DGX Spark or a workstation GPU?
Both let you run and fine-tune models on your own hardware. They suit different people.
DGX Spark
A DGX Spark is a complete computer. It is small, sits on a desk, runs from a normal power point and comes with NVIDIA's AI software installed. Its 128GB of unified memory means it can load large models that would not fit on most single graphics cards.
- Choose it if you want to be running models the day it arrives, you value a compact and quiet machine, or you want to prototype with large models before committing to bigger hardware.
- Keep in mind it is a fixed system. You cannot swap its GPU later, though two units can be linked.
A workstation GPU
A workstation GPU such as an RTX PRO card is one component. It goes into a workstation that you already own or buy alongside it.
- Choose it if you already have a suitable workstation, you want the fastest training on one machine, you also do graphics or simulation work, or you want to add a second card later.
- Keep in mind the workstation has to suit the card: enough power, the right slots and good airflow.
Side by side
| DGX Spark | Workstation GPU | |
|---|---|---|
| What you get | A complete system | A component for a workstation |
| Setup | Plug in and start | Install into a compatible machine |
| Memory for models | 128GB unified memory | 16GB to 96GB of GPU memory, depending on the card |
| Upgrade path | Link a second unit | Add or replace cards |
| Best for | Prototyping and running large models locally | Training speed and mixed workloads |
Plenty of teams end up with both: a Spark for experiments and a workstation for the heavy runs. See Prototype on your desk and Train and fine-tune.