rendering.
Design and Build
Weighing just 1.46 kg, the TUF A14 is designed for mobility without compromising durability. Its MIL-STD-810H certification ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use, making it suitable for professionals on the move. The laptop’s sleek design and sturdy build quality make it a reliable companion for both office and fieldwork.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the TUF A14 showcases impressive performance, particularly in CPU-intensive tasks. The combination of the Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 processor and RTX 4060 GPU ensures smooth operation in software like AutoCAD, SketchUp, and Revit. However, the maximum RAM capacity of 16GB may be a limitation for users requiring extensive multitasking or handling large datasets.
Display and Audio
The 14-inch 2.5K IPS display offers vibrant colours and sharp details, covering approximately 82% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut. This is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise colour representation. Audio output is adequate for general use, but external speakers or headphones are recommended for presentations or detailed audio work.
Connectivity and Features
The TUF A14 includes a range of ports: USB-A, USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and a microSD card reader. However, it lacks an Ethernet port and a full-sized SD card reader, which may be considerations for some users. The laptop supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring stable wireless connections for online collaboration and cloud-based workflows.
Considerations
While the ASUS TUF Gaming A14 (2024) offers a compelling blend of portability and performance, its limitations in RAM capacity and port selection should be considered. However, for architecture students and professionals seeking a lightweight laptop capable of handling 3D modelling and rendering tasks, it represents a solid choice.
Dell G16
Shop link: https://www.dell.com/en-uk/shop/gaming-and-games/g16-gaming-laptop/spd/g-series-16-7630-laptop
Price Range: £1,200–£1,600
Pros:
- 13th Gen Intel Core i7/i9 HX-series processors
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060/4070 GPUs
- 16-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600) display with up to 240Hz refresh rate
- Cherry MX mechanical keyboard
- Robust cooling system
Cons:
- Heavier and bulkier design
- Average battery life
- Speakers and touchpad could be improved
Best For: Architecture students, junior architects, and BIM managers seeking a high-performance laptop for modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The Dell G16 7630 builds upon the foundation of the 7620, introducing more powerful components and features tailored for demanding applications. With options for Intel’s 13th Gen Core i7-13650HX or i9-13900HX processors and NVIDIA’s RTX 4060 or 4070 GPUs, this laptop handles intensive tasks in software like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray with ease.
Design and Build
While the G16 7630 maintains a similar aesthetic to its predecessor, it does come with a heftier build, weighing around 2.7 kg (6 lbs). The inclusion of a Cherry MX mechanical keyboard enhances the typing experience, providing tactile feedback beneficial for extended work sessions. However, the larger size and weight may impact portability for some users.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the G16 7630 showcases impressive performance, particularly in GPU-intensive tasks. The RTX 4060 and 4070 GPUs, combined with the high-refresh-rate display, ensure smooth visuals and efficient rendering workflows. This makes it suitable for archviz artists and BIM managers working on complex projects.
Display and Audio
The 16-inch QHD+ display offers vibrant colours and sharp details, covering a wide colour gamut. However, the speakers produce average audio quality, and the touchpad is relatively small, which might necessitate external peripherals for optimal use.
Connectivity and Features
The G16 7630 includes a comprehensive selection of ports, including USB-A, USB-C, HDMI 2.1, and Ethernet, facilitating easy connection to peripherals and external displays. The robust cooling system ensures sustained performance during intensive tasks.
Considerations
While the Dell G16 7630 offers significant performance improvements over the 7620, its increased weight and average battery life may be drawbacks for users requiring mobility. However, for those prioritizing performance and display quality, it represents a compelling option.
MSI Katana A15 AI
Shop link: https://www.msi.com/Laptop/Katana-A15-AI-B8VX
Price Range: £1,000–£1,500
Pros:
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 8845HS or Ryzen 9 8945HS CPUs
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050/4060/4070 GPU options
- 6″ display with 144Hz FHD or 165Hz QHD options
- Upgradeable RAM (up to 64GB) and dual M.2 SSD slots
- Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity
Cons:
- Short battery life (~4 hours under light use)
- Bulky and heavy design (2.25 kg)
- FHD display has limited colour accuracy and brightness
Best For: Architecture students and junior architects seeking a budget-friendly laptop with solid performance for 3D modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The MSI Katana A15 AI (2024) is a budget-friendly gaming laptop that offers robust performance for professionals in architecture and design. Equipped with AMD’s Ryzen 7 8845HS or Ryzen 9 8945HS processors and NVIDIA’s RTX 4050, 4060, or 4070 GPUs, it handles demanding applications like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray efficiently. The laptop’s 15.6-inch display, available in both 144Hz FHD and 165Hz QHD options, ensures smooth visuals, beneficial for detailed design work and real-time rendering.
Design and Build
The Katana A15 AI sports a plastic chassis with a black finish, weighing approximately 2.25 kg. While its design is more utilitarian, it features a comfortable keyboard with optional backlighting, aiding in low-light environments. However, its bulkier build may impact portability for some users.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the Katana A15 AI performs admirably, especially in configurations with the Ryzen 9 8945HS and RTX 4070 GPU. It handles complex 3D models and rendering tasks efficiently, making it suitable for archviz artists and BIM managers working on intricate projects. The laptop supports up to 64GB of DDR5 RAM and features dual M.2 slots for storage expansion, providing flexibility for future upgrades.
Display and Audio
The 15.6-inch display offers two options: a 144Hz FHD panel and a 165Hz QHD panel. The QHD display provides sharper visuals and better colour accuracy, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 colour gamut, which is beneficial for tasks requiring precise colour representation. However, the FHD display has limited brightness and colour accuracy, which may affect tasks involving detailed renderings or presentations. Audio output is average, with speakers providing sufficient volume but lacking depth, which may necessitate external speakers or headphones for clearer sound during collaborative sessions.
Connectivity and Features
The Katana A15 AI includes a range of ports: three USB-A ports, one USB-C port (supporting DisplayPort 1.4), HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It also supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring stable wireless connections for online collaboration and cloud-based workflows. The laptop does not support USB-C charging, and its webcam is of average quality, which may impact video conferencing experiences.
Considerations
While the MSI Katana A15 AI offers a cost-effective solution for architecture students and junior professionals, its limitations in battery life, display quality (in the FHD variant), and build durability should be considered. It’s best suited for those prioritizing budget over high-end performance, with the understanding that it may not handle intensive rendering tasks as efficiently as higher-end models.
HP Omen Max 16
Shop link: https://www.hp.com/gb-en/shop/product.aspx?id=B8BL1EA&opt=ABU&sel=NTB
Price Range: £2,500–£4,300
Pros:
- Equipped with Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and NVIDIA RTX 5090 GPU
- 16-inch OLED display with 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 coverage
- Advanced cooling system with omnidirectional fans
- Comprehensive port selection including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1
- Robust build quality with aluminium chassis
Cons:
- Hefty weight at approximately 2.77 kg (6.1 lbs)
- Short battery life, especially under heavy workloads
- High price point
Best For: Archviz artists, BIM managers, and architects requiring top-tier performance and display quality for complex 3D modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The HP Omen Max 16 (2025) stands out as a powerhouse in the realm of high-performance laptops, tailored for professionals in architecture and design. Equipped with Intel’s Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 5090 GPU, it delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray. The 16-inch OLED display offers a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut, ensuring accurate and vibrant visuals crucial for detailed design work and real-time rendering.
Design and Build
The Omen Max 16 features a sleek, matte black aluminium chassis that exudes professionalism. Despite its robust build, it weighs approximately 2.77 kg (6.1 lbs), which may impact portability. The laptop’s design includes a full-sized keyboard with per-key RGB lighting and a spacious touchpad, enhancing usability for extended work sessions.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the Omen Max 16 excels, handling complex 3D models and rendering tasks efficiently. The advanced cooling system, featuring omnidirectional fans, ensures sustained performance during intensive workloads. However, the laptop’s weight and short battery life may be considerations for users requiring mobility.
Display and Audio
The 16-inch OLED display delivers stunning visuals with a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 coverage. This is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise colour representation. Audio quality is enhanced with speakers tuned by Bang & Olufsen, providing clear sound for presentations and collaborative sessions.
Connectivity and Features
The Omen Max 16 offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and an SD card reader, facilitating easy connection to peripherals and external displays. The inclusion of HP’s Omen Gaming Hub software allows for performance optimization and customization of RGB lighting, enhancing productivity in architectural applications.
Considerations
While the HP Omen Max 16 (2025) offers top-tier performance and display quality, its hefty weight and short battery life may be drawbacks for users requiring mobility. However, for professionals prioritizing performance and display quality, it represents a compelling option.
ASUS ROG Strix G18
Shop link: https://uk.store.asus.com/rog-strix-g18-2024-g814-237046335-90nr0id6-m000h0.html
Price Range: £2,500–£3,100
Pros:
- Intel Core i9-14900HX processor with NVIDIA RTX 4080 GPU
- 18-inch WQXGA 240Hz IPS display with 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut
- Advanced cooling system with tri-fan technology and liquid metal thermal compound
- Comprehensive port selection including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1
- Robust build quality with aluminium chassis
Cons:
- Hefty weight at approximately 3.0 kg (6.6 lbs)
- Short battery life under heavy workloads
- High price point
Best For: Archviz artists, BIM managers, and architects requiring top-tier performance and display quality for complex 3D modelling and rendering tasks.
Overview
The ASUS ROG Strix G18 stands out as a powerhouse in the realm of high-performance laptops, tailored for professionals in architecture and design. Equipped with Intel’s Core i9-14900HX processor and NVIDIA’s RTX 4080 GPU, it delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications like Revit, Rhino, and V-Ray. The 18-inch WQXGA display offers a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 colour gamut, ensuring accurate and vibrant visuals crucial for detailed design work and real-time rendering.
Design and Build
The ROG Strix G18 features a sleek, Eclipse Gray aluminium chassis that exudes professionalism. Despite its robust build, it weighs approximately 3.0 kg (6.6 lbs), which may impact portability. The laptop’s design includes a full-sized keyboard with per-key RGB lighting and a spacious touchpad, enhancing usability for extended work sessions.
Performance
In benchmark tests, the ROG Strix G18 excels, handling complex 3D models and rendering tasks efficiently. The advanced cooling system, featuring tri-fan technology and liquid metal thermal compound, ensures sustained performance during intensive workloads. However, the laptop’s weight and short battery life may be considerations for users requiring mobility.
Display and Audio
The 18-inch WQXGA display delivers stunning visuals with a 240Hz refresh rate and 100% DCI-P3 coverage. This is particularly beneficial for tasks requiring precise colour representation. Audio quality is enhanced with Dolby Atmos support, providing clear sound for presentations and collaborative sessions.
Connectivity and Features
The ROG Strix G18 offers a comprehensive selection of ports, including Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, and multiple USB ports, facilitating easy connection to peripherals and external displays. The inclusion of ASUS’s Armoury Crate software allows for performance optimization and customization of RGB lighting, enhancing productivity in architectural applications.
Considerations
While the ASUS ROG Strix G18 offers top-tier performance and display quality, its hefty weight and short battery life may be drawbacks for users requiring mobility. However, for professionals prioritizing performance and display quality, it represents a compelling option.
Conclusion: Which Laptop Is Right for You?
With so many high-spec machines on offer, the best laptop for you really depends on where you are in your architectural journey. Whether you’re balancing deadlines and rendering times, or lectures and limited budgets, we’ve got two clear recommendations:
Best Budget Pick: MSI Cyborg 15 AI
For architecture students or junior professionals looking to get serious without breaking the bank, the MSI Cyborg 15 AI is a smart choice. It pairs a capable RTX 4060 GPU with Intel’s Core Ultra 7 processor, enough to handle SketchUp, Revit, and even light rendering work. Its price point keeps it accessible, and while it has a few trade-offs in display and build, it punches well above its weight for the cost.
Best All-Out Performance: Razer Blade 16
If budget isn’t a barrier and you’re after raw power in a sleek, mobile form, the Razer Blade 16 (2025) is as good as it gets. With a stunning QHD+ OLED 240Hz display, Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, and RTX 5090 GPU, this machine is a dream for archviz artists, BIM managers, or project-running architects dealing with complex, real-time workflows. It’s an investment—but one that’s future-proof, portable, and ultra-capable.
Whether you’re just starting out or leading complex design teams, your laptop should be more than just fast—it should fit your workflow. Choose based on your real needs, and you’ll thank yourself at every deadline.
