computer engineering major looking for laptop

[nicktatorship]

I'm in my first year as an electrical and computer engineering major. I've been looking in to a new laptop for school. I'm not sure exactly what specs I'll be needing for programs like MATLAB and other engineering programs, but I've heard at least i5 and dedicated graphics card. My biggest concern is portability. All the laptops that look like they would fit my needs are 5+ pounds, which is really not what I want to carry to school and back everyday.
The lightest laptop I've been able to find with this amount of power is the Gigabyte P34Gv2-CF2: http/www.xoticpc.com/gigabyte-p34gv2cf2-p-7158.html
Although it's a bit pricey at $1500, it's quite powerful and the lightest I've found at 3.5 pounds. But I've read some reviews complaining about the track pad, and heating due to its size, and Gigabyte's poor customer service. So although I'm strongly considering this model, is it worth it?

 

[barto]

Welcome to the world of engineering. Matlab isn't too system intensive. A fast CPU and a sizable about of RAM can handle that. AutoCad can work a CPU and GPU. As you know, the more power you have the heavier laptop will be.

Do they have labs on campus? My university had labs that we could remote into from home. There was a little lag (it is RPD) but you could then have a lighter laptop.

Personally, I would try to find the lightest laptop with a good amount of power. I didn't care for a heavy laptop. Also, a good backpack makes a HUGE difference. Get one with a laptop sleeve that is located close to your back. The further the laptop is away from your back, the heavier the bag will feel.

 

[nicktatorship]

Welcome to the world of engineering. Matlab isn't too system intensive. A fast CPU and a sizable about of RAM can handle that. AutoCad can work a CPU and GPU. As you know, the more power you have the heavier laptop will be.

Do they have labs on campus? My university had labs that we could remote into from home. There was a little lag (it is RPD) but you could then have a lighter laptop.

Personally, I would try to find the lightest laptop with a good amount of power. I didn't care for a heavy laptop. Also, a good backpack makes a HUGE difference. Get one with a laptop sleeve that is located close to your back. The further the laptop is away from your back, the heavier the bag will feel.

They do have labs on campus, but as far as I know we can't remote into them. Which is unfortunate since that would simplify things.

That's why I've been looking for the lightest laptop I can find with the right amount of power. Which brought me to the Gidabyte laptop I mentioned. Although from what you're saying, it might be a bit overpowered.

As for the backpack, my current one does have a laptop sleeve at the back so I'm fine there.