14 Tools That Run Best on a GPU-Backed Virtual Desktop

Every industry has evolved technologically over the past couple of decades. For instance, the architects have moved from basic 2D representations to complex 3D modeling tools. However, these new-age tools require a high-performance IT solution to cater to data processing demands. 

Moreover, global businesses are looking for a flexible IT environment to enhance remote work capabilities. A GPU-backed virtual desktop is the best solution to facilitate both requirements.   

A GPU-backed virtual desktop combines the processing power of a GPU with the flexibility of virtual desktop infrastructure.

By integrating a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) into virtual desktops, organizations can work on applications that rely on high-end graphical computing, making remote workflows just as efficient as working on a local high-spec machine. 

Let’s check out some tools and applications that can benefit from a GPU-backed virtual desktop setup.  

CAD and 3D Modeling 

CAD and 3D modeling tools are utilized by architects, engineers, and designers across various industries, including construction, automotive, and manufacturing. These tools help in creating AI-based 3D models and simulations for better visualization. 

GPU-based virtual desktop enables these tools to render 3D objects efficiently and offers a collaborative environment for multiple teams. 

  1. AutoCAD: Autodesk’s AutoCAD is one of the most popular design and drafting software programs for 2D and 3D modeling. It is an AI-enabled solution that offers businesses deep insights and automation into drifting tasks.  
  2. SolidWorks: It offers a suite of 2D and 3D product development solutions. It also offers automated design workflows, using Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and generative design. 

Video Editing and Post-Production 

New video editing and post-production tools require a high-performance platform as they work with high-resolution videos (4K and 8K). Moreover, processes such as timeline scrubbing and effects rendering are also resource-intensive.  

With GPU-backed virtual desktops, editors can accomplish video editing and production tasks without lag, even on devices with basic configurations.  

  1. Adobe Premiere Pro: It is one of the world’s leading video editing platforms. To ensure the best video output, it offers AI-powered features, such as three-point, text-based editing, audio mixing, Media Intelligence, auto-translation, and Generative Extend. 
  2. Final Cut Pro: It is Apple’s versatile video editing and animation tool. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to use, even for starters. Final Cut Pro integrates with other Apple tools, making it a favorite for Mac users. 

3D Rendering and Animation 

3D rendering is a critical process for professionals in animation, VFX, or architectural visualization. However, rendering engines like Arnold and OctaneRender need GPU cores to optimize rendering time. GPU-backed virtual desktops give them a high-performance environment for a secure and lag-free experience. 

  1. Autodesk Maya: Maya is Autodesk’s premium product for character animation and visual effects. Powered by Autodesk AI, Maya helps you approximate character deformations and speed up production.
  2. 3ds Max: It is another Autodesk solution for 3D rendering and animation. It helps artists create high-quality designs and real-life environments with intuitive texturing. Moreover, you get enhanced visualization through light mixing and color correction.  

AI and Machine Learning 

AI/ML-based engines require parallel processing for development, testing, and visualization. Moreover, developers and testers need to work together in real time.    

With GPU-based virtual desktops, developers can train deep learning models and perform large matrix computations. A GPU-backed VDI allows data scientists to run experiments, visualize model performance, and iterate without needing a high-end local workstation.

  1. TensorFlow: A solution introduced by Google for the deployment and development of machine learning models. It is an open-source platform with easy-to-use APIs and native tools. TensorFlow has a large online community of developers to help innovate and troubleshoot.
  2. PyTorch: It is another machine learning framework known for its flexibility and computational capabilities. Developed by Facebook AI Research (now Meta AI), PyTorch is an open-source platform with effective debugging and dynamic computation graphs.    

Game Development Engines

The gaming industry relies heavily on GPU-based graphics processing to create 3D environments and perform real-time testing.

With a GPU-enabled virtual desktop, developers can build, test, and refine game assets in real time while collaborating with global teams. 

  1. Unity: It is a real-time gaming development platform by Unity Technologies that supports diverse games, including mobile, multiplayer, VR, and indie, across multiple platforms. It has a vast developer community and an Asset Store where developers can share and sell code, plugins, and tools.
     
  2.  CryEngine: Developed by Crytek, CryEngine is an advanced gaming engine that creates real-world environments. It includes the CryRender engine for high-performance rendering and sandboxing. CryEngine supports all major platforms, including PC, Xbox, and PlayStation.   

Architecture, Engineering & Construction 

The construction industry is increasingly becoming tech-savvy with the introduction of new-age tools that utilize AI and ML for tasks such as BIM (Building Information Modeling), project visualization, and clash detection. 

Moreover, AEC professionals need to collaborate on a single project from different locations, such as the central office and the construction site. 

Working on GPU-backed virtual desktops enables them to conveniently work on these resource-demanding applications without lag from remote locations. It also helps to speed up rendering and support real-time design reviews.

  1. Navisworks: Autodesk’s Navisworks is a 3D model review, coordination, and clash detection software that allows the AEC industry to combine 3D models from multiple sources (like AutoCAD and Civil 3D) into a single environment. It also helps you integrate field and studio teams with BIM tools. You can also capture material quantities, like lines and areas, and create schedules from projects.
       
  2.  Rhino 3D: It is a graphics and CAD solution used by professionals, such as marine engineers, architects, and jewelers. It simplifies solid modeling with advanced features like Gumball, Inset, and PushPull. Moreover, the Grasshopper plugin offers powerful parametric design capabilities favored by architects and computational designers.

High-End Financial and Trading Applications

The financial sector requires new-age tools for data visualization, real-time simulations, and graphical analysis. GPU-backed VDI offers these tools a high-performance platform to perform extensive computations and simulate market scenarios.  

  1.  Kinetica: It is a distributed, GPU-accelerated database. It delivers high performance for analytics, streaming data, geospatial processing, time-series queries, graph analysis, and vector similarity search through standard SQL and APIs.
  2. NVIDIA RAPIDS: Financial services prefer NVIDIA RAPIDS to process large data sets to optimize trading, fraud detection, and more. It also helps them build AI-powered solutions, such as virtual assistants and identity verification.
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Benefits of Running These Tools on GPU-Backed Virtual Desktops 

1. Remote Access

GPU-backed virtual desktops enable your workforce to access AI-powered tools from remote locations. It enables organizations to implement employee-friendly remote work policies, improving satisfaction. In addition, stakeholders from different geographical locations can collaborate easily on the same project.   

2. Seamless Operations on Portable Devices

The new-age tools must be installed in expensive workstations with high specifications. On the other hand, if you opt for GPU-backed virtual desktops, all the resource-demanding tools can be accessed on portable devices, such as smartphones and tablets, without lag. As a result, organizations can implement BYOD policies, minimizing capital costs.

3. Better Data Security

As all the workloads are hosted in remote servers, any damage to the local systems does not result in data loss.

Moreover, cloud virtual desktop providers deploy advanced security controls at the physical, network, and admin levels to ensure comprehensive data protection.

4. Lower CapEx and Simplified Management

GPU-backed virtual desktops optimize resource utilization through pooling and centralized management. As a result, more virtual desktops can be created with fewer IT resources, reducing IT management costs.

Additionally, hosting virtual desktop services reduces an organization’s capital expenses associated with purchasing physical desktops.     

5. Scalability on Demand

New-age tools need to process high amounts of data in real time. Moreover, new versions of these tools demand more IT resources over time. A GPU-backed virtual desktop infrastructure allows you to scale the IT setup as per your tool requirements.

Supercharge Your Tools with GPU-Backed Virtual Desktops

Take the limits off your business applications with GPU-powered virtual desktops from Ace Cloud Hosting. Whether AI-based tools, CAD software, or data-heavy apps, your team gets the speed, stability, and security they need—anytime, anywhere.

With enterprise-grade uptime, unlimited storage, multi-layered security, and 24/7 expert support, you can focus on growth while we handle the infrastructure.

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About Julie Watson

Julie Watson loves helping businesses navigate their technology needs by breaking complex concepts into clear, practical solutions. With over 20 years of experience, her expertise spans cloud hosting, virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI), and accounting solutions, enabling organizations to work more efficiently and securely. A proud mother and New York University graduate, Julie balances her professional pursuits with weekends spent with her family or surfing the iconic waves of Oahu’s North Shore.

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