Will Laptop Run 3ds Max 2011?

[ericw]

I'm on a low budget and can only afford a laptop using a Sears credit card, so my options are limited. Amongst all of the laptops on their website, only two looked vaguely able to run the program, as the only ones that come with Windows 7 Professional:

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p\_10153\_12605\_00301855000P
http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p\_10153\_12605\_00318209000P

The main thing I'm concerned about is the details under the "graphics" ...or lack thereof. I can only assume it's referring to some sort of integrated graphics.

Will either of these laptops be able to run the program efficiently? If I have to suffer through choppy viewports and slow response time, I think I'd rather do without a laptop.

[ryan-saper]

It's not worth it. Any 3D software running on a laptop that is bought from sears is not a qualified machine. Even if all of the specs on the laptop match with Autodesk's certified hardware checksheet (find it on their website) you still need to go above and beyond. If you get a laptop, you need to make sure it has the processor, memory and graphics card on a mid-rang to high-end model. You're looking at about $2000 for the bare minimum. You are just going to beat yourself up over crashes, freezing, viewport glitches and choppiness. I only use Max or Maya on a laptop when I need to model something quickly for a presentation when I don't have time to use my home PC or studio.  My main PC is a desktop and it costs $4,200...you get what you pay for my friend. Save your money, and use your sears credit card on a nice winter coat instead. Best of luck!

[ryan-saper]

FYI, never get an HP laptop