Best computer for 3D modeling and rendering 2022
We run through 5 of the best 3D modelling capable desktop computers currently available
3D modeling is the process of creating a virtual three-dimensional model of a physical object. This technique is used in many different industries — so much so that these days, the vast majority of our favorite games or movies would not exist without the help of 3D modeling. It is also used in many scientific projects and helps pave the way to new breakthroughs.
If you have an interest in 3D modeling, you probably know that it’s among the most demanding things your computer is ever going to face. While it can be attempted on machines that weren’t specifically built for it, a lot of them will struggle under such a heavy stress test.
Now that you’ve decided to get a prebuilt PC tailored to the needs of 3D modeling, you might be feeling dread instead of excitement due to all the questions that are tied to the purchase. What kind of a CPU do you need? How much RAM? What graphics card?
We know that the process of picking the right PC to invest your money in can be just as daunting as it is thrilling. For that reason, we’ve decided to create this guide.
We have thoroughly researched and tested several pre-built desktops with the purpose of finding the best computers for 3D modeling. Through trial and error, we were able to create this comprehensive buying guide with a set of recommendations for the best PCs currently on the market.
Whether you’re looking for a budget option or a true beast for rendering and modeling, you’ve come to the right place. Let us introduce you to some of the best computers for 3D modeling!
Our Top Picks
The 5 Best Computers For 3D Modeling In 2020 & 2021
In-depth Review
CyberpowerPC Supreme
CyberpowerPC Supreme
Having spent hours on our search for the best of the best, we can say with confidence that we found what we were looking for in this CyberpowerPC model.
It will catch your eye right from the start with its modern and sleek design topped off with the latest trend: RGB lighting inside the case. The colors, instead of being borderline oppressive, dip into pastel shades that blend in nicely without losing any of their charms.
While having a good looking PC is definitely a nice bonus, it’s the components that we are truly here for — and in that department, CyperpowerPC has managed to succeed. As the CPU is the most important part of any PC for 3D modeling, let’s cover that first.
This computer has a processor that is known to be reliable — Intel Core i7-9700k. It runs at 3.6GHz with eight cores and can also be overclocked. This type of speed is more than sufficient for any type of rendering you may want to do. Topping off the smooth performance is the adequate amount of 16GB of DDR4 RAM.
The graphics card in this model is just as well-known as the processor: NVIDIA’S fairly recent model GeForce RTX 2070 Super 8GB. With such a power-duo of a CPU and GPU, this computer will not just breeze through 3D modeling — it will also let you play top games at high framerates.
If we were forced to find a downside, we’d mention the limited number of USB ports and perhaps the lack of an HDD. However, both of those things are easily fixed with minimal additional expense if it’s something you feel you need.
For those that want a machine that has supreme levels of versatility and performance, we recommend CyberpowerPC as a worthy candidate.
OMEN HP Obelisk Desktop Computer
OMEN HP Obelisk Desktop Computer
As long as you have a budget that can stretch just a bit, you may want to consider aiming high. If you do, choosing OMEN is a good way to go.
This is a high-end HP computer that comes with an increased price tag to match. However, we’d still go as far as to call it cost-effective — simply because of the amount of top-notch equipment you get when you purchase this desktop.
Intel’s 9th generation Intel Core i9-9900K processor is the main showstopper here with its 8-core 3.60GHz clock. While not the newest model on the market, it’s still fresh and largely unmatched in terms of performance. Any person interested in 3D modeling will stop and consider it for the overclocking options alone, as this can go up to 5 GHz in Turbo Mode.
On top of this beast of a CPU, you also get one of the newest NVIDIA graphic cards: the RTX 2080 SUPER 8GB, which only adds to the speed and versatility of this PC. Those two things alone make this PC worthy of being included in our list, but then there’s also 32GB RAM to consider. Need we mention the 1TB SSD?
The SSD is actually one of the things we both like and dislike about OMEN, as it’s the only storage you get. If you have an external drive or plan to purchase an extra HDD, this will only be a perk. Otherwise, you may run into issues with storage space somewhere down the line.
If you’re willing to invest in a PC that will last you for years and years of 3D modeling, rendering, streaming, or gaming, this PC is most likely an investment that will pay off many times over.
CyberpowerPC Supreme Liquid Cooling PC
CyberpowerPC Supreme Liquid Cooling PC
If OMEN was our high-end pick for Intel, this would be our high-end pick for fans of AMD. CyberpowerPC Supreme delivers on nearly every level while remaining well within the price range of some mid-end models.
We know very well that both Intel and AMD have their fair share of fans, and that some of those fans just do not mix. Who has never had a brand or a piece of hardware that they didn’t love? For that reason, we searched specifically for a top-notch AMD desktop. After a lot of research, we chose this one to recommend instead of the other options.
Through both stress-testing and reading the reviews of other users, we have to say that CyberpowerPC deserves a pat on the back — this PC is almost second to none when it comes to versatility and multitasking. Capable of running programs such as Photoshop, After Effects, Inkspace, Camtasia, and a lot more all at the same time, this is a PC that won’t slow you down with sluggish response times.
The AMD Ryzen 9 3950X 3.5GHz CPU has 16 cores and is also equipped with a reliable water cooling system. This will help you keep the temperatures in check even when you’re working on something massive.
32GB of RAM is more than acceptable here and in fact, it actually is in the higher end of RAM amounts in PCs. You’ll also find a GPU capable of handling your every request, from professional-grade 3D modeling to gaming for hours on end.
Much like in the case of OMEN, the main downside here is going to be the lack of a dedicated hard drive that you could use for extra storage. We’ll be the first to admit that it is a shame, but it’s definitely not a dealbreaker.
Are you interested in AMD and don’t mind setting a higher budget for your new PC? Based on our research, we can heartily recommend this for both professionals and budding 3D modeling enthusiasts alike.
SkyTech Shiva Desktop Computer
SkyTech Shiva Desktop Computer
When picking out a new PC, we all want to make sure we’re putting our money towards something great. Budget or high-end, most computers tend to make a dent in our savings. It’s easier to find overpriced models than to score a good computer for cheap, but SkyTech defies the odds with the Shiva.
With the trademark white case and a rainbow of colors inside, SkyTech’s Shiva may catch your eye with its pleasing aesthetic, but it’s the performance that will make you really stop and consider it.
For the relatively affordable price, we found that this computer was able to deliver surprisingly outstanding results in our testing. The AMD Ryzen 5 2600 CPU (3.4GHz that you can turbo boost to 3.9GHz) stood its ground compared to competitors. Even during stress tests, this PC maintained smooth performance and correct temperatures. The RGB fans that light up the case offer great ventilation and keep your PC safe from burning up.
The downside here is, like with the previous models, a lack of storage which is felt even more keenly in Shiva. You will get a 500GB SSD to start with, which is up to 30x faster than a traditional HDD, but we wouldn’t mind if the SSD was bigger.
Despite being rather short on storage space, Shiva covers the most important points: it’s fast, reliable, well-ventilated, and a real multitasker. If you’re not aiming for absolute high-end PCs, we can fully recommend this one as a good choice.
SkyTech Blaze II PC Desktop
SkyTech Blaze II PC Desktop
As you might expect, 3D modeling and budget PCs don’t seem to mix very well. Considering that you need all this power to handle complex rendering and a whole bunch of required software, one might think that it’s impossible to not destroy your savings account for your new PC.
Despite its truly affordable price, we’re not willing to call this PC low-end. After all, it has a strong CPU that you can overclock up to 3.9GHz, an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 6GB card, and an SSD for swift storage.
With the solid clock and high memory on the CPU, you can fully expect a lot from this PC — and then some. While it may not be suited for professional-grade 3D modeling experts that have already seen their fair share of desktops, it’s sure to satisfy newer users.
Despite the rather low RAM (we recommend adding a stick or two for even better performance), SkyTech’s Blaze is still very cost-effective. If you’re looking to get started or your budget is tight, you won’t regret checking out this desktop.
Final Word
If you’re on the market for a desktop to help you with all your 3D modeling needs, we don’t blame you if you’re feeling overwhelmed. With the number of options out there and all kinds of specs to consider, even tech-savvy people may end up settling for something subpar instead of searching for the best.
Our aim was to create a comprehensive guide that will help you decide what you need and then pick it out without the hassle of having to assemble it all by yourself. We hope that you were able to find your future PC amongst our picks.
Our Best Overall pick is the CyberpowerPC Supreme which strikes the perfect balance between pricing and sheer power. Remarkably quiet and reliable, this is a PC that could very well be placed higher thanks to its amazing performance during testing.
Still, take your time, read through all the options, and then, at last, take your pick. The right PC is right around the corner!