People belonging to different professions need laptops that are customized as per their professional needs. A one-size-fits-all approach is not something that works when buying a laptop to use at a university or workplace. And buying a laptop for studying architecture is no different. You need to get the best laptop for architecture students specially designed to install different designing software and work on various class projects and assignments.
Affordability
During the initial stages of their career, most architects cannot afford expensive equipment with other expenses such as college fees, rent, and conveyance.
Therefore, affordability is one factor that is one of the topmost priorities of architecture students while looking for a laptop to prepare drafts, make calculations, create different layouts, and 3D designs.
Display
If you are in your architecture program’s early semesters, you can easily invest in an entry-level laptop. However, once you start using more advanced software like AutoCAD and Maya, you will need a laptop with a better display and storage space.
It would be best if you made sure that the display isn’t too dull or small. Otherwise, it will cause excessive strain on your eyes. Similarly, a laptop with a high processing speed will save time and help complete your assignments and projects within the due date.
Operating System
When buying a laptop for professional use, the first thing you need to check out on a computer is its operating system. An operating system is the soul of a computer and one such area where you shouldn’t be compromising at all.
There are three main operating systems used in laptops: Chrome OS, Windows, and Mac. Mac and Chrome 0S come with certain restraints and compatibility issues with software and accessories on laptops. Windows, however, is a more versatile and flexible operating system.
Nevertheless, the choice depends solely on the type of software you want to use on your laptop.
Clamshell vs. Convertible
Another thing to consider while buying a new laptop is where and how you are planning to use your new laptop. You might be going to use it at home for completing assignments, or on a college lab desk, in class, or outside while traveling. You need to consider these factors beforehand to make sure you invest in the right type of laptop for your college.
Based on these factors, you can then decide whether you are interested in a traditional or hybrid laptop. Hybrid laptops are detachable laptops designed to be used as a regular laptop and a smart tablet.
These laptops usually come with a touch screen and a stylus, which is great for designers and architects to create layouts and drafts on the go.
Hybrid laptops are usually more expensive than regular laptops, and therefore, you need to invest in one of those only if you are planning to use it outdoors regularly.
Size and Dimensions
The size, shape, and dimensions of a laptop are critical, especially if you are looking for a laptop to carry in your backpack. Even if you plan to use it at home, you need to check the available space on your desk or your travel bag’s size.
Laptops usually come in sizes ranging between 11 to 16 inches. Laptops with bigger screens will be a better choice if you are looking for a laptop to use for longer periods for designing complex drafts.
Smaller laptops are easy to carry but have a smaller display that can negatively affect your eye health if you use it for longer periods without taking breaks.
Input Devices
Another important thing to consider is the input devices and accessories you need in a laptop. As an aspiring architect, you will need accessories like scanners and stylus to create drafts and make copies of your work.
Moreover, you will be doing most of your work with a mouse instead of a keyboard. Therefore, you need to look for a laptop that comes with a responsive touchpad.
If you live in a dorm and spend most of your nights finishing college assignments, you will also need a laptop that comes with a backlit keyboard.
Contrary to the general perception, laptops that come with a backlit keyboard are not meant to be used by gamers only. They are equally popular among digital artists and students who work mostly in the night time.
Similarly, the touchpad should be precise and responsive. It should be able to perform various functions like zooming in and zooming out seamlessly.
Processing Power
Other technical aspects of a laptop, such as its specifications, directly affect the laptop’s performance.
By using a laptop with poor specifications, you won’t deliver consistent performance while preparing assignments and reports due to low-speed and constant lags in the system.
Therefore, you must check the laptops’ processing speed, RAM storage, and graphics support beforehand.
Battery Life
The battery life in entry-level laptops isn’t too long. The battery life can be improved if you avoid using heavy applications or use it at low settings.
However, the best way to get a good battery performance is by investing in a laptop that can last for a minimum of 6-8 hours on a single charge.
New vs. Refurbished
The market is filled with different types of laptops. From entry-level to mid-range laptops, there are laptops available for anyone and everyone.
Laptops can cost you anywhere between $200 to $400. It doesn’t matter if you are going for an older or new laptop model; the price depends on the popularity, features, brand, and specifications of a laptop.
If you are on a restricted budget, you can also go for refurbished models. However, you will need to go through online reviews and recommendations before buying a refurbished laptop, as they usually don’t come with a brand warranty.
In Conclusion
Whether you look for a good quality laptop online or in stores, you are bound to be overwhelmed with various laptop models available for architecture students. You can either go for an entry-level or a mid-level laptop. However, the decision solely depends on the nature of the work you will do with your laptop.
