Are MacOS Computers Good for CAD?

The use of Computer Aided Design, CAD for short, is an integral part of the workflow of many industries. Although the concept was primarily to help the architecture, engineering, and construction industries produce better technical drawings, other modern niches such as the gaming, product design, and manufacturing industries use CAD software.

Although Windows PCs are still the standard for most CAD users, it is undeniable that a big chunk of offices and homes use MacOS. So it’s understandable how some might find it intimidating to start using CAD software when there are plenty of these types of programs that are straight up incompatible with MacOS. The industry is changing and developing, however, and we see more and more support for MacOS CAD programs. If you’re a Mac user and are thinking about venturing into the world of Computer Aided Design, we’ve compiled all the information about the topic to help you figure out the best way to move forward.

Best Mac Computers for CAD

Apple’s Lineup of Mac Computers/Products (source)

Let’s take a look at some of the Apple machines that are out there.

1. MacBook Pro

Previously, there were three variants of the MacBook Pro, distinguishable by the size of the display: the smaller 13-inch, the intermediate 14.2-inch, and the larger 16.2-inch. But Apple has since done away with the 13-inch MacBook Pro and refreshed the two remaining variants with new Apple Silicon chips.

If you’re looking to purchase the 14.2-inch model, you can configure it with a 10-core M4 (with integrated 10-core GPU), a 12-core or 14-core M4 Pro (with integrated 16-core or 20-core GPU), or a 14-core or 16-core M4 Max (with integrated 32-core or 40-core GPU). The larger 16.2-inch model is powered by the M2 Pro or M2 Max chips.

Apple states that the M4’s 10-core CPU is up to 1.8x faster than M1, while its 10-core GPU is up to 2x faster than M1. But it may not be sufficient to handle more demanding workloads during rendering, for instance; which is why you can configure your MacBook Pro with the M4 Pro or M4 Max chips.

The MacBook Pro with M4 and M4 Pro can support two external displays on top of the built-in display, while the MacBook Pro with M4 Max can support up to four. This support is thanks to the computer’s three Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports as well as a HDMI port. But you can still make do with the built-in Liquid Retina XDR display that offers 1,600 nits of peak HDR brightness and up to 1,000 nits of brightness for SDR content. This means the display is bright enough to enable you to work outside.

Another feature that boosts off-site work is the battery life. The M4 family of chips delivers high power efficiency and promises up to 24 hours of battery life, according to Apple. So, you can comfortably work off-site without worrying about disruptions that come with a short battery life.

2. iMac

The latest release of the 24-inch iMac was unveiled in 2024. Like the previous-generation M1-powered iMac (released in 2021), the latest release sports a modern, refreshing, and svelte shape that resulted from a complete design overhaul. It nonetheless continues Apple’s tradition of the ‘all-in-one’ computer that combines the display and computing power in the same chassis and cover.

Under the hood, the 24-inch computer is powered by an 8-core or 10-core CPU and an integrated 8-core or 10-core GPU, depending on how you configure it. You can also configure the computer with 16GB, 24GB, or 32GB of unified memory (RAM) and up to 2TB of SSD storage.

Compared to the iMac with M1, the 2024 iMac with M4 is up to 1.7 times faster for daily productivity and 2.1x faster for demanding workflows like CAD design and photo editing. This is a considerable improvement over even the early-generation Intel-powered 21.5-inch iMac, considering the iMac with M1 itself boasted up to 85% faster CPU performanceand up to 2x faster GPU performance than the 21.5-inch iMac. Combined, its features and extra performance make the 2024 iMac ideal for intense workloads, including CAD software-based rendering and design.

While the keyboard and mouse are not built into the chassis, Apple sells the Magic Mouse and Magic Keyboard with every iMac purchase. In addition, you can choose to purchase the Magic Trackpad as an extra. Unfortunately, this option will require you to fork out $50 more. Other extras include buying a Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Numeric Keypad ($80).

3. Mac Mini

Described as the “best portable workstation Mac” by a renowned tech YouTuber, the latest Mac Mini does pack a punch within a small form factor. It’s also affordable, with the base version coming in at $599.00. The new Mac Mini, unveiled in 2024, is powered by the M4 or M4 Pro. It is “more mighty, more mini,” claimed Apple. It’s less than half the size of the previous model, measuring just five by five inches.

Yet, the Mac Mini with M4 delivers up to 2.2x faster GPU performance and up to 1.8x faster CPU performance over the previous generation M1-powered model. The Mac Mini with M4 Pro boasts up to 2x GPU performance over the M4’s GPU and has what Apple claims to be the “world’s fastest CPU core with lightning-fast single-threaded performance.” Accordingly, the Mac Mini with M4 Pro is ideal for running CAD software applications like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Inventor, just to mention a few, which are single-threaded applications.

The Mac Mini sports various ports, including two front-facing USB-C ports and a headphone jack. It also features three Thunderbolt 4 or 5 ports, an Ethernet port, and an HDMI port on the back. Through these ports, the Mac Mini with M4 can support up to two 6K displays and up to one 5K display. The Mac Mini with M4 Pro can support up to three 6K displays. You nonetheless have to purchase these displays as well as other peripherals (a mouse and a keyboard) separately.

4. Mac Studio

The latest iteration of the Mac Studio, unveiled in June 2023, features the M2 Max and the M2 Ultra chips. (According to Apple, M2 Ultra delivers twice the capabilities and performance of the M2 Max.) The 2023 Mac Studio replaced the previous-generation Mac Studio, which was powered by the M1 Max and the M1 Ultra. Apple claims the 2023 Mac Studio delivers “a huge boost in performance and enhanced connectivity in its stunningly compact design.”

The company further claims that the M2 Ultra-powered 2023 Mac Studio is up to 3x faster than the M1 Ultra-powered Mac Studio. The M2 Max-powered Mac Studio is up to 50% faster than the previous-generation Mac Studio with M1 Max.

In terms of connectivity, the 2023 Mac Studio features a higher-bandwidth HDMI, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity, four Thunderbolt 4 powers, a 10Gb Ethernet port, two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, and an SD card slot. In addition to these built-in ports, you can configure your Mac Studio with up to 8TB SSD storage and up to 96GB of unified memory (for the Mac Studio with M2 Max) or up to 192GB of unified memory (for the Max Studio with M2 Ultra).

Apple also introduced the Studio Display, designed to act as the Mac Studio’s display. You can choose between a Studio Display with a tilt-adjustable stand or a Studio Display with a tilt- and height-adjustable stand.

5. Mac Pro

The Mac Pro is the most expensive device in the Mac lineup. With a starting price of $6,999.00, this workstation is designed for professionals and business owners. After all, this price tag is difficult to justify if there isn’t a direct return on investment. And that can only happen if used in a business or work setting.

Until June 2023, the Mac Pro was the only remnant of the previous Intel-powered dispensation. While the company had refreshed the other products by powering them with its M-series chips, the Mac Pro still sported an Intel Xeon W processor and AMD Radeon Pro GPU. However, Apple unveiled the Mac Pro, featuring the M2 Ultra. This unveiling completed the Mac transition to Apple silicon. According to the company, the M2 Ultra-powered Mac Pro is up to 3x faster than the Intel-based model.

The computer can be configured with unified memory of up to 192GB and 800GB/s of bandwidth, enabling it to accomplish things that weren’t possible before. The high RAM allows the computer to handle large CAD files and render complex scenes with a lot of geometry and textures.

The 2023 Mac Pro boasts unmatched connectivity with eight built-in Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, three USB-A ports, 2 HDMI ports, a headphone jack, and two 10Gb Ethernet ports. It also features seven PCIe expansion slots, allowing users to customize the computer with digital signal processing (DSP) cards and serial digital interface (SDI) I/O cards.

Apple notes that the Mac Pro delivers groundbreaking performance and takes “the most demanding workflows to the next level.” In this regard, this computer can be useful for designers who work on complex design projects and need high computing power to process their designs without crashing or disruptions.

It is worth bearing in mind that you also have to purchase a display, mouse, and keyboard alongside your Mac Mini, Mac Studio, and Mac Pro. You can opt for the peripheral devices Apple sells, including the Apple Studio Display. Alternatively, you can consider looking at the best mouse for CAD, the best display for CAD, and the best keyboard for CAD.

Considerations when Choosing Mac Products for CAD

If you are considering buying an Mac product, it is important to take several factors into account. These include:

1. Price
2. Upgradability
3. CAD software that can run on MacOS
4. Portability 

1. Price

The price of Mac products dictate the features of the device. Looking at the different Mac products, we can segment them into  mid-range, high-end, and budget buy categories. However, we have not discussed in our list Apple’s budget laptop, the MacBook Air, as it does not have active cooling for the powerful M1 or M2 chip. So using it for intensive workloads as is the case when using CAD software will likely make it overheat. Generally, however, and looking at the hardware requirements of different CAD software, the different Mac products in our list are pretty capable of running CAD applications. 

2. Upgradability

The biggest con that Apple’s computers have is their upgradability. Apple prides itself on its great design, but almost doesn’t trust its consumers to have the know-how to tailor-fit their personal machines to their own needs. Upgrades and modifications made after the sale are almost needlessly difficult for most MacOS computers. So be sure to do your research and figure out what technical specifications best suit your CAD needs before you buy a Mac, because you’re more or less stuck with your choices until you purchase a new machine.

3. Portability

As an engineer, designer, or architect, you will agree with me that your work may require you to leave your office in order to conduct some field work. This is where portability comes in handy. You can more easily and conveniently carry a MacBook laptop as opposed to the bulky Mac Pro or other Mac devices that need to be plugged in to function.

4. CAD software that can run on MacOS

Also, seeing as most software developers consider the PC to be the default machine for CAD users, there are a few programs out there that just straight up don’t have a Mac port. Autodesk’s Inventor, for example, can only run on Windows. The issue is compounded by the migration towards Apple SOC. The worsened situation stems from the fact that you can no longer partition the SSD to also run Windows, a workaround you could previously use.

That said, let’s take a look at some CAD software that you can run on you Mac.

CAD Software for Mac

1. Autodesk Product Collection

Autodesk doesn’t offer just a single piece of software; it actually has a whole suite of different design programs for CAD users with different needs and drafting requirements. It’s first on the list since it has one of the most widely-used set of CAD products in the market.

AutoCAD is a clear-cut CAD program that can handle most standard vector file formats and is primarily used for 2D technical drawings but can also handle 3D information. For those in the building and construction industry, Autodesk’s Revit is a solid BIM program that can fit most if not all design and drafting needs. Do note that Autodesk is primarily PC-based, so there are also a bunch of programs that you won’t be able to use on your Mac by default. Other Autodesk products that are available for Mac include Inventor and Civil3D.

Autodesk AutoCAD on Mac (source)

2. SketchUp

SketchUp is a modeling program catered to be an intuitive 3D solution for most design, manufacturing, and product-making necessities. It makes it to this list because it’s one of the most intuitive pieces of software out there and is great for beginners just getting into CAD and 3D modeling. SketchUp has three plans available: SketchUp Free, SketchUp Shop, SketchUp Pro. The SketchUp Free and SketchUp Shop offerings are both web-based, with Free being unpaid and Shop having unlimited cloud storage and access to all uploaded models on SketchUp Warehouse. SketchUp Pro is usable as a stand-alone desktop app and has all the features available for the software.

3. ArchiCAD

ArchiCAD is an architectural design suite that was actually originally designed for the Apple Macintosh back in 1982 by Hungarian company Graphisoft. It’s supposedly the first example of Building Information Modeling or BIM. It was also one of the first CAD programs that were readily available and usable at a commercial level, being usable on personal computers.

ArchiCAD offers a bunch of different packages that offer both 2D drafting and 3D modeling capabilities as well as all functionality that comes with BIM technology. With its variety of tools and technical settings, it may not have the easiest learning curve. But any ArchiCAD veteran will tell you just how useful the programs are and make it worth the time spent mastering it.

4. Vectorworks

Vectorworks is a flexible and versatile desktop app that offers 2D drafting, 3D modeling, BIM capabilities, and photo-realistic visual rendering in a neat, intuitive package. We talk about Vectorworks a lot in our blogs and as it is also available for the Mac, it’s only right we include it on this list. Mainly used in European markets and now owned by German company Nemetschek, Vectorworks was originally developed back in 1985, just three after the launch of AutoCAD. It has three main software packages: Vectorworks Architect, Vectorworks Landmark, Vectorworks Spotlight, and Vectorworks Fundamentals.

5. Free Software (Freeware)

If you find the prospect of paid CAD software a bit too daunting as a beginner, you’ll be glad to find that there are plenty of free-to-use CAD programs out there for the Mac.

1. LibreCAD is an open-source option that offers high-end features such as snap-to-grid functionality, layers, text, dimensioning, and many more.
2. FreeCAD is another interesting pick since it’s a fully-realized 3D parametric modeling program for mechanical engineers and product designers.
3. Blender is also an amazingly intuitive open-source 3D modeling program that focuses on the detailed and artistic side of 3D rendering and modeling.

There are a bunch more free programs out there including limited or trial versions of the paid programs we’ve listed here.

6. Scan2CAD

For more advanced CAD users who have set up a workflow of translating sketches or scanned copies of drawings or plans into workable vector CAD files, Scan2CAD is the perfect conversion solution. The program is primarily used to convert both raster and vector files into CAD-standard vector formats that CAD and modeling programs will be able to recognize and edit.

Some CAD software will have their own raster-to-vector conversion functionality, but none have as much control and precision over the conversion settings than Scan2CAD does. Its main purpose is to cut down the time needed to translate source materials into workable, draftable vector lines and it does its job extremely well.

For a detailed discussion, check out our comprehensive article on the 14 top CAD packages for Mac.

Conclusion

Asking if MacOS computers are good for CAD programs is a bit vague. Like most other technical queries, it all boils down to two things – what specific technical specifications do you already have or are planning to get and what are your needs as a CAD-user? In the end, as long as you do your research, be wise about what your machine can and can’t do, and try to be ingenious about finding workarounds for certain roadblocks, any MacOS machine can handle what you need.

That said, the various Mac products in our list are perfectly capable of running CAD software. To summarize their value proposition, we have made the following list:

• Best budget Mac product for CAD: Mac Mini
• Best mid-range Mac product for CAD: Mac Studio
• Best high-end Mac product for CAD: Mac Pro
• Best portable Mac product for CAD: MacBook Pro
• Best all-in-one Mac product for CAD: 24-inch iMac