In this case, if you are working with heavy 3D files and effects, I would recommend a “good” GPU for After Effects. In addition, what is your workflow like outside of After Effects? If you are working with 3D, perhaps you are using Cinema 4D or Maya in your workflow. Specifically what GPU accelerated effects do you use or want to use in the future ( GPU accelerated effects list ). It is also important to understand your workflow. The most important thing is to make sure the GPU is supported by After Effects. While this is true, you don’t need a good graphics card to run After Effects, ultimately your use case will determine what graphics card is preferred. They also prefer if you update to a NVIDIA driver 451.77 or later. Adobe’s minimum requirements for running After Effects calls for 2 GB of GPU VRAM. Future-proofing your PC with a capable GPU for now and in the future is a wise decision in my opinion.Īdobe After Effects does not need a good graphics card to run the program. Also, monitor technology is getting better and more affordable. Software makers are constantly coming out with updates. Knowing what connections you need on your graphics card will depend on your current and future monitor set-up. How many of each will depend on the specific model. DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, HDMI, or DVI. If you are running a 4K monitor or multiple displays, having a quality GPU will keep all the heavy and complex visual data rendered smoothly in the viewport while panning and previewing your designs. Displays & Monitor:Īnother important factor is your display/monitor setup.

Rendering & Optimization:ĭo you render so much that optimizing render times is important? Having a good graphics card will give you the ability to cut down render times by selecting GPU acceleration to aid the CPU when rendering. If you are a part-time gamer, depending on the kinds of games you play and your monitor setup, having a capable GPU will be critical. You should also think about what you use your computer for, outside of your profession. But how do you use those programs? Do you use GPU accelerated effects or plugins that leverage the GPU for performance gains? Do you work with heavy 3D files that use textures, maps, lighting, etc? Thinking about your workflow and the programs you use is one thing. But what else should be considered? What Is Your Workflow Like? Having a solid GPU to handle the variety of software is important.

For example, a typical motion graphics workflow can include Cinema 4D to After Effects, mixed with a bit of Photoshop, then Premiere Pro.

If you are looking for a graphic card for After Effects, chances are this is not the only software you use.

Adobe graphics card requirements