While Paxar isn't an I.T. provider or vendor of computers, we are often asked for guidance on what computer to purchase in order to best run Vectorworks. We do our best to help, so...


Here is the guidance we typically provide:

  1. Essentially, we recommend purchasing/building the highest spec'd computer you can afford, ensuring that you meet or (ideally) exceed the current Vectorworks system requirements.
  2. From our experience, we highly recommend choosing/building a computer that is higher than the "Entry Level Profile" listed for a version's system requirements. Please aim for at least the "Mid-level Profile" or better.
  3. Please pay very close attention to the Graphics/VRAM specifications required. Purchase a computer higher than the "minimum" amount of VRAM. Please ensure you purchase a computer with the "recommended" amount of VRAM.
  4. If you will be doing any rendering, especially advanced rendering, we recommend that, if at all possible you should run Cinebench on a machine identical to the one you are planning on purchasing (as covered in this video).


A very important aspect to keep in mind about purchasing a new computer is that the money you spend on a well-equipped computer will benefit you on every project and for every file you work on (be it in Vectorworks or any other professional-grade application.) A well-equipped computer will help Vectorworks perform as it's designed, allowing you to make best use of the software's time-saving, accuracy-boosting features.


Opting to save a bit of money on day one, or not properly observing the posted system requirements may impact your daily work for the entire time you own the computer. You will likely not remember the money you saved on day one but you will remember your ongoing, daily experience with the software not running as it was designed because of an under spec’d computer.


Another aspect to consider is that software system requirements (for all professional-grade software) are unlikely to decrease in the years ahead. Purchasing a well-equipped computer is likely to last you longer.


For an in-depth description of what computer hardware will do what in terms of Vectorworks, please review this forum post.


Ultimately the choice is yours as to which computer to purchase/build, however the better spec'd the computer you purchase, the better your daily experience will be and the longer the computer will serve you well.