10 Best Laptops For GIS Software In 2024 [ArcGIS 10 & Pro]

A geographic information system, or GIS, is a computer system that allows users to create and analyze maps. Businesses, governments, and individuals use it to help make better decisions regarding location-based data.

If you are in the market for a new laptop and need one capable of running GIS software, then you have come to the right place. This blog post will discuss the 10 best laptops for GIS software.

We will also provide a buyer's guide so that you can find the perfect laptop for your needs. Before we start, let's take a quick look at what makes a good laptop for GIS software.

The 10 Best Laptops for GIS Software In 2024

Alright, it's time to get into the meat of our discussion - The list of 10 best laptops for GIS Software in 2024. This isn't simply a rundown of high-powered machines.

Rather, I've carefully selected these laptops based on t heir ability to effortlessly run GIS software while also offering exceptional overall performance and specs.

Whether you are a professional geographer, urban planner, or simply an enthusiast looking to explore the vast world of GIS technology, there's surely something here for everyone. So let's dive right into it!

1. Dell Inspiron 7420

Screen: 14" 2.2K | CPU: Intel i7-12700H | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | RAM: 16GB DDR5 | Storage: 1TB M.2 CL35 M.2 SSD | Ports: 1 x Audio jack, 1 x Micro SD card reader, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A,1 x Power jack, 1 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C) | Speaker: 2x2w Stereo | Weight: 3.7 pounds

When it comes to GIS software, the Dell Inspiron 7420 has been my trusty sidekick. It's a beast in a compact body, boasting a stunning 14" 2.2K screen that offers crisp visuals for intricate map details.

The Intel i7-12700H CPU is a powerhouse, allowing me to crunch data sets without breaking a sweat, while the Intel Iris Xe graphics maintain smooth rendering of visualizations.

Performance-wise, I can say this machine is a real gem. With 16GB DDR5 RAM, multi-tasking feels like a breeze.

Speaking of speed and storage, the 1TB M.2 CL35 M.2 SSD means I’ve been able to store large spatial databases without fuss and enjoy lightning-fast boot times, too.

I found connectivity quite versatile; an array of ports, including an Audio jack, Micro SD card reader, USB Type-A ports, Power jack, HDMI 2.0, and my personal favorite, Thunderbolt 4 (USB Type-C), covers all my peripheral needs comfortably.

The twin 2W stereo speakers deliver clear sound for times when I'm reviewing tutorials or attending webinars on GIS techniques.

Weighing just 3.7 pounds, this laptop doesn't anchor me to a desk; it's lightweight enough to tote around on field visits or meetings.

The shortcomings are there, such as its slightly plastic feel, which could dampen the premium vibe for some folks (not too much of an issue for me), and that solitary USB-C port positioned where it risks blockage by other connectors (an annoyance but manageable).

All in all, If you need a laptop that gets the job done with GIS tasks without wreaking havoc on your wallet or back (thanks to lightweight design), you might find the Dell Inspiron 7420 to be right up your alley, just like I did.

Our Verdict

After spending considerable time with the Dell Inspiron 7420, I can confidently say that it offers an excellent balance between price and performance for everyday GIS tasks.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Robust multitasking performance
• Large high-speed storage
• Versatile connectivity options
• Lightweight design

CONS

• Plastic feel
• Screen prone to scratches
• Oddly placed USB-C

2. ASUS ZenBook 14X

Screen: 14” 2.8K (2880 x 1800) 16:10 OLED 90Hz | CPU: Intel Core i7-12700H | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: 16GB LPDDR5 | Storage: 1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD | Ports: 1 x HDMI, 2 x USB-C 3.2 Thunderbolt 4, 1 x USB-A 3.2, 1 x USB-A to RJ45 gigabit ethernet adapter, 1 x SD Card Reader, Audio Jack | Speaker: 2 x stereo speakers | Weight: ‎2.87 pounds

After using the ASUS ZenBook 14X for GIS workloads, it has become obvious to me that this device blends performance with portability.

With a 12th Gen Intel i7 processor, the laptop juggles data analysis and spatial modeling without breaking a sweat. While it can run hot under intense computational tasks, it doesn't hinder the overall experience.

The 16GB of RAM is substantial for multitasking whether I'm running Zoom meetings alongside ArcGIS or tackling heavy coding sessions in R. Although it's soldered and non-upgradable, so far, the memory has been more than adequate for my usage demands.

One thing that stood out was its stellar OLED display. Watching hi-res map layers come to life on this screen is something – details are crisp, colors pop, and it offers an extraordinary visual experience.

The lack of a touchscreen is hardly an issue for me since I prefer traditional inputs for GIS work.

As far as build quality goes, I did expect a tad more at this price point. An all-metal chassis has always appealed to me over the plastic with metal plating on this model, not because it affects performance but purely from an aesthetic standpoint.

WiFi connectivity impresses with its support for Wi-Fi 6E, keeping me connected without fail during intensive remote sensing data transfers.

And battery life on balance mode at least means I can unplug comfortably, knowing I'll get through my day's work on a single charge.

Our Verdict

When you need a reliable companion for heavy-duty GIS tasks without wanting to be tethered to your desk or sacrifice crisp visuals for portability, the Asus ZenBook 14X sits in that sweet spot.

Encountering issues like BitLocker encryption bugs can be daunting. I had trouble with BitLocker keys myself.

After resolving those initial hiccups (backing up your data), you'll find that this laptop punches above its weight class for GIS professionals looking to not only get the job done but do so anywhere they fancy without missing a beat.

Pros and cons

Pros

• Powerful i7 CPU
• Vivid OLED Display
• Exceptional Port Selection
• Portable Design

CONS

• Non-upgradable RAM
• Plastic-Metal Hybrid Build
• Runs Warm Occasionally

3. ASUS ROG Strix G16

Screen: 16" FHD | CPU: Intel i7-13650HX | Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 4060 | RAM: 16GB DDR5 | Storage: 512GB SSD | Ports: 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type A, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C port, 1x Thunderbolt 4 1x full HDMI 2.1 port, 1x Ethernet port, 1x DC-in port & 1x headset jack | Speaker: 2 x 4 Dolby Atmos | Weight: 5.51 pound

The ASUS ROG Strix G16 is a laptop that punches way above its weight class, especially for GIS professionals like me who require a blend of performance and reliability.

Right out of the box, this machine flexes its muscles with a 16" FHD display that's both crisp and vibrant essential for those intricate maps and spatial data layers.

Under the hood, it's powered by an Intel i7-13650HX CPU and an NVIDIA RTX 4060 graphics card, which together serve up some serious computational grunt.

I found this combo to experience buttery-smooth rendering of 3D mappings without the slightest hint of lag.

With 16GB DDR5 RAM, you've got plenty of speed for multitasking between various GIS applications. And if more RAM is what you're after as I was the upgrade process is quirky but doable.

Storage-wise, the 512GB SSD means load times are snappy and file transfers aren't a tedious wait game. Port selection on this beast is also hearty I'm talking everything from USB ports to Thunderbolt 4 to HDMI 2.1 and that easily accommodates all my peripherals without fuss.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t touch upon the sonic experience; those Dolby Atmos speakers really fill up my workspace with immersive sound when I’m unwinding with some tunes post-analysis.

Not everything is rosy; I've got to talk about that pesky sleep mode issue causing excessive heat build-up.

While it’s not been a deal-breaker for me (I just ensure it’s shut down after use), it could be something to watch out for if you’re prone to simply closing the lid and going about your day.

Our Verdict

With firsthand experience on my side, I can attest to the fact that while ASUS ROG Strix G16 might have a hiccup or two like its vampiric sleep mode it remains a strong contender in your search for a GIS-friendly laptop in 2024.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong graphics performance
• Expansive port selection
• Fast 512GB SSD
• Crisp FHD display

CONS

• Sleep mode heat issue
• Quirky RAM upgrading
• Slightly heavy

4. SAMSUNG Galaxy

Screen: 15.6" FHD | CPU: Intel i7-1260P | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe | RAM: 16GB LDDR4 | Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD Gen 4x4 | Ports: 1 x HDMI, 1 x Thunderbolt 4, 1 x USB Type-C, 1 x USB 3.2, 1 x MicroSD Multi-media Card Reader, 1 x Headphone-out/Mic-in Combo | Speaker: AKG Stereo | Weight: ‎2.45 pounds

When I first unboxed the SAMSUNG Galaxy Book2 Pro, I was struck by its sleek design. The 15.6" FHD AMOLED screen is a beauty to behold, offering vibrant colors and crisp clarity that's a step ahead of what I’ve seen on other laptops.

Powered by an Intel i7-1260P CPU and Intel Iris Xe graphics, it tackled my GIS data without breaking a sweat.

The range of ports comes in handy, from the HDMI and Thunderbolt 4 connections to the very convenient MicroSD slot, which is ideal for extra storage needs on the go.

It's hard not to mention how insanely light it is for its size, weighing in at just ‎2.45 pounds. For me, this was a game-changer during fieldwork, where carrying less weight made my life easier.

But let's dive deeper into performance. The keyboard feels tactile and responsive, making long coding sessions more manageable. Meanwhile, the trackpad's tap-to-click functionality is so seamless that it became second nature in no time.

Our Verdict

Despite some of its shortcomings like the battery life and hinge worries expressed by others (though I haven't experienced any durability issues myself), my overall impression is overwhelmingly positive.

It delivers robust performance that suits heavy software requirements, wrapped up in an impressively light package and all without emptying your wallet compared to competing models.

For those who prioritize screen real estate and portability like me, this could very well be the laptop you didn't know you needed.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Large yet lightweight
• Beautiful AMOLED display
• Adequate connectivity options

CONS

• Average battery life
• Lackluster speakers

5. Microsoft Surface Pro 9

Screen: 13” PixelSense | CPU: Intel i5-1235U | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM: 16GB LPDDR4x | Storage: 512GB SSD | Ports: 2 x USB-C with USB 4.0/ Thunderbolt 4, 1 x Surface Connect port, 1 x Surface Type Cover port | Speaker: 2 x 2W Dolby Atmos | Weight: ‎3.3 pounds

The Microsoft Surface Pro 9, with its sleek design and versatile functionality, has been a game changer in my day-to-day professional life. At $949, this dynamic machine boasts a 13” PixelSense screen that brings crisp and vibrant visuals to my fingertips.

The Intel i5-1235U CPU paired with the advanced Intel Iris Xe graphics ensures that GIS applications run smoothly, without any lag that can heavily impact productivity.

Equipped with 16GB LPDDR4x RAM and a massive 512 GB SSD, it allows me to multitask rigorously without skipping a beat.

I’m pleased with the selection of ports, including 2 x USB-C with USB 4.0/Thunderbolt 4, offering high-speed data transfer that’s essential for working with large GIS datasets.

Even the Dolby Atmos speakers shouldn’t go unmentioned; they provide clear audio for when I need to dive into tutorials or collaborate with clients online.

Portability isn't an issue either since it weighs just a bit over 3 pounds; carrying this beauty feels more like toting around a sketchpad than lugging tech.

From the first use, the elegance of the device struck me. I felt like my work environment was instantly elevated. The kickstand makes it stand confidently beside me; it's no surprise I catch curious glances at coffee shops.

Moreover, as someone who craves simplicity but demands performance, the transition from an old laptop to this 2-in-1 solution was seamless.

Gone are the days of juggling between devices since the Surface Pro 9 marries tablet convenience with laptop power in one stunning package.

Our Verdict

The sheer utility woven into such an exquisite form has convinced me that Microsoft really has tuned into the needs of creative professionals and tech enthusiasts alike.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Striking Display Quality
• Thunderbolt Port Availability
• Tablet-Laptop Versatility
• Lightweight Design

CONS

• Battery Drains Fast
• Costly Accessories
• Limited Amzoon Warranty

Do take caution if purchasing from third-party vendors like Amzoon; the customer service experience may not match Microsoft's standards.

I’d firmly advocate for anyone who wants to blend elegance, power, and practicality into their GIS toolkit. This Surface Pro 9 is an investment well worth considering.

6. ASUS TUF

Screen: 15.6" FHD | CPU: Intel i5-13500H | Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 4050 | RAM: 16GB 3200MHz | Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD | Ports: 1x Thunderbolt 4, 1x USB 3.2 Type-C (Gen2), 2x USB 3.2 Type-A (Gen1), 1x HDMI 2.0b, 1x 3.5mm Audio Jack, 1x LAN | Speaker: 2.1 stereo, DOLBY ATMOS | Weight: 4.8 Pounds

So let me tell you about my latest companion, the ASUS TUF. At a price point of $1,099, I knew I was in for a treat, but this machine really does pack a punch beyond what the sticker suggests. The 15.6" FHD screen brings GIS data to life with crisp clarity that never misses a detail.

Beneath the hood, there's an Intel i5-13500H CPU paired with an NVIDIA RTX 4050 graphics card, making multitasking through various GIS programs seem like a breeze, with 16GB DDR4 RAM.

It's equipped to handle large datasets without any lag. And let’s not overlook the zippy 512 PCIe SSD, which offers ample and rapid storage for software and files.

Connectivity is where ASUS TUF shines. Well-armed with 1x Thunderbolt 4, USB ports, HDMI, and more, it’s ready for any peripheral you throw at it.

And while the robust speakers set up with DOLBY ATMOS might not be necessary for GIS tasks, they are a sweet perk for unwinding to some tunes post-work.

Weighing in at 4.8 pounds, it's not feather-light but still portable enough to tote around when I'm on the move.

When diving into intensive software like Modern Warfare II or mapping out large geospatial datasets, this laptop keeps pace without stuttering.

I concur with others saying the power box can heat up significantly; getting myself a cooling pad helped mitigate that warmth. And while it carries you unplugged for over an hour, a second battery might not hurt if you're often far from power outlets.

Yet, not all that glitters is gold. The initial specs cater well to entry-level needs but consider upgrading RAM and storage down the line for heavier use. Also, watch out for those pesky fan noises which can pop up unexpectedly.

Our Verdict

With its rugged build and powerful internals suited for complex tasks like GIS work or high-end gaming, ASUS TUF is no slouch in performance.

It delivers where it counts, but be prepared to invest a bit extra if your workload demands more from memory and storage capacities.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Robust processing power
• High-quality display
• Plenty of ports
• Reasonably priced

CONS

• Gets quite hot
• Potential fan noise
• Battery life limited

7. MSI Katana

Screen: 15.6 FHD, IPS-Level 144Hz, 45% NTSC | CPU: Intel Core i7-12650H | Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU | RAM: 16GB DDR4 3200MHz | Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD Gen 4x4 | Ports: 1 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x RJ45 LAN, 1 x HDMI(4k@60Hz), 1 x Audio combo jack, 1 x DC-in | Speaker: 2 x 3w speakers, Hi-Res Audio | Weight: ‎4.8 pounds

The MSI Katana retails at a sweet spot of $999. The moment you lay eyes on its 15.6 FHD display with those vibrant colors at 144Hz, you know you're in for an immersive treat.

Being an IPS-Level panel, it offers great viewing angles, which helps me during group presentations.

Under the hood, this beast boasts an Intel Core i7-12650H, which remains unflustered even while I'm multitasking through various GIS applications or tinkering around with heavyweight software like QGIS and ArcGIS.

Gaming enthusiasts take note because the NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti GPU kicks in with enough umph to breeze through most modern titles, including a comfy 120fps for Witcher 3 and over 200fps in League of Legends.

The laptop comes decked out with 16GB DDR4 RAM and a snappy 512GB NVMe SSD, ensuring load times are short and workflows remain unhindered.

As for connectivity, I’m satisfied with the diverse port selection ranging from USB Type-C to HDMI capable of 4K output at 60Hz.

While crafting this review, I relished the clear sound from its Hi-Res Audio-certified speakers. And trust me, they didn't skimp on build quality either; it feels rugged yet surprisingly light at just under 4.8 pounds, making it my trusty sidekick on the go.

Our Verdict

After thoroughly testing the MSI Katana, I can vouch for its capability as both a workhorse and a gaming ally. It's got muscle where it matters but doesn't beef up your backpack. A sleek design means business without yelling, "I game."

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Stellar 144Hz Display
• Powerful i7 Processor
• Robust Gaming Performance
• Lightweight & Portable

CONS

• Average Battery Life
• Initial Setup Hassles
• Occasional Software Glitches

For GIS professionals looking to blend power with portability, the MSI Katana slices through expectations with precision. Yet keep in mind that if you're moving around often without access to a power outlet.

The battery stamina might have you hunting for plugs more than you'd prefer. That said, considering performance and price point ratio, we've got ourselves a winner here.

8. Dell Inspiron 2-in-1

Screen: 16-inch FHD+ (1920 x 1200) Touch Narrow Border IPS Display | CPU: 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P Processor | Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | RAM:‎ 16GB DDR4 SDRAM | storage: 1TB PCIe Solid State Drive | Ports: 1 x SD Card Reader, 2 x USB 3.2 Type C, 1 x USB 3.2 Type A, 1 x Headphone/Microphone jack, 1 x HDMI | Speaker:‎ Quad speakers | Weight: ‎3.46 lbs

When I first got my hands on the Dell Inspiron 7620 2-in-1, I was pretty impressed with its sleek design and versatility. The 16" FHD+ touch screen is a joy to work with, especially when I'm using GIS software that requires hands-on interaction.

Under the hood, it's powered by an Intel i7-1260P CPU, complemented by Intel Iris Xe graphics, which means I get smooth and responsive performance even during intense data processing sessions.

The quad speakers are a decent touch for those off-work hours when you want a bit of music while poring over maps. And at just ‎3.46 lbs, it's not too heavy for a device of its capabilities.

My time with the Dell Inspiron hasn't been without its quirks. One thing to note, although rare, is that it did tend to heat up during some heavy browsing sessions, which was unexpected.

On one peculiar occasion, this led to the rubber slip guards loosening a bit; it was nothing too dramatic, but it was worth mentioning.

Another gripe came from the trackpad, which started acting out after several months, becoming unresponsive at times and behaving erratically with unintended clicks and drags; it was rather frustrating when precision was key in GIS work.

I found the performance-to-price ratio quite satisfactory. It’s predominantly reliable and has dynamic usability for versatile GIS tasks due to its processing power and storage capabilities.

The customer support from Dell has been helpful through the issues I experienced, reassuring me along my laptop journey even though there were some bumps regarding service appointments and warranty clarity because of third-party purchases.

Our Verdict

While there are laptops out there that may offer more robust builds or greater graphical horsepower specifically tailored for GIS professionals.

If you’re looking for a potent mix of features along with flexibility in usage at a relatively affordable price point, you'd likely be pleased with what the Dell Inspiron 7620 2-in-1 brings to your workspace.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Great screen quality
• Solid performance with Intel i7
• Generous RAM and SSD

CONS

• Overheating in long-term durability
• Trackpad can become inconsistent over time

9. MSI Creator M16

Screen: 16" QHD+ | CPU: Intel i7-13620H | Graphics: NVIDIA RTX 4060 | RAM:‎ 32GB DDR5 5200MHz | storage: 1TB NVMe SSD | Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 (Type-A), 1 x USB 2.0 (Type-A), 1 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type C, HDMI 4K @ 120Hz / 8K @60Hz, 1 combo (Hi-Res Audio) | Speaker:‎ 2x2W Speakers | Weight: ‎4.98 Pounds

The MSI Creator M16 is, in my opinion, a top-notch choice for GIS applications. The crisp 16" QHD+ display renders data beautifully, ensuring that even minute details are seen clearly.

With its Intel i7-13620H CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4060 graphics, it breezes through heavy-duty tasks effortlessly.

The included 32GB DDR5 5200MHz RAM and fast 1TB NVMe SSD provides plenty of storage and memory to handle extensive GIS mapping chores.

Packaged in a compact form that weighs just under five pounds, the laptop remains remarkably portable despite its powerful specs. I found the connectivity options were adequate, with an assortment of USB and HDMI ports that meet most of my needs.

One area where the MSI Creator M16 really shines is value for money! Regardless of whether you're snagging this laptop during a discount period or not, you're getting some solid tech at a reasonable price.

Of course, no laptop is without its drawbacks. With the MSI Creator M16, I noticed that the trackpad wasn't as smooth as I'd like. It could become sticky after prolonged use, which was inconvenient at times.

Also worth noting is that while this laptop comes with a GPU capable enough for most tasks, it struggled somewhat with certain gaming applications.

When weighing it all up in my experience with the MSI Creator M16 for GIS application usage, I found it more than satisfactory overall- despite minor flaws in its design features.

Our Verdict

From analyzing results of detailed mapping data or editing layers of old files using heavier software packages of all the laptops I tested in 2024, this gadget remained effective, demonstrating a perfect balance between cost and performance.

It undeniably earns its spot on my list of recommended laptops for GIS professionals and enthusiasts.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Excellent Performance
• High-Quality Display
• Great Value for Money
• Adequate Connectivity Options

CONS

• Stickiness of Trackpad
• GPU Issues with Certain Games
• Loud Fan Noise

10. Acer Swift X

Screen: 14" Full HD (1920 x 1080) 100% sRGB display |  CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800U processor 16 Thread (3.2-4.4GHz Max Boost Clock) Processor | Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU (4GB GDDR6 VRAM) | RAM: 16GB 3200MHz LPDDR4X Dual Channel RAM | Storage: 512GB PCIe NVMe SSD | Ports: 1 x SuperSpeed USB Type-C, 2 x SuperSpeed USB Type-A, 1 x Mini DisplayPort, 1 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x RJ-45, one headphone/microphone combo | Speaker: Dual side positioned speakers | Weight: 3.06 pounds

I've had my hands on the Acer Swift X, and boy, it impressed me. First things first, the feel. This laptop weighs just over 3 pounds, and with a 14" Full HD screen, it's the ideal size for those who need a balance of portability and visibility.

At its heart, this laptop is powered by an efficient Ryzen 7 5800U processor and a whopping 16GB LPDDR4 RAM. Trust me; with this spec combo, it can easily handle complex GIS software applications without breaking a sweat.

On the graphics front, Acer has roped in NVIDIA RTX 3050Ti to ensure seamless visuals and display rendering.

Like most tech fans, I was particularly keen on checking out its storage capacity. The Swift X comes with an impressive 512GB SSD storage, enough to fit all your GIS datasets and software.

Now, let's talk about ports. The Swift X hosts a USB-C port that allows you to stay connected to other devices as well as USB charging. It also comes packed with two USB-A ports and a standard headphone jack.

Now for the sound. The dual 2W stereo speakers are decent enough for casual usage like YouTube videos. Still, for a fully immersive gaming or movie-watching experience, you might want to plug in your headset.

Here are some of its drawbacks that I observed from my personal experience. While the laptop boasts excellent specs overall, one potential drawback is its non-upgradable RAM state; what you buy is what you get.

Keep in mind if you are planning to connect miscellaneous peripherals via a USB-C port, users have reputedly faced issues after certain updates from Acer.

The Acer Swift X offers well-balanced attributes - robust technical specs coupled with fine design features sure make it desirable for any GIS professional out there.

Our Verdict

All in all, the Acer Swift X might not be the latest tech, but it delivers on its promise of efficient, powerful performance for GIS software.

It's a device worth considering if you're in the market for a machine with substantial power under an attractive and portable chassis. As I've found in my extensive use, there are some minor drawbacks to weigh before making your purchase.

Pros And Cons

Pros

• Fast Charging
• Compact & Lightweight
• Robust Processor & Graphics
• Generous Storage Space

CONS

• Non-Upgradable RAM
• Limited USB Ports
• Potential USB-C issues

Things to look at while choosing The Best Laptops for GIS Software

CPU

The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is a laptop's most crucial component when running GIS software. The CPU handles all of the computational tasks, so you will want one that is powerful enough to control the demands of GIS software. In all CPUs, the Intel Core i-series processors are the best option.

The Intel i5 and i7-series processors are the best options for most people, but if you need more power, you may want to consider an Intel Core i9-series processor.

The AMD Ryzen processors are an excellent alternative to the Intel Core i-series processors and offer similar performance. The AMD Ryzen 5 or 7 processors are the best option if you need more power.

GPU

The Graphics Processing Unit, or GPU, is also essential for running GIS software. The GPU handles all graphics-related tasks, so you will want one that is powerful enough to control the demands of GIS software. In most cases, the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 or GTX 1050 Ti are good options.

If you need more power, you may consider the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 or GTX 2060. The AMD Radeon RX 580 is also a good option.

The Nvidia GeForce RTX 30-series GPUs are the best options if you have the money to spend. They offer the best performance and come with some new features that may be useful for GIS software.

RAM

You will also want to consider the amount of RAM in a laptop when choosing one for GIS software. The more RAM, the better. Most laptops come with at least 8GB of RAM, but you may want to consider a laptop with 32GB or more if you need it for GIS software.

However, a laptop with 16GB or 8GB should be fine if you don't need that much RAM. Another thing to consider is the type of RAM in a computer. Most laptops come with DDR4 SDRAM, but you may want to consider a computer with DDR4 if you need it for GIS software.

Storage

You will also want to consider the amount of storage in a laptop when choosing one for GIS software. The more storage, the better. Most laptops come with at least a 256GB SSD, but you may want to consider a computer with 512GB or more if you need it for GIS software.

The gaming laptops we will discuss in this blog post come with a lot of storage, so you won't have to worry about not having enough space.

Display

Another thing to consider is the size and resolution of the screen on a laptop—the larger the screen, the better. In general, you should look for a computer with a screen size of at least 14 inches.

The resolution of the screen is also essential. You should look for a laptop with a resolution of 1920x1080 or higher if you need it for GIS software. Some laptops also have a UHD or OLED display, which offers even better image quality.

Ports

You will also want to consider the ports on a laptop when choosing one for GIS software: the more ports, the better. A laptop should have at least two USB Type-A ports, an HDMI port, and a Thunderbolt port.

If you need more ports, then you may want to consider a laptop with a Thunderbolt port and a USB Type-C port.

Wireless Connectivity

The wireless connectivity of a laptop is also important. It would be best if you looked for a laptop that has an excellent wireless card and supports the latest Wi-Fi standard, which is 802.11ac. The Wi-Fi 6 standard is also starting to become more popular, so you may want to look for a laptop that supports it.

The Bluetooth standard is also important, so you should look for a laptop that supports the latest Bluetooth standard.

Battery

Another thing to consider is the battery life of a laptop. You will want a computer that has a good battery life so that you can use it for an extended period without having to recharge it.

In general, you should look for a laptop with a battery life of at least five hours. Some Intel Evo laptops come with an 11-hour battery life, so you won't have to worry about running out of battery power while using GIS software.

Portability

The last thing to consider is the portability of a laptop. You will want a laptop that is lightweight and thin so that you can easily take it with you on the go.

The laptops in this blog post are all lightweight and thin, so you won't have to worry about not being able to carry them around with you.

Conclusion

Hopefully, this post has helped you decide on the best laptop for GIS software. Each of these laptops is a great choice depending on your specific needs, and they will perform well with most GIS applications.

The most important thing is to find the right balance of power and portability for your needs. So, take your time to research and find the perfect laptop for you.

Please feel free to leave any questions or comments below. We would love to hear from you. Also, if you enjoyed this post, please share it with others who might find it helpful.