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Is 16gb of RAM enough for CAD programs/3D Printing?

crowe-t

crowe-t

macrumors 6502
Original poster
Is 16gb of RAM enough for CAD programs/3D Printing?

A friend is giving me a Prusa Mini 3D printer. Will 16gb of RAM be enough?

I'm looking at buying a Mac Mini M2 Pro. If 32gb is better than I might just get a Mac Studio.
 
It would be ok, but you'd be better off with 32gb. It really depends on what CAD programs you use. I don't think you need the chip on the Studio though.
 
OrenLindsey said:
It would be ok, but you'd be better off with 32gb. It really depends on what CAD programs you use. I don't think you need the chip on the Studio though.
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The problem is upgrading the Mac Mini M2 Pro to 32gb RAM brings the price very close to a Mac Studio.
 
I think the prevailing wisdom (from reading around the forums here) is that the base model Studio is a better buy than a high-spec Mini, since you're getting a much better processor, improved thermal management, faster Ethernet connection, etc.
 
16gb works fine for 2D cad but 3d depending on the file size might push a little. I only do 2D and have 32 GB on my Win Workstation and never go over 40% with AutoCAD, Outlook, Word, Excel and Edge all open. I have an M2 Mini Pro and it will use around 12 GB with everything.
 
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EdwardC said:
16gb works fine for 2D cad but 3d depending on the file size might push a little. I only do 2D and have 32 GB on my Win Workstation and never go over 40% with AutoCAD, Outlook, Word, Excel and Edge all open. I have an M2 Mini Pro and it will use around 12 GB with everything.
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Do you think a Mac Mini M2 Pro with 16gb will be OK or is 32gb the better option?
 
crowe-t said:
Do you think a Mac Mini M2 Pro with 16gb will be OK or is 32gb the better option?
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Well depends on what application you are using. I would be interested to know. If I was going to do a BTO for a 32GB Pro I would just go with a Studio. If you have a Micro Center close they have had the base M2 Max studio for $1,799.00. I bought my Pro from them for $1,099.00.
 
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