Mobile workstations are laptops built for professional work in demanding software: 3D modelling, engineering design, video editing and data analysis. Our range has over 500 models, mostly from Apple, Lenovo, HP and Dell, plus some from ASUS.
How to choose a mobile workstation
Graphics card. This decides how smoothly CAD, 3D visualisation and video editing run. Our range includes NVIDIA RTX PRO Blackwell 500, 1000, 2000 and 3000 cards as well as the RTX 500 Ada; a higher number means more capacity for complex projects. Some laptops have no discrete graphics card, which is enough for programming, data analysis or lighter design work.
Processor. Our range includes Intel Core Ultra 7 and 9, AMD Ryzen AI 7 PRO, Ryzen AI 9 HX PRO and Ryzen AI Max+ processors, while Apple laptops use the manufacturer's own chips. Rendering, code compilation and large datasets justify a higher-tier option, whereas CAD and document work often run fine on a Core Ultra 7 or Ryzen AI 7 PRO.
Display. Many models have a 16-inch (40.6 cm) screen, but there are also 14, 14.5 and 18-inch versions: a smaller screen is easier to carry, a larger one is more comfortable for drawings and multi-window projects. Many displays are 1920 x 1200, while colour-critical work and detailed photo editing call for 2560 x 1600 or 3840 x 2400. Panels come as IPS, WVA or OLED.
Memory and storage. Complex projects generally call for at least 32 GB of RAM, and large 3D files for more. Check whether the memory can be upgraded, as some laptops have it soldered to the board. Our range includes 512 GB, 1 TB and 2 TB drives; for project files, 1 TB is a sensible minimum.
Brands we carry
- Apple: MacBook Pro laptops use the company's own chips with memory shared between processor and graphics, which makes them popular with video editors and software developers.
- Lenovo: the ThinkPad P series is one of the best-known mobile workstation lines, valued for its sturdy build and comfortable keyboard.
- HP (HP Inc., HP, Hewlett-Packard): the ZBook series is aimed at engineers and creators, and some models are certified for professional design software.
- Dell (Dell, Dell Technologies, Dell EMC): the Precision series is known for being tuned by the manufacturer for CAD and other engineering applications.
Also in our range: ASUS.
Frequently asked questions
How is a mobile workstation different from a regular laptop?
A mobile workstation is built for sustained work in demanding software. It usually has a professional graphics card such as an NVIDIA RTX PRO, more RAM and a display suited to colour work. Manufacturers often test these models with engineering and design applications.
How much RAM does a mobile workstation need?
32 GB is enough for most professional tasks, while complex 3D work, simulation or 4K video editing justifies 64 GB or more. 16 GB suits lighter work but may become limiting later. In Apple laptops the memory is part of the chip package, so you need to choose the right amount at purchase.
Does a mobile workstation need a discrete graphics card?
A discrete graphics card is needed for CAD, 3D modelling, rendering or visual effects. For programming, documents and light design work, integrated graphics is often sufficient. Our range includes both models without a discrete card and models with NVIDIA RTX PRO graphics.
Which is better for work: an IPS or an OLED display?
It depends on the work. OLED offers deep blacks and high contrast, which is why photo and video creators favour it. IPS panels are often chosen for drawings and documents, because long hours of static content carry no risk of burn-in. Our range includes both types.
