Best Laptops for Blender: Top Picks in 2023‍

The best laptops for Blender are:

1. MSI Stealth 17 Studio 17.3" QHD 240Hz Gaming Laptop
2. Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro chip
3. Alienware m15 R7 Gaming Laptop
4. Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop
5. ASUS ROG Zephyrus 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop
6. Lenovo Legion 5 Gaming Laptop
7. Dell G15 5520 Gaming Laptop
8. Acer Predator Helios 300
9. IST Computers GIGABYTE AORUS 5 SE4 Gaming Laptop
10. MSI Creator 17 Professional Laptop

As someone who loves working with 3D design and animation software, I know how important it is to have the right laptop for Blender. Blender is a powerful, open-source program that allows you to create stunning 3D artwork and animations, but it can also be resource-intensive. That's why it's essential to have a laptop that can handle the demands of this versatile software.

Laptops come in all shapes and sizes, but not all of them are suitable for running a progmo like Blender. You'll need a device with a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card that can handle rendering complex scenes and animations. All of this packed into a portable and reliable machine that lets you work from anywhere - whether it's a coffee shop, your living room, or on the go.

When looking for the best laptop for Blender, you should consider factors like the performance of the CPU and GPU, the amount of RAM, storage capacity, and the build quality of the laptop. These features will determine how efficiently you can work and how fast you can render your projects, which is vital for any digital artist or animator.

I've searched high and low for the best laptops for Blender and spent extensive time comparing specs, reading reviews, and evaluating the pros and cons. So, let's dive into the details and find the perfect laptop to bring your 3D creations to life!

Best Laptops for Blender

I've put together a fantastic list of the best laptops for Blender users. Check them out below to find the perfect device for all your 3D modeling, animation, and rendering needs!

MSI Stealth 17 Studio 17.3" QHD 240Hz Gaming Laptop

I highly recommend this laptop for top-notch gaming and content creation with its powerful specs and sleek design.

Pros

• Impressive performance with 13th Gen Intel Core i9 and RTX 4080

• 17.3" QHD 240Hz display for stunning visuals

• High-speed Thunderbolt 4 and DDR5-4000 memory

Cons

• Expensive for those on a budget

• Heavy at 11.28 pounds

• Windows 11 Home may require an upgrade for business use

Buy MSI Stealth 17 Studio 17.3" QHD 240Hz Gaming Laptop on Amazon

The MSI Stealth 17 Studio is a powerhouse in the gaming laptop market. With its 13th Gen Intel Core i9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 GPU, I can confidently say that this laptop provides a seamless gaming experience, handling even the most demanding titles effortlessly. The Cooler Boost Trinity+ technology ensures that it stays cool even during extended gaming sessions.

The display is something to be admired as well. The 17.3" QHD 240Hz screen delivers vivid colors and sharp details, making it perfect for enjoying games and editing multimedia projects. Its 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage makes it ideal for graphic designers and video editors too.

One downside to the MSI Stealth 17 Studio is its weight. At 11.28 pounds, it's not the most portable laptop in the world, which could be a factor for some users. However, given all the powerful components packed inside, it's understandable why it weighs this much. Additionally, the laptop comes with Windows 11 Home pre-installed, which is great for everyday use, but those who need it for business purposes might consider upgrading to Windows 11 Pro.

In summary, the MSI Stealth 17 Studio is an exceptional gaming laptop that delivers on its promise of outstanding performance and beautiful visuals. While it may be pricey and heavy, the investment is definitely worth it for those who are willing to pay for top-of-the-line performance and features. To keep your work safe, also check out this list of the best secure laptops.

Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro chip

The Apple MacBook Pro is the perfect choice for Blender enthusiasts due to its powerful performance and stunning display.

Pros

• Exceptional performance with M2 Pro chip

• Impressive 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display

• Good battery life and compatibility with other Apple devices

Cons

• Expensive as compared to other laptops in the market

• Limited customization options with respect to hardware

• Heavier than MacBook Air for users preferring lighter devices

Buy Apple 2023 MacBook Pro Laptop M2 Pro chip on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro, equipped with the M2 Pro chip, and I must say, it's the best laptop I've used so far when it comes to running Blender. The M2 Pro chip with 10-core CPU and 16-core GPU ensures a smooth and lag-free experience while working on my 3D modeling and animation projects.

The 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is an absolute delight for the eyes, making every detail in my Blender projects visible and vibrant. This is especially helpful when I'm working on the go, as the MacBook Pro's display adapts well to different lighting conditions.

Running Blender on battery power is no issue with this MacBook Pro, thanks to its power-efficient design, allowing up to 18 hours of the best battery life. This means I can work on my projects without worrying about finding a power outlet. Also, seamless integration with other Apple devices such as my iPhone and iPad makes it easy to share files and work across devices.

However, the MacBook Pro's price tag might be a bit steep for some users, especially when there are other more affordable alternatives in the market. Besides, if you wish to upgrade your hardware, Apple offers limited customization options.

Lastly, while the MacBook Pro is undoubtedly a powerful and sleek device, it's heavier than the MacBook Air, which is something to consider if portability is a top priority for you. That said, as someone who uses Blender frequently, I can confidently say the Apple 2023 MacBook Pro laptop with the M2 Pro chip is well worth the investment.

Alienware m15 R7 Gaming Laptop

The Alienware m15 R7 is a powerful laptop for Blender users seeking top-notch performance and visuals in their work and play.

Pros

• Outstanding performance with Ryzen 9 6900HX and RTX 3070Ti

• QHD 240Hz display provides stunning graphics quality

• Efficient cooling system prevents overheating

Cons

• Pricey for those on a budget

• Slightly heavier than other 15.6" laptops

• Fans can get loud during intensive tasks

Buy Alienware m15 R7 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

The Alienware m15 R7 grabbed my attention with its sleek design and customizable RGB lighting, giving it a unique look that matched its powerful performance. As a Blender user, I was impressed by the smooth and responsive experience provided by the AMD Ryzen 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070Ti graphics card.

While working on complex 3D models, I enjoyed the exceptional visuals on the 15.6" QHD display with its 240Hz refresh rate. Colors were vibrant, and images were crisp, making my work feel even more immersive. The Dolby Vision support just added to the overall impressive visual experience.

One concern I initially had was the laptop heating up during long hours of work or gaming sessions, but the Alienware Cryo-tech cooling system proved efficient in dissipating heat and maintaining stability. Although the fans can get loud at times, it's a reasonable trade-off for keeping the device cool.

The Alienware m15 R7 might be a bit hefty and costly for some users, but for those who demand top-tier performance and sharp visuals, it's a worthwhile investment. Overall, the Alienware m15 R7 is an excellent choice for Blender enthusiasts who want a powerful laptop for both work and play.

Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop

A perfect choice for gamers and creatives alike, this laptop offers top-notch performance in a sleek design.

Pros

• Stunning visuals with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series Graphics

• High performance with AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX processor

• Fast gaming experience and clear display with 165Hz QHD

Cons

• Gets hot under heavy workloads

• Pricey for some users

• Limited built-in storage (1TB SSD storage)

Buy Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

As a frequent traveler, I needed a laptop that could handle both my work and gaming needs, and the Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop has delivered. The powerful AMD Ryzen 9 processor ensures that any task I throw at it is handled with ease. I can easily have multiple applications running without experiencing any lag or decrease in performance.

When it comes to gaming, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 30 Series Graphics brings a new level of visual excellence to my favorite titles. Combined with the 165Hz QHD display, the images are crisp, clear, and smooth, making it an immersive experience. The customizable RGB individual key lighting adds an extra layer of personalization that I find enjoyable.

However, that power comes with its drawbacks. During intense gaming sessions or heavy multitasking, the laptop can get quite hot. Although the included Vapor Chamber Cooling system works well to dissipate the heat, it's not always enough to keep the laptop comfortable to use. Additionally, while the 1TB SSD is sufficient for most needs, it might be limited for those who require more storage space.

Despite these minor drawbacks, I've found the Razer Blade 14 Gaming Laptop to be a reliable and powerful device that meets all my needs, from work to play. Its high performance, stunning visuals, and sleek design make it a great choice for anyone in need of a premium laptop.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop

I highly recommend this laptop for anyone seeking a high-performance powerhouse, ideal for Blender and gaming.

Pros

• Excellent performance with AMD Ryzen 9 and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070

• Impressive QHD display with great color accuracy

• Solid build quality and premium design

Cons

• Loud fans can be distracting at times

• Some users experienced issues with fingerprint recognition

• Lacks a built-in webcam

Buy ASUS ROG Zephyrus 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop on Amazon

I recently had the pleasure of using the ASUS ROG Zephyrus 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop, and it impressed me right out of the box. With its high-quality built and compact design, this laptop felt durable and sturdy. The 16GB DDR4 memory and AMD Ryzen 9 processor, combined with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070, handled Blender projects and gaming sessions with ease.

The 15.6" QHD display is another highlight of this laptop. Its screen has excellent color accuracy, and the 2560x1440 resolution provided crisp, detailed visuals. Working on Blender models was a pleasure with this screen, and gaming experiences were immersive.

While the performance of this laptop is mostly fantastic, I noticed that during heavy usage, the fans could get quite loud. This didn't bother me too much, but it could be distracting for some users, especially during long sessions. Also, the fingerprint recognition didn't always work smoothly, requiring multiple attempts occasionally.

A minor drawback for some users might be the absence of a built-in webcam. This wasn't an issue for me personally, but if you rely on video calls frequently, you'll need an external webcam to overcome this limitation.

In conclusion, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus 15.6" QHD Gaming Laptop is an excellent choice for those who need a powerful machine for Blender and gaming. With great performance, a fantastic display, and solid build quality, it delivers an impressive experience. Just keep in mind the loud fans, fingerprint recognition quirks, and the lack of a built-in webcam.

Lenovo Legion 5 Gaming Laptop

In my opinion, the Lenovo Legion 5 is a standout choice for those who need a powerful laptop for using Blender, thanks to its robust performance and impressive display.

Pros

• High-quality 15.6" 165Hz WQHD display

• Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 6800H processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU

Cons

• Can run hot during intense work

• Below-average battery life

• Trackpad could be finicky for some users

Buy Lenovo Legion 5 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the Lenovo Legion 5 Gaming Laptop and was amazed by its capabilities, especially when using Blender. The 15.6" WQHD display with a 165Hz refresh rate was a real treat to work with, as it offered sharp visuals and smooth animations. Moreover, the color accuracy on this screen made it easy to fine-tune my Blender creations.

Under the hood, the laptop is powered by an AMD Ryzen 7 6800H processor, which effortlessly handled complex Blender tasks without any hiccups. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU played a vital role in providing excellent graphics performance, allowing me to work with detailed 3D models and lighting effects seamlessly.

However, I did notice that during long hours of intense work in Blender, the laptop had the potential to get quite hot. While this didn't hinder my work too significantly, it's something to consider if you plan on using the laptop for extended periods. Also, the battery life wasn't particularly impressive, but I rarely use the laptop away from a power source, so it wasn't a deal-breaker for me.

In conclusion, the Lenovo Legion 5 Gaming Laptop has proven to be a powerful and reliable option for Blender enthusiasts. Its top-notch display, strong processing power, and advanced graphics make it a fantastic choice for those looking to create stunning 3D models and animations. Despite its few drawbacks, I believe its advantages outweigh the cons, and I highly recommend it for Blender users.

Dell G15 5520 Gaming Laptop

I definitely recommend the Dell G15 5520 for those who need a powerful laptop for Blender, as it offers a fantastic performance and graphics experience.

Pros

• Powerful i7 processor for smooth multitasking and fast performance

• Impressive NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GDDR6 graphics for stunning visuals

• Improved thermal design with copper piping and 4 heat-dispersing vents

Cons

• Slightly bulky charger

• Price can fluctuate on the Amazon store

• Keyboard lighting customization may not suit everyone's preferences

Buy Dell G15 5520 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

When I first used the Dell G15 5520, I was stunned by its performance capabilities. The Intel Core i7-12700H processor packs a punch, allowing me to work effortlessly on Blender while also having several other applications open in the background. I never experienced frustrating lag times or slowdowns.

The graphics quality on this laptop is undoubtedly one of its key selling points. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 6GB GDDR6 graphics card brought my Blender projects to life with vivid colors and incredible detail. This made my work not only more enjoyable but also a lot more efficient, as I could make adjustments to my models much more accurately.

One thing I appreciated about the Dell G15 5520 was its improved thermal design. The copper piping and 4 heat-dispersing vents helped the laptop stay relatively cool, even during long periods of heavy workload. This is vital for maintaining the laptop's longevity and achieving optimal performance over time.

However, some potential drawbacks I noticed were the rather large charger and the price fluctuations on the Amazon store. The charger might not be very travel-friendly for some users. As for the price, it's worthwhile to monitor the listings and grab a good deal when it becomes available. Lastly, while I personally enjoy the keyboard lighting customization, it might not be everyone's cup of tea.

In conclusion, the Dell G15 5520 is a fantastic gaming laptop that, in my experience, performs exceptionally well for Blender. If you can overlook minor cons like the bulky charger and occasional price fluctuations, it's a worthy investment for any Blender user.

Acer Predator Helios 300

Look no further if you're on the hunt for a powerful, sleek, and versatile laptop that's perfect for Blender users like me.

Pros

• Impressive performance with 11th Gen Intel Core i7 and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060

• Smooth visuals on a 15.6" Full HD 144Hz IPS-Level display

• Quality gaming experience with VR Ready capabilities

Cons

• On the heavier side at 5.08 pounds

• Re-sealed for memory and SSD upgrades

• Limited warranty coverage on upgraded parts

Buy Acer Predator Helios 300 on Amazon

The moment I laid my eyes on the Acer Predator Helios 300, I could see that it was a beautiful and well-constructed laptop. Its powerful specs, including the 11th Gen Intel Core i7-11800H processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, make it highly capable of handling Blender with ease. Plus, the 32GB DDR4 RAM ensures a smoother multitasking experience, perfect for heavy-duty work in Blender.

One of the standout features I appreciate is the 15.6" Full HD 144Hz IPS-Level display, which makes 3D modeling, animation, or rendering in Blender look stunning, with smoother transitions and vibrant colors. And when I'm not working, the Acer Predator Helios 300 easily transitions to a gaming laptop, allowing me to enjoy my favorite games at max settings without a hitch.

However, it's important to mention the weight of this laptop - at 5.08 pounds, it might not be the best option if you're often on the go. Additionally, the memory and SSD have been upgraded by Issaquah Highlands Tech, resulting in a re-sealed laptop and separate warranty terms on the upgraded components.

Overall, the Acer Predator Helios 300 is an excellent choice for Blender users seeking a powerful and flexible laptop. Despite a few minor drawbacks, its performance and features justify the investment.

IST Computers GIGABYTE AORUS 5 SE4 Gaming Laptop

As a gaming enthusiast, I highly recommend the IST Computers GIGABYTE AORUS 5 SE4 for those looking for an impressive gaming experience with Blender capabilities.

Pros

• Powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and dedicated NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card

• 240Hz refresh rate for smooth gameplay

• Thin bezel and backlit keyboard for sleek design

Cons

• Slightly loud cooling system during intensive gaming sessions

• Large 99Wh Li Polymer battery can make it bulkier than other gaming laptops

• Pre-loaded Windows 11 Home may not be everyone's OS preference

Buy IST Computers GIGABYTE AORUS 5 SE4 Gaming Laptop on Amazon

When I started using the IST Computers GIGABYTE AORUS 5 SE4 gaming laptop, I was immediately impressed by its sleek design, featuring a thin bezel and RGB backlit keyboard. The 15.6" Full HD display, with its 240Hz refresh rate, provided ultra-smooth gameplay as I delved into my favorite AAA games like The Witcher 3 and APEX Legends. It works amazingly with an external monitor, too.

The powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i7 processor combined with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 dedicated graphics card made multitasking a breeze as I juggled between gaming and working with Blender for 3D modeling and animation. Additionally, the upgraded 32GB DDR4 RAM and 1TB PCIe SSD ensured I didn't face any lagging or stuttering during the most intensive gaming sessions.

However, I did notice that the cooling system could get a bit loud during demanding gaming sessions, though the WINDFORCE Infinity all-copper cooling technology helps keep the laptop's temperature in check. On the bulkier side, the large 99Wh Li Polymer battery can make the laptop less portable compared to some contemporary gaming laptops.

Finally, while I don't mind using Windows 11 Home as my primary operating system, some users might prefer another OS for their gaming and Blender needs.

In conclusion, the IST Computers GIGABYTE AORUS 5 SE4 is a reliable, powerful, and stylish gaming laptop that doesn't disappoint for those using Blender. Just be prepared to handle a slightly noisy cooling system and a bulkier battery!

MSI Creator 17 Professional Laptop

I believe the MSI Creator 17 is a solid pick for creatives in need of a powerful laptop for Blender, though there are some drawbacks worth considering.

Pros

• Vibrant and responsive 17.3" UHD 120Hz display

• High performance with 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU for graphic-intensive tasks

Cons

• Noticeably heats up during use

• Outdated drivers reported by some users

• Shorter battery life especially during gaming

Buy MSI Creator 17 Professional Laptop on Amazon

I recently got my hands on the MSI Creator 17, and I must admit that it has a lot going for it, particularly for Blender users like myself. Because of its large 17.3" UHD display and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, I could work on my projects with incredibly vibrant colors and flawless rendering.

The 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor with 8 cores at a 4.9 GHz boost, alongside the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, made working on Blender a breeze. Even the most demanding creative tasks felt smoother and more efficient than ever before.

While the MSI Creator 17 excels in performance, I found it lacking in a few areas. The first thing I noticed was how hot the laptop got during use, especially during extended periods. Despite its Cooler Boost Technology which includes three fans for increased airflow, the laptop still had temperature issues. In addition, the battery drained quite fast when gaming, so I had to keep it plugged in more often than expected.

Overall, the MSI Creator 17 laptop is an impressive option for Blender users who prioritize performance, though some might find the heat issue and shorter battery life to be significant drawbacks. That being said, its strengths might still outweigh these concerns for those who need a powerful machine to tackle their creative projects.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best laptop for Blender, there are a few factors I consider to ensure it meets my needs. Let me share these factors with you to help make your decision-making process smoother.

Processor

First and foremost, the laptop's processor plays a significant role in handling Blender tasks. I pay attention to the number of cores and the clock speed—I'd typically go for a laptop with at least 4 cores and above 3 GHz clock speed to have a smooth experience while working on complex Blender projects.

Graphics Card

As someone who uses Blender, having a dedicated graphics card is a must. A good GPU accelerates rendering and enables me to work on detailed models without any hiccups. I personally look for NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon GPUs, and I make sure they have at least 4 GB of VRAM for a more enjoyable work process.

RAM and Storage

Another thing I'm particular about is the RAM size. A minimum of 16 GB RAM will allow me to work on multiple projects simultaneously without slowing down my system. As for storage, I prefer having a solid-state drive (SSD) instead of a hard disk drive (HDD) because SSDs are faster and more reliable.

Display Quality

Since I spend a lot of time working with textures, colors, and details in Blender, having a good quality display is essential for me. I look for laptops with a high-resolution display (1080p or higher) and an IPS panel for better color accuracy and wider viewing angles.

Portability

Finally, if portability is a priority for me, I make sure the laptop is lightweight and has a decent to long battery life. This makes it easier for me to work on Blender projects during travels or when I'm away from a power source.

I hope these factors will help you choose the best laptop for your Blender workflow. Remember, investing in the right hardware will make your Blender experience more satisfying and productive. Good luck!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top laptop requirements for using Blender?

In my experience, a good laptop for Blender should have at least an Intel Core i5 processor or equivalent, 8GB of RAM, and a dedicated graphics card with at least 2GB of VRAM. For better performance, consider upgrading to 16GB of RAM and a more powerful graphics card like the NVIDIA GTX or RTX series. Of course, how much RAM you need depends on your use case.

Which laptops work best with Unity and Blender?

Some laptops that I'd recommend for Unity and Blender are the Acer Predator Helios 300, ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14, and MSI GS65 Stealth Thin. These laptops come with powerful processors, dedicated graphics cards, and a good amount of RAM, which helps in handling complex projects and rendering.

What's the recommended CPU for Blender in 2023?

As of 2023, I'd recommend at least an Intel Core i7 or equivalent processor for Blender. CPUs in the AMD Ryzen series, like the Ryzen 7, can also deliver excellent performance. These processors provide enough power for smooth multitasking, video editing,, and rendering tasks in Blender.

Any great 2-in-1 laptops for Blender?

When it comes to 2-in-1 laptops, I found that the Microsoft Surface Book 3, HP Spectre x360, and Lenovo Yoga 9i can handle Blender pretty well. While they might not be as powerful as dedicated gaming laptops, their versatility, portability, and touchscreen capabilities more than make up for it.

Can Blender run on a low-end laptop?

While it's possible to run Blender on a low-end laptop, you might experience lag, longer rendering times, and difficulty working on complex scenes. I'd recommend opting for a laptop with better specs if you plan to work extensively with Blender, as a smoother experience can save you time and reduce frustration.

Is a Mac suitable for working with Blender?

Yes, a Mac can be suitable for working with Blender, particularly models with dedicated AMD Radeon graphics cards, like the MacBook Pro. However, be aware that some Blender features might perform differently or have limited functionality on macOS compared to Windows. Additionally, Macs can be pricier, so compare options carefully to ensure you get the best value for your needs.