Cinebench, the renowned benchmark test used by PC enthusiasts and laptop reviewers to assess CPU performance, has recently received a significant update. Developer Maxon has announced the release of Cinebench 2024, which introduces GPU benchmarking. This feature has been absent from Cinebench since version 15, which was released a decade ago.
For those unfamiliar with how Cinebench works, it repeatedly renders an image for a set amount of time and measures the speed at which the hardware can accomplish this task. Notably, Cinebench 2024 will employ the same image, referred to as a “consistent scene file,” for both CPU and GPU testing. This enables users to directly compare the efficiency of GPU image rendering to that of their CPU, providing a satisfying and informative experience.
In addition to the inclusion of GPU benchmarking, Cinebench 2024 will expand its compatibility to Apple silicon. This suggests that the benchmark test will run on Apple’s M2 chips, as it already supported the M1 in the previous version, R23. Furthermore, Cinebench 2024 introduces a new desktop interface. Although it may not appear drastically different from the previous interface, it incorporates more vibrant colors to enhance the user experience. Additionally, Cinebench 2024 incorporates Redshift, Cinema 4D’s default rendering engine, while R23 utilized the standard renderer. These improvements cater to users who possess familiarity with these specific features.
To experience the new features of Cinebench 2024, users can download it from Maxon’s website, where it will be the default version. However, it is important to consider certain limitations and factors when interpreting Cinebench scores. Firstly, Cinebench 2024 scores should not be compared directly to R23 scores due to the significant update and introduction of GPU benchmarking. Secondly, while a GPU benchmark score provides valuable insights, it should not be the sole determinant when evaluating a GPU’s suitability for specific tasks. The most effective approach is to subject the GPU to the actual tasks it will be utilized for, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation.
In conclusion, the release of Cinebench 2024 marks a major update to the renowned benchmark test. The inclusion of GPU benchmarking provides users with valuable insights into the performance of their devices. Expanded compatibility with Apple silicon and the introduction of a new desktop interface further enhance the user experience. However, it is crucial to approach benchmark scores with caution, understanding the limitations and considering real-world tasks for an accurate evaluation of hardware performance.
