Nvidia HGX vs. DGX: Key Differences in AI Supercomputing Solutions
June 12, 2024
Nvidia HGX vs. DGX: Key Differences in AI Supercomputing Solutions

Nvidia HGX vs DGX: What are the differences?

Nvidia is comfortably riding the AI wave. And for at least the next few years, it will likely not be dethroned as the AI hardware market leader. With its extremely popular enterprise solutions powered by the H100 and H200 "Hopper" lineup of GPUs (and now B100 and B200 "Blackwell" GPUs), Nvidia is the go-to manufacturer of high-performance computing (HPC) hardware.

Nvidia DGX is an integrated AI HPC solution targeted toward enterprise customers needing immensely powerful workstation and server solutions for deep learning, generative AI, and data analytics. Nvidia HGX is based on the same underlying GPU technology. However, HGX is a customizable enterprise solution for businesses that want more control and flexibility over their AI HPC systems. But how do these two platforms differ from each other?



Nvidia DGX: The Original Supercomputing Platform

It should surprise no one that Nvidia's primary focus isn't on its GeForce lineup of gaming GPUs anymore. Sure, the company enjoys the lion's share among the best gaming GPUs, but its recent resounding success is driven by enterprise and data center offerings and AI-focused workstation GPUs.

Overview of DGX

The Nvidia DGX platform integrates up to 8 Tensor Core GPUs with Nvidia's AI software to power accelerated computing and next-gen AI applications. It's essentially a rack-mount chassis containing 4 or 8 GPUs connected via NVLink, high-end x86 CPUs, and a bunch of Nvidia's high-speed networking hardware. A single DGX B200 system is capable of 72 petaFLOPS of training and 144 petaFLOPS of inference performance.

Key Features of DGX

  • AI Software Integration: DGX systems come pre-installed with Nvidia's AI software stack, making them ready for immediate deployment.
  • High Performance: With up to 8 Tensor Core GPUs, DGX systems provide top-tier computational power for AI and HPC tasks.
  • Scalability: Solutions like the DGX SuperPOD integrate multiple DGX systems to form extensive data center configurations.

Current Offerings

The company currently offers both Hopper-based (DGX H100) and Blackwell-based (DGX B200) systems optimized for AI workloads. Customers can go a step further with solutions like the DGX SuperPOD (with DGX GB200 systems) that integrates 36 liquid-cooled Nvidia GB200 Grace Blackwell Superchips, comprised of 36 Nvidia Grace CPUs and 72 Blackwell GPUs. This monstrous setup includes multiple racks connected through Nvidia Quantum InfiniBand, allowing companies to scale thousands of GB200 Superchips.

Legacy and Evolution

Nvidia has been selling DGX systems for quite some time now — from the DGX Server-1 dating back to 2016 to modern DGX B200-based systems. From the Pascal and Volta generations to the Ampere, Hopper, and Blackwell generations, Nvidia's enterprise HPC business has pioneered numerous innovations and helped in the birth of its customizable platform, Nvidia HGX.


Nvidia HGX: For Businesses That Need More

Build Your Own Supercomputer

For OEMs looking for custom supercomputing solutions, Nvidia HGX offers the same peak performance as its Hopper and Blackwell-based DGX systems but allows OEMs to tweak it as needed. For instance, customers can modify the CPUs, RAM, storage, and networking configuration as they please. Nvidia HGX is actually the baseboard used in the Nvidia DGX system but adheres to Nvidia's own standard.

Key Features of HGX

  • Customization: OEMs have the freedom to modify components such as CPUs, RAM, and storage to suit specific requirements.
  • Flexibility: HGX allows for a modular approach to building AI and HPC solutions, giving enterprises the ability to scale and adapt.
  • Performance: Nvidia offers HGX in x4 and x8 GPU configurations, with the latest Blackwell-based baseboards only available in the x8 configuration. An HGX B200 system can deliver up to 144 petaFLOPS of performance.

Applications and Use Cases

HGX is designed for enterprises that need high-performance computing solutions but also want the flexibility to customize their systems. It's ideal for businesses that require scalable AI infrastructure tailored to specific needs, from deep learning and data analytics to large-scale simulations.


Nvidia DGX vs. HGX: Summary

Simplicity vs. Flexibility

While Nvidia DGX represents Nvidia's line of standardized, unified, and integrated supercomputing solutions, Nvidia HGX unlocks greater customization and flexibility for OEMs to offer more to enterprise customers.

Rapid Deployment vs. Custom Solutions

With Nvidia DGX, the company leans more into cluster solutions that integrate multiple DGX systems into huge and, in the case of the DGX SuperPOD, multi-million-dollar data center solutions. Nvidia HGX, on the other hand, is another way of selling HPC hardware to OEMs at a greater profit margin.

Unified vs. Modular

Nvidia DGX brings rapid deployment and a seamless, hassle-free setup for bigger enterprises. Nvidia HGX provides modular solutions and greater access to the wider industry.


FAQs

What is the primary difference between Nvidia DGX and HGX?

The primary difference lies in customization. DGX offers a standardized, integrated solution ready for deployment, while HGX provides a customizable platform that OEMs can adapt to specific needs.

Which platform is better for rapid deployment?

Nvidia DGX is better suited for rapid deployment as it comes pre-integrated with Nvidia’s AI software stack and requires minimal setup.

Can HGX be used for scalable AI infrastructure?

Yes, Nvidia HGX is designed for scalable AI infrastructure, offering flexibility to customize and expand as per business requirements.

Are DGX and HGX systems compatible with all AI software?

Both DGX and HGX systems are compatible with Nvidia’s AI software stack, which supports a wide range of AI applications and frameworks.


Final Thoughts

Choosing between Nvidia DGX and HGX ultimately depends on your enterprise's needs. If you require a turnkey solution with rapid deployment, DGX is your go-to. However, if customization and scalability are your top priorities, HGX offers the flexibility to tailor your HPC system to your specific requirements.