You cannot run GIS (Geographic Information System) software on just a generic laptop. You need a powerful machine with advanced features and specifications to handle the capacity of this software.
GIS professionals perform a wide array of tasks. These include mapping and developing geographical statistics, spatial analytics, remote and imagery sensing, processing, and data collection. You need a powerful machine to make your work seamless and more enjoyable.
Below are the top choices you can consider.
- Apple 2021 MacBook Pro– Editor’s Choice
- Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop– Best Value
- Acer Swift X SFX14-41G-R1S6– Best Budget
Best Laptop For GIS Evaluation- Top Picks
Apple 2021 MacBook Pro
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Screen Size: 16.2 Inches
- Processor: Apple M1 Pro
- Graphics: Apple 16-core GPU
MacBook Pro’s M series chips have 10 cores (2 efficiency and 8 performance cores) which is more impressive than what you would get in some high-end CPUs. The chip provides excellent performance and battery, so you can run GIS software effortlessly.
With double the performance speed, you can go through workflows exceptionally fast. The graphics are also quite impressive since the laptop is fitted with the Apple 16-core GPU, which makes it ideal for intense machine-learning tasks.
Furthermore, the 16 GB of RAM in the 2021 MacBook Pro is sufficient even for heavy-duty users, and you can even upgrade the RAM to 32 GB if necessary. It is also equipped with 512 GB SSD, but you can also choose 1TB.
This laptop has a long battery life, and it can last up to 21 hours on a full charge.
Pros
- Impressive performance
- It has 3 thunderbolt ports and an HDMI port
- The keyboard has a Touch ID and Touch Bar
- Robust safety features
Cons
- It lacks an OLED display
Acer Predator Helios 300 Gaming Laptop
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 256 GB SSD
- Screen Size: 15.6 Inches
- Processor: Intel Core i7
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060-6GB
Acer has an impressive reputation for building high-quality, powerful laptops, and the Helios 300 is a testament to it. For instance, the Intel Core i7-7700HQ quad-core processor is credited for its impressive processing power.
It is also packed with a 256 GB SSD of storage space, 16 GB of RAM, and GeForce GTX 1060 graphics. Therefore, it can handle your GIS tasks, running multiple programs, multitasking, and gaming. You can expand the storage space if need be, so do not worry about running out of storage. This laptop’s RAM is also upgradable to 32 GB.
Moreover, this gaming laptop is fitted with a 15.6-inch IPS Full HD display that delivers stunning graphics and beautiful visuals. Furthermore, its 144 refresh rate guarantees smooth action free of stuttering or lag.
This laptop’s battery lasts up to 7 hours.
Pros
- Durable and solid construction
- Backlit keyboard
- Multiple connectivity ports
- Brilliant performance
Cons
- It is a bulky laptop- 6 pounds
Acer Swift X SFX14-41G-R1S6
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512 GB SSD
- Screen Size: 14 Inches
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 5800U
- Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti GPU
While the Intel Core processor is a first choice for GIS, AMD Ryzen can also run ArcGIS efficiently. The Acer Swift X AMD Ryzen 7 5800U, with a 3.2 GHz base clock speed and 8-core design, is thus ideal for performing intensive tasks, including GIS processes. In addition, the NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti GPU is excellent for graphic-intensive applications.
You can also run multiple apps simultaneously due to 16 GB of RAM. The LPDDR4 RAM is among the fastest laptop RAM and is excellent for intensive tasks like gaming. Additionally, 512 GB PCle NVMe SSD of storage is sufficient for most people.
The 1920 x 1080 screen resolution is also perfect for GIS software. Also, you will not struggle to see the screen regardless of the lighting conditions because of the 300-nit brightness. However, it could use a more contrasting keyboard.
Pros
- Excellent performance
- Good battery life
- Backlit keyboard
- Multiple ports
Cons
- The gray keyboard with a white backlight can be hard to read in some lighting conditions.
LG Gram 17Z90N-Laptop
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Screen Size: 17 Inches
- Processor: Intel Core i7-1065G7
- Graphics: Intel Iris Plus
Conduct your GIS projects efficiently using this impressive laptop with a 10th Gen Intel core i7-1065G7 processor. This processor is excellent at editing high-resolution videos and photos, heavy gaming, and generating 4K content. Save your GIS files and other data on the sizeable 1 TB M.2 NVMe SSD of storage.
You can have your LG-Gram 17Z90N running for up to 17 hours without running out of charge. Furthermore, you will not struggle to carry it since it is slim and weighs below 3 pounds. Also, the top-notch keyboard is comfortable and easy to use.
While the 16 GB of RAM is great, this is average, considering the other impressive features of this laptop.
Pros
- Good performance
- Long battery life
- Awesome visuals
- Extensive connectivity
Cons
- Average speakers
Buyer’s Guide for The Best Laptop For GIS
Consider the following during your selection
1. CPU
Go for at least an Intel Core i5 or i7 processor. Alternatively, AMD Ryzen 7 or 5 is acceptable.
2. GPU
A powerful GPU is needed to handle GIS software demands. The options to consider are GeForce GTX 1050, GTX 2060, GTX 1050 Ti, GTX 1650, and AMD Radeon RX 580.
3. Storage
You need a minimum of 256 GB SSD on your GIS laptop.
4. RAM
At least 8GB of RAM will suffice, but you can go for more.
5. Display
You are better off with a large screen with a high resolution.
Final Remarks
The most important aspects to consider when choosing a GIS laptop are the processor, RAM, GPU, and storage. Ensure you get the very best specifications to make running the GIS software seamless. Balance portability and performance during your selection.