Tech Picks

Mechanical Pencils

Mechanical Pencils I actually recommend to engineering students.

Updated September 22, 2026

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Worth the splurge

rOtring 600 Mechanical Pencil (0.5mm)

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The two ThinkPads use built-in graphics, which is plenty for coding, Excel, MATLAB, and most coursework. If you run heavy CAD or simulation software like SolidWorks, ANSYS, or Revit, a dedicated NVIDIA graphics card makes a real difference.

Check the NCEES calculator policy at ncees.org before any FE or PE exam, since the approved list can change.

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