We are often asked this question when people are deciding on which computer to buy on which to run Vectorworks.


The system requirements for Vectorworks 2018 can be found here:

https://forum.vectorworks.net/index.php?/articles.html/articles/vectorworks-2018-system-requirements-r723/

Note that the MINIMUM requirements are not the same as what is recommended for heavy use or the use of certain feature or certain complexities of files. Please read the entire Vectorworks 2018 system requirement page before basing a hardware or software purchase decision.

One of the key specs to pay attention to when purchasing a computer on which to run Vectorworks is the GPU the computer has and the amount of VRAM that GPU has.
If the computer in question has an "Intel HD Graphics" GPU, this is knows as having "integrated graphics" and is not suitable for use with Vectorworks. We regularly see issues pertaining to computers with "Intel HD graphics" whenever anything beyond the absolute basics is being done in Vectorworks. Since Vectorworks is so easy to use beyond the basics, we recommend getting a machine that is spec'd above the "Entry Level Profile" listed on the system requirements.

For a VERY detailed description of what computer hardware does what in terms of Vectorworks, please review this in-depth forum post.


System requirement information for Vectorworks 2009 through 2017 can be found here.