1. ETH Zürich
  2. D-ARCH
  3. IT Services Group
IT Services Group Department of Architecture

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Recommendation

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) refers to the use of personal laptops in teaching. Since the autumn semester 2024, BYOD has been mandatory for all ETH Zurich students starting a new degree programme. Our hardware recommendations for architecture students.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) stands for the use of personal laptops in teaching. Since the autumn semester 2024, BYOD is mandatory for all ETH Zurich students who are starting a new degree programme.

Laptop Recommendations for Architecture Students (D-ARCH, Autumn 2026)

Due to the intensive use of CAD, BIM and rendering software in the architecture programme, choosing a high-performance device is essential. The following models serve as a reference for the hardware requirements. Comparable devices from other manufacturers may also be suitable.

Minimum Recommendation (Budget-Friendly)

This configuration meets all the requirements of everyday academic work. It is suitable for CAD drawings, graphic design and initial visualisations:

macOS: MacBook Air

Windows: Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 6

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 or Intel Core Ultra 7
  • CPU: 8-core
  • GPU: RTX 4060
  • RAM: 32 GB
  • SSD: 1 TB
  • Reference: Projekt Neptun

These devices offer higher performance. If you frequently render or work with highly complex 3D models, the additional cost is a long-term investment that will speed up your workflow:

macOS: MacBook Pro

Windows: Lenovo ThinkPad P14s Gen 6

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 or Intel Core Ultra 9
  • CPU: 16-core
  • GPU: RTX 5070
  • RAM: 64 GB
  • SSD: 1 TB
  • Reference: Projekt Neptun

Important Hardware Notes

  • Student discounts: Take advantage of the regular offers for students from Projekt Neptun, Apple Education and Lenovo Education. For Windows devices, a 3-year warranty extension is strongly recommended.
  • Portability and screen size: Choosing the screen size is a personal trade-off between weight and portability on the one hand and screen area on the other.
  • Performance and portability: High-performance Windows workstations are often heavier and have a shorter battery life.
  • Peripherals: USB-C charging is very convenient for everyday use (make sure the charger provides the power required by the laptop). A mouse is essential for working with CAD programs.

Further information for students and lecturers (examiners): https://ethz.ch/de/die-eth-zuerich/lehre/bringyourowndevice.html.