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NVIDIA H200 vs NVIDIA L40: When to choose which

Compare NVIDIA H200 and L40 GPUs for AI and ML workloads. Learn which GPU is best for large model training versus inference and graphics applications.

GPU cloud services typically offer high-performance computing capabilities with specialized infrastructure for AI and machine learning workloads. Users can expect access to clusters of GPUs connected through high-bandwidth networks, allowing for distributed processing and faster model training. These services generally include pre-configured environments optimized for common AI frameworks, reducing setup time and complexity.The infrastructure usually scales based on demand, from single GPU instances to multi-GPU clusters, with features like low-latency networking and high-speed interconnects. Security measures, compliance certifications, and technical support are standard offerings. Pricing models tend to be usage-based, with costs varying depending on GPU type, usage duration, and resource allocation.

About the NVIDIA H200

NVIDIA H200: Next-Generation AI and HPC Powerhouse

The NVIDIA H200 represents a significant advancement in GPU technology, featuring 141 GB of HBM3e memory, which offers nearly double the memory capacity and 1.4x the bandwidth of its predecessor, the H100.

This enhanced memory architecture makes the H200 exceptionally well-suited for memory-intensive tasks that require processing massive datasets or complex models. The card's impressive specifications position it as a top-tier solution for organizations pushing the boundaries of artificial intelligence and high-performance computing.

Industry experts and early adopters have highlighted the H200's exceptional capabilities for training and inference of large AI models, particularly those requiring substantial memory resources.

The GPU appeals primarily to research institutions, cloud service providers, and enterprises engaged in cutting-edge AI development, especially those working with large language models, complex simulations, or data-intensive scientific computing. Its improved memory bandwidth makes it particularly valuable for applications where data movement is a bottleneck, such as transformer-based architectures, large-scale natural language processing, and sophisticated computer vision models.

About the NVIDIA L40

NVIDIA L40: Balancing AI Inference and Graphics Performance

The NVIDIA L40 is a versatile GPU designed to excel at inference workloads for generative AI, vision models, and virtual environments. With 48GB of GDDR6 memory and impressive performance capabilities of approximately 362 TFLOPs (FP16 with sparsity), the L40 strikes an effective balance between power efficiency and computational strength.

It's optimized for both AI and graphics workloads, making it particularly valuable for organizations that need to run sophisticated inference tasks without the extreme power requirements of higher-end GPUs like the H100 or A100.

Professional users in creative industries, enterprises deploying AI-powered applications, and developers working with generative AI would find the L40 particularly appealing. Its dual capability in handling both AI inference and graphics rendering makes it ideal for teams building visual AI applications, running inference for large language models, or creating immersive virtual environments.

While the L40 is less suitable for full-scale training of massive AI models due to its relatively lower memory bandwidth compared to HBM-equipped alternatives, it offers an excellent solution for organizations deploying pre-trained models in production environments where power efficiency and balanced performance are priorities.

Comparison table

NVIDIA H200 vs NVIDIA L40 Comparison

Choose the NVIDIA H200 when working with large AI models requiring significant memory capacity and bandwidth for training or inference of transformer-based models, or for high-performance computing workloads. Opt for the NVIDIA L40 when deploying inference workloads for generative AI, vision models, or virtual environments where cost-efficiency and lower power consumption are priorities.

Feature H200 L40
Price $30,000-$40,000 $11,000
Hourly Rental $3.83-$10 ~$1.00
Memory 141GB HBM3e 48GB GDDR6
Memory Type HBM3e GDDR6
Best Use Large AI models Inference, Graphics
Strength Memory capacity Cost-efficiency
Limitation Higher cost Training performance

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