I have an eight-year-old laptop that needs replacing and I’m paralyzed. What are the most reliable ones now? Do I need a desktop for CAD? Pros and cons of operating systems (and where do I find them?) Browsers ditto? Where do I find answers that aren’t just product marketing?

  • @[email protected]
    8•10 months ago

    Lots of great recommendations here. I’ll add some things:

    1. Windows will be a great choice for something you are familiar with, but the current iterations are definitely heading in the direction of being advertising-filled messes. So it’s not a bad idea to look at alternatives.
    2. Apple should be a good choice for a “just works” system without a lot of junk in it. But if you’re new to it there will be a learning curve. Software options are also more limited. AutoCAD looks to be your only major commercial CAD option there.
    3. If you want to explore Linux, try a live usb stick and see what you think. It will feel very different and there will be a larger learning curve, but a liveUSB should be a risk free and relatively easy way to try it out and see if you love the difference or hate the change. If you still are interested at that point consider dual-booting or repurposing an older system for something to tinker with.
    4. CAD in particular might be a sticking point. Windows will give you the most options. You didn’t mention whether you’re tied to a specific system as is common for a profession / livelihood or whether you’re open to options. If you’re able to look at alternatives— AutoCAD is on Mac and Windows, SolidWorks is on windows only. QCAD is a smaller option for 2D CAD on all three platforms and I’ve been happy with it for everything I’ve tried to do.
    • @[email protected]OP
      5•10 months ago

      Thank you for your input! I’m hoping to do some 3D work, but I have the same view as you of Windows’ future. I will have to determine what I can live with: ads in the OS or 2D CAD.