In order to accurately criticize computer recommendations for processor-based rendering, it is necessary to take a brief look at the features of the software and the operating logic of the hardware equipment. In this context, we can talk about two types of rendering software: CPU (processor) based rendering and GPU (video card) based rendering . CPU (processor) based rendering and GPU (video card) based rendering refer to a technology variability depending on the software and hardware used in rendering processes. While processor performance comes to the fore in one, graphics card performance comes to the fore in the other. In this article, we will focus on the system requirements for processor-based rendering engines for use in professional 3D studios.
CPU Based Rendering:
CPU (Central Processing Unit) based rendering performs rendering operations using the processor.
It is a method that has traditionally been used for a long time and is generally preferred to obtain high-quality results on systems with multi-core processors.
CPU-based rendering engines often handle complex scenes and high-quality effects, allowing for photorealistic visuals, but render times can be longer than GPU-based renders.
Some of the popular processor-based rendering engines include:
V-Ray : V-Ray is a powerful rendering engine popular among architects, interior designers and visual effects artists. It runs on a CPU basis and has a wide range of features.
Corona Renderer : Corona Renderer is a rendering engine known for its user-friendly interface and fast rendering times. It is CPU based and is frequently preferred in interior architecture projects.
Arnold : Arnold is a rendering engine frequently used in the film industry. It is processor based and known for complex lighting and material simulation.
Maxwell Render : Maxwell Render is a physics-based rendering engine and accurately simulates light and material behavior to achieve realistic results. It works processor based.
RenderMan : RenderMan is a rendering engine developed by Pixar and has wide use in the film industry. It offers both CPU- and GPU-based rendering capabilities, but CPU-based renders are also quite common.
This is just a few of the processor-based rendering engines. It's important to consider your project's needs, your budget, and your preferences when choosing.
Laptop or Desktop for Rendering?
Whether a laptop or desktop computer is preferred for rendering depends on the needs and working conditions of the users. Both options have advantages and disadvantages:
Laptop:
Portability: Laptops have more advantages in terms of portability compared to desktop computers. So, it is ideal for people who need to work in different locations.
Low Power Consumption: Some laptops may be more efficient in terms of power consumption and may last longer on battery life. This is important for use when working outside or while traveling.
Space Saving: Laptops take up less space than desktop computers, providing more space in your work environment.
Desktop:
Performance: Often within the same price range, desktop computers can have more powerful components than laptops. This means higher performance and faster rendering times.
Cooling: Desktop computers may have a more effective cooling system due to the larger case size. This allows the components to operate at high performance for longer.
Expansion: Desktops typically offer more upgrade and expansion options. This provides greater flexibility should you want to upgrade or replace your components in the future.
As a result, whether to choose a laptop or desktop computer for rendering depends on your personal preferences, work environment, workload and budget. If portability and space saving are important, a laptop may be preferred, while if higher performance and expansion options are sought, a desktop computer may be more suitable.
Entry and intermediate level rendering work can be done by architecture students and boutique architecture offices with laptop systems, but it must be said that it is necessary to use desktop systems for architecture offices or 3D studios that do professional rendering work.
What is the importance of the processor (CPU) in the rendering computer?
Processor (CPU)
Nowadays, 3D modeling and rendering processes have become an indispensable part for artists, designers and engineers. However, it is important to have appropriate computer hardware to perform these complex operations. One of the most critical components of this hardware is the processor.
1. Multi-Core Performance: 3D modeling and rendering processes are generally multi-threaded processes. That is, multiple threads are used to process multiple tasks simultaneously. The processor manages these threads and assigns tasks to each thread. Therefore, a processor with a high core count can significantly reduce rendering times thanks to its parallel processing capabilities.
2. Speed and Efficiency: 3D modeling and rendering processes often require working with complex geometry and detailed images. The processor is important to quickly process this complex data and pass the processed data to the rendering engine. A processor with higher clock speeds can perform these operations faster and more efficiently.
3. High Single Core Performance: During 3D modeling, some processes may be concentrated in a single thread. For example, operations such as detailed manipulation of an object or rendering of a complex scene often occur on a single core. Therefore, the single-core performance of the processor is also important. A processor with high clock speeds and single-core performance can perform modeling operations faster and more smoothly.
4. Render Times: Rendering is the most time-consuming part of creating 3D scenes. Rendering times vary depending on the performance, number of cores and speed of the processor used. A more powerful processor provides faster render times and allows artists to receive faster feedback.
Choosing an appropriate processor for 3D modeling and rendering can increase the efficiency of your workflow and increase your productivity. A processor with a high core count, fast clock speeds, and high single-core performance will help you process complex projects faster and achieve higher quality results. Therefore, it is important for 3D artists and designers to be careful when choosing a processor.
Why is RAM important on a rendering computer?
RAM is used to temporarily store data and textures used during the rendering process. The larger the RAM, the faster and smoother the rendering will be.
Some points on how RAM affects rendering:
Low RAM: On a rendering computer with low RAM, the hard disk must be accessed for data and texture transfers during the rendering process. This significantly extends rendering time.
Sufficient RAM: On a rendering computer with sufficient RAM, all data and textures can be stored in RAM during the rendering process. This eliminates the need to access the hard disk and significantly shortens rendering time.
High RAM: On a rendering computer with high RAM, larger and more complex scenes can be rendered during the rendering process.
Some points to consider when choosing RAM for a rendering computer:
RAM capacity: Depending on the complexity of the rendering process, 32 GB, 64 GB or 128 GB RAM may be preferred.
RAM speed: RAM speed can also affect rendering time. It is recommended to choose RAM with a speed of at least 3200 MHz.
RAM type: DDR5 RAM is the most current type of RAM for rendering computers.
To summarize briefly; RAM in the rendering computer is critical for the rendering process to be fast and smooth. A rendering computer with sufficient RAM significantly reduces rendering time and makes it possible to render more complex scenes.
We can make a very brief note on the graphics card selection for the rendering system and move on to system recommendations. Our graphics card preference; It would be very beneficial to use NVIDIA products due to their performance, driver support and software compatibility.
Â
We have listed the 3D modeling and rendering computer system configurations that we recommend for 3 different user groups as of 2024 for CPU rendering studies.
Computer Recommendations for 3D Modeling and Rendering
1 - Entry Level Rendering Computer Recommendation
Processor (CPU): AMD Ryzen 7 7700X Octa Core 4.50 GHz Processor
Cooler: Be Quiet DARK ROCK PRO 4
Motherboard: Asus Prime B650-PLUS AMD AM5 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Graphics Card (GPU): RTX 3060
Ram: 64GB (2x32GB) DDR5
SSD: Kingston KC3000 1TB
Power Supply (PSU): 650 W≤
Case: ATX computer case
Â
2- Mid-Range Rendering Computer Recommendation
Processor (CPU): AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D Sixteen Core 4.2 GHz Processor
Cooler: DeepCool LT720 ARGB 360 mm CPU Liquid Cooler
Motherboard: Asus Prime X670-P AMD AM5 DDR5 ATX Motherboard
Graphics Card (GPU): RTX 4060
Ram: 128 (2x64GB) DDR5
SSD: Kingston KC3000 2TB
Power Supply (PSU): 850 W≤
Case: ATX computer case
Â
3- Professional Rendering Computer Recommendation
Processor (CPU): AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 7985WX 5.1GHz 64 Cores
Cooler: NZXT Kraken Elite 360
Motherboard: ASUS Pro WS WRX90E-SAGE SE DDR5
Graphics Card (GPU): RTX 4090
Ram: 256 (4x64GB) DDR5
SSD: 4TB Samsung 990 PRO
Power Supply (PSU): 1200W
Case: E-ATX
In our next blog post, we will examine GPU-based rendering software and systems and make hardware recommendations. You can follow us on our Instagram page to be informed about our blog posts. Hope to see you!