As an engineering student, you understand how crucial it is to possess a reliable device. Not only does it aid learning, but it also allows you to execute a wide range of applications for your academics. Finding the right laptop for engineering jobs can be a daunting task. Whether you’re an experienced professional or an aspiring engineering student, you will need to select the best one that can handle the complex computations and models required for your kind of engineering.
Getting a gaming laptop for engineering students on a budget often means you get the necessary technical specs for using the applications you need but at a more affordable cost. Finding the ideal laptop for your needs can be difficult with so many options available. This guide contains a compilation of the finest laptops that are suitable for engineering students and professionals. Additionally, we’ve outlined the hardware and software specs that distinguish the best engineering laptops. If you’re on a budget, don’t fret!__we’ve included the best budget laptops for engineering. Shopping for a cheap engineering laptop can be challenging, so keep reading for more tips!
When searching for a laptop, it is essential to assess your needs to determine both an affordable price point as well as a model that can offer the desired performance. It is especially true if the laptop will be used for studying computer science, as it needs to be powerful enough to handle the necessary operations. Specialists and professionals in the engineering sector have selected the best laptops for mechanical, computer, and chemical engineering students on a budget, the list of which can be found here.
Top Picks: Best Laptops for Engineering Students on a Budget
- ASUS VivoBook 15
- Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
- ASUS ZenBook 15
- ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop
- HP Pavilion x360
- ASUS Zenbook 13
ASUS VivoBook 15
Specifications:
- Display: 15.6-inches(1920×1080) display
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- GPU: AMD Radeon Vega 10
- Processor: AMD Quad Core R7-3700U
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Color: Slate Gray
- Weight: 3.53 pounds
The ASUS VivoBook 15 has proven to be one of the most popular series of laptops available. It’s part of ASUS’ mid-range collection and offers a great combination of performance, portability, and stylish design for the perfect choice for any engineering student. The Ryzen 5 3500u is renowned for its reliability and speed, and its 8GB DDR4 RAM should suffice for typical usage; however, the laptop can be upgraded to 16GB if desired.
Further, the CPU’s built-in Radeon Vega 8 graphics will not only be able to manage most of the software a programmer will use but also fulfill the recommended specs for games like League of Legends. It is even possible to play Fortnite on this CPU using medium graphics. Engineering students require a large, high-quality display if they need to multitask, and the VivoBook 15 can deliver just that. It comes with a sleek 15.6-inch Full HD display with a NanoEdge bezel, guaranteeing hours of comfortable use without tiring out the eyes.
The VivoBook from Asus boasts an impressive 512GB SSD, notably more than many other laptops in the same price range. Additionally, it has one of the thinnest profiles (0.7 inches) as well as a light weight of 3.53 pounds, making it very portable and convenient to bring with you wherever you go. Vivobook could be viewed as a great choice for those on a budget who are engineering students since it offers a smooth, trouble-free experience. However, if you frequently play intensive games like PUBg or Witcher III, then this may not be the ideal option for you.
Acer Aspire 5 Slim Laptop
Specifications:
- Display: 15.6-inches(1920×1080) display
- RAM: 128GB DDR4
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3200U
- GPU: AMD Radeon Vega 3
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Color: Silver
- Weight: 3.97 pounds
The Acer Aspire 5, which was initially offered at under $600, boasts great performance, an impressive battery life, and remarkable portability. It is an ideal laptop for computer science, chemical, mechanical, and chemical engineering students who need a dependable device to fit their requirements. The Ryzen 3, with its two cores, is a reliable choice that can manage the software usually utilized by students. The 16GB of RAM it offers is not often seen in this price range, meaning it should be able to operate without issues even when numerous applications are simultaneously running.
The Radeon Vega 3 integrated graphics core provides enough power to handle everyday computing tasks, such as streaming from Netflix or YouTube. However, it may struggle when dealing with more strenuous activities, such as graphically intensive PC gaming. Adding a solid-state drive will ensure fast performance, while the ample 512GB storage capacity enables users to store lots of data without running out of memory quickly.
Furthermore, the laptop features a large, 15.6-inch full-HD 1080p display with IPS (in-plane switching) technology, providing wide viewing angles, which is uncommon at this price. At only 3.97 pounds and 14.3x 9.7x 0.7 inches, the Aspire 5 is highly portable. Furthermore, the keyboard has been improved from previous models and works perfectly. In conclusion, although not the most powerful laptop out there, the Acer Aspire 5 is a great value for its price and can handle most computing software like Python, Java, Octave, etc. With its great display, this laptop is perfect for those who want to watch videos and movies online but don’t need it specifically for gaming.
ASUS ZenBook 15
Specifications:
- Display: 15.6-inches(1920×1080) display
- RAM: 6GB DDR4
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti
- Processor: Intel Core i7-10750H
- Operating System: Windows 10 pro
- Color: Pine Gray
- Weight: 4.41 pounds
The Asus ZenBook 15 is a perfect example of beauty and portability, and it does not disappoint when it comes to performance. Although it may be pricier than some of the other items on the list, it justifies that expense by being able to facilitate Artificial Intelligence, computer graphics, software design, data mining, website building, and programming problems. The Asus ZenBook could be aptly described as a “pocket-size performance beast..” It is equipped with an 8th Gen Intel Core i7 processor that can easily manage any task thrown its way with its 16GB RAM, guaranteeing many years of smooth performance.
Not to mention the rapid 512GB SSD, which is more than capable of managing both your school and personal requirements. The 13-inch screen may be smaller than the 15.6-inch display, but it is an optimum size for engineering students and provides enough room for multitasking. This screen comes with a high resolution, clear display, with a wide viewing angle and vibrant colors, making the visuals look incredible.
Zenbook’s only disadvantage is gaming. You can easily access programs and services like Netflix or web browsing with Intel-integrated graphics. However, it is not the best option for gamers.Playing games such as Overwatch or CS: GO may be possible, however, PUBG could present a challenge. This powerful i7-8565U processor, accompanied by 16GB of SDRAM and a 512GB SSD, is the ideal choice for engineering students who need a system to handle heavy performance usage.If gaming is not the main focus, then this is the most powerful yet costly option.
ASUS TUF Gaming Laptop
Specifications:
- Display: 15.6-inches(1920×1080) display
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 256GB PCIe SSD
- GPU: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 R5-3550H
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Color: Black
- Weight: 4.9 pounds
Considering the fact that a lot of students are into gaming, it would be remiss of us not to include the Asus TUF A15 on the list of the best gaming laptops available. This laptop is particularly attractive due to its versatility and affordability. This model features a specialized Nvidia Geforce GTX 1650 GPU, an impressive Intel Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM (which can be increased if needed), and a 256GB SSD. As a student, you won’t experience any problems with performance when using this particular build, as it can easily deal with any software, internet browsing, and more.
The impressive capability of the Asus TUF laptop compared to other models is that it comes with a powerful dedicated graphics card, making it possible to run any game you choose without difficulty. You will be able to smoothly play even the most demanding games, such as PUBG or Witcher III, on 1080p at the highest settings. This 15.6 FHD display exceeded expectations, and the keyboard continued to perform excellently, even after long usage.
If gaming is more important to you than portability and style, then the Asus TUF A15 should be your top choice from among the listed laptops. Its dedicated GPU and gaming design are apparent by looking at it. However, it is larger (14.2x 10.3x 1) and heavier (4.9 lbs) than other laptops on the list. This laptop is an affordable choice for engineering students who need to stick to a budget.
HP Pavilion x360
Specifications:
- Display: 14-inches(1920×1080) display
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe
- Processor: Core i5-1135G7
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Color: Natural Silver
- Weight: 3.33 pounds
This HP 14-inch might be the best choice for engineering students, as it is the most cost-effective on the list. Although the HP 14, boasting an AMD Athlon 3050U processor, 16GB of RAM, and AMD Radeon graphics, may not be as speedy as other laptops, it is more than enough to cover the requirements of a computer science student. Additionally, certain models have touchscreens, which can be a great asset for those who take notes.
Thanks to the 16GB RAM included, you’ll be able to tackle multiple tasks with ease, while the 256GB SSD is a great bargain and can easily be upgraded to an external hard drive in the near future. The image quality may not be as optimal since the screen is only 720p and not 1080p, but the display is still satisfactory. The 14-inch screen size is quite spacious, while the HP 14 itself has a lightweight design, measuring 12.8x 8.9x 0.8 inches and weighing only 3.24 lbs. Thus, it’s very easy to transport.
If you are a student of computer science who desires a laptop that complies with (and even surpasses in certain areas) the bare necessities required by your college while still keeping the price reasonable, then the HP Pavilion x360 14 is a perfect choice for you. This laptop is the perfect choice for programming and tackling tasks both for office work and school.
ASUS Zenbook 13
Specifications:
- Display: 13.3-inches(1920×1080) display
- RAM: 16GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- GPU: Intel Iris Xe
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Color: Black
- Weight: 2.45 pounds
Are you excited by the luxuriousness and strength of the Asus ZenBook mentioned above but searching for something more cost-friendly? The Asus ZenBook 13 Ultra-Slim could be a fantastic fit for you.Asus has managed to lower the cost, while preserving the same display and design as the pricier version, though there has been a slight reduction in performance. This ZenBook laptop provides efficient performance, featuring an Intel i5 processor with speedy operation, as well as 8GB RAM that can be increased as needed.
The 256GB SSD is quite speedy, which fulfills the need, while you possess the capability to attach an extra drive for more storage in the future. There were no shortcomings regarding the keyboard, something which is not infrequent in laptops that are slim because of the design. Although Intel integrated graphics can handle computing or editing software and tasks like streaming Netflix or web browsing, it is not the best solution for gaming purposes. This is not appropriate for the Intel HD 620.
For anyone looking for a laptop that is not primarily used for gaming, the combination of the crisp, clear, high-resolution screen and the portability of a ZenBook, plus the i5 processor, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD makes it a great selection from this list. If you are an engineering student in search of a laptop that is both lightweight and offers the best performance for your needs, then this laptop is sure to meet all your requirements.
What is the ideal laptop for an engineering student in college?
If you are an engineering student, you will likely require a laptop with increased capabilities than the basic, inexpensive selections that are on the market. But how much power do you need it to have, and what other factors must be taken into account when determining the price? If you are a student of computer science, you will need to get a laptop with a CPU that is at least equivalent to or better than an i7, a good GPU, 512GB storage, and as large a display as possible (ideally 14 inches or bigger). Moreover, it is beneficial to get a laptop with a long battery life and plenty of ports (or a USB-C with an external adapter).
Buying Guide:
When buying laptops for engineering students who are cost-conscious, the following points should be taken into account:
Weight
When considering a laptop, its weight is a crucial point to remember, especially if you’re a student who regularly travels. You don’t want to find yourself with a laptop that will be cumbersome to carry around while you’re out and about.
Operating System
No matter what laptop you choose, make sure it is capable of running the newest versions of Windows, Ubuntu, and MacOS. These operating systems are especially beneficial for engineering laptops as they include powerful loading, processing, and performance optimization capabilities to help you get the best out of your laptop.
GPU Performance
As an engineering student, you will likely be assigned to assemble many design models. It makes it fundamental for you to make sure that your laptop has an effective graphics card. Providing that your laptop is equipped with an NVIDIA or Intel Iris Xe graphics, you should have the capability to accomplish plenty in your design-related undertakings. Fortunately, there are numerous affordable laptops, tailored for engineering students with exceptional graphics performance.
CPU
If you are a student of engineering and looking for a laptop that fits your budget, the best option is a laptop with a Core i9 processor. This processor is known for its quick and reliable performance, which is perfect for running intensive applications. However, you should be aware that laptops that come with core i7 or i5 processors usually come at a much higher price.
RAM and Storage
To ensure that your laptop is powerful enough for multitasking, you’ll need to invest in a model with a sufficient RAM size. It will allow you to run several applications at once without any issues.It is essential to opt for a laptop with a sizable storage space as well. When browsing laptops for engineering students on a budget, look for models with large HDD or SSD.
Screen Size
If you want to efficiently review data and images on your laptop, you should make sure you get a machine that has a screen size of at least 14 inches, with an HD display resolution being the recommended minimum.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is the suggested amount of RAM for an engineering student?
It is preferable for engineering students on a budget to purchase laptops with a minimum of 16 GB RAM, although 8 GB RAM will still suffice.
What is the best processor for engineering students to use?
If you are planning to use CAD applications such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks, then the best processor choice would be the Intel i9. If this is not the case, an Intel i7 processor would still suffice. Alternatively, you may consider an AMD equivalent for either processor.
Are laptop computers designed for gaming also suitable for study?
Yes, gaming laptops are suitable for study. There are plenty of Laptops for engineering students on a budget that are useful for studying and working on school assignments. These machines are well-suited for schoolwork due to their robust hardware that can make light work of tasks such as rendering videos and other school-related tasks that would normally require a lot of power from a thin and light laptop. An added bonus of a gaming laptop is that you can keep more Chrome tabs and a Word document open at the same time, which can be very helpful when you are writing a research paper.
Conclusion
As a student engineer on a tight budget, you’ll require a laptop with enough power to match your needs. Speed is key because possessing a slow device can hinder your academic performance. Many laptops are labeled as “gaming” machines. However, this is only a marketing approach to target gamers. Gaming laptops feature powerful hardware, a great benefit to you as an engineering student. When choosing a laptop, take into account whether you are a student or a professional and select specs accordingly. Additionally, make sure to include the necessary software on your system. Good Luck!