Is an Intel Iris Graphics Card Suitable for Design-related Apps Such as ArchiCAD and AutoCAD?
When it comes to design-related applications like ArchiCAD and AutoCAD, the choice of graphics card can significantly impact performance and user experience. This article explores whether the Intel Iris graphics cards, including the Iris Xe series, are suitable for these applications and highlights the considerations you should make when choosing a graphics card for design work.
Performance and Basic Tasks
Intel Iris graphics cards, particularly those in the Iris Xe series, are well-suited for basic design-related applications. They excel at tasks such as 2D drafting and simple 3D modeling, making them a great option for users who require a lightweight and integrated solution. These cards are part of Intel's integrated graphics lineup, meaning they are built into the CPU and not separate GPU hardware.
When it comes to handling demanding tasks, however, Intel's integrated graphics cards may fall short. For instance, they are less likely to match the performance of dedicated graphics cards like NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon when it comes to complex operations such as high-quality 3D rendering or working with large datasets. For most design professionals, these integrated solutions are sufficient, but for those engaged in more intensive tasks, a dedicated graphics card is highly recommended.
Project Complexity and Software Requirements
The complexity of the projects you plan to undertake is a crucial factor in determining the suitability of an Intel Iris graphics card. For entry-level and small projects, an Intel Iris graphics card should perform adequately. However, for larger, more complex models or intensive rendering tasks, a dedicated graphics card would be more advantageous. When in doubt, it's a good idea to check the specific system requirements of the software you intend to use. Many applications will recommend or require a dedicated GPU for optimal performance.
Future Upgrades and Compatibility
As your needs grow, so might your requirement for more powerful hardware. If you anticipate working on more demanding projects in the future, consider investing in a laptop or desktop with a dedicated graphics card. This will ensure that your design work remains smooth and efficient, no matter what the future holds.
Intel's 11th and 12th generation integrated graphics cards, specifically the Iris series, have been found to have compatibility issues with certain versions of CAD software. For instance, the 09–2016 version of CAD is no longer supported by these graphics cards. Opening such software versions may result in crashes. Although CAD 2018 and 2020 can be opened without crashing, it is necessary to disable hardware acceleration for these versions. These issues have not been resolved by Intel, meaning that users must find workarounds or upgrade to a dedicated GPU.
Users of dual graphics cards can mitigate some of these issues by disabling the Intel graphics card driver. However, this workaround is not ideal for everyone and may not resolve all the problems associated with these integrated graphics cards.
Intel has acknowledged the compatibility issues but does not intend to provide a solution. The only official recommendation is to use the latest version of CAD software like CAD 2022, which may partially alleviate some of the problems but is not a comprehensive solution.
Furthermore, these graphics cards also have serious compatibility issues with SolidWorks (UG) and Revit. This could lead to various problems and significantly impact the overall user experience. As such, it is advisable to avoid purchasing notebooks with 11th or 12th generation Intel CPUs if CAD and UG are necessary for your work.
Intel's treatment of these issues reflects a lack of attention to the needs of users who rely heavily on CAD and 3D modeling software. Users may find the performance of these integrated graphics cards to be inadequate for their needs, despite the initial cost advantages of an Intel CPU with integrated graphics.
Conclusion
In summary, while Intel Iris graphics cards can be suitable for entry-level use in design applications, a dedicated graphics card is recommended for more intensive tasks. Users must carefully weigh their specific needs and software requirements before making a final decision. Compatibility issues with certain versions of CAD software and applications like UG and Revit also make it crucial to choose the right hardware for optimal performance.