<p>I'm looking for a laptop to take to university. It'll need to run programs like AutoCAD well, and I was hoping to do some light gaming on it.</p>
<p>A decently powerful but reasonably priced computer will probably do the trick. AutoCAD does have a mac version, but there is some engineering software (SolidWorks, for example), that only runs on Windows. If you are already into Macs, you could go ahead and get a Mac, but you might have to dual boot with Windows or run a virtual machine for a few programs in the future. Macs are going to be more expensive for the specs, though.</p>
<p>For graphics, as long as you are not looking to do anything too intense for gaming, even a decent integrated graphics card should do the trick (i.e., Intel HD >4000). If you are looking for a straight consumer-grade laptop, Asus has a good reputation, as well as some of Lenovo’s lower end laptops, but try checking out a website like Newegg to see what is out there with good reviews. If you want something more durable and business grade, though, go with a Thinkpad, probably T series.</p>
<p>Another note - if you plan on using it to take notes in class, get something with pretty good battery life. (Anything with the new 4th gen Intil processors should probably be quite good.) I would also aim for something relatively small. I don’t mean ultrabook, necessarily (which tends to not be the best bang for the buck), but not above a 15.6" screen. 14" or smaller would probably be even easier in a large lecture.</p>
<p>When you buy the laptop first check for the features and specifications that you need is there or not… Get the best one…</p>
<p>Dell Precision M3800</p>
<p>Light gaming is by what? Intel 4000/3000 can run simple games at acceptable framerates. Anything more will require a dedicated GPU.</p>
<p>Most Engineering departments list specific requirements for students’ computers. Generally, they require higher specs than a typical laptop, because of the memory and video demands of graphics software such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks. You should probably look toward buying a computer with lots of RAM and the fastest possible video processor. Check on the department web site to see if computer requirements are listed, or call/email the department.</p>