Buy This - Small Firms
Updated July 26, 2020
Small firms should have one fixed desktop workstation for each employee or contractor. If you have some people dedicated to visualization, then they should have the (far more expensive) visualization workstations. Consider a file serving NAS if you have more than two employees. Getting a shared portable computer for field reports and client office presentations is a useful addition. It is possible under some circumstances to have all the workstations be mobile, but this will cost more. Alternatively, if you have two people that always go to field visits and presentations, consider having those two work on mobile workstations and save the cost of the desktops. Don’t skimp on screens, though.
Dell XPS
For value-for-money, there’s no way to beat a prebuilt from a large vendor. They also offer premium on-site support options to minimize downtime.
Boxx Apexx A3 or S3
The best of the boutique builders for architectural workflows, their systems along with their US-based warranties, command about double the price of competitors. However, there is no better choice for reliability and power.
Boxx Configuration Guide & Review - $4,500
Self-Built PC
Assembling and maintaining a PC is not very time consuming. When you’re trying to maximize long-term value, this is the way to go. Budget about six hours to order and assemble the machine, with about two hours to assemble more of the same type. The payoff comes when you need to upgrade or change something down the line.
Dell XPS 17
Strong enough to work at a desk and light enough for a commute and to take to client presentations. You pay more for portability, but you gain quite a bit of flexibility.
Thinkpad P53
About to be replaced by the new Thinkpad P15.
With powerful graphics options matched with powerful processors, and the cooling to deliver most of the available performance for long renders, this machine is a great all-rounder. The major downsides are cost and weight. It will likely last longer than the Dell XPS 17 due to the durable and serviceable construction.
Full Review
Buy From B&H -
Buy From Lenovo - $3,800
20QNS00Y00
A cheaper alternative, see the review for differences - 20QNS01B00 for $2,900
Thinkpad P1
More than enough to show a client a 3D model, or explain something in the field to a contractor. Durable construction and great warranty service make this an excellent choice for a shared office machine.
NAS
Visualization-Focused Systems
Desktop Visualization
Check the build guide for how to build a desktop system focused more on visualization than modeling and drawing tasks.