First PC build for 3D modeling, VFX and compositing

[Michael]

Hello Alex:

Thank you for your awesome website! I am totally a newbie in PC building so I learned very much about how to build a PC.

I am using my new PC for 3D modeling, VFX, and compositing, mostly working with Maya, Houdini, Nuke, Zbrush, and DaVinci Resolve, and I also work with After Effects, Premiere, and Photoshop. I sometimes also use python and java for scripting.

My budget is around 1800 dollars.

 

[Alex Glawion]

Here's a build that would perform well in your workloads and fits your budget:

CGDirector.com Parts List: https://www.cgdirector.com/pc-builder/?=6LFuh

CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 3900XT 3.8GHz 12-Core Processor ($454.99)
CPU Cooler: be quiet! Dark Rock Pro 4 ($89.90)
Motherboard: Gigabyte B550 Aorus Pro AC ATX AM4 ($174.99)
GPU: Nvidia RTX 2060 6GB - Asus Turbo ($598.00)
Memory: 32GB (2 x 16GB) G.Skill Trident Z Neo DDR4-3600 C16 ($178.99)
Storage PCIe-SSD: Samsung 970 EVO 1TB M.2 Solid State Drive ($129.99)
Power Supply: Corsair CX Series CX550M 550W ATX 2.4 Power Supply ($79.99)
Case: Fractal Design Define R5 Black ATX Mid Tower Case ($123.99)
Total: $1830.84

Of course, if you can get your hands on a RTX 3070 and a next gen ryzen 5900X, that would be optimal - though these are very new and might not be in stock currently.