How to сonfigure the best budget computer for rendering

Every rendering task is dependent on the right computer equipment, which is quite bearing, considering one does not have to spend much money. When using 3D models and videos or making architectural visualizations, a budget rendering computer can also meet the needs of the project and can even suffice for the most demanding tasks. 

You can have the best of both worlds if you choose a cost-effective and performance oriented-machine, by considering how you select each of the components. Let’s now try to find the best budget PC for rendering!

Key components for an affordable rendering PC

Constructing a rendering computer on a budget can involve several crucial aspects of the actual components. Come now and let us look at some of the cutting-edge components:

• Processor (CPU): The processor is the heart of any rendering machine, so it is crucial to choose the best CPU for rendering. Within budget builds, the AMD’s Ryzen 5 series or Intel’s i5 series CPUs are more than enough for the price. They also have good multi-threading performance, hence allowing quicker rendering at a lower cost.

• Graphics card (GPU): In spite of the fact that the most powerful GPU is a necessity nowadays, its purchase may cost a fortune, however, affordable GPUs for rendering like NVIDIA’s GTX 1660 Super or AMD’s Radeon RX 5600 XT come to the rescue. For people dealing with rendering softwares such as Blender or 3D Studio Max, these types of cards are perfect due to their wonderful performance at an affordable rate.

• Memory (RAM): Since rendering is a very memory based function, having sufficient RAM is very important. For a budget build, 16GB of DDR4 RAM should be sufficient, however 32GB is better if you can stretch your budget. Focus on memory frequency for enhanced performance (3000 MHz and higher).

• Storage: The difference between the two forms of storage SSD and HDD may affect the rendering times. Because SSDs are more reliable and speedier than HDDs, they are more effective for rendering purposes. One 500GB SSD should be a good starting point with an extra HDD for extra storage purposes.

• Cooling solutions: Due to the nature of rendering and the process that comes along with it, a lot of heat is produced and therefore an efficient cooling system is essential even for entry level systems. Low cost air cooling solutions like Cooler Master Hyper 212, do not cost much but perform very well in heat dissipating.

Custom-built or pre-built budget PCs

After outfitting a computer for rendering purposes, the next step will be choosing whether to construct your own computer or acquire an already designed one. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages and one must have a proper appreciation of each.

• DIY PC build: It is realized that custom builds will give the best defrayment. Most people select a range of components, and this makes it possible to get the best possible performance within a specified budget. It is also possible to perform upgrades in the future, which will make the system durable.

• Pre-built systems: In case you do not wish to go through the trouble of constructing a cheap rendering computer from scratch, there are a number of trustworthy budget systems that are pre-built. Dell and HP are some of the brands that showcase some models that have reasonable specs suitable for rendering at very low rates. Though there are some limitations on the extent of customization with these machines, the time consumption is minimal, and they are covered by warranties.

Performance enhancement without breaking the bank

Even when using a budget system, all is not lost in looking for improvement in your computer.

• Optimizing usage of components: Make the best possible settings so that when the computer is in use, the components are not overstressed. A good illustration is taking 3D rendering where during previews, the rendering has to be done at very low texture qualities which reduces the processing requirements.

• Overclocking: For users who are looking to get more from their system, overclocking the CPU or GPU may be pursued. Yet, there is always a chance that heat, which is usually produced from such components, will elevate and render these components malfunction sooner than they should. Overclocking should only be attempted when the appropriate cooling systems for such activity are in place.

Final thoughts

It is possible to buy an inexpensive rendering computer or even opt for rendering computer build if one knows the right parts to focus on. Even when working with a tight budget, it is possible to get a reasonably good CPU, good GPU, enough RAM, and fast storage. You will not achieve absolute peak performance, but with the right configuration, you will be able to perform reasonable rendering tasks with kindness to future upgrades. So, good luck with your budget rendering setup! If you need help with renders, contact us: we will help you with the task of any complexity.