Hey I am looking to buy a new computer to run autoCAD on. Untill recently I was planing on switching to a mac since autoCAD 2011 for mac came out. Then I started to read some reviews for the program and I see that a lot of people are not satisfied with the way it performs on the mac. I am looking for any advice that will help me make this decission. Also my budget for a new machine is $1,800.00 max.
In case this helps, I use autoCAD to make shop drawings for architectural approval. In the near future I plan to go back to school for architecture or engineering. Thanks
I suspect your budget is what will move you away from Apple, not much else: AutoCAD for MAC is a "native" application, i.e. it looks nothing like AutoCAD in Windows, which is a challenge for experienced AutoCAD users to wrap their heads around easily. It's also a "version 1.0", and most software users with any experience tend to shy away from them or allow them a lot of give, especially when Windows-abilitites are dropped from the Apple version (isn't it due for an annual upgrade soon anyway?).
So... are you looking to use only plain-Jane AutoCAD 2012, or a vertical like Architecture 2012 or REVIT 2012? School plans within the 3-4year life-cycle of a power machine, or longer/further away than that? Is a monitor part of your pricing, or does it need to be separate? Laptop or desktop?
I agree with pendean. The Mac software is too new.
I'd recommend a minimum 64 bit Win Pro, Core i5 or i7, 8GB triple channel memory, nVidia GTX570, Solid State Drive for OS and apps and a second standard HDD for file storage if you're not using a server. With AC, memory is the key.
I see, you certainly make a good point that mac version is new and unpolished. I am now more sure than before that I will go with a PC. My budget is definietely 1,800.00 max not including shipping and tax but that does include the monitor that I would like to be at least 23", and its a desktop. My friend recommended this website to me ibuypower.com for very powerfull machines at a reasonable price, they are built for gaming but those are usually the ones with the most kick in my experience.
Start with the recommendation above, start matching with your website.
FYI, I sit in front of an HP 25" all day and I would not trade it in for anything: the screen real-estate is phenominal and it did not really cost that much either.
Agreed. You'll get more for your money on a PC and have a wider array of compatibility across other platforms. I've seen a lot of engineers buy two widescreen LCDs and are in love with them. Might be something to consider.