As with mainstream and gaming GPUs, when it comes to workstation graphics solutions, there are just two big players: AMD and NVidia.
Workstation GPUs are the go-to for content creation, intensive computing, and 3D modeling. Distinguished by unlocked compute units and ECC memory support, these GPUs, sharing a core with gaming counterparts, offer great performance in handling complex workloads of many different kinds.
What is the best workstation GPU for you? There is no simple answer. It will depend on what type of work you do, how demanding it can be for hardware, how much speed is an important factor for your work, and of course, your budget.
Our list considers a balance of specifications, software bundles, pricing, and overall desirability. Given the investment and diverse application scenarios of workstation GPUs, researching how any of these works in your chosen application and workload before purchasing is practical.
PNY NVidia RTX A6000
As of now, the NVIDIA RTX A6000 GPU is the top of the line NVIDIA Ampere GPU lineup. Its impressive specs, cutting-edge technology, and bundled software make it a powerhouse within any workstation. Boasting 10,752 CUDA cores, 84 RT cores, and 336 Tensor cores, it doesn’t just deliver general graphics processing speed but also boosts the performance of ray tracing and AI inference operations.
With a substantial 48GB of RAM and an impressive peak memory bandwidth of 768GB per second, the RTX A6000 ensures a robust and efficient computing experience. For those seeking even more power, thanks to NV Link, you could also get 2 of these cards to work together in a single computer. The A6000 is VR-ready, supports HDR, and can effortlessly handle output to up to four monitors simultaneously.
PNY NVidia RTX A2000
PNY NVIDIA RTX A2000 12GB
The RTX A2000, a budget-friendly entry into the Ampere series, maintains a balance between cost-effectiveness and performance. With 3,328 CUDA cores, 26 RT cores, and 104 Tensor cores, it leverages the Ampere architecture for ray tracing and AI inference, catering to enthusiasts without a hefty price tag.
With a peak memory bandwidth of 288GB per second, the RTX A2000 ensures commendable computational capabilities. While lacking NVLink compatibility for connecting two cards, it remains a compelling choice for those pursuing an Ampere-based workstation within a constrained budget, especially in compact form factor systems.
AMD Radeon Pro W6800
AMD Radeon Pro W6800 32GB Graphic Card
The Radeon Pro W6800 workstation GPU has 3,840 stream processors, complemented by 60 ray tracing accelerators. Featuring 32GB of VRAM, a peak memory bandwidth of 512GB per second, and compatibility with PCIe 4.0, it stands as a powerful computing solution.
It supports HDR, is VR-ready, and has the capability to output video to up to six monitors at 5K resolution, or alternatively, it can provide 8K resolution to two monitors simultaneously. Image Boost is supported on the W6800 for enhanced visual quality. It comes with PCIe 4.0, which translates to lightning-fast data transfer, smoother rendering, and an overall boost in productivity for demanding tasks like 3D modeling and video editing.
Unlike its previous tier counterpart, the W6600, the W6800 supports ECC memory.
AMD Radeon Pro W6600
AMD Radeon PRO W5500 8GB
While not as potent as the Radeon Pro W6800 and lacking ECC support, the Radeon Pro W6600 positions itself as a cost-effective alternative. With1,792 stream processors, 28 ray tracing accelerators, and 8GB of VRAM with a peak memory bandwidth of 224GB per second, it delivers solid performance.
The W6600 supports video output to up to four monitors at 5K resolution per monitor or alternatively, to one monitor at 8K resolution. Users can also leverage AMD Remote Workstation, enhancing accessibility and functionality when accessing the workstation remotely through specific remote desktop software. With its compelling features and considering its price point, the W6600 is a great choice for a budget-friendly workstation.
AMD Radeon Pro W6400
AMD Radeon Pro W6400 4GB Professional Graphics Card
Built on the 6nm RDNA 2 architecture, the AMD Radeon PRO W6400 Graphics Card prioritizes ultra-high viewport frame rates, reliability, and robust performance for professional applications. Featuring 768 stream processors and 4GB of GDDR6 VRAM with a 128 GB/s memory bandwidth, it incorporates real-time ray tracing and AMD Infinity Cache for enhanced graphics capabilities.
With a peak single-precision computation performance of 3.54 TFLOPS, the Radeon Pro W6400 maximizes its potential through APIs like OpenCL, OpenGL, and Vulkan, accelerating graphics rendering and computationally intensive video effects. The front panel offers two DisplayPort 1.4 outputs, catering to dual 4K displays, dual 5K displays, or a single 8K HDR display. Utilizing a blower-style cooler with a radial fan, this half-height, single-slot compact design ensures efficient cooling, making it particularly suitable for configurations with limited spacing between components in smaller enclosures.
The W6400 might not be as powerful as the other cards presented on this post, but at a price tag of under $300, a low power draw of only 50W, requiring no additional cables, it’s a more than worthy, budget friendly option.
