Laptop Platform Help

[Nlandrev]

I am an architecture student looking to invest in a n high performance laptop for graduate school. So far I have looked at a lot of options and know that I need a GPU for my use of AutoCAD, Revit, 3DS Max and the Adobe Creative Suite. If anyone could offer suggestions that would be greatly appreciated.

LAPTOP QUESTIONNAIRE

Country of purchase: USA
Budget range: $2500 or less
Purpose (netbook, ultraportable, mainstream, gaming, desktop replacement, etc.): gaming/rendering; desktop replacement
Screen size preference: 15"-17.3"
OS preference (Windows/ Mac/ Linux): Windows 7 preferred
Gaming requirements (example games and desired fps/settings): Really only play Skyrim. Would like 40 fps minimum.
Performance requirements (video, CAD, etc.): Video editing, CAD, Revit, 3DS Max, Adobe Creative Suite, Rendering...
Method of computer support (office supplier, college bookstore, self support): self-support
Brand preferences and reasons (already owned accessories, familiarity, business compatibility): I really like Razers brand of accessories and the Switchblade UI (although glitchy sometimes). I also like HP since I own one now but am open to most manufacturers.
Any particular style that you like (examples are great): I prefer slim laptops that may sacrifice style over some performance. Such as Razer Blade, 7 Series, and the Alienware MX17

Which of the following qualities would you prefer? (Choose one, the other, or balanced)
Long battery life -vs- Low weight: low weight
Build quality -vs- Low price: build quality
Low noise/heat -vs- High performance: high performance
Would you pay a premium for something that has:
High resolution screen: Yes
A great keyboard: Yes
A great touchpad/mouse buttons: Yes
Great audio: No

List any features that are critical: (e.g. Optical drive, USB 3.0, SD card slot, ethernet port, HDMI port, bluetooth, VGA port, removable battery, glossy screen, matte screen, etc.)
Matte Screen, HDMI, USB 3.0, Dedicated GPU, preferred Intel processor

 

[Sleepingforest]

For serious work, you'd need a mobile workstation (like the Dell Precision line or HP Elitebook). Check out ATs reviews on their top of the line units and see if they offer what you need (this is the HP article, but it links to the Dell one).

They won't game though. Workstation GPUs are pretty crippled for gaming. You could get a normal consumer GPU, but there wouldn't be the same level of testing for the drivers.

 

[Nlandrev]

For serious work, you'd need a mobile workstation (like the Dell Precision line or HP Elitebook). Check out ATs reviews on their top of the line units and see if they offer what you need (this is the HP article, but it links to the Dell one).

They won't game though. Workstation GPUs are pretty crippled for gaming. You could get a normal consumer GPU, but there wouldn't be the same level of testing for the drivers.

Thanks for the advice. I'll check it out. I'll be buying in June so I might hold out and see what might be released, but I will add those to my radar.