That is technically a VDI solution, which differs from a desktop virtualization solution. Usually with VDI there are more options to provide GPU functionality and enhancements but that is only if they have GPU installed within their farm.
This is a subjective reply, Octane feels faster to me, Cycles IRP causes C4D to run slow at times (I am using a 980TI/1070 setup). I really enjoy working with Cycles in terms of Mat setup, or scene setup. I like the look of Cycles and feel it compliments my Octane purchase
Double checked that tile size is 256x256. I played around with the samples and I could get it down to 17 or 18 instead of 21, but anything less introduced too much noise IMO.
@17 samples 1:03
@18 samples 1:19
As always I caveat my tests with settings might not be the most efficient. Same scene, changed from Cycles4D to Octane.
980TI/1070 combo
Top image is Cycles4D @21 samples 21s (256x256 buckets with no "progressive refine")
Bottom image is Octane @512 max samples DL 14s
Wanted to test out SSS and emission, find it very easy to work with. First image was straight out of C4D, 2nd one was after some post PS work. Took 22s @23 samples with 980TI/1070 GPU combo