Best Cpus For Cad Software In 2024

Intel Core i5-9400F

The Intel Core i5-9400F is a CPU that is excellent for those that are on a tight budget and that only plans to use the PCs for CAD works.

It features 6 cores and 6 processing threads, but they can be boosted to run at up to 4.10 GHz, allowing them to handle CAD files with easy without setting your budget back by too much.

Pros:

• 6 Cores/ 6 Threads
• 2.90 GHz up to 4.10 GHz Max Turbo Frequency/ 9 MB Cache
• Bus Speed: 8 GT/s DMI3
• Intel Optane Memory supported

Cons:

• Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
• Least powerful of all the entries

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AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2920X

The AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2920X is included on this list primarily for those few moments when you do work with CAD programs that are multithreaded in nature.

This is because few CPUs can match the power, number of cores and processing threads that it has, and each core can also be boosted to 4.3 GHz, making it quite viable even for single-threaded CAD programs.

Pros:

• Game, Stream, and Create with 12 Cores and 24 Processing Threads
• Incredible 4.3 GHz Max Boost Frequency, with a huge 38MB Cache
• Unlocked, with automatic overclocking via the new Precision Boost Overdrive (PBO) feature
• Quad Channel DDR4 and 64 PCIe lanes
• 180W TDP

Cons:

• CPU cooler not Included
• Not as much power per core as the Intel counterparts

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Intel Core i5-9600K

When you first look at the Intel Core i5-9600K and you compare it with the previous entries it is understandable why you have your doubts, as it is inferior by far in terms of overall performance.

However, if you’re looking to buy this CPU strictly for CAD works, then the performance it offers is pretty much the same as its bigger brothers that cost 2 to 3 times as much.

Pros:

• 6 Cores / 6 Threads
• 3.70 GHz up to 4.60 GHz / 9 MB Cache
• Intel Optane Memory Supported
• Intel UHD Graphics 630
• Most cost-efficient entry on our list

Cons:

• Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets

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Intel Core i7-9700K

While a bit weaker than the previous entry, the Intel Core i7-9700K still manages to provide almost the same performance as the Intel Core i9-9900KS when it is boosted.

If you couple this with the reduced price tag, then you have a CPU that is more cost-efficient, as long as only CAD programs are your main concern.

Pros:

• 8 Cores / 8 Threads
• 3.60 GHz up to 4.90 GHz / 12 MB Cache
• Compatible only with Motherboards based on Intel 300 Series Chipsets
• Intel Optane memory supported
• Intel UHD Graphics 630

Cons:

• CPU cooler not included

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Intel Core i9-9900KS

Topping on list is a true powerhouse of the CPU world, the Intel Core i9-9900KS. This Intel processor may have 8 cores that run at 16 threads, but they all reach up to 5.0 GHz, making them great even with single-threaded programs such as CAD.

What’s more, the sheer power of the processor makes it an overall great option to consider in just about anything else, from gaming to 2D graphics design and machine learning.

Pros:

• 8 Cores / 16 Threads
• Up to 5.0 GHz All Core Turbo Unlocked
• Recommended with Intel Z390 Chipset based motherboard

Cons:

• Scalability: 1S Only

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Closing thoughts on CPUs for CAD programs

As mentioned before, when choosing a CPU for a CAD-dedicated computer, don’t go for those that have lots of cores, but go for those that have the sheerest power per core.

While admittedly it is easier to just add more cores than make them more powerful, CPUs that meet the above-mentioned criteria aren’t all that hard to find, as long as you know which numbers to follow more precisely.