CPU vs GPU rendering

Processing graphics for VFX, CG, 3D, AR, VR, and other types media, there are two options: CPU and GPU rendering. It’s commonly thought that GPU rendering is faster than CPU rendering. In reality, it’s not about the speed; it’s about what’s better for the task at hand. Depending on the program you use, rendering process is handled either by your CPU (Central Processing Unit) or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) – or both if you use hybrid rendering.

The use of CPU and GPU rendering depends entirely on the your rendering needs. For example, the architectural industry may benefit more from traditional CPU rendering, which takes longer, but generally generates higher quality images. If your work involves VR or AR, you might need the extra speed provided by GPU processing as it’ll able to keep up with the constantly shifting and updating rendering as the player turns and moves through the digital space. Between the two, CPU rendering is considered as the traditional renderer, though.