Best Graphics Card (GPU) for 3D Modeling and Rendering
While CPU rendering has been around for a long time, it appears that GPU rendering will soon take its place.
Octane, Redshift, VRAY-RT, and Cycles are some of the most popular current GPU Render Engines. GPUs from both NVIDIA and AMD (OpenCL) are supported in the third.
Here are a few NVIDIA GPUs in order of performance that will give you good GPU Rendering Speed:. CUDA Support:
Speed:
This Nvidia List might go on and on, but I think you’ve got the spirit of it.
They get faster and more expensive as the quantity increases.
Quad RTX GPU Setup – Image-Source: Bizon-tech
If you’d want a more in-depth look at the cost-performance ratio, check out our GPU Render Benchmark summary.
The VRAY-RT, Octane, and Redshift benchmarks are also worth a look.
Why aren’t there any AMD GPUs (yet) on the market?
At this point, the question of why AMD GPUs are not recommended is warranted.
AMD GPU models like the Radeon RX 6800XT and others can absolutely handle most 3D tasks, but NVIDIA GPUs simply have a wider range of support in GPU Render Engines and generally perform better in many content creation workloads.
NVIDIA GPUs are supported by all Engines, with the exception of those that support AMD GPUs. Nvidia is the superior choice right now if you want to be able to use a variety of different apps and engines without worrying about compatibility issues.
Image-Credit: AMD
Redshift, Octane and other Render Engine Developers have said that they are working on introducing AMD GPU support.
ProRender or other AMD-powered rendering engines are fine if you know you’ll be using them. AMD’s products are worth their weight in gold.
Our guide on blower vs. open-air cooled GPUs should be reviewed before you buy several GPUs for rendering.
Best GPU for Viewport performance
If you acquire a high-end graphics card, you won’t notice much of a difference in the speed of your Viewport because the processor is usually the bottleneck.
All the GPUs listed above will perform roughly the same in Viewport performance.
This is due to the fact that the GPU rarely computes slower than the CPU while updating meshes, deformers, and the like in 3D applications.
This means that in order to continue working, the GPU must typically sit around and wait for the CPU to complete off its current task.
It’s worth noting that if you frequently use In-Viewport SSAO and other effects like Reflections, AO, and Anti-Aliasing, you may want to consider upgrading your GPU.
However, for the majority of users, a faster CPU will have a significantly greater impact.
Since it offers a good GPU-Render value as well as a fast enough Viewport, we’ll go with the Nvidia RTX 3070 for our Best Computer for 3D Modeling.
Image-Credit: MSI
Just so you know:
Even if you utilise a small number of extremely high-poly RAW models (such as an automobile model with 40 million polygons) and don’t apply any modifiers to them, the GPU can become a bottleneck because your workstation only needs to update the Car’s display and not its fundamental structure.
See our Viewport Performance Benchmark and the best CPUs here for more information.
How much and what type of RAM (Memory) do you need for 3D Modeling and Rendering?
When it comes to memory (RAM), your workload will dictate how much and what kind of RAM you’ll need, much like with the CPU.
Working with high-polygon models will require more RAM than when creating 3D scenarios with fewer details.
3D artists in general should have at least 32 GB of RAM installed on their workstations.
Those that work with high-poly meshes, big textures, or scenes containing hundreds of objects may benefit from having at least 64GB of RAM.
For those just getting started with 3D, 16 GB of RAM may be plenty, but you’ll shortly outgrow it.
Image-Source: G.Skill
In order to maximise the performance of your computer’s hardware, the rule of thumb is:
The preferable is to have a lower CL (CAS Latency) and a higher Clock Speed. For example, a DDR4-3200 CL15 would be slightly faster than a DDR4-2800 CL16, for instance.
Higher-clocked RAM is also available for AMD Ryzen 3rd and 4th generation (5xxx series) CPUs.
In addition, there’s something called Ranks, and if you’d like to learn more about it, you can check out our post on Memory Ranks.
A note on RAM Kits
When purchasing RAM, buy the entire amount in one kit. Pre-tested in the factory, RAM Kits (which are RAM Modules packaged together) are guaranteed to work together.
Although it’s a common misconception that you may buy RAM today and add more later, this isn’t always the case.
So, if you’re upgrading your PC’s RAM, acquire 4x8GB of RAM in a KIT rather than 2x8GB + 2x8GB in two separate KITS.
What’s the point of having various amounts of RAM in different KITs?
When it comes to RAM, there are a number of factors that might cause it to differ from one kit to the next. For example, one RAM module may be made in 2017 while another may have been manufactured in 2019. Because of this, it is impossible to guarantee that RAM timing will be the same among modules manufactured in various facilities or at different times.
Choose a pre-tested kit. Memory modules and RAM brands should not be mixed.
It’s a good idea to use RAM from reputable manufacturers such as G.Skill, G.Skill LPX, ADATA, Crucial, and Corsair, like the 32GB Vengeance LPX RAM Kit from Corsair.
Best Motherboard for 3D Modeling and Rendering
The Motherboard, often known as the Mainboard, acts as a hub for all of your computer’s physical components.
Image-Credit: MSI
It’s unlikely to have a significant impact on performance, but you should check to see if it contains all the options you’d like. There are a few things to keep in mind:
Different CPUs require different Socket Types. Check to see if the CPU socket on your motherboard is the correct one.
A maximum amount of RAM can be installed in a given number of RAM slots on some Motherboards and Chipsets. Check to see if it can handle the quantity of RAM you’d like to use.
The maximum number of compatible GPUs: Motherboards have a certain number of PCIe slots and lanes that your GPU can use. Consider how many GPUs you intend to use before you buy.
NVME drives: Make sure your motherboard supports M.2 PCIe drives (the motherboard’s handbook is your best friend).
As far as size is concerned, you can find motherboards in a wide range of shapes and sizes. The motherboard must fit inside your computer’s casing before you buy it (and vice versa too, of course).
As a first-time PC builder, I can understand if this seems a little overwhelming.
There are a lot of variables to consider, and I’ve put together a list of workstation options for you to choose from.
It’s a good idea to check out this article on the best motherboards for Ryzen 5000 Series CPUs if you’re planning to construct one.
In addition, we’ve put together a Motherboard Brands Guide that might help you avoid some of the pitfalls of the industry.
Best Storage for 3D Modeling and Rendering
Your storage’s speed affects a number of things, including how quickly you can access your data.
- Saving and loading your scene files
- Storing and loading your Textures, Assets, References, Rendered Frames
- Loading your Assets, Textures into RAM, VRAM when Rendering
- Swapping to disk if your RAM is full
- Launching your Software, Operating System
Having a fast disc will allow you to load your scenes rapidly.
You can save your scene faster if your disc is fast if you use a function like autosave (which I strongly recommend you always use). However, once your scene is put into RAM, even a lightning-fast disc will do little to improve performance.
When it comes to your operating system and your Scene Files, I’d suggest at the very least getting a SATA SSD like the Samsung 870 QVO.
The Seagate FireCuda 530 is a PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD that offers the fastest possible performance at a price you don’t mind paying for. I strongly suggest NVMe for content-creation workloads. Visit our NVMe Article to learn which NVMe SSD is best for you.
Samsung 980 PRO NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD – Image Source: Samsung
In the event that your drives malfunction for reasons that you cannot anticipate, you may want to invest in a larger HDD to serve as a backup. When it comes to major projects, this is what happens.
To save space on your fast drives, you can archive your inactive projects on a larger hard disc and just keep active projects on the fast drives.
About PCI-E-Lanes
A lot of people have asked me about this area, so I thought I’d address it. This section is optional.
With 16 PCIe lanes, how can you use NVME SSDs (which already require 4 PCIe lanes) or SATA drives if your GPU already uses up all of the 16 PCIe lanes available to the CPU, such as a Ryzen 5900X or an Intel 10900K?
On the Z370/Z390 Chipset, the Chipset itself has the ability to construct 24 extra PCIe Lanes if necessary, which is 16 PCIe Lanes wide.
There is a DMI link that connects the chipset lanes to the CPU, which is only 4 PCIe lanes wide.
If your NVMe SSD can read and write at more than 2GB/s, there may be a bottleneck if you’re constantly copying large amounts of data (say 50GB) from one of your NVMe SSDs to your second NVMe SSD.
With the 970 EVO, sequential read/write is conceivable, but you’d be hard-pressed to find a situation where you’d be doing so continuously. Instead, you’ll be working with considerably smaller files that are read/writable at random.
Only the chipset PCIe lanes and the DMI link are connected to the CPU through the DMI link, which is four PCIe lanes in width. Everything you plug into the motherboard is included here.
Image-Credit: AMD
When you connect in a new component, the PCIe lanes from the chipset to the CPU aren’t used. It’s better to think of PCIe lanes as motorway tunnels that are always open and always there if the need arises for them.
Components (SATA SSDs, HDDs, USBs, Ethernet cables, etc…) can be connected to the chipset through PCIe lanes up to a maximum of 24, although they will only connect to the CPU and use bandwidth if it is required.
A bottleneck would occur if you tried to run all of those components at full speed at once. The HEDT platform (such as LGA 2066 or TR4) would be your best option in this situation (1151, AM4).
Using PCIe-Lane technology to your advantage can boost the performance of your PC. If you’re planning to use many GPUs or a large number of storage devices, we recommend reading our PCIe-Lanes Guide.
Best Monitor for 3D Modeling and Rendering
When working in 3D and VFX studios, you should acquire a monitor with an IPS panel. Displays made with IPS technology feature improved colour and contrast, as well as a wider field of vision.
If you plan to stare at your monitor for long periods of time, you’ll want a non-glare (matte) monitor to minimise distracting hard reflections.
The viewport and all of your apps require at the very least a 1920 x 1080 Full HD display. If you want to fit more film, references, and programme windows on your monitor, you may want to look into 4K (38402160) or even 25601440 monitors.
When working with high-resolution pictures or 4K advertising and film, this is especially true.
Image-Source: Dell
I’ve had good luck using Dell IPS monitors like the Dell UP2716d, however you may have a preference for a different manufacturer.
How many Monitors do you use?
If you’re looking for the best Monitors for visual-demanding job, check out this comprehensive guide, which includes all the information you need.
Best Power Supply (PSU) for 3D Modeling and Rendering
It’s a good idea to acquire a power supply that has more watts than you need, even if it’s pricey.
In most cases, a standard construction requires 600-750 watts, with an additional 250 watts each additional GPU.
Corsair RM850x PSU inside a PC Case – Image-Source: Corsair
BeQuiet, Seasonic, and Corsair all make good power supplies.
If you want to know how many watts your PSU will need, you can use this calculator.
It’s also a good idea to get a Modular Power Supply (PSU). Modular PSUs allow you to separate any unnecessary connections from the unit, which improves airflow and frees up space in the case.
We’ve put together this guide to help you figure out which Power Supply is best for your needs because it can be a bit of a challenge.
Best Case for 3D Modeling and Rendering
This is one of those components that will have a minimal impact on your modelling or rendering speed.
Your motherboard, additional components like a large GPU or CPU-Cooler, and any additional parts you may wish to add in the future should all fit in the same space. If you’re doing a lot of rendering, your computer will run cooler if it has a casing designed with good airflow in mind.
If you’re building a professional workstation, you’ll likely want a case that’s as quiet as possible and doesn’t distract you from your task.
Image-Source: Corsair
A look at the best instances for 3D Modeling and Rendering we’ve come across thus far:
The Mid-Terrace (Standard-Sized Build)
Mid-Tower Case: Phanteks Enthoo ATX
Series 200R ATX Mid Tower Case by Corsair
This is a mid-to-large tower case by Corsair (For lots of GPUs)
Big Titanium XL R2 Fractal Tower Case by Fractal Design
Build your own Computer!
In order to get the most out of your 3D modelling and rendering experience you need a computer that is quick, easy to use and doesn’t make you feel like you’re going to punch your monitor.
The satisfaction I receive from creating my own computers for various purposes, such as 3D modelling and graphics, is immense.
Building your own PCs is something I think you’ll like if you haven’t already.
Do you assemble your PC yourself or buy Pre-Built?
Learning about the inner workings of various hardware components while building your own computer allows you to gradually update parts as needed and helps you detect possible problems more readily.
But what’s even better? Assembling it takes around an hour and costs much less than buying pre-configured laptops.
Putting together your own computer is not difficult, and I can’t stress that enough. You’re basically just putting together a PC by plugging in the various components and tightening the screws. The most difficult part is applying a small amount of thermal paste to the processor. That’s all there is to it!
Please see the video lesson below for help in building:
Best full PC-Build Recommendations at different Price points
Best Computer for 3D Modeling and Rendering, AMD at roughly ~900$
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