Blender Denoising CPU vs GPU

Blender has a built-in denoising feature that allows you to remove noise from your rendered images. This feature is available for both CPU and GPU, and the decision on which one to use depends on several factors.

CPU denoising

CPU denoising is performed using the OpenImageDenoise library, which is a CPU-based denoising algorithm. When you choose CPU denoising, the CPU performs the denoising calculation, and this can be time-consuming, especially for large images.

However, CPU denoising provides high-quality results and is more accurate than GPU denoising. This is because the CPU has more processing power and can handle more complex calculations than the GPU.

If you have a powerful CPU, CPU denoising can be a good option, especially for smaller images. However, for larger images, CPU denoising can take a long time, and GPU denoising may be a better option.

GPU denoising

GPU denoising is performed using the NVIDIA OptiX AI-Accelerated Denoiser. This algorithm is designed to take advantage of the processing power of NVIDIA graphics cards, which have dedicated CUDA cores for parallel processing.

When you choose GPU denoising, the GPU performs the denoising calculation, and this can be much faster than CPU denoising. GPU denoising is particularly useful for large images or animations where speed is critical.

However, GPU denoising is less accurate than CPU denoising, and the denoised image can sometimes appear blurry or lack detail. This is because the GPU has limited processing power compared to the CPU.

To get the best results with GPU denoising, it is important to choose a graphics card with a high number of CUDA cores and to adjust the denoising settings carefully.

Choosing between CPU and GPU denoising

The decision on whether to use CPU or GPU denoising depends on several factors, including the size of your image, the processing power of your CPU and GPU, and the level of accuracy you require.

If you have a powerful CPU and need high accuracy, CPU denoising can provide the best results. However, if speed is critical, or you are working with large images or animations, GPU denoising can be a better option.

It is also possible to use a combination of CPU and GPU denoising to get the best of both worlds. You can use CPU denoising for smaller images and GPU denoising for larger images or animations.

Conclusion

Blender denoising is a powerful feature that can help you to remove noise from your rendered images. The decision on whether to use CPU or GPU denoising depends on several factors, including the size of your image, the processing power of your CPU and GPU, and the level of accuracy you require.

Both CPU and GPU denoising have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is important to test both options to determine which one is best for your specific needs. By choosing the right denoising option, you can get high-quality results and save time during the rendering process.