How to optimize your workstation for Rhino 8

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With the user-friendly 3D design software Rhinoceros, short form Rhino 3D, you are able to model any 3D body. The programme offers you compatibility with many other drawing, mechanical engineering and design programmes. Rhinoceros 3D is a cost-effective CAD programme for architects, engineers and product designers. Do you want to work on larger and very complex projects with appealing geometry more easily and quickly? We configure the optimum business workstation for your individual Rhino 3D applications and offer you the opportunity to put the system to the test with a test licence for Rhino 8 via remote access. Contact us and arrange a free remote test. Below is our hardware expertise for Rhino 8:

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CPU requirements for Rhino 8 - Maximum performance for demanding 3D designs

Rhino 8 benefits from high single-core performance, as many tasks, such as modeling and editing geometries, are mainly performed on one core. For rendering and simulation activities, however, Rhino can also benefit from multiple cores. Therefore, the choice of CPU should take into account the requirements for single-core performance as well as the multithreading capacity.


Small Rhino projects (individual models, simple geometries)

For smaller projects that mainly involve editing simple geometries and individual models, a CPU with strong single-core performance is ideal. The processors from the Intel Core i7 and i9 series are recommended here:

  • Intel Core i7-13700K: This processor offers 16 cores (8 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores) with high single-core performance. It is cost-effective and offers enough power for smaller projects.

  • Intel Xeon W-2245: With 8 cores and 16 threads, this Xeon processor offers solid performance for workstations that need stability and reliability for longer working hours. It is an excellent choice for medium-sized projects where reliability is key.


Medium-sized Rhino projects (More complex geometries, multiple models)

Medium-sized projects that involve more complex geometries and multiple models require processors with a balanced combination of single-core and multi-core performance. In this area, both Intel Core i9 and Intel Xeon processors are good choices:

  • Intel Core i9-13900K: With 24 cores (8 performance cores and 16 efficiency cores), this processor is a more powerful option that offers additional potential for multitasking. It is well suited for users who want to occasionally perform more demanding tasks.

  • Intel Xeon W5-2455X: The Intel Xeon W5-2455X is an excellent choice for medium-sized projects in Rhino 8. With its strong multi-core performance (10 cores, 20 threads) and solid processing capabilities, it offers the power needed to efficiently edit and render complex 3D models. Ideal for a good balance between performance and cost.


Complex Rhino projects (Comprehensive models, large assemblies, demanding renderings)

Complex projects that require editing of comprehensive models, large assemblies or demanding renderings require high-end processors that offer both excellent single-core performance and multi-threading performance:

  • Intel Xeon W-2295: With 18 cores and 36 threads, this processor is a powerful option for large workstations that need to handle large projects. Its ability to efficiently handle parallelized tasks makes it ideal for rendering and simulations.

  • Intel Xeon W7-2495X: The Intel Xeon W7-2495X is a powerful processor designed for professional applications and demanding tasks. It is well suited for medium to complex projects in Rhino 8, especially when it comes to 3D modeling, rendering or simulation.

  • Intel Xeon W9-3475X: The Intel Xeon W9-3475X is a powerful workstation CPU with 36 cores and 72 threads, making it well suited for demanding and more complex tasks such as 3D modeling and rendering in Rhino 8.


When does it make sense to use an Enterprise Workstation with Dual CPU in Rhino 8?

Using an Enterprise Workstation with Dual CPU in Rhino 8 (Rhinoceros 3D) can make sense, but this depends greatly on the specific requirements of your project and workflow. Here are some scenarios where such a workstation could make sense:

1. Very large and complex models

If you are working with extremely large and complex models that require high processing power and large amounts of memory, a dual CPU workstation can make sense. Multiple CPUs can significantly reduce processing time, especially for compute-intensive tasks such as editing or rendering complex geometries.

2. Rendering and simulation work

Rhino itself in many cases mainly uses one CPU for its core functions, but for rendering and simulation, especially with plugins such as V-Ray, Maxwell, or Grasshopper, a dual CPU workstation can offer significant advantages. These plugins and extensions are often optimized for multithreading so that they can use the additional cores and threads effectively.

3. Using multiple applications at the same time

If you run Rhino 8 in parallel with other power-hungry applications, such as CAD software, 3D rendering programs or simulation tools, a dual-CPU workstation can help distribute the load across multiple CPUs. This ensures smoother performance and better multitasking ability.

4. Specialized workflows (e.g. parametric design)

In special workflows, such as parametric design with Grasshopper, which requires many iterations and calculations, a dual-CPU workstation can speed up the workflow, especially when large data sets need to be processed.

5. Future-proofing

If you use advanced features or plugins in the future that rely more heavily on multithreading, a dual-CPU workstation could be a future-proof investment.


Uli's expert advice

If you are mainly doing standard CAD work that does not have extremely high computational demands, or if Rhino is only used for simple models and visualizations, a dual-CPU workstation is overkill. A powerful single-CPU workstation with a good graphics card might be a better choice in this case.

Rhino 8 is a powerful 3D modeling software that benefits from optimal memory, especially when working on complex projects. The right memory is crucial for performance, stability and efficiency when working with Rhino 8. In this context, the question arises: which type of RAM - DDR4 or DDR5 - is the better choice for your needs? Below we will look at the differences and advantages of the two types of RAM for small, medium and complex projects in Rhino 8.


DDR4 vs. DDR5: An overview

  • DDR4 RAM: This type of RAM has been on the market for several years and has proven itself in many applications. DDR4 RAM is stable, widely used and available in large capacities. It offers clock speeds between 2133 MHz and 3600 MHz, which is sufficient for most applications.

  • DDR5 RAM: As the latest generation of RAM, DDR5 brings significant improvements. It offers higher clock speeds, starting at over 4800 MHz and potentially increasing in the future. DDR5 also enables higher memory bandwidth and efficiency, which is particularly beneficial for very memory-intensive tasks.


Small Rhino projects

For small projects in Rhino 8, such as simple models, floor plans, or smaller product designs, DDR4 RAM is often sufficient. The lower cost of DDR4 makes it attractive for beginners and users working on simple tasks. In these scenarios, a capacity of 16 GB DDR4 at moderate clock speeds (e.g. 2666 MHz) is usually sufficient to ensure smooth performance.

  • Our recommendation: 16 GB DDR4 RAM (2666 MHz or higher) offers good value for money for small projects.


Medium Rhino projects

For medium projects that include, for example, more detailed 3D models, more complex geometries, or a moderate number of renderings, it is important to find a balance between performance and cost. This is where DDR5 RAM offers a noticeable advantage due to its higher bandwidth and efficiency. This allows larger amounts of data to be processed more quickly, improving overall performance. However, DDR4 RAM at higher clock speeds (3200 MHz and above) is also a solid choice, especially if budget is limited.

  • Our recommendation: 32 GB DDR4 RAM (3200 MHz or higher) for solid performance or 32 GB DDR5 RAM (4800 MHz and above) for best efficiency.


Complex Rhino projects

Complex projects in Rhino 8, such as detailed architectural models, large-scale product designs, or extensive rendering tasks, require the maximum performance available. This is where DDR5 RAM shows its strengths with its ability to process very large amounts of data quickly and efficiently. The higher clock speed and memory bandwidth of DDR5 make it possible to handle even the most demanding tasks without sacrificing performance. For these types of projects, 64 GB or more of DDR5 RAM is ideal to ensure that memory does not become a bottleneck.

  • Our recommendation: 64 GB or more DDR5 RAM (5200 MHz or higher) for maximum performance on complex projects.


Our conclusion

The choice between DDR4 and DDR5 depends largely on the type of projects being worked on in Rhino 8. While DDR4 offers good value for money for small to medium projects, DDR5 is the better choice for complex, memory-intensive tasks. Ultimately, you should make your decision based on the specific needs of your projects and your budget. Those looking to future-proof their investment and regularly working with large, complex models should prefer DDR5 RAM, while DDR4 remains a cost-effective and powerful option for less demanding projects.

Rhino 8, the latest version of the popular 3D modeling software, is known for requiring powerful hardware to handle complex projects efficiently. Choosing the right graphics card can make the difference between a smooth working experience and a frustrating performance limitation. In this article, we compare three of Nvidia's leading graphics card series: the Geforce RTX series, the Quadro RTX A series and the Nvidia RTX ADA series. We analyze their performance in small, medium and complex projects.

1. Nvidia Geforce RTX series

The Nvidia Geforce RTX series is traditionally aimed at the gaming market, but it also offers impressive performance for professional applications like Rhino 8. These cards come with RT cores for ray tracing and Tensor cores for AI acceleration, making them a solid choice for designers and architects who value a good balance between price and performance.

  • Small projects: For smaller projects with less complex geometries and materials, the Geforce RTX series is an excellent choice. Models like the RTX 4060 or RTX 4070 offer enough power to ensure smooth visuals and fast rendering times.

  • Medium projects: For medium projects that require more resources, the RTX 4070 Super or RTX 4080 are recommended. These cards offer more VRAM and a higher number of CUDA cores, which allows for processing larger data sets.

  • Complex projects: Although the Geforce RTX series can handle complex projects, performance might be limited when dealing with very large models or extensive renderings. The RTX 4090 might be an exception here, but for extreme requirements, the following series are better suited.

2. Nvidia Quadro RTX A-Series

The Quadro RTX A-Series, now often referred to as the Nvidia RTX A-Series, is specifically designed for professional users working in CAD, 3D modeling, and scientific visualization. These cards are optimized for stability, precision, and maximum compatibility with professional applications.

  • Small projects: Although the Quadro RTX A-Series is often considered overkill for smaller projects, it still offers superior stability and driver optimization that can be invaluable in professional environments. The RTX A2000 would be a powerful yet economical entry point here.

  • Medium projects: For medium projects, the RTX A4000 offers the perfect balance of performance and efficiency. This card offers more VRAM and higher accuracy, which is helpful for more complex geometries and larger scenes.

  • Complex projects: The RTX A5000 is the best choice for extremely complex projects. With enormous VRAM and maximum GPU power, it is able to smoothly display and render even the largest and most demanding Rhino 8 models. Its ECC memory support and certified drivers provide additional security and stability.

3. Nvidia RTX ADA series

The Nvidia RTX ADA series is the latest generation of professional GPUs based on the Ada Lovelace architecture. These cards offer huge advances in performance, efficiency and AI capabilities, making them particularly attractive for future-oriented projects.

  • Small projects: The RTX ADA series may seem oversized for small projects, but its outstanding performance and energy efficiency could make it an interesting choice for professionals looking to rely on future-proof hardware. A model like the RTX 2000 ADA offers superior performance here.

  • Medium projects: The RTX 4000 ADA is ideal for medium projects. With enormous performance reserves and advanced AI functions, such as improved ray tracing and DLSS 3.0, it can easily handle complex tasks while significantly reducing rendering times.

  • Complex projects: For the most demanding projects, the RTX ADA 6000 is the top class. This card delivers absolute top performance, even with extremely complex models and rendering tasks. Its advanced AI and ray tracing functions set new standards in 3D modeling and visualization.


Does Rhino benefit from multi-GPU?

A second graphics card can make sense for Rhino 8 in certain scenarios, especially if you're working with very complex models, large assemblies, or intensive rendering workflows. Here are some situations where a second graphics card could be beneficial:

  • Rendering: If you're using rendering software that supports GPU rendering (e.g. V-Ray, Octane, KeyShot), a second graphics card can significantly reduce render times. This is especially true if you regularly create high-resolution renderings or animations.

  • Working with large, complex models: If you're working with very large and complex models in Rhino, a second graphics card can make previews smoother by sharing the load across two GPUs.

  • Working in parallel: If you're using Rhino and other graphics-intensive applications in parallel, a second graphics card could help better distribute the load between these applications and improve overall performance.

  • Multi-monitor setups: If you have a multi-monitor setup, a second graphics card could help optimize performance, especially if you're using high-resolution monitors.

  • GPU-accelerated computations: If you use Rhino plugins or other applications that use GPU-accelerated computations, a second GPU can also be useful to speed up these processes.

If you're mostly working on normal, less complex models, a powerful graphics card is usually sufficient. Some software may not support multi-GPU setups or may not scale well with multiple GPUs. In such cases, a second graphics card may not provide a noticeable improvement. In most cases, it's wise to invest in a more powerful single GPU unless your specific workflows would greatly benefit from a multi-GPU configuration.

Choosing the right SSD is crucial for the performance and efficiency of your workflow in Rhino 8. Especially when working with large and complex projects, the right storage configuration can make a significant difference. In this context, the M.2 SSDs Samsung 970 Evo Plus (PCIe 3.0), Samsung 980 (PCIe 4.0) and Samsung 990 (PCIe 4.0) are compared to determine the optimal choice for small, medium and complex projects.

Technical basics

  • Samsung 970 Evo Plus (PCIe 3.0): This SSD offers a maximum sequential read/write speed of up to 3,500/3,300 MB/s. It is designed for PCIe 3.0 and offers solid performance for many common applications.

  • Samsung 980 (PCIe 4.0): As Samsung's first PCIe 4.0 SSD without DRAM cache, the 980 still achieves impressive speeds of up to 3,500/3,000 MB/s. It offers improved efficiency while reducing costs compared to the high-end options.

  • Samsung 990 (PCIe 4.0): This SSD sets new standards in terms of performance with sequential read/write speeds of up to 7,450/6,900 MB/s. It is the top class in the PCIe 4.0 segment and offers the highest performance for data-intensive applications.

Areas of application depending on project size

  • Small Rhino projects: For smaller projects with low data volumes, such as simple 3D models or small architectural representations, the Samsung 970 Evo Plus is usually sufficient. The PCIe 3.0 interface offers sufficient speed and reliability to handle such tasks without noticeable delays. The lower cost makes it an attractive choice when budget is a factor.

  • Medium-sized Rhino projects: Medium-sized projects that include more complex models, larger assemblies or detailed renderings benefit from the additional performance of a PCIe 4.0 SSD. The Samsung 980 offers a good balance between price and performance. Its speed is sufficient for most medium-sized projects, and the efficiency of the PCIe 4.0 interface ensures that work processes run noticeably faster than with PCIe 3.0 SSDs.

  • Complex Rhino projects: For very complex projects that process large amounts of data, such as extensive architectural models, highly detailed product designs or data-intensive simulations, the Samsung 990 is the optimal choice. Its extremely high read and write speed ensures that there is no loss of performance even under the highest demands. The high bandwidth and low latency of PCIe 4.0 SSDs make them ideal for demanding workflows in Rhino 8.

Our recommendation

  • For small projects: Samsung 970 Evo Plus - sufficient for simple tasks, cost-effective.

  • For medium-sized projects: Samsung 980 - ideal compromise between performance and price, well suited for more complex models and renderings.

  • For complex projects: Samsung 990 - highest performance, perfect for data-intensive applications and large projects.

By choosing the right SSD, you can ensure that your Rhino 8 projects are optimally supported, regardless of complexity. Investing in the right hard drive can not only increase the speed of work, but also increase the efficiency and reliability of your entire workflow.

Workstation recommendations for Rhinoceros 3D