What Computer to Buy for Cinema 4D

What to look for when buying a new computer for motion graphics and Cinema 4D work. We take you though every component and give you a simple checklist to follow as well as discussing Mac vs PC and Laptop vs Desktop.
We also suggest a few setups you could try depending on your situation.
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Checklist for a new Cinema 4D Computer:
- Determine your budget
- Choose your GPU
- Choose your CPU
- Choose your RAM
- Choose your Storage
- Choose your Power
- Choose your Cooling
- Motherboard and Connections
- Case
- Double check compatibility if self building
- Purchase (and build if your doing it yourself)
Helpful resources:
Redshift Hardware Requirements
www.maxon.net/...
Octane Harware Requirements
help.otoy.com/...
PC Part Picker (to check component compatibility)
pcpartpicker.c...
GPU Benchmarking with Performance to Price (includes Octane, Redshift and vRay)
www.cgdirector...
Cinebench C4D CPU Performance Chart
nanoreview.net...
Airtasker (hire someone to build your PC)
airtasker.com/
#CGShortcuts #Cinema4D #C4D

[@ed61730]

Been using the 64gb m1max for c4 and redshift and it's been amazing! Can't believe how fast laptops have come!

[@CGShortcuts]

Nice!

[@dirtcreature3d]

Best price to performance setup rn: Intel i5 13600k $300 RTX 3090 (buy used) $800 LGA 1700 Mobo pick your flavor $150 1000w power supply $110 2 tb m.2 nvme drive $90 6tb Barracuda HDD $130 64 gb ram $120 $1700

[@CGShortcuts]

Nice setup, thanks for sharing @dirtcreature3d

[@modeun-users]

Thank you so much for making this. This is the video I needed. 😌❤

[@CGShortcuts]

No worries, loads more tutorials at cgshortcuts.com;)

[@timotmon]

This is well made video, however I'm 99% sure that C4D is still primarily a single threaded application outside of CPU rendering where the high core count is ideal. This is the advice I give, if you're going to only render using the GPU then find the processor that has the fasted single threaded performance over core count. You'll save money and have the fastest viewport experience. If you're only going to render on the CPU then get a high core count CPU and there's no need to speed a ton of money on a GPU.

[@CGShortcuts]

Great advice! GPU is definitely more important for rendering. This is written in the C4D Manual so I guess some aspects can take advantage of multiple cores and threads: "Cinema 4D performs multiple tasks in different threads. This way Cinema 4D can utilize multiple cores and can avoid that a single task blocks the application."

[@MegaBexon]

it was before, not anymore.

[@doseofmotion]

This is a video every c4d artist should watch. thanks a ton Dave.🙏🙏🙏

[@CGShortcuts]

Cheers Dose of Motion, some great stuff over on your channel too I can see!

[@julienriesen3535]

It would be great to see a review of the new M2 Ultra for those who want to stick with macOS.

[@CGShortcuts]

If Apple wants to send me one I'm keen

[@psclip3309]

No bro, at this time Apple product not suitable for 3D and animation, Render..just go for Nvidia and windows

[@azizakhmedov]

I'm actually not a CG artist but sometimes even my 3770k/16Gb/GT640 is enough to proceed different Cinema 4d tasks.

[@CGShortcuts]

Yeah you can run C4D on a pretty basic machine, this video is mainly for students and professionals

[@MegaBexon]

Lets bring some topics up, there is a PCIe lines on CPU. It will limit your GPU's. For redshift it's okay to use 8 Lines but it's better to utilized all 16 Lines on each GPU. Curranty only work stations CPU supports 64 and more PCIe Lines on CPU. Dot Jump on and get 3 GPU's if your CPU will not support it. It's not cool at all, in a past there was i9x CPU but no more.

[@CGShortcuts]

Thanks for insight MegaBexon

[@CGIQ.]

It's been a while since I watched a cgshortcut video 😅 I remember when y'all did rendering competitions I'd always participate lol 😂 never won tho....

[@CGShortcuts]

Welcome back! We really need to start those comps back up again dont we!

[@Jegber]

2:31 Multiple GPUs will increase render time linearly, not exponentially

[@CGShortcuts]

You're technically right, when using Redshift for rendering, the performance gain from adding multiple GPUs is generally closer to linear rather than exponential. If you add a second GPU, you can expect nearly double the rendering speed, but there are some caveats: Diminishing Returns: As you add more GPUs, the performance gain may not scale perfectly linearly due to various factors such as system overhead, scene complexity, and data transfer bottlenecks. GPU Memory: All GPUs must have enough memory to handle the scene being rendered. If one GPU runs out of memory, it can significantly impact overall performance. Scene Complexity: For very simple scenes, the scaling might not be as effective because the overhead of distributing tasks across multiple GPUs can outweigh the benefits. For complex scenes, the performance gain is more noticeable. System Bottlenecks: Other system components such as the CPU, RAM, and storage can become bottlenecks if they can't keep up with the GPU rendering speed. Driver and Software Optimization: The efficiency of the GPU drivers can affect how well multiple GPUs are utilized. In practice, Redshift is designed to scale well with multiple GPUs, and users typically see significant performance improvements with each additional GPU, making it a valuable investment for reducing render times in professional workflows.

[@Jegber]

@@CGShortcuts thank you ChatGPT 😉

[@andriyprvdn1777]

I switched from PC to Mac mini on m1. It’s been great.

[@CGShortcuts]

Are you doing GPU rendering though?

[@andriyprvdn1777]

@@CGShortcuts No, it kind of helped me to move on from GPU rendering (Octane) and try new render engines, CPU based. I tried Corona, VRay, and stopped on Arnold. I get nice renders with acceptable rendering times. No plan on switching back yet (it’s been a year now). But, of course, GPU rendering has the potential to be much faster.

[@CGShortcuts]

@@andriyprvdn1777 I was an Arnold guy before Octane, it's great! whatever works best for you

[@andriyprvdn1777]

@@CGShortcuts Yeah, it’s a journey

[@marcus_ohreallyus]

The best computer for Cinema 4D is the best one you can get.

[@modernodj]

Desktop pc for 3d. Only desktop! My Configure 5950x, 128Gb RAM, SSD m2, RTX 2x4080. Comfortable work.

[@CGShortcuts]

woah, that's a monster!!

[@Bbnvts]

Thank you for providing this configuration 😍

[@FreakTeno]

thank you CGshortcuts,, it would be amazing if we can know your suggestion for monitor and Nas system

[@CGShortcuts]

Just get something with good color accuracy, I use a Wacom Cintiq Pro as my main monitor and a cheap 4k monitor for extra space

[@MographChamp]

PCIE lanes from CPU and MOBO were not mentioned and need to be considered if multiple graphics cards are in play.

[@CGShortcuts]

True, definitely something to consider if you're going the multi card route

[@555to_infinity]

very helpful

[@CGShortcuts]

Glad it helped! Loads more tutorials and C4D resources at cgshortcuts.com (you can also get help directly with your projects).

[@strangeapprentice]

Awesome can you make a video of the best laptops too?

[@CGShortcuts]

We'll see what we can so

[@strangeapprentice]

Thanks Dave!

[@ppumi]

How about macbook pro M3 max?

[@CGShortcuts]

Should be fine, but a desktop PC is a much better option for 3D work

[@amjadahdab]

Perfect!!

[@CGShortcuts]

Hope you found it useful!

[@kevinreid5242]

these spec prices are USD$ ? seems like some things are cheaper. thanks for making this!

[@CGShortcuts]

No worries, video was a little while ago, cost of everything is going up

[@gubkaarchibob1626]

Better is better, thanks😅😅

[@CGShortcuts]

Pretty much;)

[@ArcturusMinsk]

What would be the best setup for rendering, let's say a budget of 8k per system. Would it be better to just get one high end graphics card or would a dual GPU system work better?

[@CGShortcuts]

Take a look at the benchmarks and compare prices. I have 1 RTX 3090 ti and it renders any shot I throw at it over night (2 or 3 shots a lot of the time) and my PC was less than 3K. Depends on what your rendering and for what purpose

[@Kellerman96]

The i5-12400f + rtx 3060 12gb ,would be a good choice to run the cinem4d/ae program ? Also wanted to ask how many percent the 3060ti 8gb 256 bus width beats the 3060 12gb 192 bus width

[@CGShortcuts]

you can get by with an i5 but I'd recommend at least an i7

[@monteme2817]

What about macbook m3 Pro and the external graphics card?

[@CGShortcuts]

If you want the extra cost and hastle, go for it - we recommend PC's

[@flyingcameraz6269]

I have a 14inch MacBook with M1 Pro chip sg/10C CPU/16C GPU/16GB/1TB. I’m going to use cinema 4d for product commercials I’m not real tech smart when it comes to computers would you recommend me use something else or could this might work?

[@CGShortcuts]

We recommend PCs over Macs. You can definitely run C4D on that setup though, but if you intend to use GPU renderers you'll need to check compatibility

[@Vertexvoyager]

I have ae ai ps houdini c4d clo 3d marvelous designer davinci resolve blender daz premier pro 3dsmax Maya Mari lumion character creator Ue and add-ons should i be saving those softwares on a ssd? Or on my pc hardrive nvme2?

[@CGShortcuts]

Definitely install your software on your NVMe2 drive. Here's why: Speed Boost: NVMe2 offers a significant performance advantage over both traditional hard drives (HDDs) and even SSDs. This translates to: Faster Installation: Installing those creative applications will be much quicker on the NVMe2. Faster Launching: Launching programs like After Effects, Premiere Pro, and 3ds Max will be noticeably faster, saving you valuable time. Smoother Performance: When working with large files and textures, the NVMe2 will provide a smoother experience with less lag. Ideal for Creative Workflows: The software you mentioned, like DaVinci Resolve and Maya, rely heavily on accessing and manipulating large files. An NVMe2 will significantly improve the responsiveness and overall workflow for these programs. While SSDs are faster than HDDs, NVMe2 offers the best performance for demanding creative applications. Here are some additional considerations: Storage Space: Some of these programs can be quite large. Make sure your NVMe2 has enough capacity to hold them all comfortably. HDD for Storage: Consider using your traditional hard drive for storing project files, media assets, and other non-program data. This keeps your applications on the fast NVMe2 while taking advantage of the larger storage capacity and lower cost of HDDs for bulk storage. In conclusion, for the type of software you use, an NVMe2 drive is the clear choice for optimal performance and a smoother creative workflow.

[@Vertexvoyager]

@@CGShortcuts thanks for the best reply ever hahah so I'll buy like a 8tb or 4 tb nvme2

[@smileyaliona]

Brilliant as always, thanks! 😊👍

[@CGShortcuts]

Cheers!

[@Aparato_Branding]

I´ve got a MSI, Intel Core i7-13620H 2.40GHZ, 16GB, 1TB SSD, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 but it is kind of slow, I just bought it for $1500 usd.

[@CGShortcuts]

Sounds pretty decent to me

[@tiagomoraismorgado]

invest in high density low cost computation, and build a cluster for working with cinema 4d

[@CGShortcuts]

Thats definitely a way to go, might be overkill for most users though

[@QamarAmin]

You did not recommended Macbook?

[@CGShortcuts]

Nope, there were better options if you're doing 3D and using GPU renderers. Might change in the future though. From a business standpoint though I've found it more cost effective not to go with Apple (after being a mac guy for a while)

[@bogscave]

Anyone used RTX4070 (not ti) in C4D+RS? How is it (compared to a 2070 Super at least :))?

[@Aboali-v1f6s]

Is rtx 3050 intel core i7 enough for cinema 4d?

[@CGShortcuts]

Yep, should be fine

[@djirate052380]

As a person who owns Macs and PCs....Macs are a HORRIBLE choice for anything other than to look at. Not upgradable, overpriced. Under performer. All in all and expensive 1 time use piece of junk. PC all the way. Ill never ever buy another Mac.

[@CGShortcuts]

I'm 100% with you on that!

[@zirunxsmug]

How about monitor?

[@CGShortcuts]

I use 2 monitors - my main monitor is very pro with excellent color accuracy (its actually a Wacom) and I also have a cheap Dell I use for extra screen realestate. Color accuracy is really key if you do 3D professionally I think - better on your eyes too

[@lorenndesign]

Right now the price for rtx 3060 is 400$ not 700-900$ please double check everything here

[@CGShortcuts]

We actually wrote this a little while back so by the time we put it up I guess it's slightly outdated, hard to keep up the way things go with tech. The 4090's have also come down - best do your own research when you're ready, this is just a guide

[@lorenndesign]

@@CGShortcuts Got it

[@wunderluster]

So you think windows is better than Mac?

[@CGShortcuts]

Makes more sense if you're doing c4d, especially if you want to save costs

[@wunderluster]

@@CGShortcuts what about just rendering like Keyshot etc.. I guess because Mac’s don’t work nvida it becomes tricky. I just hate windows interface and to learn all the shortcuts again will be hard

[@CGShortcuts]

@@wunderluster Im sure you can get by with a Mac, PC just makes more sense to me at the moment

[@mohammaddh8655]

im sorry this the 3rd time opening this video and im just lost PLZ HELP ME im an idiot that like to learn more than anything , im already a full stack developer and i just want to learn 3d , im not thinking about getting a job or even project , i just want to learn ( im serious about it ) , i was going to buy a 4080 and then saw this video , my question is this is it gone be hard rendering short animation with 3060 ? and a old cpu would effect the speed of render or it will more effect the workflow and user experience , sorry if its long ( the same hunger that i have for knowledge i have for making friends you got something that i could help with it , just give me message it will be free )

[@CGShortcuts]

If your just getting started there's probably no point going all out on a top of the line gpu, unless you've got the money to burn. When I started freelancing I only had an old GTX 2080 which did the job fine. You'll just need to optimize your scenes a bit more, a 3060 is more than capable. Just render your scenes over night while you sleep and you'll still wake up with the shots complete. You could also use a render farm for the final render if your on a deadline. I do this stuff for work so having a top of the line GPU makes sense for me. Hope that helps

[@mohammaddh8655]

@@CGShortcuts thanks ❤

[@hadiaalami3066]

🔝🔝🔝👌

[@CGShortcuts]

No worries, loads more tutorials at cgshortcuts.com

[@introvertkz]

dont use amd!!!

[@CGShortcuts]

Yeah I wouldnt recommend it