The graphics card is a component of computer hardware that makes an image you see on a monitor. Graphic cards help to transform numbers into pictures.
Nowadays, almost every Central Processing Unit (CPU) has a graphic card amalgamated into the system.
A best low-profile graphics card that stands out in the competition must have everything for all the users, the gamers, students, graphics designers, content creators, and businesspersons.
Graphics card is a kind to show adapter or video cards downloaded within the majority of computers to show graphical data with high clarity, color definition, and overall appearance. Check below is a list of best low profile graphic cards.
List of Best Low Profile Graphics Card 2023
Design | Name | Rating | Features | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1. | MSI GTX 1050 | High-end 4GB graphics RAM | Check Price | ||
2. | MSI R5604TPC RX 560 | 4GB GDDR5 RAM | Check Price | ||
3. | ZOTAC GeForce GT 710 | Triple Display & PCIe 2.0 support | Check Price | ||
4. | EVGA GeForce 04G-P4-6253-KR | Triple I/O Display Support | Check Price | ||
5. | Gigabyte GTX 1050 OC | Fastest 128 bit GDDR5 RAM | Check Price | ||
6. | EVGA GeForce 08G-P4-5173-KR | 03 Years Warranty | Check Price | ||
7. | GeForce GTX 1050 | Updated GDDR5 Memory | Check Price | ||
8. | GeForce GTX 1660 | 6GB GDDR6 Memory Module | Check Price | ||
9. | EVGA GeForce GT 1030 | 03 Years Warranty | Check Price | ||
10. | Gigabyte GV-N75TOC-2GL | 2GB GDDR5 Memory Kit | Check Price | ||
11. | ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 | Cheapest Low-profile Graphics Card | Check Price | ||
12. | ZOTAC GeForce GTX 1050 | Multiple Display Capability | Check Price |
1. MSI GTX 1050 TI 4GT LP Graphic Cards
MSI GTX features an extremely convenient size for low-profile computers.
It only fits the customized optional low-profile brackets to retain its maximum space clearance and t accommodate more space for RAM, fans, and other components.
The low-profile form factor allows beautiful show and 1/3rd of the occupied space when compared to the normal graphics cards.
- Cutting-Edge Technology
The MSI GTX 1050 features all-new memory and graphics specs. The 4GB version has a base clock speed of 1290 and maximum frequency up to 1392 MHz.
The supported RAM is GDDR5, which means users can install the latest random-access memory when using MSI GTX 1050 graphics card.
The PCIe bus has 16 ports with three readily available columns for powerful and diversified gaming and professional computing.
The multitasking is made easier and more subtle with the 3 x 16 PCIe bus. The external ports comprise 1x HDMI, 1x display port connection and 1x dual-link DVI-D.
- Made for Gaming
The low-profile graphics card features a VR-ready hierarchy and overclocking expertise within its wide range of built-in functions.
It has graphics support up to DirectX 12 for all the software-hardware integration needed to run your gaming PC in the beast mode.
The 128bit memory support is paramount in performance, speed, and capacity to overclock for the maximum possible time without any glitches.
The 4GB memory is supported by a 75W power supply to the graphics card and auxiliary cooling fans.
It takes up optimal energy from the system or power supply for smart functioning, hence saving bulk electricity costs with its intuitive design.
- High-end 4GB graphics RAM
- DirectX 12 supported
- Ergonomic design, low-profile dimensions
- 128 bit memory width
- Smooth and powerful GPU
- Consumes 75W power from the source
- Limited usage, only for low-profile brackets
2. MSI R5604TPC RX 560 4GT LP OC Graphic Cards
The processing speed of the MSI R5604TPC is immaculate. It is backed with an unparalleled 4GB internal memory along with the GDDR5 capacity to further boost up the random-access memory.
The latest firebrand technology inside a compact, low-profile GPU takes gaming to its highest extremes.
The clocking speed fits completely with the low-profile hi-fi design. The base clock speed ranges up to 1272 MHz with boost clock frequency up to 1575 MHz for extreme overclocking.
The overclocking is made possible with an 8GB HMB2 and 7000 MHz memory speed in the residue.
- Highly Efficient
The efficiency is retained with the solid capacitors inside an aluminum core processor inside the MSI graphics card.
The capacitors enable 10-yar long lifetime by the manufacturer under full load conditions. otherwise, the capacitors will last a lifetime under normal conditions.
The thermal capacity is synced with the system’s indigenous cooling fans with the built-in dual fans for maximized heat syncing.
The lesser heat results in better system performance and reduced energy consumption in the long run.
- Overclocking Expert
For overclocking, MSI RX-560 utilizes its boost clock with GDDR5 RAM capacity to undertake heavy gaming tasks without the blackouts or overheating the system.
The Afterburner overclocking technology features a Predator for in-game video recording for gamers. It can easily connect wirelessly to Android or iOS devices.
The Afterburner supports multi-GPU setup with the system, DirectX 12, and multi-screen gaming by the AMD Eyefinity gaming module.
- Components and Ports
The components are modernized in the latest GPU version. It features a 128-bit GDDR5 internal RAM type with a 4GB internal RAM size.
The boost clock speed has overflow frequency up to 1196 MHz for overclocking, and there are 1024 stream processors to assist in streaming graphics and speed.
The PCI Express bus has x16 slots with 8 slots to be used simultaneously. There’s a dual-display option, 1x for display port, and 1x for HDMI along with a 1x DVI-D slot.
- Speedy and low-profile
- 4GB GDDR5 RAM
- Features AMD FreeSync
- Comprises all solid capacitors
- Built-in dual fans
- Comprises Afterburner overclocking
- Only for low-profile systems
- Draws high power from PSU
3. ZOTAC GeForce GT 710
ZOTAC GeForce GT 710 graphics card is made for space-constraint PCs and gaming systems.
It has low-profile dimensions and a PCIe card for external support with all the cables and display ports.
The GPU fits perfectly with all the form factors, servers, and for assisting the integrated graphics cards.
The card can be connected to multiple displays, i.e. with DVI-D, HDMA, and normal VGA output.
The compact design enables one to cover lesser space, 1/3rd of the normal GPU, and speeds up the system up to 3 times than normal integrated graphics cards.
NVIDIA Kepler architecture allows ZOTAC GeForce to shed half its normal weight with half the size reduced for a perfect fit inside the motherboard.
- Efficient and Ergonomic
The efficiency is boosted with limited power consumption and assisted ergonomics to reduce additional heat and vibrations at higher clocking speeds.
The ZOTAC GeForce GT 710 can be attached to a 300W PSU, and the power consumption never exceeds 25W keeping in view its compatibility to connect to three displays.
The passive cooling is completely fan-free. It has built-in heat syncs to the rear side for real-time noiseless and vibration-less cooling inside the GPU.
Connect it as a standalone 2GB graphics card or attach it to the integrated graphics unit for an added boost to the speed and graphics when gaming or video editing.
- Support and Compatibility
NVIDIA ZOTAC GT 710 features 2GB DDR3 internal memory, PCIe 2.0 for external port connections, and fan-less heat syncs for quiet and efficient heat dissipation at maximum clock speeds.
The clock speed ranges between 945 MHz to 1600 MHz at max with the CUDA cores and 64-bit memory bus.
The graphics card is for low-profile applications, and it features a low-profile bracket, a driver disk, and a user manual for easy installation.
The GPU is supported with Windows XP, Vista, 8, and Windows 10 versions.
- Cost-effective
- Fan-less quiet operation
- Features low-profile bracket and driver disk in the package
- DirectX 12 supported
- Triple display and PCIe 2.0 support
- Limited applications when used with gaming PCs
- Cannot be used for overclocking in pro-gaming modes
4. EVGA GeForce 04G-P4-6253-KR
EVGA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti gaming graphics card is compact and ergonomic.
It is made with the latest and powerful Pascal architecture for increased performance and HD gaming experience.
The enhanced performance allows high-end gaming and top-brass content creation with 4GB built-in RAM. The NVIDIA Pascal is the most advanced gaming architecture to date.
It blends well to hardcore gamers, allows 1080p gaming with 60 frames per second, thanks to the high overclocking speed and efficient controller chips inside the GPU.
- True Graphics
NVIDIA GeForce 1050 Ti has enhanced graphics with a true video display for all the compatible systems.
It has great gaming ready components and NVIDIA Ansel in-game photography for a real feel in dark gaming modes.
The NVIDIA Gameworks addsa more realistic look and fastest processing when gaming in hardcore environments.
The extreme true HD graphics are maintained even in the highly congested gaming modes.
Never expect any delays with the overclocking expert by EVGA. The EVGA Precision XOC keeps the system running smoothly and steadily without lags or blackouts.
- Sophisticated Machinery
The internal machinery is made of the latest technology components. The internal fan retains fast processing without overheating the graphics processing unit.
The low-profile body dissipates heat quickly to the outside environment with a powerful radiator fan.
The maximum refresh rate is kept at 3.240 Hz for power-efficient and smooth gaming experience throughout the day.
The included I/O ports comprise of HDMI, PCIe 3.0 port bus, and VGA display port for high-end display without having to sacrifice the HD graphics.
The compact size enables maximum clearance support for RAM and related auxiliary components.
- Compatibility
NVIDIA EVGA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti is compatible with Windows 10, Windows 7, and 8 OS. The GPU runs smoothly on both the Windows 32bit and 64bit versions without in-game lagging and related issues.
The base clock is kept at 1354 and the boost clock speed reaches up to 1468 MHz.
- High boost clock speed
- NVIDIA Pascal architecture
- Triple I/O display support
- Compact design with high-speed performance
- Overpriced
- Extracts extreme power from the system
5. Gigabyte Geforce GTX 1050 OC
Gigabyte GeForce is a powerful processing graphics card unit with everything readily embedded to quench your high-end gaming tasks and overclocking requirements.
It comes with a 2GB built-in RAM with the fastest to date GDDR5 kit and 128bit memory inside a single minimalistic 167mm card.
The GPU can be connected to more output devices simultaneously. It connects with 1x dual-link DVI-D, 1x display port, and two HDMI ports for dual-screen gaming or editing.
The graphics card supports 4 screens combined without having a lag or display pressure on it.
- Faster than Ever
The 1050 OC is faster than ever. It meets all the heavy gaming demands with a high RAM and up-to-date hierarchy. The 167mm low-profile card can be adjusted to overclocking with a single click.
The sophisticated XTREME engine utility will fine-tune the graphics card to overclocking requirements without users having prior knowledge of setting up the mode.
No need to manually adjust modes and tweaking for overclocking when it can be done with a click. The clock speed is set t 1392 MHz base value and it can be boosted up to 1506 MHz in gaming modes.
- Cooler Quieter Efficient
Every process inside the Gigabyte GeForce 1050 OC is kept at optimal levels via XTREME Engine Utility.
It is a software-controlled mechanism that controls everything inside the system including clock speeds, cooling control, voltage, and power levels along with the real-time monitoring performance and warning systems.
The software allows users to control and monitor everything that is going on inside.
The overclocking modes can be enabled and disabled with a single click via XTREME Engine Utility, no need to reconfigure it every time.
The cooling is aided by low resistance MOSFETS that switch faster than ever without producing internal heat and saves energy during the high-speed gaming modes.
The efficiency is improved in the novel design along with low core-losses. It keeps the graphics unit quieter than before with reduces iron core losses, and result in minimal EMI interferences
- Everlasting
The OC version is made to last for a lifetime. It features 3x more powerful and intuitively designed solid capacitors that help in increased storage capacity, better ergonomics, low heat dissipation, and long life to the system performance.
- Fastest 128bit GDDR5 RAM
- Improved design
- Comprises XTREME Engine Utility
- Connects with 4 displays simultaneously
- Low-profile and lightweight
- Unfit for mid-range gamers
- Cannot be used without a bracket
6. EVGA GeForce 08G-P4-5173-KR
EVGA GeForce GTX 1070 SC is the latest of the top-notch modern gaming GPUs.
The graphics unit is made with the all-new technologies that include Pascal Architecture, faster and more intuitive RAM, and all the software and hardware support needed to run a fully equipped heavy gaming PC.
NVIDIA’s new Pascal Architecture comprises enhanced engineering and highly ergonomic performance for long hours without overheating or splitting up the pixels on display.
It also supports all the latest graphics utilities and next-gen VR gaming capabilities.
- Supreme Cooling 3.0
The cooling system is flawlessly designed for complete satisfaction when gaming at high overclocking modes. The GPU has dual fans assisted with a robust EVGA ACX 3.0 cooling design.
It has everything a gamer needs to keep their system at the lowest temperatures when gaming for longer sessions.
SHP 3.0 features radiator fans with pure copper heat pipes, more suction area, and broad copper contact area for air to reflect and cool quicker than ever.
It also assists in quieter operation throughout with swept fan blades and double ball bearings to bear the brunt of unwanted vibrations caused by rotating parts of the cooling system.
The fan is 10cm in diameter along with RGB lighting for a better presentation and color syncing with your gaming PC. EVGA supports software control over RGB lighting with EVGA Precision XOC along with temperature monitoring.
- Powerful Speed Booster
The speed is power for EVGA GeForce GTX 1070 GPU. It amplifies the system speed with high-frequency clocks, fast switching capacity, and immaculate cooling design.
The base clock speed is 1594 MHz, and the clock speed for boost modes in gaming goes up to 1784 MHz along with a powerful 8GB internal RAM.
For an additional boost, the GPU completely supports DirectX 12 and all the Windows versions including Windows 7, 8, and Windows 10 (32bit and 64bit versions).
The maximum power required is 500W and the system supports 2 HDMIs, 1x display port, and 1x DVI-D port for display.
- 3-year warranty with free customer support
- EVGA Precision XOC supported
- ACX 3.0 ultra-cooling design
- 8-pin PCIe slot
- Compatible with all the latest Windows versions
- RGB LED included
- Draws unnecessary power i.e. 170W
- Too expensive for amateur gamers
7. GeForce GTX 1050
The features include high capacity RAM coupled with GDDR5 internal memory kit with the latest embedded technology for faster data processing and higher stakes when overclocking.
MSI video graphics card is based on latest 1050 Ti modeling for pro-gaming and fully professional and lagless content creation, designing, and editing tasks.
The graphics card has complete software and hardware support for its gaming modules, processors, and motherboards to which it is docked later.
It is backed with a full-fledged DirectX 12 support for all the systems and processors.
The Game-stream amenity can be attained with NVIDIA Shield setup for flawless multiplayer gaming online without having to add supplementary cards to it.
- Processing Speed
The processing speed is faster than all its previous versions. MSI 1050 Ti is among the best low-profile and cost-effective cards with base clock of 1290 MHz that can prevail up to 1392 MHz in heavy-duty tasks.
To be exact, the internal RAM size is 4096 MB with a clock speed memory of 7008 MHz. The memory speed is 128-bit, that is highest of all the graphics card units to date.
It is assisted with GDDR5 video memory, the cores are set to 768 units. The faster processing allows system to run smoothly in overclocking modes without vibrations or overheating.
- Performance Parameters
The hardware performance is paramount, thanks to the latest chipsets, memory kits, adequate internal memory, and top-notch cooling system to make sure the GPU never heats up or malfunction out of its set parameters.
The twin frozr VI thermal design features dual radiator fans while intelligent screening of all the GPU components keeps everything in its check.
For beautification, there’s a red glow for dark mode gamers alongside the Frozr cooler.
The LED is for dark modes in gaming and is controlled by 4-phase PCB design using 6-pin power connector for an extended graphics and physical performance.
- Updated GDDR5 memory
- PCIe interface with triple display support
- Frozr VI cooling design
- 128bit memory width
- 4GB memory
- DirectX 12 ready
- Limited for VR gaming range
- Low-profile bracket needed for installation
8. GeForce GTX 1660 Ti 6GB
ZOTAC Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Ti works with universal insertion graphics display capacity.
It can be connected to three output screens with convenience. The HDMI port, VGA Display port, and DVI-D port can be connected via a PCIe slot for multiple screen display simultaneously.
The dual slot display works flawlessly with all the display screens. The video resolution is amplified up to 4k graphics quality for gaming and HD video editing.
- The Turing Architecture
ZOTAC gaming is assisted with the all-new Turing structure for the most compatible pro-gaming graphics.
The architecture supports up to 6GB of DDR6 memory module structure with high clock speed and video memory. The GPU is made in line with the modern and next-generation gaming systems, VR-ready modules, and 4k displays.
A 192bit memory bus allows swift memory allocation and handling along with 1770 MHz engine boost clock.
The latest PCI express card slot 3.0 has all the pins needed to dock the latest and most efficient components to the GPU. The boost clock speed is 1770 MHz and the power capacity is 120W at maximum.
- Software and Hardware Compatibility
ZOTAC gaming is compatible with all the software and hardware requirements of modern next-generation gaming and professional PCs. The GPU supports DirectX 12 support by Microsoft.
For latest driver compatibility, it has built-in Game Ready Drivers for a profound and true color display inside the display screen.
The 12 API and Vulkan API, along with OpenGL supports the speed and graphics quality with perfection inside.
The hardware supports all the Windows OS displays i.e. Windows 7, 8, 10 x64 versions.
- Highest memory speed
- Cutting-edge NVIDIA chipset
- 6GB GDDR6 memory module
- 192bit memory bus
- Features quad simultaneous display
- Overpriced
- Not viable for amateurs
9. EVGA GeForce GT 1030 SC
EVGA GeForce GT 1030 tops all the competing GPUs when it comes to overclocking modes.
It has a minimalistic low-profile designed with 4-layer PCB and deeply rooted high-profile chipsets for the fastest processing.
The speed is assisted with SC model 2GB internal RAM and GDDR5 memory kit for the abrupt function execution alongside the display processing.
The base clock runs at 1290 MHz speed, and it can be extended comfortably to 1544 MHz in the overclocking modes.
The super ovrclocked performance is because of the fastest processing speed inside the GPU that is 2x faster than the Intel Core i5 integrated graphics cards.
- Accessibility
The input and output functions comprise of multiple user options.
The three-way display options include 1x HDMI output port, VGA Display port, and DVI-D support with the appropriate port sizes. PCI express bus 3.0 supports 8 inputs to the port bus for auxiliary components inside.
The EVGA GeForce is further assisted with OpenGL 4.5, NVIDIA Gameworks for uninterrupted gaming streaming, Vulkan API, DirectX 12 software support for all the Windows versions, NVIDIA GPU Boost 3.0 for super clocking modes, and EVGA Precision for all the software monitoring and control.
- Warranty and Support
All the EVGA Supported graphics cards have a complete 3-year warranty by the manufacturer.
The products can be replaced or refunded within 30 days of a purchase, and there’s a 24/7 technical support for all the EVGA products.
GeForce 1030 SC comes with an adjustable low-profile bracket for GPU fixation and vibration-free support inside the CPU case.
- Sleek shape and compact dimensions
- Super clocked performance
- Supports DirectX 12, Gameworks, and EVGA Precision
- 3-year warranty available
- The 1030 versions skips a few crucial updates
- Not feasible for seasoned gamers and professionals
10. Gigabyte Graphics Cards GV-N75TOC-2GL
The graphics quality is best in the series, thanks to the spacious 2GB memory coupled with the GDDR5 memory kit.
The memory kit is made with the latest technology and top-notch chipset and circuitry that will last for a lifetime.
The graphics are further assisted with DirectX 12 support for all the Windows OS.
The integrated memory works in combination with the core clock speed of 1020 MHz with the exceptional overclocking speed up to 1111 MHz at maximum.
The NVIDIA GeForce GPU works excellently in handling multiple tasks and enormous graphics levels with 128bit memory interface assignment.
The interface runs smooth in low-profile mode with the enhanced connectivity and ultimate graphics.
- Integrated Components
The integrated components inside Gigabyte GTX 750 Ti are the OC edition-specific GDDR5 memory kit and 128bit memory interface chipsets.
For external docking, the PCI Express 3.0 bus interface allows x16 connectivity for all the related auxiliary support needed by the GPU.
Along with multi-port docking for other components, the GPU connects with 4 screens at a time. The 4-screen connectivity features a dual-link DVI-I, VGA Display up to 4k video resolution, and HDMI2 connectivity.
For maximum efficiency, it is better to run the GPU under 400W power supply by using the appropriate PSU.
- It features 2GB GDDR5 memory kit
- Reasonable asking price
- OC edition
- 4x display ports
- 128-bit memory
- High boost clock
- Consumes redundant power
- Check availability in your area before ordering
11. ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030
ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 2GB DirectX 12 HDCP Ready Low Profile Video Card unleased your creativity with great video and photo editing features also its 2.76 inches low profile brackets can fit in the smallest of systems with low height clearance.
This 2GB low profile video card has multiple displays out ports that help to expand the view with up to two displays to see more, to show more, or do more.
ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 low profile video card has fewer wires and clutter without any additional power supply connections to secure it down for a simple, smooth and clean install.
Its energy efficiency, cooling system, and without fan stop technology improves performance with whisper-quiet cooling whether you are playing games or watching videos, you will only hear a whisper.
- New Pascal Architecture
ZOTAC GeForce low profile video card is designed with revolutionary NVIDIA Pascal architecture to build the engine of computers and cards that learn, see and simulate our world with an infinite appetite for gaming and computing.
NVIDIA Pascal architecture delivers a truly best gaming performance and also its innovative, immersive, and next-generation technologies give a brilliant gaming experience with captivating views and sounds.
This low profile video card gives you superior performance with the smoothest power-efficient gaming experiences.
It can meet all the demands of next-generation displays as well as ultra high resolution and multiple monitors for extremely smooth gameplay.
Also, it gets easy driver updates that automatically optimize your gaming and gives the easiest way to share your gaming moments with others.
- Cheapest graphics card
- Adjustable cooling fan
- Whisper quiet cooling technology
- Low profile with small powerhouse designs
- It runs hot
- Sometimes a fan is useless
- Short lifespan
12. ZOTAC GeForce GTX 1050
ZOTAC GeForce GTX 1050, 2GB GDDR5 DisplayPort, Super Compact Gaming Graphics Card is designed with 2GB GDDR5 video memory, 128-bit memory interface and DVI dual-link connectors with HDMI display ports.
These features turn your computer into a true gaming rig as well as a fast and powerful gaming performance.
Its engine clock boost and Cuda cores are responsible for processing all the data that is fed into and out of the GPU.
This super-compact gaming graphic card boosts the performance of your GPU in high definition games.
It is designed with the latest technologies and also supports DirectX 12 that provides super-fast, super smooth, and power-efficient gaming experience.
- Gaming Technologies
ZOTAC GeForce GTX 1050, 2GB GDDR5 DisplayPort, Super Compact Gaming Graphics Card has all-new Pascal architecture along with new professional-quality in-game image capture photos and NVIDIA Ansel technology.
This revolutionary technology helps to compose your screenshots from any position, adjust them with filters, and capture images in high formats, and share them in 360 degrees.
NVIDIA G SYNC is new display technology in ZOTAC Ge Force gaming cards that delivers the fastest and better gaming experience ever.
It can synchronize display and refresh rates to the GPU in your PC. It also helps to eliminate screen tearing and minimizing display stutter.
- Cooling Heatsink
ZOTAC GeForce GTX 1050, 2GB GDDR5 DisplayPort, Super Compact Gaming Graphics Card has both single and dual fan designs with ribbed blades for airflow and the deep angled blades to increase downward pressure.
Large cooling heatsink with superior heat transfer capabilities of copper heat pipes and aluminum fin array.
- Multiple display capability
- Super compact solution
- Aluminum sunflower heatsink
- Smooth and power-efficient
- Runs cool but fan failed after some time
- Creates loud and vibrating noise
Best Low-profile Graphics Card: Things to Consider
The graphic cards usually give visual displays of very high quality by executing and processing graphical data.
These graphic cards are built to eliminate the graphical processing tasks from Random Access Memory (RAM). The following things need to be considered before buying low profile graphic cards:
- Memory
A majority of the graphics cards have video RAM of 2 to 12 gigabytes. However, there is a lengthy discussion about how much memory is required for a computer to perform optimally.
According to some experts, the amount of memory does not matter at all while some say that it is a very essential feature while buying a graphics card.
There is anti-aliasing operation in the memory of video card that helps to remove jagged edges on objects, appearance, and many other elements used to form your pictures come alive, we say it’s important.
The memory of video plays a key role in the quality of images because it permits them to play games at higher resolutions.
Therefore, one should divide the memory of the system by two and use this number as a guide to decide how much memory is required for the graphics card.
If you have an 8GB memory system, you will need a 4GB graphics card for performing optimally.
- Gaming
The gaming industry has worked a lot on the technology of GPU and has pushed faster the GPU technology further than any other group.
Nowadays personal computer games have become more realistic and complex than ever before, and the rising performance of advanced GPUs is both part of the reason why and response to gamers looking for better games.
Simply put, if you’re forming a PC for playing games, then you’re most important purchase and the choice will be GPU.
Other parts can also affect performance, like the CPU and RAM, but purchasing a GPU that has been too weakening for your chosen games may result in disappointment.
There are various kinds of games, though, and not all of them require the highly powerful GPU in the market.
That is why it is essential to go through what a gamer needs, recommends, and optimal specifications to make sure that you buy an ideal GPU.
Purchasing the best GPU you can afford is the best way to future-proof your build, and keeps it ready to play popular games that have yet to be released.
- Professional Applications
Another group being demanded by the users is those who perform complicated tasks like 3D rendering and video editing.
High-end applications like AutoCAD and Adobe Premiere Pro can make use of GPUs to increase processing and build for faster and highly efficient workflows. There is a class of GPUs that has been aimed specifically at these users.
These workstation GPUs are optimized for these applications, and their drivers are certified to be higher and more reliable.
These GPUs are not always good at providing power to games, even though they can be much more costly than the GPUs of consumers.
We will put more focus on more mainstream graphics cards in this guide. If you need a GPU to run professional applications, you’ll likely be looking outside of the normal consumer GPU market for the best options.
- Other Features
You can also have a look at the clock speed of GPU and the counting of the pixel pipeline to get an idea of the performance level of a card in the early days of 3D acceleration.
Today’s GPUs have developed and progress to do a lot more than brute-force pixel processing.
Lighting and other effects that take several pipelines “passes” are now able to run through a shader program to achieve the same results having fewer passes and less work are wasted.
GPU nowadays has a specialized processing unit devoted to crunch via complex vertex and pixel-shader programs.
Shader units might become an essential specification to watch in future video cards because games have become more shader-intensive.
ATI has recently started reporting the number of shader units it has assigned to each pixel pipeline in its Radeon X1900 XTX line.
- Consider the resolution of your monitor
Many mainstream cards are enough for gaming at 1080p resolutions and 30-60 fps, but you might require a high-end card for resolutions at or near 4K resolution with high in-game features on the most demanding topics.
- Consider your refresh rate
If your monitor refreshes rates of triple-digit, then you might need a highly powerful card to display the potential to its fullest.
On the contrary, if your monitor is topping out at 60Hz and 1080p, then there is no point to pay additional charges for a low profile card that pushes pixels much faster than your display can keep up with.
- Go through MSPR
If you want to buy low profile graphic cards then you must check MSPR before purchasing. A good way to tell if you are obtaining a deal is to check the launch price or the card’s MSPR you are keeping in your mind before buying.
- Side Note
If you are not going to be gamer or running more creativity applications that can involve a GPU to speed up things, you might not be going to invest as much money in your graphics card.
If you are mainly running the apps of productivity, browsing the web, managing email, and performing other common low-end PC tasks, then you will want to spend a lot of time choosing the right RAM, CPU, and storage.
Faizan Ali is a Master in Computer Sciences and has been writing content for computing, gaming and mobile technologies since 2016. He has written content for number of online magazines, websites and blogs and now writes for “the buyers trend”. Feel free to contact him for any sort of writing for your technology related blog, website or magazine.