

We’re often asked which Apple Hardware we recommend for Architects – so here is our shortlist: Apple has discontinued the ageing intel based 27-inch iMac – at this stage it is unlikely they will bring this model back into their line-up. The new M1 24-inch iMac is not considered here, as it does not allow for higher spec graphics cards (max. 4GB) and also can not be upgraded with sufficient RAM to allow for larger BIM models. Please note only the latest versions of both Vectorworks (2020 SP2) & Archicad (24 b7000 plus) are supported to run on macOS 12 (Monterey) which all new Apple hardware ship with. #ARCHICAD FOR MAC M1 PC#Ĭurrent generation MacBook Pros and MacStudios can not be downgraded to macOS 11 (Big Sur) to accomodate older versions.įor a workstation hardware cost analysis in AUD of the various options below please refer here and to understand how this compares with PC hardware please look here.

Spec suitable for a CAD workstation as well as being able to deal better with heavier loads, e.g. Spec suitable as ARCHICAD BIMCLOUD server for small office with medium sized projects – choose capacity & ethernet card depending on your specific requirements.Īpple M1 chip with 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine Only suitable for admin staff that do not require or have only minimal interaction with CAD software.Īpple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU, 7‑core GPU and 16‑core Neural Engine Suitable as regular CAD workstation in conjunction with an external Display and a USB-C Hub (refer below).Īpple M1 Pro with 8-core CPU, 14-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engine rendering software.Īpple M1 Max with 10-core CPU, 24-core GPU and 16-core Neural Engineĥ12GB SSD storage The MacStudio does not include any peripherals and to make the most of the 10Gb Ethernet port a compatible Switch is required. ** RAM can no longer be upgraded on Apple silicon based Macs after purchase. We now also include the iPad Pro 12.9 in combination with an iMac is a fantastic – for more details read our thoughts here.
