Laptop Recommendations for Architecture and Interior Architecture Students
Students entering the Master of Architecture or Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture programs will need to have a PC (Windows-enabled) laptop for compatibility with architectural software packages used in various required courses.
At a minimum, the laptop should have:
Intel i7 or i9 (12th gen or later) or equivalent AMD Ryzen CPU.
Important! SnapDragon or other ARM-based processors are not compatible with many software titles.
- 32 GB of system RAM
- 1 TB M.2 SSD drive
- NVidia RTX 4050, RTX A1000 or better graphics card with 4GB video memory.
We do not recommend laptops with the built-in Intel/AMD GPU as the only GPU. Rendering software and CAD applications run much faster on the additional dedicated GPU (NVidia or AMD). For screen size, we recommend a 15" screen or larger for good viewing area, battery life and portability.
Despite their sometimes unrefined aesthetics, so-called gaming laptops are usually great values for the technology included. They usually feature large screens and high-end GPUs, but many times come up short in memory and storage space. Occasionally manufacturers offer customization of their models that allow purchasers to tailor the laptop to the specific needs of Architecture and Interior Architecture students, and are worth checking out. Some current gaming laptops that fit the requirements for the school requirements:
The following software packages may be needed. NOTE: This is not meant to be a complete list of software you will need. Always check with your studio professors before making major software purchases. MS office, Adobe Creative Cloud and AutoDesk products are free for students.
- MS Office (provided to students - do not Purchase)
- Adobe Creative Cloud (CC is provided to students - do not purchase)
- Autodesk Revit (Free sign-up and downloads for students at AutoDesk Education.
- Rhinoceros (Rhino 3D) from Rhinoceros Online Store. You should be purchasing the Rhino 8 Educational version for $195.00 (one-time purcase). You will need to create a free Rhino Account to access this page.
- SketchUp Studio for Students - Best option is the $55/year student subscription from Creation Engine.
The School of Architecture & Design also has several computer labs available to students. The PC lab computers have all of the software programs required already installed and available to students 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.