Modelling vs rendering: two different jobs
- Modelling and drafting (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Revit, SketchUp, Inventor) is mostly done on one or a few processor cores. A higher clock speed makes the drawing feel faster; more cores help very little.
- Rendering and simulation (V-Ray, Corona, Lumion, Enscape, KeyShot, Blender, ANSYS) uses every core or the graphics card. More cores or a stronger GPU cut the waiting time almost in proportion.
Most offices do both, so the usual answer is a workstation with good clock speed, a certified graphics card and enough memory, then more cores or a bigger GPU if rendering is the bottleneck.
Processor: clock speed or cores
| If you mainly do | Choose | Typical workstations |
|---|---|---|
| 2D drafting, modelling | One Xeon with high clock speed, 6 to 10 cores | Lenovo P520, HP Z4 G4, Dell Precision 5820 |
| Modelling plus regular CPU rendering | One Xeon with more cores, or two mid-range Xeons | HP Z6 G4, Dell Precision 7820, Lenovo P720 |
| Heavy CPU rendering or simulation | Two Xeons with many cores | Dell Precision 7920, HP Z8 G4, Lenovo P920 |
Two-processor workstations give the most cores, but each extra core is slower, so they suit rendering more than drafting.
Graphics card
- Certified cards (NVIDIA Quadro and RTX A-series) are tested by CAD vendors and have drivers tuned for their software. For SolidWorks, Revit and similar tools this avoids display glitches.
- Video memory matters more than raw speed for large models and GPU rendering: 4 to 8 GB for drafting, 8 to 16 GB or more for GPU rendering and real-time tools like Lumion and Enscape.
- Power and space: big GPUs need the right power cables and enough power supply. Check the workstation's supported card list before adding one.
Memory and storage
- RAM: 32 GB is a sensible start for CAD; 64 GB or more for large assemblies, big SketchUp or Revit models and rendering. Xeon workstations use ECC memory, which avoids random crashes during long renders.
- Storage: put Windows, software and active projects on an SSD (NVMe if the workstation supports it); keep a larger hard disk or NAS for archives and backups.
Starting points by software
| Software | Processor | Graphics | RAM |
|---|---|---|---|
| AutoCAD (2D) | High clock, 6+ cores | Entry certified card | 16 to 32 GB |
| SolidWorks, Inventor | High clock, 8+ cores | Certified card, 4 to 8 GB | 32 GB+ |
| Revit, SketchUp | High clock, 8+ cores | 8 GB+ | 32 to 64 GB |
| Lumion, Enscape, Twinmotion | 8+ cores | Strong GPU, 8 to 16 GB+ | 32 to 64 GB |
| V-Ray, Corona (CPU) | As many cores as budget allows | Mid-range | 64 GB+ |
Always check your software vendor's current system requirements and certified hardware list first.
Tell us your software and project size and we will suggest a configuration. See our refurbished workstations or read the RAM guide.
Common questions
Is a Xeon workstation better than a gaming PC for CAD?
For professional work, usually yes: certified graphics drivers, ECC memory that avoids crashes in long jobs, more memory slots, and parts built to run all day.
Do I need two processors for AutoCAD?
No. AutoCAD and most modelling tools use only a few cores, so one fast Xeon is better value. Two processors help with CPU rendering and simulation.
How much RAM does SketchUp or Revit need?
Start at 32 GB; large models, many linked files or rendering plugins benefit from 64 GB or more.
Can I upgrade the graphics card later?
Usually yes, if the power supply and cables support the new card. Check the workstation supported card list before buying.