Our precious PCs can be used for so much more than gaming. Today, we’re going to go through the ultimate set-up for CAD.
From a high-performance computer to must-have peripherals, this ultimate set-up will guide you through an entire desk of CAD-primed goodies. Should you be looking for an upgrade or two or three for your professional space, then get your shopping list ready!
What is CAD?
In case you are new to this, CAD stands for computer aided design. It is the term used for any program that helps you create 2D or 3D drawings, designs, and models. Typically, this software is used by engineers, designers, architects, illustrators, city planners, and more. It is versatile and can be a vital tool for your work. Especially as it is much more efficient and accurate than drawing up designs by hand! Plus, many CAD software packages have collaboration functionality, AI generative support, and other features to streamline the process.
The recommended specs for CAD software will vary from program to program. We have the 2024 edition requirements for AutoCAD listed below:
| Component | Minimum Specs | Recommended Specs |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | 2.5 – 2.9GHz (base) ARM processors are not supported. | 3GHz+ (base) 4GHz+ (turbo) |
| Memory | 8GB RAM | 32GB RAM |
| Display Resolution | 1920 x 1080 with true colour | up to 3840 x 2160 (with “recommended” display card) |
| Display Card | 2GB GPU with 29GB/s bandwidth DirectX11 compliant | 8GB GPU with 106GB/s bandwidth DirectX12 compliant |
| Storage | 10GB available space | 10GB available space Recommended on an SSD |
| Network | Network License Manager for Windows | Network License Manager for Windows |
| Pointing Device | MS-Mouse compliant | MS-Mouse compliant |
| .NET Framework | .NET Framework version 4.8 or later | .NET Framework version 4.8 or later |
MicroStation
CorelCAD
SolidWorks
Of course, AutoCAD isn’t the only software package out there. Here is but a small selection of CAD programs!
Vectorworks
Solid Edge
Onshape
The Ultimate CAD Set-Up
We have scoured the Overclockers UK website high and low, to find the Ultimate CAD Set-Up. It covers a full working set-up, from PC to desk and all the peripherals in between. Each product has been carefully selected for its compatibility with CAD programs and workflows. Get ready to bookmark a page or two!
OcUK Gaming Eagle Configurable PC
Sticking with AutoCAD, it’s recommended you use a high-frequency CPU with great support for single-threaded workloads, at least 16GB of RAM, and a DirectX 12-compliant GPU. The OcUK Gaming Eagle has all of that and the option to adjust the spec to better suit your work needs. For example, you can bump the RAM capacity up to 32GB, to enhance your multi-tasking capabilities, and add up to four storage drives, so there is plenty of space for all your projects. Handling the weight of the work will be the Intel Core Ultra 7 270K CPU, with up to 6GHz clock speeds, and an AMD Radeon RX 9070 XT GPU for all your rendering needs.
OcUK Gaming Eagle – Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Radeon RX 9070 XT Gaming PC
FS-1EQ-OG
£2499.98 £ 2339.99
-6.4%(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
out of stock
ADD TO BASKETThunderX3 CORE Loft Gaming Chair
Long sessions working on your designs requires the ultimate in ergonomic support. Enter the ThunderX3 CORE Loft. This gaming chair sports a SYNC6 six-way adjustable mechanism, self-adjusting lumbar support, and breathable materials to keep you fresh. It also comes with a detachable memory foam headrest, that offers unparalleled neck support, and a 3-in-1 footrest, which can improve circulation and even engage your muscles depending on how you use it. Personally, my favourite feature is the pocket on the back. Where better to keep all your work snacks?
TX3 CORE Fabric Gaming Chair – Grey
GC-00A-TU
£339.95 £ 289.99
-14.7%(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
Pre order
ADD TO BASKETSamsung 34” Odyssey G5 Curved Monitor
Optimise your workflow with extra screen real estate. With the Samsung Odyssey G5, you have an ultra-wide 34” monitor with VA panel technology, a 1ms response time, and 2500:1 contrast ratio. Its wide display size means you can have your chosen CAD software open alongside any notes, videos, or browsers that are vital to your workflow – all without the hassle of a dual-monitor set-up. Plus, this is a curved monitor which meets the natural curvature of your eye. As a result, you can work more comfortably as the screen matches your peripheral vision and draws the eye to the centre, thus reducing the need for constant eye movement.
Samsung 34″ Odyssey G5 LC34G55TWWPXXU 3440×1440 VA 165Hz 1ms FreeSync Curved Widescreen Gaming Monit
MO-24A-SA
£298.99
(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
in stock
ADD TO BASKETDucky Origin Mechanical Keyboard
Get full functionality at your fingertips, with the Ducky Origin Mechanical Keyboard. Sporting a 100% form factor, this keyboard is arranged in a UK ISO layout with a dedicated numpad for ease of use. Better yet, this keyboard is equipped with Cherry MX Red switches, for quick and quiet typing, but there are other switch models available, should these not vibe.
Ducky Origin USB Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Cherry MX Red – Black UK Layout
PER-DCK-00950
£58.99
(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
in stock
ADD TO BASKETEndgame Gear OP1w 4K V2 Gaming Mouse
The Endgame Gear OP1w 4K V2 Gaming Mouse is optimised for responsive performance. The custom PixArt PAW 3950 U+1F95A sensor operates at up to 30,000 CPI while the Nordic and Nuvoton microcontrollers ensure low latency wireless connectivity with a high-speed 4,000Hz polling rate. All this, and the OP1w 4K V2 is incredibly lightweight with an ergonomic shell keeping you well supported and working without wrist strain!
Endgame Gear OP1w 4k V2 USB Optical Gaming Mouse – Black
PER-EGG-05243
£104.99
(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
in stock
ADD TO BASKETElgato USB 15 Key Customisable Stream Deck V2
Now, we’re not suggesting you start moonlighting as a streamer. The Elgato Stream Deck V2 is an incredibly versatile product you can customise to support your needs. There are fifteen programmable keys, which you can assign to switch between tabs, open project folders, adjust your screen brightness, and so much more. If you get regular client updates, you can switch to your email with the press of a button. Perhaps you need on-the-fly media control. You can even create profiles for different programs. Plus, it comes in 6 Key and 32 Key models, so you can easily match the functionality to your needs.
Elgato USB 15 Key Customisable Stream Deck V2 (10GBA9901)
CC-012-EL
£163.99 £ 149.99
-8.54%(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
Pre order
ADD TO BASKETTX3 LAB-X Height Adjustable Electric Desk
When working for long hours at a desk, it is advised to take time to stand and move about. If you’re in the zone or facing a looming deadline, this is easy to forget. With the TX3 LAB-X Electronic Adjustable Desk, you can switch to a standing position without breaking your flow – all with the simple press of a button. The electronic controls allow this desk to increase in height by 45cm, so you can optimise your ergonomics when sitting and standing. Plus, there is plenty of room to work thanks to the spacious desktop, which has an integrated tempered glass mouse mat and mesh panelling for airflow.
TX3 LAB-X Height Adjustable Electric Desk
GAM-THU-04466
£399.95
(incl. VAT)
FREE SHIPPING
Pre order
ADD TO BASKETMore Ultimate Set-Ups
Elevate Your Workflow
What essentials do you have in your work set-up? Drop a comment below with how you optimise your CAD workflow.
PC specs are subject to change.
- 6 min read
Emily Haylock
Author
Emily is a board and cosy gamer, keyboard obsessive, and content copywriter for Overclockers UK. She has been with Overclockers UK since 2020, writing about everything from noblechairs to 8Pack PCs. She writes from within her desk nest with a foster pup at her feet. (What, a desk duvet is a totally normal thing!) In her downtime, she likes to play board games, farming sims, and old-school Final Fantasy. IX to be specific. It is the best, and that is a hill she will die on.
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