Glad you pointed out to people specifically about NOT going for a cheap Power Supply, as someone who builds their own PCs every time it's become one of my most important items to get right, and for Zwift one thing people might also be looking for is a decently quiet PC setup so in case anyone is reading this I can from personal experience highly recommend the BeQuiet brand of power units, I've also used their CPU Coolers, and a couple of their cases over the years and haven't been let down. They are not the cheapest, but personally they've served me well and I've never had one of their power units cause any problems or die, I've upgraded only because I always put a brand new PSU into any new PC build
About a year ago (before the GPU shortage), I built a PC for Zwift. I hadn't built one before and found it an easy and enjoyable project. I ended up at about $450 for an i3/9100f with a GTX 1060 3GB (16GB RAM and 256 NVMe ssd). Before that, I was using an older MacBook Pro. The difference is night and day. I launched Zwift on the MacBook recently and couldn't believe I used to think that was okay.
@@KaskadeHD Still good. These days, you should be able to get a better performing system for a similar amount. Zwift Insider posted recently about building PCs for Zwift. Good info there.
Just bought an Apple TV to start my swift journey, I have a basic gaming in my office but if I get hooked on swift then maybe I will see if I need to faff with that. New in box standard 2021 Apple TV was £100 so if it gets me up and running then all good
That is something I wish I would have touched on. Running Zwift on a PC has so many advantages, and streaming is a big one! Look at the 20 or 30 series gpu frm nvidia, they have great features for streaming. Be sure to comment when you do upgrade, interested to see what you upgrade to
@@EricRidesDirt Also, would you mind leaving me a comment with a link to your PSU, it's one of the parts that I've had a hard time choosing and I know it's not something that you want to skimp on.
I am actually pretty surprise of the Apple TV, was guessing Device B as the Apple TV initially. Now I am torn between a rig and apple TV...hmm... Apple TV is probably cost even lesser than a used 1050ti now... Of coz my work horse which has 1060 6gb definitely outclassed it, but the entire rig is also like 4-5 times the apple TV...
This is possibly the best description I've come across on TH-cam of how the "computer" hardware affects the user experience in Zwift. I just purchased an ATV 2021 4k, which replaces my 4-year-old Dell Latitude E7270 with Intel Core i5-6300U (integrated HD Graphics 520), and so far am very disappointed with the picture quality with ATV, compared to my laptop. I've started looking into the ATV settings, and realised the video was set at SD (I presume standard definition?), which I have changed to HD (presume high def?), and will see how that goes next time I use Zwift. I'm really pleased with how much easier it is just to leave the ATV in place, rather than drag my laptop back and forth, but I was surprised (not in a good way) at how much worse the graphics quality was with the ATV. Quick question, if you have time. My large screen TV is over 10 years old - would upgrading to a newer TV help?
Glad you found the video helpful. You are correct, SD is standing definition (720p) HD is high definition (1080p) finally UHD is ultra high definition (4k). The Apple TV 4k is great for it's simplicity but as you are noticing, it does not look the best. Part of that could be the age of your tv. A new tv will almost certainly be 4k which will make everything sharper, especially text. However, the graphics will be the same. You won't be able to run Zwift the way I show it her unless you have a dedicated "gaming" computer. The laptop you mentioned has the same components and the laptop in this video and it does not compare to a dedicated gaming computer. Does that help, and answer your question? Let me know if you have other questions.
@@EricRidesDirt That's very helpful - thanks for the almost instant reply! I now know my choices. ;-) I can probably pick up a second-hand 4k TV for not too much, so that might be my next step. (Now subscribed to your channel!)
@@davidrowe8747 It's a long time ago, but curious how your experience has been! I just started and don't really know what route to go. Thought about getting a ' cheap' hd tv and ATV to run it, but your comment made me second guss. What setup did you end up with?
Can't get the GPUs because all the kids are using them to mine them bitcoins. But you can't pay for all those sweet zwift drops with bitcoin. Great video. I think the shadows were the giveaway but it was still fun.
I use my Apple MacBookPro 16" M1 Max laptop; I then use screen mirroring (built in feature) to an AppleTV 4K which runs on a 65" 4K Sony LED flatscreen with a Bose sound bar. The seat on my bike is maybe 6 feet from the TV, so it is a really immersive experience!! The laptop gets a bit hot, so I bought a laptop cooling pad, so all is well.
@@EricRidesDirt I'm not sure. I can select "Ultra 1440p" in resolution setting; and the picture is much more detailed than the Apple TV version. But I don't think I'm getting the real time shadows on the bike. Even so, it is a much better render than what you get with Apple TV 4K.
@@SteveWheatcraft the Ultra setting is better than the Apple TV and a good experience but the highest setting is 4K Ultra. The M1 is fast enough to run that setting, just need zwift to allow it. There is a way to force the setting by editing one of the Zwift text files
@@EricRidesDirt Thanks for the info! I am comfortable editing Zwift text files (I do it to get a guest world map that is not active), so if you could provide me with that information, that would be great!
Hi Eric, I have been using Apple TV for Zwift 3 years now and now I have tried it on a gaming pc at 1440 resolution. The PC has a Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics card. Today when I used it for the first time I got an ok avg FPS of 57 fps, but: It happened that the FPS sometimes drop to 45-50 FPS when there were many riders (approx 30+ riders) in Makuri island. I cannot understand why it drops, because the graphic card should be able to a do lot more and the stats said that the GPU usage was only 38% it also wasn't hot only 36 degrees Celsius, the CPU usage was 14% and it was 55 degrees Celsius - So why the the FPS drop there should be a lot more power to get the FPS up. Do you have any idea on why the FPS drops while the GPU usage is so low ??
Yup that is a common problem. I don't have an exact answer but from what I understand it has to do with how Zwift is programmed. It is not a modern AAA video game using a modern game engine so things just run a bit slower despite the hardware. You could have a 3090Ti and still get low fps at times.
@@EricRidesDirt Thanks for the feedback 👍 Greatly appriciated. Even though the pc has hdmi 2.1, I just checked the monitor and it only has 1.4, I have no idea if that plays a role in that respect.
@@EricRidesDirt yes, however two things: 1) It often runs at 60 fps, the avg was 57 fps and 2) I only has the resolution swt to 1440 not 2160 (4k). Again thanks for your input, appriciated 👍
Great vid, I’ve been wondering what the results would be like. I’m gonna try it. Also we have the same PC case. I’m sure you know this but I feel I should caution anyone who doesn’t have the most ideal setup to think about airflow! Training in a small area with little airflow may not be ideal because of the temperature raise. In the room. Which can affect the PCs temperature. Especially with PCs varying in specs and being forced to work hard for better display. Essentially try not to overheat your PCs.
That's indeed a helpful video! But I'm actually more inclined towards getting a gaming laptop instead of a PC for Zwift. Do you think it would have a similar performance as that of a PC if I get the same specs as you mentioned?
I’m about to conduct this experiment on gaming pc (my simracing pc with an RTX 3080) vs my m1 iPad Air. In theory the air should be more than enough but betting Zwift has not optimized it for the m1. We’ll see. Also will be comparing frame rate with Apple screen share vs direct connect to TV. TV is old 1080p though so dunno if that will be part of the problem. We shall see.
Get a USB Bluetooth adapter to connect all your devices. I also use a USB extender cable to put the Bluetooth sensor directly under the bike for the best signal quality.
It is very capable of running Zwift. However, as far as I know Zwift still doesn't support the M2 Mac in the same way as a gaming PC. So it will default to Apple TV settings.
I would love to see Playground games and Zwift join to make a Zwift world using Forza Horizon Worlds. I would love to jog or ride in those worlds on my gaming PC.
What’s the best way to check a current computer to see the specs correctly? I’m sure I’ll have to get an updated gpu as mine is GeForce 750. And I have i5 processors but not sure about power supply. Just looked at it and it’s 250 watts, probably not enough
So do we know anything if the Mac Mini runs zwift on 4k with ultra high resolution. Is the Zwift software for mac compatible with that now… i just keep reading that if you want to max out the graphics and detalis on zwift, you have to run it on a PC because the Zwift Mac software is not compatible with the highest settings?
I actually don't know for sure. I know the Mac mini with the m1 chip is freaking fast as hell so my gut tells me it has the power to run Zwift maxed out but I don't know about the software.
@@EricRidesDirt thanks for answering so fast!! :) I can only find chat groups of this issues that are like 6 months old... So Ican´t know for sure if Zwift Mac software has been upgraded or not... Great channel! Keep up the good work!
What about a lag in real pedaling to real speed? I realize there can be a Bluetooth issue there but is there any significant difference in that performance from computer to laptop to Apple TV?
So... to ask, there's.a setting in Zwift that allows you to set ULTRA Graphics. Mine says 1440 even though I have a 4K display and my computer supports 4K... so, just to ask, does yours actually say 4K
@@EricRidesDirt I found out how to work it. I had to update the high.txt file and now I have the 2160 option. I had to do this because my Mac isn’t profiled, but I definitely got a bump by making this tweak. Thanks.
So I have a question that I would appreciate your input on. I have a dedicated IPad Pro for ZWIFT and have been thinking for a while to have a dedicated PC for it with some awsome specs. The only thing im worried about is I find connecting my bluetooth smart trainer to the desktop PC would not be great as It would have to be via ANT+ and its not as stable. Whereas on the IPad Pro its just simply blutetooth connections and not cut offs. What do you think about that?
Yup that makes sense. I would recommend getting a bluetooth dongle as well as a USB 3.0 extension cable. Then just run the extension cable to directly behind the front wheel and plug in the Bluetooth dongle. That will give you bluetooth connectivity on a PC and with it directly behind the front wheel you will have good single reliability.
I already have a pretty fast PC that I put together over the past few years, probably more powerful than Zwift appears to need, but I am wondering if an AMD 8GB RX 6600-based GPU is fast enough, and whether it matter if I connect it to my 4k monitor via HDMI (1.2) or Displayport (2.0)?
An RX 6600 is fantastic. I used an GTX 1060 for a while and it was great. I use a basic HDMI over 1.2 and it works. Sounds like your setup will do very well running Zwift at 4k/30-60fps
@@EricRidesDirt I know that nVidia is heavily favored in the Zwift world as it is in many gaming circles, but I've always gone with AMD as I'm not a gamer, so hopefully it works well for me. I'll post here with a followup once I've had a chance to try it out a while. As of now though I don't even have a trainer yet!
I've got a gaming PC but it's in my bedroom while my bike is in the garage lol. I'd love to use it for Zwift but I don't want to move my bike or move my computer to the garage.
@@OdieS85 Sorry, the mat in the beginning of the video is not the Yoga mat. Those are gym squares that I got from a sporting goods store. Yes, it is fine to ride on. Actually the thickness allows for a slight sway in the bike which helps with comfort when doing a long ride.
Just got a mini PC dedicated for zwift since my old laptop would crash mid ride. Mini is ok, doesnt crash, but runs min rez at like 20fps. Is there an external GPU upgrade a solution?
@@EricRidesDirt thanks! It's a chuwi herobox, not many options with it I think. I'll wait 3 years till my oldest is in college and I can take his gamer. The cool LEDs extend aero powers I hear. 🥴🤣
Current reports are that the new Apple TV is actually worse. However, it's expected to get a support patch that will improve both performance and visual quality.
I tried to run it on my gaming rig (3080 ti, 5800x, 32gb ram) but my problem is zwift on windows has so many issues or had for me. It constantly crashed after 2-3minutes. I annoyed me so much that i just bought an ipad for zwift only. I can only recommend to stay away from windows with zwift if you care about your sanity. And i build pcs since 15years.
It supports a 4k60 signal but just like the old one it still can't render Zwift at the resolution and frame rate. There is a video comparing them and the new one actually looks worse.
It is still at almost the lowest possible details level (Basic+). And it makes the most difference in graphics quality (shadows, lightning, 3d models detail, textures quality).
Q from someone who knows nothing about computers - What size and type of monitor do you pair it with or is it on a smart TV ? Ive read even on high end computers that the frame rates can fall drastically in the post crowded areas of Zwift is that the case with your build ?
I have a 43 inch 4K TV. The frame rate does drop below 60 at times but honestly, it is hard to tell the difference between 60fps and 30fps on Zwift. The only time I have ever seen the fps drop far enough that I could tell is with very large groups riding over dirt causing a lot of dust.
That sounds like a v-sync setting. It trys and sync each frame with the refresh of the display. If you are not hitting 60fps then it will drop down to 30fps to try and better sync with the display.
Nice video.. I just semi built a PowerSpec. It's running a GTX 780 4GB Overclocked. i7 3.8GHz 16GB DDR4 Ram Win 10 20H2. Zwift will not run on this PC. I have tried almost everything.. So it's back to my old Laptop... :(
@@EricRidesDirt I appears to install just fine... When I try to start it up it won't load and run. The log file has two lines: [18:23:07 2021-05-26] Launcher: Checking for VerCur Override [18:23:07 2021-05-26] Launcher: prefs.xml file found. I got a bunch of things to try from Zwift support... I will try when I get a chance. I just had knee surgery 3 weeks ago so not much riding anyway... 10-15 easy (
@@EricRidesDirt For those of us with cheap processing and a 32" 720p TV, there is also the expense of the display/TV. It should also be considered in the cost evaluation.
Yup absolutely. While a high end pc will make shadows and lighting better no matter the resolution, it will be less significant on lower resolution TVs
I know. It's crazy!!! I picked up a 1650 for 175 about 8 months ago and I was shocked when I checked newegg prior to making this video. I really want to upgrade my video editing rig but not at those prices 😲
I disagree. Zwift is a video game and a video game will always benefit more from the GPU vs a CPU. Also, this video was created before the 12th gen was launched so....
With the collapse of video card prices, this has never been cheaper or easier. Now is the time. If you aren't building your own PC now, in 2023, you're making a mistake. You can build a very cheap PC that is more than enough for zwift. I use a PC I built in 2014, with a newer video card, and it crushes zwift.
That graphics card won't give you 4k/60 during a race, tour or group ride. The crowd of bikes will slow things down greatly. I have a higher end gaming machine than in this video and even at 1080p the frame rate suffers greatly when it's trying to render 100 bikes. So don't expect butter smooth for group rides.
I get 60fps no matter the group size or weather conditions. Sometimes it dips when a massive group hits the dirt but returns to 60 within a few seconds. What card are you using????
Not sure what to tell you. I get 60fps in 4k in that group and I am in a 1060. With that many people on screen any lag could be CPU, memory or internet latency issue.
The capture card isn’t working... Here we go... Let’s Zwift, guys ! Hold that thought for a few hours because Bluetooth doesn’t work on my Microsoft machine... Why ? Nobody knows ever why. Als Bill Gates why !
If you notice a difference between 1080P and 4K in Zwift, you are not pedaling hard enough! xD
Hahaha well that is a fair point 🤣
You must be on a AT
The proper training for most of the time is not about pedaling hard. Quite the opposite.
@@michwoz dude, it was a funny comment, not to be taken too seriously!
Hahahaha
Glad you pointed out to people specifically about NOT going for a cheap Power Supply, as someone who builds their own PCs every time it's become one of my most important items to get right, and for Zwift one thing people might also be looking for is a decently quiet PC setup so in case anyone is reading this I can from personal experience highly recommend the BeQuiet brand of power units, I've also used their CPU Coolers, and a couple of their cases over the years and haven't been let down. They are not the cheapest, but personally they've served me well and I've never had one of their power units cause any problems or die, I've upgraded only because I always put a brand new PSU into any new PC build
Thank you! Been runnin. Apple TV Bluetooth for 3 years with so many headaches...great video with smart easy instructions-going your way this week-
About a year ago (before the GPU shortage), I built a PC for Zwift. I hadn't built one before and found it an easy and enjoyable project. I ended up at about $450 for an i3/9100f with a GTX 1060 3GB (16GB RAM and 256 NVMe ssd). Before that, I was using an older MacBook Pro. The difference is night and day. I launched Zwift on the MacBook recently and couldn't believe I used to think that was okay.
It's crazy how much better it can look when given proper hardware
currently running on a macbook, and i just cant wait til the laptop dies so i can finally get rid of it without feeling guilty
2 years later - going good still? Can ya still get all that for $450???
@@KaskadeHD Still good. These days, you should be able to get a better performing system for a similar amount. Zwift Insider posted recently about building PCs for Zwift. Good info there.
Thanks - actually convinced me that ATV is fine for me - but maybe I'll look into a PC if ever my Apple TV needs replacing.
Great video. This channel definitely deserves more subs
Thank you!
I didn't expect such a difference. Suddenly my iPad seems so weak. Thanks!
Amazing video. I use an 2013 computer. As I am focusing on the workout
I can't believe you didn't add what the laptop specs were. It was such a nice performance comparison clip!
The laptop was an old i5 with integrated graphics.
Just bought an Apple TV to start my swift journey, I have a basic gaming in my office but if I get hooked on swift then maybe I will see if I need to faff with that. New in box standard 2021 Apple TV was £100 so if it gets me up and running then all good
I've actually been looking to upgrade pc for my live race coverage and it was nice to see someone who has actually done it. Great video man!
That is something I wish I would have touched on. Running Zwift on a PC has so many advantages, and streaming is a big one! Look at the 20 or 30 series gpu frm nvidia, they have great features for streaming.
Be sure to comment when you do upgrade, interested to see what you upgrade to
@@EricRidesDirt Also, would you mind leaving me a comment with a link to your PSU, it's one of the parts that I've had a hard time choosing and I know it's not something that you want to skimp on.
www.newegg.com/thermaltake-smart-series-ps-spd-0430npcwus-w-430w/p/N82E16817153368?Item=N82E16817153368
@@EricRidesDirt Thank you!
I am actually pretty surprise of the Apple TV, was guessing Device B as the Apple TV initially. Now I am torn between a rig and apple TV...hmm... Apple TV is probably cost even lesser than a used 1050ti now...
Of coz my work horse which has 1060 6gb definitely outclassed it, but the entire rig is also like 4-5 times the apple TV...
I have been hearing that GPU pricing is beginning to normalize so maybe just hold out a bit longer.
This is possibly the best description I've come across on TH-cam of how the "computer" hardware affects the user experience in Zwift. I just purchased an ATV 2021 4k, which replaces my 4-year-old Dell Latitude E7270 with Intel Core i5-6300U (integrated HD Graphics 520), and so far am very disappointed with the picture quality with ATV, compared to my laptop.
I've started looking into the ATV settings, and realised the video was set at SD (I presume standard definition?), which I have changed to HD (presume high def?), and will see how that goes next time I use Zwift.
I'm really pleased with how much easier it is just to leave the ATV in place, rather than drag my laptop back and forth, but I was surprised (not in a good way) at how much worse the graphics quality was with the ATV.
Quick question, if you have time. My large screen TV is over 10 years old - would upgrading to a newer TV help?
Glad you found the video helpful. You are correct, SD is standing definition (720p) HD is high definition (1080p) finally UHD is ultra high definition (4k).
The Apple TV 4k is great for it's simplicity but as you are noticing, it does not look the best. Part of that could be the age of your tv. A new tv will almost certainly be 4k which will make everything sharper, especially text. However, the graphics will be the same. You won't be able to run Zwift the way I show it her unless you have a dedicated "gaming" computer. The laptop you mentioned has the same components and the laptop in this video and it does not compare to a dedicated gaming computer. Does that help, and answer your question?
Let me know if you have other questions.
@@EricRidesDirt That's very helpful - thanks for the almost instant reply! I now know my choices. ;-) I can probably pick up a second-hand 4k TV for not too much, so that might be my next step.
(Now subscribed to your channel!)
@@davidrowe8747 It's a long time ago, but curious how your experience has been! I just started and don't really know what route to go. Thought about getting a ' cheap' hd tv and ATV to run it, but your comment made me second guss. What setup did you end up with?
Great video.. here from the TH-cam Triathletes group and a new sub!
Thank you. I appreciate the sub
Apple tv 4k paired to a tv is plenty. Faster to boot, easy to handle and less crap around. 😊
Can't get the GPUs because all the kids are using them to mine them bitcoins. But you can't pay for all those sweet zwift drops with bitcoin. Great video. I think the shadows were the giveaway but it was still fun.
Omg I know. The current stock situation for computer hardware is absolutely crazy
I use my Apple MacBookPro 16" M1 Max laptop; I then use screen mirroring (built in feature) to an AppleTV 4K which runs on a 65" 4K Sony LED flatscreen with a Bose sound bar. The seat on my bike is maybe 6 feet from the TV, so it is a really immersive experience!! The laptop gets a bit hot, so I bought a laptop cooling pad, so all is well.
Does Zwift support the new M1 for 4K ultra setting? Last I heard, they still didn't include that device in the approved list.
@@EricRidesDirt I'm not sure. I can select "Ultra 1440p" in resolution setting; and the picture is much more detailed than the Apple TV version. But I don't think I'm getting the real time shadows on the bike. Even so, it is a much better render than what you get with Apple TV 4K.
@@SteveWheatcraft the Ultra setting is better than the Apple TV and a good experience but the highest setting is 4K Ultra. The M1 is fast enough to run that setting, just need zwift to allow it. There is a way to force the setting by editing one of the Zwift text files
@@EricRidesDirt Thanks for the info! I am comfortable editing Zwift text files (I do it to get a guest world map that is not active), so if you could provide me with that information, that would be great!
@@SteveWheatcraft Not 100% sure what file to edit. A search on Reddit should provide the answers.
Very informative video. I thought Apple TV was good for Zwift but this video put that in perspective! It's amazing how many facets there are to Zwitt
Awesome video mate! New subscriber, just a clear and straight to the point one, cheers
Hi Eric, I have been using Apple TV for Zwift 3 years now and now I have tried it on a gaming pc at 1440 resolution.
The PC has a Nvidia RTX 3070 graphics card. Today when I used it for the first time I got an ok avg FPS of 57 fps, but:
It happened that the FPS sometimes drop to 45-50 FPS when there were many riders (approx 30+ riders) in Makuri island.
I cannot understand why it drops, because the graphic card should be able to a do lot more and the stats said that the GPU usage was only 38% it also wasn't hot only 36 degrees Celsius, the CPU usage was 14% and it was 55 degrees Celsius - So why the the FPS drop there should be a lot more power to get the FPS up.
Do you have any idea on why the FPS drops while the GPU usage is so low ??
Yup that is a common problem. I don't have an exact answer but from what I understand it has to do with how Zwift is programmed. It is not a modern AAA video game using a modern game engine so things just run a bit slower despite the hardware. You could have a 3090Ti and still get low fps at times.
@@EricRidesDirt Thanks for the feedback 👍 Greatly appriciated.
Even though the pc has hdmi 2.1, I just checked the monitor and it only has 1.4, I have no idea if that plays a role in that respect.
It might. 1.4 will only run 4k at 30Hz regardless of how many frames your GPU is cranking out.
@@EricRidesDirt yes, however two things: 1) It often runs at 60 fps, the avg was 57 fps and 2) I only has the resolution swt to 1440 not 2160 (4k). Again thanks for your input, appriciated 👍
Great vid, I’ve been wondering what the results would be like. I’m gonna try it. Also we have the same PC case. I’m sure you know this but I feel I should caution anyone who doesn’t have the most ideal setup to think about airflow! Training in a small area with little airflow may not be ideal because of the temperature raise. In the room. Which can affect the PCs temperature. Especially with PCs varying in specs and being forced to work hard for better display. Essentially try not to overheat your PCs.
Ya, about a year ago I added 6 extra case fans. 3 up front, 2 up top, and one in the back. That significantly dropped my GPU temps.
What are you using as a tv stand and as a keyboard/mouse stand in your setup?
Damn! Those pc graphics are something ey. Great video, looking forward to following.
That's indeed a helpful video! But I'm actually more inclined towards getting a gaming laptop instead of a PC for Zwift. Do you think it would have a similar performance as that of a PC if I get the same specs as you mentioned?
A gaming laptop with modern specs should be just fine.
@@EricRidesDirt thanks man!
I’m about to conduct this experiment on gaming pc (my simracing pc with an RTX 3080) vs my m1 iPad Air. In theory the air should be more than enough but betting Zwift has not optimized it for the m1. We’ll see. Also will be comparing frame rate with Apple screen share vs direct connect to TV. TV is old 1080p though so dunno if that will be part of the problem. We shall see.
Okay ! Sounds nice
What do you use to connect from
your wahoo to your computer ?
Get a USB Bluetooth adapter to connect all your devices. I also use a USB extender cable to put the Bluetooth sensor directly under the bike for the best signal quality.
I use steam link to access my gaming pc through my crappy old laptop. Gaming pc does all the work(not pedaling😔) and I get beautiful graphics on zwift
Can't help but wonder about the Apple M2 Mac Mini $599. (March 2023)
It is very capable of running Zwift. However, as far as I know Zwift still doesn't support the M2 Mac in the same way as a gaming PC. So it will default to Apple TV settings.
Just for anyone wondering Zwift now runs natively on the Mac Mini M2 making this a truly capable machine for running Zwift.
I would love to see Playground games and Zwift join to make a Zwift world using Forza Horizon Worlds. I would love to jog or ride in those worlds on my gaming PC.
What’s the best way to check a current computer to see the specs correctly? I’m sure I’ll have to get an updated gpu as mine is GeForce 750. And I have i5 processors but not sure about power supply. Just looked at it and it’s 250 watts, probably not enough
What would you say about using Apple Mac mini for running Zwift? Thank you great video thank you for posting!
If the new m1 mac mini is as powerful as they say then I think the Mac mini is probably the best / least expensive way to run Zwift at 4k 60fps
So do we know anything if the Mac Mini runs zwift on 4k with ultra high resolution. Is the Zwift software for mac compatible with that now… i just keep reading that if you want to max out the graphics and detalis on zwift, you have to run it on a PC because the Zwift Mac software is not compatible with the highest settings?
I actually don't know for sure. I know the Mac mini with the m1 chip is freaking fast as hell so my gut tells me it has the power to run Zwift maxed out but I don't know about the software.
@@EricRidesDirt thanks for answering so fast!! :) I can only find chat groups of this issues that are like 6 months old... So Ican´t know for sure if Zwift Mac software has been upgraded or not... Great channel! Keep up the good work!
Thanks for sharing..... this is my next planned upgrade 👍
What about a lag in real pedaling to real speed? I realize there can be a Bluetooth issue there but is there any significant difference in that performance from computer to laptop to Apple TV?
So... to ask, there's.a setting in Zwift that allows you to set ULTRA Graphics. Mine says 1440 even though I have a 4K display and my computer supports 4K... so, just to ask, does yours actually say 4K
What GPU do you have?
Zwift has an approved list of GPUs that support 4k. You need one of those approved GPUs for the option to show up.
@@EricRidesDirt I found out how to work it. I had to update the high.txt file and now I have the 2160 option. I had to do this because my Mac isn’t profiled, but I definitely got a bump by making this tweak. Thanks.
So I have a question that I would appreciate your input on. I have a dedicated IPad Pro for ZWIFT and have been thinking for a while to have a dedicated PC for it with some awsome specs. The only thing im worried about is I find connecting my bluetooth smart trainer to the desktop PC would not be great as It would have to be via ANT+ and its not as stable. Whereas on the IPad Pro its just simply blutetooth connections and not cut offs. What do you think about that?
Yup that makes sense. I would recommend getting a bluetooth dongle as well as a USB 3.0 extension cable. Then just run the extension cable to directly behind the front wheel and plug in the Bluetooth dongle. That will give you bluetooth connectivity on a PC and with it directly behind the front wheel you will have good single reliability.
Do you use HDMI cable from your pc to your TV screen? Or you just look at your PC screen?
HDMI from the PC to my TV
I already have a pretty fast PC that I put together over the past few years, probably more powerful than Zwift appears to need, but I am wondering if an AMD 8GB RX 6600-based GPU is fast enough, and whether it matter if I connect it to my 4k monitor via HDMI (1.2) or Displayport (2.0)?
An RX 6600 is fantastic. I used an GTX 1060 for a while and it was great. I use a basic HDMI over 1.2 and it works.
Sounds like your setup will do very well running Zwift at 4k/30-60fps
@@EricRidesDirt I know that nVidia is heavily favored in the Zwift world as it is in many gaming circles, but I've always gone with AMD as I'm not a gamer, so hopefully it works well for me. I'll post here with a followup once I've had a chance to try it out a while. As of now though I don't even have a trainer yet!
I've got a gaming PC but it's in my bedroom while my bike is in the garage lol. I'd love to use it for Zwift but I don't want to move my bike or move my computer to the garage.
If it is not too far, you could run a long HDMI cable.
But still there is tons of issues while running on linux and Lutris does not solve that
Great video, I really need to get on zwift
What trainer mat is that under the bike in the first 10 seconds of this video?
Lululemon yoga mat
@@EricRidesDirt Thanks for the quick reply! Do you find it stable enough to use your bike trainer on? It looks fairly thick
@@OdieS85 Sorry, the mat in the beginning of the video is not the Yoga mat. Those are gym squares that I got from a sporting goods store. Yes, it is fine to ride on. Actually the thickness allows for a slight sway in the bike which helps with comfort when doing a long ride.
Just got a mini PC dedicated for zwift since my old laptop would crash mid ride. Mini is ok, doesnt crash, but runs min rez at like 20fps. Is there an external GPU upgrade a solution?
Unfortunately, not that I am aware of. Although depending on what kind of PC it is there might be some other upgrade options.
@@EricRidesDirt thanks! It's a chuwi herobox, not many options with it I think. I'll wait 3 years till my oldest is in college and I can take his gamer. The cool LEDs extend aero powers I hear. 🥴🤣
@@kregg2 Looks like a herobox has integrated graphics. Should be able to run zwift at 30ftp if you drop the resolution to 720P
)) 😀 and ROUVY 4K (witch new update) should be shown in another separate window this test
Does the new apple tv run smoother? The old one I have lags to much
Current reports are that the new Apple TV is actually worse. However, it's expected to get a support patch that will improve both performance and visual quality.
What gen of Apple TV 4K is it?
Gen-3
Hey Eric - how do you acquire the jersey in your video (on the PC) with the cattle skull on the back? Thanks!
You get it for having the fasts time on a KOM. It is not something you can get in the garage. Shame, because it's really cool
Do we need anything to receive ant+ from a Wahoo kickr and a heart monitor?
You need an ANT+ usb dongle but better to use Bluetooth
I use a Macbook Air with a M1 processor. Works fine for me.
Apple TV and M1 air are very different devices.
$800 is a bit steep for a PC build. Today it's closer to $400 max (new) with top-end CPU and a really good, but used, GPU.
What kind of graphics can I run with a i7, 8gb ram, SSD, w/ Nividia GT 1030 2GB ?
That should be able to run Zwift at it's maximum settings. I have a 1060 and it runs perfectly.
I tried to run it on my gaming rig (3080 ti, 5800x, 32gb ram) but my problem is zwift on windows has so many issues or had for me. It constantly crashed after 2-3minutes. I annoyed me so much that i just bought an ipad for zwift only. I can only recommend to stay away from windows with zwift if you care about your sanity. And i build pcs since 15years.
Why are you running it in windowed mode?
The new 2021 Apple TV 4K now supports 60FPS.
It supports a 4k60 signal but just like the old one it still can't render Zwift at the resolution and frame rate. There is a video comparing them and the new one actually looks worse.
@@EricRidesDirt that’s disappointing- do you have a link?
It is still at almost the lowest possible details level (Basic+). And it makes the most difference in graphics quality (shadows, lightning, 3d models detail, textures quality).
Very good video, but can do this at about 1/3 price.
Q from someone who knows nothing about computers - What size and type of monitor do you pair it with or is it on a smart TV ? Ive read even on high end computers that the frame rates can fall drastically in the post crowded areas of Zwift is that the case with your build ?
I have a 43 inch 4K TV. The frame rate does drop below 60 at times but honestly, it is hard to tell the difference between 60fps and 30fps on Zwift. The only time I have ever seen the fps drop far enough that I could tell is with very large groups riding over dirt causing a lot of dust.
I must be doing something wrong I have a 60hz 4k tv and my graphics settings are set to 4k but I can only max out at 30fps in zwift… what gives?
That sounds like a v-sync setting. It trys and sync each frame with the refresh of the display. If you are not hitting 60fps then it will drop down to 30fps to try and better sync with the display.
@@EricRidesDirt no I’ve worked out the problem... it needs to be plugged into an hdmi 2.0 port to enable 60fps
Nice video.. I just semi built a PowerSpec. It's running a GTX 780 4GB Overclocked. i7 3.8GHz 16GB DDR4 Ram Win 10 20H2. Zwift will not run on this PC. I have tried almost everything.. So it's back to my old Laptop... :(
Oh no, that's too bad. What do you mean it won't run on it? Do you get an error message or it just won't launch?
@@EricRidesDirt I appears to install just fine... When I try to start it up it won't load and run. The log file has two lines:
[18:23:07 2021-05-26] Launcher: Checking for VerCur Override
[18:23:07 2021-05-26] Launcher: prefs.xml file found.
I got a bunch of things to try from Zwift support... I will try when I get a chance. I just had knee surgery 3 weeks ago so not much riding anyway... 10-15 easy (
Nice comparison! I’m currently running an Apple Tv. I’ve thought about the dedicated PC route, 🤔 I may give it a try.
#RobbArmstrong
Once again pc master wins again
😁
What size is your TV?
42"
@@EricRidesDirt For those of us with cheap processing and a 32" 720p TV, there is also the expense of the display/TV. It should also be considered in the cost evaluation.
Yup absolutely. While a high end pc will make shadows and lighting better no matter the resolution, it will be less significant on lower resolution TVs
The increment in the price of gtx1650 is ridiculous at the moment
I know. It's crazy!!!
I picked up a 1650 for 175 about 8 months ago and I was shocked when I checked newegg prior to making this video. I really want to upgrade my video editing rig but not at those prices 😲
That's why basic gaming laptop is likely the best option for Zwift now. It is also portable as a bonus.
CPU is just as important as GPU for Zwift. Go for 12th gen intel cpu
I disagree. Zwift is a video game and a video game will always benefit more from the GPU vs a CPU. Also, this video was created before the 12th gen was launched so....
With the collapse of video card prices, this has never been cheaper or easier. Now is the time. If you aren't building your own PC now, in 2023, you're making a mistake. You can build a very cheap PC that is more than enough for zwift. I use a PC I built in 2014, with a newer video card, and it crushes zwift.
Absolutely no point spending that extra €500 for ‘shadows’ - I am just going to imagine they’re there and spend that extra money on my family
Depends on your priorities. Glad you are happy with your setup!
I'm gonna guess A is the computer, C is a phone, and B is that apple TV thing that I have no familiarity with
That graphics card won't give you 4k/60 during a race, tour or group ride. The crowd of bikes will slow things down greatly. I have a higher end gaming machine than in this video and even at 1080p the frame rate suffers greatly when it's trying to render 100 bikes. So don't expect butter smooth for group rides.
I get 60fps no matter the group size or weather conditions. Sometimes it dips when a massive group hits the dirt but returns to 60 within a few seconds. What card are you using????
@@EricRidesDirtRTX 2070. Try riding with C. Cadence in Watopia (along with a few hundred other riders). Frame rate is very low even at 1080p.
🤷♂️
Not sure what to tell you. I get 60fps in 4k in that group and I am in a 1060. With that many people on screen any lag could be CPU, memory or internet latency issue.
could you also describe the settings on each of the devices, i.e. resolution (1080/1440/4k/etc), and detail (ultra/high/etc)?
Ya so the in game menu has only one setting, my pc is set to 4K ultra.
Apple TV 4K doesn’t run Zwift in 4k from what I’ve read.
Yes, I talk about that in the video
I guess all 3 correct.
Nice work
You can see the PC had more details in the shadows,, the apple TV did a good job and I see why it's a popular option, as for the laptop well 😅
device B is begging for help
Microsoft Windows will not enter this house. Period !
The capture card isn’t working... Here we go... Let’s Zwift, guys ! Hold that thought for a few hours because Bluetooth doesn’t work on my Microsoft machine... Why ? Nobody knows ever why. Als Bill Gates why !
Zwift is NOT a game !