Discover the Best Computer for KeyShot – CPU, GPU, RAM, and Storage.

Embarking on the journey of bringing your creative visions to life with KeyShot requires a reliable and efficient computer setup. The right hardware not only ensures smooth operation but also accelerates rendering times, allowing you to focus on the artistry rather than waiting for results.

In this post, Chip Render will explore the system requirements and key components for the Best Computer for KeyShot. We also explore the importance of each element in maximizing your rendering experience.

KeyShot itself is engineered for fast performance on a wide range of hardware, whether you are using a basic setup or a high-powered system with multiple CPU cores. Its efficiency is designed to scale linearly with your hardware capabilities.

To begin with, let’s explore the minimum system requirements and GPU recommendations for the latest version of KeyShot.

KeyShot Minimum Requirements

Operating System:

• Microsoft Windows: Windows 10 or 11, Windows Server 2019 or newer.
• Apple macOS: macOS 11.7 Big Sur or newer.
• 64-bit platform

RAM: 4GB

CPU (Processor):

• Quad-core processor.
• Intel or AMD 64-bit CPU with SSE4.1 or higher.

GPU (Graphics card): OpenGL 2.0 capable system (Although a GPU is not necessary for KeyShot to render, certain elements of its user interface do require a GPU that supports OpenGL 2.0 or higher).

Resolution: 1920 x 1080 resolution or higher.

An Internet connection is required to activate the product.

KeyShot CPU mode

KeyShot GPU Requirements

KeyShot can fully utilize GPU-accelerated ray tracing capabilities through NVIDIA RTX with OptiX. Its GPU Mode is available for both real-time rendering and local render output.

KeyShot’s GPU raytracing supports NVIDIA GPUs based on Maxwell microarchitecture, requiring CUDA Compute Capability 5.2 or later (which is found in Quadro M6000 or GTX 980 and above).

For optimal performance, KeyShot suggests:

• Leverage graphics cards based on the NVIDIA RTX technology, with at least 8 GB of memory.
• Make sure your system is running the recommended driver versions for KeyShot GPUs: 451.82 on Windows and 450.51.06 on Linux, catering to both Quadro and GeForce setups.

KeyShot GPU mode

What is the Best Computer for KeyShot? Look closer at the key components of a computer that can get you the best performance in KeyShot.

CPU (Processor)

KeyShot is optimized to make the most of all available CPU cores. This means you will get faster rendering times with more CPU cores and threads. In CPU-based rendering, KeyShot’s performance scales exceptionally well with both core count and clock speed. Ideally, a processor with numerous cores, coupled with a robust clock speed is what you need to deliver optimal results.

When opting for GPU rendering, the CPU becomes less critical but still plays a role, particularly if you are running a 3D design or CAD software concurrently with KeyShot. In such scenarios, an ideal choice is a processor with a high clock speed despite a lower core count.

Best CPU for KeyShot

So, what is the best CPU for KeyShot?

• AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 5995WX
• AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 5955WX
• AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3955WX

When it comes to CPU rendering, both AMD and Intel provide workstation-class CPUs with impressively a lot of cores. Currently, AMD’s Threadripper PRO products stand out as the fastest options. The AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 5995WX, featuring 64 cores, is an excellent choice for CPU rendering in KeyShot.

On the flip side, for those leaning towards GPU rendering, the CPU’s significance diminishes. In such cases, we typically suggest a high-clock speed processor like Intel’s Core family or AMD’s Ryzen line. These CPUs not only complement GPU rendering but also perform admirably in 3D design and CAD applications frequently used alongside KeyShot.

• Intel Core i7 14700K
• Intel Core i9 14900K

Chip Render Workstations are equipped with AMD Ryzen Threadripper Pro 3955WX CPU and (1/2/4 or more) RTX 3090 GPUs.

Best GPU for KeyShot

How KeyShot uses GPU depends on your choice of rendering mode, whether it is CPU-based or GPU-based.

For CPU rendering, the graphics card assumes a minimal role, mainly handling the display of your scene and the final render.

On the other hand, in GPU-accelerated rendering, the GPU takes center stage, with its speed and the amount of video memory (VRAM) playing crucial roles in overall performance.

Excitingly, KeyShot supports multiple GPU rendering and scales impressively with additional cards. In simpler terms, using two cards can cut render times in half, and employing three cards could potentially finish renders three times faster than with a single GPU. The flexibility and efficiency of multi-GPU setups in KeyShot contribute significantly to accelerated rendering workflows!

Best Graphics Card for KeyShot

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 24GB
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 24GB
• NVIDIA RTX 6000 Ada 48GB

RTX 3090 and RTX 4090 are our go-to recommendations for most GPU rendering customers. Both have a tremendous 24GB of memory, RTX 3090 is a great choice for rendering, while RTX 4090 provides the best performance in Keyshot. On the other hand, NVIDIA RTX 6000 Ada is for those who need a lot of VRAM.

RAM (System memory)

Determining the ideal RAM for your system relies on the nature of your projects and the software you engage with, here KeyShot.

As a general guideline, we recommend a minimum of 64GB of RAM. This provides ample capacity for multitasking across various 3D, CAD, or architecture applications and supports the rendering of modest scenes on the CPU.

For those delving deeper into CPU-based rendering, opting for 128GB or even more is advisable.

In contrast, GPU-based rendering places less strain on system memory and instead emphasizes the need for graphics cards equipped with generous onboard VRAM.

Storage (Hard Drives)

Opting for solid-state drives (SSDs) is a strong recommendation for the primary drive housing your operating system and software, including KeyShot. SSDs stand out due to their impressive speed and relatively affordable pricing. Their high-speed performance significantly accelerates system boot times, application launches, and file loading compared to traditional hard drives.

For optimal results, we particularly endorse the use of the latest NVMe SSDs, leveraging advanced connections such as M.2 and offering unparalleled transfer rates. A 1TB capacity is our preferred recommendation, ensuring ample space for the operating system, applications, and active files.

In 3D rendering, where precision and speed are paramount, choosing the best computer for KeyShot is a critical decision. The ideal setup combines powerful processors, graphics cards, and lots of memory, while the storage solutions ensure seamless operations and quick access to your projects.

Whether you opt for CPU or GPU rendering, the right hardware enhances the KeyShot experience, turning your creative endeavors into stunning visual realities.

Remember, a well-equipped system not only boosts productivity but also allows your artistic vision to shine without compromise.