Best Desktop Computer for Animation & 3D Rendering

The investment in a computer for animation typically requires careful decision making. This type of computer needs to be able to work at a fast rate and meet the high processing demands that are common in animation. For those looking for the best computer for animation, there are certain things to look for specifically. A desktop for animation is typically best because it can offer more performance than a laptop. Still, you need to know how to buy the best computer for animation students or professionals.

Lenovo aims to make it easy for you to find a pc for animation. With a wide range of outstanding computers that offer fantastic features, you are sure to find just what is right for your needs. Check out our recommendations for a pc for animation from our current lineup.

Types of Computers

The best computer for 3D animation needs to perform at its best. However, it is also important to consider what style of computer is best for digital animation based on the way you like to work. A computer for animation can be a right choice but consider certain key factors.

Traditional PC

An animation pc is the typical choice for those who want a powerful and high performing 3D animation computer. Because they are larger, they have more room for performance features, including more memory, storage, and a better processor. The best pc for animation includes high power and ample graphics ability, too. The problem with a traditional computer for 3D animation is that it is stationary.

Workstation

The best computer for animation is a workstation. Lenovo workstations offer far better performance and can do maximum of the work you need them to do. If you are looking for a system that allows you to use multiple programs at one time and is streamlined for operation, an animation workstation computer is the best possible product for you, in most cases. Though they tend to cost more, they last longer and are considered the best overall solutions for serious designers. Check out an animation workstation as a solid choice.

All-in-one

The best desktop for animation for people may be an all-in-one model. This type of computer allows for the CPU and all other components to be within the monitor itself – it is all built together. For those who want good computers for animation at a lower price and want a smaller footprint, this style can be an outstanding solution for you.

Laptop

You could use a computer animation program on a laptop. However, if you aim for this type of design on a laptop, it has to be a high-performing laptop. Check out our various laptop workstation options available to you. Digital animation of any type takes a powerful computer like a VFX computer, and while the best laptops offer this, the average laptop may not offer everything you need.

Key Features in an Animation Desktop

How do you know which desktop for animation to choose? What makes the best computer for graphic design and animation? Generally, the performance comes down to knowing as much as you can about what you need in a PC for 3D animation. These are the core features you want to see in any animation PC you decide to buy.

Processing Power

If you are looking for the best computer for animation and video editing, you need a 3D animation computer that offers maximum processing. It is typical for those doing this type of design work to need a system that can keep up with them. That is, there are multiple tasks being overseen at one time by the system. The typical computer animation program is going to demand multiple function out of the processor.

If you are doing light work and you do not have a lot of high-end needs, an Intel Core series processor may be a good idea. You may also want to choose an AMD Ryzen series. For those that have a lot more demand, including the need for the best computer for animation and video editing, then upgrading to an Intel Core i5 or Ryzen 5 may be a good idea. Put a bit more time into choosing the right processor. You also want to see 2.90 GHz up to 4.30 GHz with Turbo Boost (or other forms of higher level performance here), as well as 6 cores and 12 threads, with a 12 MB cache for the ideal performing animation workstation.

Expandability

The best computer for animation students and professionals has to be able to keep up with you over time. That is why, when buying a desktop computer for animation, it helps to buy one that is fully expandable. That means that you can remove and upgrade the graphics card. It means there is more room for added memory to be placed in the system. You may also want one that offers huge storage now but also the ability to expand it.

That is because, over time, you may want and need more performance. The best computer for 2D animation now may not be the ideal choice when you are looking for a pc for 3D animation. If you buy an expandable choice now, you can keep the same desktop computer for animation and just let it grow with you.

Operating System

In most cases, when buying the best desktop for animation, you really do need to consider the operating system carefully. While other types of operating systems are available and can be a good overall option, there are certain options that are a better overall fit for reasons. For example, a Windows 10 Pro 64 is going to supply ample benefits. It is easy to use, dependable, and tends to be the most common choice as the best desktop pc for 3D animation.

You can upgrade this to the Windows 11 edition, which is sure to give you more of the performance you need for more advanced functions. No matter what you are looking for, even a VFX computer, you really do want to be sure it can run smoothly and manage the tasks at hand with ease.

Memory

As you compare the options in the best PC for 3D animation, also take into consideration your need for memory. As one of the most important components of a fast running and dependable 3D and 2D animation computer, there is no doubt that you need to ensure you have ample memory in place. The best computer for 3d animation is going to offer 8 GB of memory. This supplies enough for most levels of performance needed, but it may be wise to consider expanding this down the road or initially if you have room in your budget.

A pc for animation needs to be able to move quickly, moving data and information back and forth easily to allow your work and use of the system to be fluid. Computer screen animation takes maximum memory to ensure that can happen properly. Look for the best computer for graphic design and animation to offer top performance like this. This is also true of the best pc for 3D animation and rending or any other type of pc for animation.

Storage

Also, important when building a computer for animation is to look at the storage. Today’s 2D animation computer needs enough storage to allow for ample saving of data. If there is not enough storage for the computer for 3D animation to run well, it will lag. It will be unable to process as more data as you need to fast enough. It is best to look for an animation PC build to include a high level of storage from the start, then.

When it comes to choosing storage for an animation desktop, be sure to aim for minimum 512 GB of storage or more for good computers for animation. However, when you want the best desktop pc for 3D animation, go with 1 TB of storage right away. That is going to give you far better performance in computer screen animation.

Other Factors to Consider

When buying the best pc for animation, you also need to consider your display. Often, an animation workstation computer will need to have a monitor bought separately, which gives your ability to choose a high-performing and high-resolution choice for your animation desktop. Be sure that the monitor you buy can manage the features in the animation pc build that you have selected.

Graphics are important, too. The best PC for 3D animation needs to include a high-end, hardworking GPU that can properly display everything you create. Even in the best computer for 2D animation, be sure to reach the specific graphics card, so you know what to expect from its performance.

Are you ready to get started? Building a computer for animation can be fun, and Lenovo can help you make it happen. We have a large inventory of computer systems that can manage the hard work and outstanding display details you need for this type of work. All you have to do is check out our current lineup to compare a few options. Even better, the best PC for 3D animation and rendering is going to be at a competitive price when you buy from Lenovo. We take pride in ensuring you get the very best performance every time.

Make a purchase today, knowing you are getting the very best PC for animation out there. Our price match guarantee and warranties can also help to give you peace of mind when buying a pc for your needs.