MP 7,1 Which GPU to pick?

[patrick.a]

I need a new computer as my MBP 2018 is unable to cope with my workload. Connected to the LG 5k it sounds more like a hairdryer than a laptop, the batterie is swollen and even with 32GB it reaches its limit with simultaneous tasks. Quite an underwhelming experience from a laptop that's not even 2 years old and was over 4'000 back then. Anyway, I guess I'm the one to blame. I'm an architect and do work with ArchiCAD and Maxwell render as well as Photoshop and InDesign mainly. Of course this machine was not really designed to do 3D renders and run 24/7 and that shows.

So... I had an upgraded 4.1 a couple of years back and was super happy with the experience. Not much has changed since then I think as with Apple's current portfolio the MP is still the only machine that runs without any thermal constraints and would therefor be the right choice for my workflow. Trying out some configurations and also trying not to overspend: Does anyone have experience with running ArchiCAD on the current MP and can tell me which GPU to pick? Maxwell render is CPU based so I'll go with the 12 or 16 core. But I'm not sure if I should upgrade the GPU as well? Is the 580X still good for 3D modeling and basic tasks or could I benefit from a faster GPU? And which one would that be from the current offering?

With RDNA2 being around the corner I was wondering if it would be wiser to spend some extra cash on the not so easy upgradable CPU and buy a better GPU next year maybe?

 

[Boil]

I would go with:

16 core CPU
stock RAM (get a 192GB <6@32GB DIMMs> RAM kit from OWC for US$1,300.00 / room to double the RAM down the road)
Go with the W5500X GPU, upgrade if needed when the RDNA2 MPX modules are an option
Go with 2TB storage

Just under US$9,000.00 to Apple for the Mac Pro, another US$1,300.00 to OWC for the RAM upgrade (that stock RAM is headed for a drawer).

But the killer is when you get a XDR Display with matte (nano-etched) panel, display stand & AppleCare; an additional US$7,500.00!

But if you are using the rig for work (architecture) then it should be a sound investment to carry you into the Apple Silicon era (AFTER the bugs are worked out)

Another option, the iMac Pro might be getting upgraded with new CPUs & GPUs. You could probably get into that at half the cost of the Mac Pro / XDR Display combo. That also should carry you thru to an Apple silicon replacement.