You especially need a very strong CPU, preferably the latest i7. Minimum 8gb RAM and yes a nice gfx card would help too.
I mainly work on a desktop but use my laptop when on the road and it handles Maya well, it's a MSI ge60
https://www.amazon.com/MSI-GE60-2OE-0.../dp/B00CU9GKTO
Last edited by Richardvbr; 09-08-2014 at 07:02 PM.