What Does A Graphics Card Do For Gaming –
If you in the market to upgrade a current desktop or are planning to build an entirely new one from scratch. A graphics solution is an essential piece of performance in nearly all of these devices. Though recent trends have been manufacturing, have been lessening graphics card in favor of boosting mechanisms CPU, RAM, and storage option.
Though these components are also necessary, equipping the correct graphics card will help your device reach maximum performance and be the best option for you desktop Pc.
A standard GPU weather being added or integrated can hand both 2 and 3 D performance. Being able to handle tasks such as primary desktop function and analyzing video content. Here this article we will explain why one should consider upgrading an existing system, or even purchase a particular card best fitting their need and define the cards function.
The Basics –
The primary two dominators in the GPU market are designed by two companies those being. AMD or Nvidia, their GPU are designed in a wide range of variety fitting their custom products, different cooler design, some featuring overclocking capabilities factory standard and others coming with feature such as LED lighting. That being said there is not limited selection and there at least one that can fit nearly all one’s needs.
In the recent year 2016 to mid-2017, Nvidia was dominating the market in higher-end performance GPU’s, though as time progressed AMD came into the picture and it was no longer necessary to spend an immense amount of money to get a great GPU. GPUs from the two are commonly grouped into families based on the graphics processor.
Sharing similar names with Nvidia, having a format of the prefix with the model number then the suffix this could be seen with two GPU that have the same model number. Such as GeForce GTX 750 and GTX 750 Ti, the suffix “Ti” being a higher end model. Also, it has been evident that Nvidia uses “X” or “Xp” in indicating extremely high-end parts. Also, a few components to remember when comparing video cards, are the engine clock speed, core count, onboard VRAM (memory), memory bandwidth, memory clock.
Clock Speed & VRAM –
There tends to be a misconception that GPUs, generally provide a higher clock speed. Which is the speed of which the internal cores can function at. Though this is not true, it can only be compared with cards that are in the same product line family. Being similar in pricing and model performance.
As for VRAM, these are specifications that are similar to clock speed and core count as previously mentioned. Though, the primary difference is manufactures are the one who inputs these feature. Though the majority of productions input an excellent deal memory far beyond than the GPU can access all the power. Though, as one progress down in performance of the GPU, they also lower their devices specifications including some such as.
Detail levels and the resolution their device can operate at while maintaining a playable frame rate. Though if you are at something such as a 2GB card, we would suggest upgrading to a 4GB card if you know that you are in need of extra RAM. The EVGA GeForce GTX 1050 Ti, is an excellent example of a 4GB graphics card. Heres the best affordable deal we could find.
If you are willing to spend $150 or more than. Then you can get a better bang for your buck at this price point rather than a 4GB card. Both AMD and Nvidia equipped there $200 price point models with higher levels of RAM.
These included AMDs MSI VGA Graphic Cards RX 580 Armor 8G, while Nvidia has not yet created a product in this price point and level of performance they do come close with the EVGA GeForce GTX 1060. Both options will be able to provide high performance for their playing field. And in today day and age below 4GB cards, are only supposed to be used in a secondary system, having low resolution and designed for older or simpler games.
Additionally, another specification that is often discussed among PC desktops is the memory bandwidth, which is how quickly the data can be integrated into and out the GPU. Obviously in this situation the high number the better, though both companies manufacture being AMD and Nvidia have different variables and ways of constructing their, memory bandwidth requirements.
The main to ways of construction memory bandwidth is to configure the changing size. Thus more data can be exchanged in the clock cycle. Or by changing the memory clocking speed. For this to be efficient, the RAM clock must also be equal, or even higher than the available memory bandwidth.
Integrated & Discrete Graphics Card –
There are two ways that GPU can come in. These include being integrated into and discretion in. The difference consists of an integrated GPU being built into the same silicon as the CPU; these configurations tend to be used in the thin, lightweight laptops and simple desktops. Commonly being seen in budget systems, as the combination of CPU & GPU results in a lower price.
With a discrete GPUs, it has it own x16 PCI Express slots featured on the motherboard. An advantage of having a desktop graphics card is that it has an inherently modular. If you are using a laptop, a discrete GPU would require its slot within the device. Though a majority of these types can’t be upgraded.
Who Needs a Discrete GPU –
With the advancement of technology CPUs now have integrated GPUs with their design. The company AMD refers to CPU&GPUs combination chips as accelerated processing unites APUs, while Intel calls them simply HD Graphics. Though, integrated graphics card fully capable of meeting the needs of most general users today.
Video Professional Users – For those who work in the software or video editing industry. Because of those people in this field will work with higher levels of CAD software. They will significantly benefit from discrete GPUs. These include an application that can transcode video from one format to another. Thus it will use the GPU instead of the CPU, creating a faster processor and less strain on the system.
Multiple Displays – For users who use various displays additionally gain benefits from discrete GPU. The reasoning is because desktop operating systems can display the connected integrated and discrete GPU at the same time. Thus if you ever wanted numerous displays connected to a single network, then you can combine the integrated and discrete GPU to do this. Gamers –Additionally, a great GPUs and CPUs these are great equipment to add to your gaming setup. Arguably one of the most critical component.
Pre-Build Laptops & GPUs –
With the majority of ultrathin laptops not coming equipped with a discrete GPU. To minimize power consumption and save battery life. For those who have a laptop and want to be able to display on to separate monitors, a discrete GPU may be beneficial. Though this does depend on the options, the manufacturer provides including multiple display output connected to the integrated GPU and discrete graphics system.
Other considerations when choosing a laptop with a GPU are noise and heat exposure. With smaller laptops, they tend to produce louder fan noise. For those who would want an opt-out from the noise fans, a larger model 17-inch laptop will be a better option while also still running a Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 at peak performance.
While something such as a 13-inch laptop with the same GPU will be much louder being due to the internal cooling different volume. Those if you already have a small model laptop a cooling pad would limit much of the noise though, also reduce frame rate and lower the quality of the graphics setting.
Pre-Built Desktop & GPUs –
Desktops tend to have less throttling or noise issues than laptops. Luckily most of the pre-built desktops today have the proper necessary equipped to add and support discrete GPU or GPU upgradeability problems.
When buying or upgrading a GPU is to know and understand your devices chassis available card space. In some conditions, you have got a gulf by the far right-hand edge of the motherboard by the hard drive bays. In other cases, you might have very little room to fit the GPU. Thus if you GPU has an additional six-pin or eight-pin power plug on the read of the cards, save room to have them equipped.
Another factor that one should consider is their power supply unit (PSU). One should focus on the number of their own GPU specific being the six pin and eight pin cables on their PSU, and we suggest that the amount of amperage will be able to provide a 12V rail.
The reasoning for a high number rail is because GPUs draw the majority of their power from the rail, and it has to be strong enough to power all sources.
The majority of top brand manufacturers such as Dell, Hp, Lenovo, and Asus include at least one six-pin connector equipped. The higher model system may have power supplies of both six and eight-pin connectors though these do come at a high price. Mid-range & high-end graphics card will need at least a six-pin cable with an eight pin cable or a combination of the two to properly work with the card. Additionally, if you are planning to purchase a pre-built desktop then later upgrade, its imperative that you have enough power supply unit (PSU). To support the jump in performance.
Connection & Ports –
There are three common ports that you will find on a graphics card, these included DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort. While still being used in some systems and monitors DVI, is the oldest model from the pack and is quickly becoming faded out in present-day technology. As for the two remaining connectivity types. If you need a device where a 4K display is essential for now or the future, then you GPU must support an HDMI 2.0A or 1.2/1.2a Display Port. The further specification above those will also be exceptional. Though the specs listed above will be the minimum for running smooth 4k playback or gaming.
Though an advantage with a DisplayPort over an HDMI is to have the ability to connect multiple chain displays. Meaning that you won’t require multiple ports to combine a number of monitors. An example would be Monitor 1 to your PC, Monitor 2 to Monitor 1, and Monitor 3 to Monitor 2.
How Much To Spend ?
If you are merely looking for a light 1080p graphics card from AMD or Nvidia, then you are looking around a $100 to $150 price point. If you are in need for a higher end 1080p or enter a level 1440p card, then be ready to look in the $200 to $300 price point. A full compact 1440p usually are around $300 to $400 range. Though for those who want a GPU that can be able to handle 4K performance be ready to spend above $400 and at high levels GPU 4K graphics card can even reach prices above 1000.
However, card in the $150 to $350 market generally offers excellent performance for their respective price point and use. But we have to note the old saying “spending more money yields diminishing returns.” thus don’t expect to purchase a $150 graphics and be able to get the same functionality and performance as a graphics card of $350 and above.
The Best Graphics Cards –
When determining the best graphics card, one must take into consideration a factor of multiple things. As there would be no point of having a fast graphics card then pairing it with an older gen CPU. If one were to do this then would be limiting your frame rate and performance factors.
Thus since we have previously explained “What a Graphics Card Does For Gaming” we have now compiled a list of graphics cards that we test that should cater to all types of gamers. Being arranged from the fastest cards and best performance card on the market and so on.
1. Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Ti –
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 Ti is the newest and most powerful GPU to high the market, also even the largest consumer GPU made. Having the Turning TU102 being 60% larger than the compared Pascal GP102 feature in the 1080 Ti, with 55% more transistors having those placed in the CUDA for better core production. Additionally, Nvidia added a greater number of Tensor cores which help speed the process of learning deep DLSS algorithms and with the RT cores help with fasten the ray tracing.
If you are looking for something budget friendly, then we would direct you to the other graphics card listed. Though on the other hand, if you simply want the best 4k 44Hz HDR G-Sync display at the fastest speed a graphics card can allow, and the price is no matter for you, then this is the one for you.
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2. Nvidia GeForce RTX 2080 –
The RTX 2080 is the second fastest graphics card on the market. Behind the 2080 Ti and being $300 cheaper while still provide excellent performance. Also still remaining premium features such as ray tracing and deep learning, though not having as many core types.
A major anticipation that gamers alike are waiting for, this device that will be able to use the enable ray tracing effects and DLSS at their full potential. Those the good news is these technologically advanced games should begin rolling out within the next year or so. A the RTX 2080 will be an excellent addition to your equipment when these games reach the market. Although it may not be able to play at maximum resolution and quality, it will hopefully be able to run the ray tracing mode.
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3. Nvidia GeForce GTX 1070 Ti –
As previously stated the perfect balance of a graphics card is not excessive power with limited application. Sometimes the best graphics cards is a perfect balance between budget and usability. Something that will last in longevity and function is the Nvidia GTX 1070 Ti is the best option. Delivering performance likewise to the 1070 and 1080, with a price similar to 1070.
If you desire to play games at 1440p or at 1080p at 144 Hz display, then the Nvidia GTX 1070 Ti will be able to handle games at this level of performance. Additionally, the prices of these devices have stably dropped over the last few months. Prices falling beyond the $400 range, making it a market steal.
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4. AMD Radeon RX 580 8GB –
The majority of gamer and people don’t have an unlimited amount of cash flow to spend on gaming. However, they still envy smooth and high-performance graphics. Thus we would suggest the high selling and mainstream graphics card the RX 570/580 are wildly favored by the public. For its performance and great budget price.
In the $200 to $300 range is where most mainstream gamers, flock to this feature a wide variety of great devices such as the GTX 1060 which is similar in pricing as the 580, though with the equipped 3GB VRAM is not necessary. Being due to the majority of current generation games do not need that specification. Also, it lacks in high quality and ultra quality textures which is often negligible, particularly on a 1080p display. Thus for only $30 more, you can get an 8GB RX 580 which is also much faster.
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5. Nvidia GeForce GTX 1060 6GB –
Nvidia alternative from the RX580 is the GTX 1060 6GB. Though the loss of 2GB VRAM, you still pick up a great device that is able to perform at a profoundly well 1080p, in our testing we found that even 1440p is possible though it had to be placed at a lower quality setting level. However, the benefit that the GTX 1060 has is that uses 50W less power than the RX580, which leads to better longevity and power saving features.
Being the lastest Nvidia product at this price point, this would be the one were we suggest if you are in a budget. Though as time goes on we can assume that Nvidia will continue to product device at this price point though this being the first.