CPU or GPU bound? CAD software

[BaneOfKnoll]

Ok so I'm building a computer for my friend who is an architect and I am just wondering about the processing in CAD software. Is it mainly CPU or GPU bound. I'm just thinking about how to balance the performance. 

[xdeathshot20]

2 minutes ago, TopHatTom said:

Ok so I'm building a computer for my friend who is an architect and I am just wondering about the processing in CAD software. Is it mainly CPU or GPU bound. I'm just thinking about how to balance the performance. 

CAD can be both cpu and gpu or jsut one of them.  it really depends on the specific version

[BaneOfKnoll]

6 minutes ago, xdeathshot20 said:

CAD can be both cpu and gpu or jsut one of them.  it really depends on the specific version

Ah k, So revit for example. 

 

[Wix]

I can only speak for AutoCAD 2D (blueprints and floor plans) and it is CPU bound. It runs fine on integrated graphics even on the busiest of blueprints.

 

i5-6600k and i7-6700 both ran without hiccups.

 

My laptop's i7-3537u (dual core with hyperthreading) struggles, however.

[TVwazhere]

CAD Technician here

 

It does depend on the software, but I know Autodesk Inventor (the software i use) is about 98% CPU intensive, and seeing as Revit is also made by Autodesk I'd think its the same story. A test was done using a seven year old nvisia m1000 and a modern day firepro 9100 (a $4000 gpu) and there was 0 difference between the two. 

 

ITS ALL ABOUT SINGLE THREAD PERFORMANCE (at least with inventor) so theres no need to get a top of the line Xeon, an OC 6700k or 7700k is actually the best option, since the only time it uses multiple threads is in rendering.