Getting a laptop for mechanical engineering? Here's what to look for.

Hi People!
I am about to start a Mechanical Engineering degree this September so I'm considering buying a new laptop. I did a tonne of research on what properties I should really be looking for in a device and here's the gist of it (in case it's useful to anyone).
**Bear in mind I am NOT yet at uni nor an expert, this is only a summary of what's already on the internet. I'd appreciate any corrections/extra info from current engineering students in the comments!
🎓 Core properties for a Mechanical Engineering laptop
1️⃣ Processor (CPU)
This is the *brain of the laptop* and affects simulations, CAD, and programming. Engineering programs like CAD and simulation tools rely heavily on CPU performance for calculations and rendering.
✔ Look for:
Intel Core i7 / Core Ultra 7
AMD Ryzen 7
Minimum acceptable:
*Intel i5 / Ryzen 5
2️⃣ RAM (Memory)
This determines how many heavy programs you can run simultaneously. Engineering students often run multiple apps (CAD + coding + browser + PDFs), so RAM fills up quickly.
✔ Ideal: **16GB minimum**
✔ Best for longevity: **32GB**
3️⃣ Graphics Card (GPU)
This matters for *3D modelling and CAD*. 3D modelling and rendering workloads benefit a lot from GPU acceleration.
✔ Best: Dedicated GPU
Examples:
NVIDIA RTX 3050 / 4050 / 4060
Minimum:
modern integrated graphics (but less ideal)
4️⃣ Storage (SSD)
This affects *speed and space for software/projects*. Engineering software and project files can take a lot of space.
✔ Minimum: 512GB SSD
✔ Better long-term: 1TB SSD
5️⃣ Operating System
**Very important**
✔ Windows 10 / Windows 11
Many engineering programs (like SolidWorks and Mathcad) are built primarily for Windows - lots of these programmes are NOT accessible on MAC.
6️⃣ Screen size & quality
This affects how comfortable CAD work is.
Bigger screens help when working with detailed designs and drawings.
✔ Ideal: 14–15.6 inch display
✔ Resolution: 1920×1080 (Full HD) or higher
7️⃣ Battery life
For lectures and campus life.
You’ll be carrying it between lectures and labs. ([Propel RC][1])
✔ Aim for 6–8 hours real-world battery life minimum
8️⃣ Build quality
This decides if it survives 4+ years.
Engineering departments even warn laptops under recommended specs may need replacing within a few years.
Look for:
metal chassis
strong hinges (important for 2-in-1)
good cooling
9️⃣ Ports & connectivity
Often overlooked but important.
Engineering laptops should support external monitors and peripherals - you'll need that for presentations.
You should have:
USB-A or USB-C
HDMI
Wi-Fi 6
Bluetooth
🔟 Optional but very useful for students
These aren’t required but can make uni life easier:
✔ Touchscreen + stylus (great for notes and equations)
✔ Lightweight (<2 kg) for carrying
✔ Upgradeable RAM/SSD for future upgrades
✔ Good keyboard for coding and reports