Computer for Architect
Computer for Architect
I'm weighing my options between a gaming PC and a workstation. I'll be using Revit and doing some rendering with software like D5 Render. Revit needs a powerful CPU (mainly single core speed) and a strong GPU, so I want the best of both. I also run several background programs such as Adobe Bridge, Photoshop, One Note, and Firefox.
I've decided between:
HP Z2 Tower G9 Workstation and Thermaltake Vista i47TS
The main difference is the CPU: the workstation has an i7 14700 while the Vista has an i7 14700KF. I'm not keen on overclocking, and I think the KF runs slightly better.
Although both have similar maximum clock speeds, the i7 14700 has a lower base clock of just 2.1, which worries me for Revit. I believe this lower speed will use less power and stay cooler when not in use, but it might increase to full speed if needed while working with Revit.
Regarding the GPU, I understand that the RTX Quadro is built for precision, whereas the RTX GeForce focuses on speed at the cost of accuracy. The Quadro is also certified by Autodesk (Revit), offering better support in case of issues, which the GeForce lacks. This detail isn't crucial to me.
Additionally, the Quadro is more expensive.
Since I'm not a tech expert and finding the right choice is tough, any guidance would be appreciated.
CPUs seldom stay at full speed during heavy workloads; they increase to peak performance based on software and cooling conditions. This implies the 14700 can reach over 5GHz when needed.
If you're not planning to engage with your system after spending time creating and visualizing scenes for your projects, consider a workstation-focused build. I've heard about D5, but I'm sure it's similar to Lumion in rendering quality, with the best performance-to-price ratio using gaming GPUs compared to workstation-oriented ones (such as Quadro or FirePro models) and when evaluating GPU scores like G3Dmark.
https://lumion.com/product/system-requirements
For D5:
https://forum.d5render.com/t/system-requ...-test/2151
The RTX4070Ti found on the Thermaltake prebuilt isn't included there.
GPU hardware from workstation models usually offers support on demand and is certified by AutoDesk, ensuring reliability for your workflow since downtime equates to lost revenue.
On the CPU side, a K SKU would be suitable as it includes an integrated GPU, which is useful for diagnosing discrete GPU problems. Also, I'd steer clear of Intel following their recent challenges.
How much are you willing to invest in your setup? Where are you based? Are you aiming to build something from scratch or prefer a ready-made solution?
BTW, wishing you well from a fellow architect across the globe.
Opinion on the i7-14700KF CPU and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Ti Super compared to the i7-14700 CPU and NVIDIA A2000.
Hello fellow Architect.
I'm located in Connecticut, USA.
My research suggests custom-built options are significantly more costly compared to similar specifications.
I often visit the Puget Systems website for ideas when designing new systems. After reviewing their workstations priced between $10k and $15k, I opt for more budget-friendly parts and adapt accordingly. Since I'm not operating a business, extended render times are fine.
Although quite outdated, this 2021 Revit article is worth checking out:
https://www.pugetsystems.com/labs/articl...ance-2031/
I concur. I have about the same mix of Intel and AMD systems, but I'm pleased my recent builds used AMD models (3800X in 2018 and 7950X in 2022).
@blevin. For those unfamiliar, Intel faced issues in 2023/2024 with their top-tier CPUs experiencing gradual performance drops due to unstable over-voltage settings. The only remedy was sending faulty chips back to Intel for repair.
https://www.techpowerup.com/324823/...ro...x-out-soon
Recent micro-code updates have largely resolved Intel's over-voltage concerns, while AMD processors typically use less power at comparable speeds. I selected an AMD 7950X because it usually stays under 170W. An equivalent Intel 14900K could exceed 230W under heavy load.
To be honest, AMD has also encountered challenges. Notice the much more intense overheating reported by some users of the older AMD 7800X3D on early systems.
https://uk.pcmag.com/processors/146...ng...erclocking
Today you might want to consider an AMD 9950X or an Intel 15900K. As long as you purchase from a trustworthy dealer, the choice between AMD and Intel shouldn't be critical. You could even assemble it yourself, though that's a different scale altogether.
Finally, keep in mind the ongoing problems with the 12VHPWR connector on high-end GPUs:
https://hwbusters.com/news/nvidia-invest...ing-issue/
This issue appears to have been addressed with the new 12V-2x6 connector design, but it's wise to verify what you're acquiring.
https://www.extremetech.com/gaming/new-1...y-inserted
Ensure you select a solid modern power supply with a 10-year warranty. Steer clear of cheaper units with only a three-year guarantee.
Computers are highly personal decisions, but neither HP nor Thermaltake stands out for me. The design of the HP suits office use better, while the Thermaltake leans more toward aesthetics and gaming.
My main worry is that these models don’t clearly explain details like the motherboard, power supply, or upgrade potential. Even if you like the look at first, you might need to upgrade storage later.
Software like Adobe benefits from multiple drives to boost performance. If your motherboard lacks room for more M.2 NVMe drives or if there’s no space for older SATA SSDs and hard drives, your options are limited.
I run Windows plus Adobe apps on a single M.2 NVMe drive. A second M.2 is on the board for my Adobe Scratch Disk, while a third is reserved for ongoing work. Splitting files across two or three disks makes a small difference, but every bit helps with rendering times. Most boards have 5 or 6 M.2 slots.
I store completed projects on hard drives inside the same machine, but these could be moved to external USB3 or USB4/Thunderbolt drives for better backup options. For long-term storage, I use LTO tape and TrueNAS Core servers.
With a custom HP build, it’s not always clear how many M.2 slots are available on the motherboard. Similarly, you don’t know how many spare power leads are included in an HP PSU. If you plan to upgrade your GPU or add more drives, can you do so without changing the PSU?
The Thermaltake case isn’t particularly large, though there might be space for a few hidden drives. A quick check on the website didn’t reveal the exact motherboard and PSU part numbers. You might fit Thermaltake with any available board—MSI, Gigabyte, Asus could be options depending on when you build.
I’d prefer a company that makes custom PCs to order. They can listen to your needs and offer tailored advice at your budget. Check out some setups at Puget Systems; they take a more detailed approach to system design and share more about individual parts.
If you’re investing a lot in a new computer, it’s wise to understand exactly what you’re getting. Would you buy a car if you only knew the number of wheels and its color?