Unreal Engine is one of the most powerful real-time 3D creation tools, widely used for game development, architectural visualisation, virtual production, and more. To get the best performance, you need a workstation optimised for its demanding workflows. Choosing the right hardware ensures smooth performance, faster rendering, and better overall productivity.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key hardware components you need for the best workstation for Unreal Engine in 2025, ensuring you have the power to handle even the most complex projects efficiently.
Why Choose a Dedicated Workstation for Unreal Engine?
A dedicated workstation for Unreal Engine provides several advantages over standard consumer PCs:
- Optimised Performance: Smooth viewport interaction, faster shader compilation, and efficient real-time rendering.
- Increased Efficiency: Minimises slowdowns when handling large projects, complex simulations, and high-poly assets.
- Reliability and Stability: Workstation-grade components reduce crashes and downtime, ensuring smooth operation during long development sessions.
Whether you’re an indie developer, professional game designer, or working in virtual production, a workstation tailored for Unreal Engine will help you work faster and more efficiently.
Key Hardware Components for an Unreal Engine Workstation
1. Processor (CPU) – Powering Your Workflow
Unreal Engine relies heavily on CPU performance for tasks like compiling shaders, light baking, and code compilation. High clock speeds are crucial, but multi-core performance is also important for rendering and compilation.
Recommended CPUs for Unreal Engine in 2025:
- Intel Core Ultra 9 285K: Excellent single-core performance, ideal for real-time assets and interactive editing.
- AMD Ryzen 9 9950X: Strong single-threaded performance with 16 cores, suitable for balancing development and light rendering.
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X / 7980X: Exceptional multi-core performance, ideal for frequent shader compilation, light baking, or compiling Unreal Engine from source.
2. Graphics Card (GPU) – Enhancing Visuals and Real-Time Rendering
Unreal Engine uses the GPU for viewport rendering, real-time lighting, and GPU-accelerated tasks. A powerful GPU ensures smooth performance in complex scenes, ray tracing, and virtual production workflows.
Recommended GPUs for Unreal Engine in 2025:
3. Memory (RAM) – Multitasking and Large Scene Handling
Unreal Engine is memory-intensive. Large projects, high-resolution textures, and multitasking require sufficient RAM.
- 32GB DDR5: Minimum for standard game development projects.
- 64GB DDR5: Recommended for large projects and multitasking with other software.
- 128GB DDR5: Ideal for virtual production or massive open-world projects.
4. Storage – Speed and Reliability
Fast storage solutions improve loading times and real-time editing efficiency.
- Primary Drive (OS & Unreal Engine): 1TB PCIe 5.0 NVMe SSD
- Secondary Drive (Project Files): 2TB NVMe SSD for active projects
- Long-Term Storage: 4TB HDD or NAS for archiving old projects and assets
5. Cooling and Power Supply – Stability Under Load
- Cooling: High-end air or liquid cooling for consistent performance under heavy workloads.
- Power Supply: High-quality 1000W+ 80 PLUS Gold/Platinum PSU to handle power-hungry GPUs and CPUs.
6. Peripherals and Accessories
High-quality monitors, professional-grade keyboards, precision mice, and graphics tablets can significantly enhance workflow, comfort, and productivity.
Workstation Specialists can supply all necessary peripherals as part of your workstation package. Simply let our sales consultants know your requirements when requesting a quote.
Conclusion
Building the best workstation for Unreal Engine in 2025 requires balancing high clock-speed CPUs, powerful GPUs, ample RAM, and fast storage. For general game development, an Intel Core Ultra 9 or AMD Ryzen 9 CPU paired with an RTX 5080 or 5090 GPU provides excellent performance. For professionals focused on shader compilation, rendering, and virtual production, an AMD Threadripper 7970X with an RTX 6000 Ada GPU ensures maximum efficiency.
Need Expert Advice?
Choosing the right workstation for Unreal Engine can be complex. Contact us at +44 (0) 1332 280 380 or email [email protected] for guidance on building the perfect Unreal Engine workstation tailored to your needs.
