In the world of modern computer technology, choosing the right video card can be a difficult challenge for many users. With the constant emergence of new models and technological innovations, the need to choose the right video card has become important for those who want to get the most out of gaming, graphics or video editing. In this guide, we discuss the most important steps when choosing a video card and answer frequently asked questions.
Technical guides for PC gamers
How to choose a video card. Most important features
When choosing a video card, it is important to consider not only its general characteristics, but also its specifications that directly affect its performance and functionality.
- Video memory capacity (VRAM): Video memory is important for storing graphics data and textures. High resolution and complex 3D models require more VRAM. For modern games and professional design tasks, a video card with 8 GB of video memory is generally recommended.
- Memory type: GDDR6 and GDDR6X are modern and fast video memory standards. Higher bandwidth memory enables more efficient graphics processing. When choosing a video card, pay attention to the type.
- Temperature solution (cooling): An efficient cooling system plays an important role in maintaining stable graphics card performance. Fans, heat pipes and radiators are all important elements that ensure the optimal temperature of the video card during operation. Make sure the cooling system you choose can handle the GPU’s TDP effectively. The indicator shows the maximum power consumption of the video card, and therefore the amount of heat that needs to be dissipated.
- Multitasking supportNote: If you plan to use your computer for multitasking, including streaming, video recording, or using multiple monitors, make sure the graphics card you choose has the resources and technology to support these tasks.
- Performance (FPS): This is one of the most important indicators that determine whether a video card can handle graphics data in games and applications. The higher the frames per second (FPS) value, the smoother the display will be. The choice of video card must match the requirements of the applications and games you run. To determine these indicators, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with visual gaming tests of the video cards you are considering purchasing.
Technologies and features
Certain technologies can have a significant impact on the visual experience and productivity. For example, NVIDIA’s Ray Tracing (RTX) technology provides more realistic lighting and shadows in games. Check which technologies your graphics card supports and how they meet your needs. In addition, it is worth paying attention to technologies such as DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) and FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution). NVIDIA’s DLSS uses artificial intelligence to improve gaming performance through intelligent rendering. This technology allows you to increase frame rates while maintaining high image quality. Similarly, AMD’s FSR is an image resolution enhancement technology that uses reconstruction algorithms. It can be used to improve performance without significant loss of image quality.
When choosing a graphics card, it is important to balance all these features depending on your needs and budget. Be sure to check out the numerous reviews and performance tests of each model to get an idea of the graphics card’s actual performance in the use cases you need.
Budget and assessments. Proven decision-making methods
Determine your budget in advance and read reviews of the models you choose. Compare the price and specifications of different graphics cards to find the best value. By following these simple steps you can choose the graphics card that best suits your needs and provide an unforgettable experience when using it. The most current video card models at the moment:
How to choose a budget video card
Choosing a budget graphics card can be a smart decision for those who want decent graphics performance without paying extra for unnecessary features. These are the most important aspects to take into account:
- Performance: While choosing a budget graphics card, pay attention to its performance as per your requirements. Review reviews and test results to evaluate how the model you choose performs the tasks that matter to you.
- Video memory capacity: Don’t forget the video memory. Even in the budget segment you can find video cards with an acceptable amount of VRAM, which is especially important for working with high-resolution textures in modern games.
- Technologies and features: Depending on your needs, choose a graphics card with the technologies you really need. For example, if gaming is a priority, choosing a model with DirectX 12 support and Adaptive Sync technology may be important.
- Comparison of prices and brands: Research the market and compare prices of different brands. Sometimes the same graphics card is offered by different manufacturers with slight differences in price and additional features.
Choosing a budget graphics card can be successful if you determine your priorities and choose a model that has more than 4 GB of VRAM and meets your needs without spending a lot of money. We recommend that you pay attention to the following models:
- GeForce RTX 3060;
- GeForce RTX 3050;
- GeForce RTX 2060 SUPER;
- GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER;
- Radeon RX 6650XT;
- RadeonRX6600.
What are GPU and RTX?
Before you start choosing a video card, it is important to understand the basic concepts.
GPU (graphics processing unit)
A graphics processing unit (GPU) is a computer processor designed to process graphics and perform parallel computations. It is the central part of the video card and is responsible for displaying the image on the monitor. In modern graphics cards, the GPU can perform a wide range of tasks, including gaming graphics processing, computing, machine learning, and other high-performance tasks. GPUs are divided into integrated (built into the processor) and discrete (separate video cards). Discrete GPUs typically offer higher performance and more video memory.
RTX (ray tracing)
RTX is a technology from NVIDIA that embeds a hardware ray tracer into GPUs. Ray tracing is a technique for simulating the path of light in virtual space, resulting in more realistic representations of light, shadows and reflections in games and applications. RTX technology allows you to create incredibly detailed and realistic visual effects, making game graphics more vivid and natural. This is especially true for demanding games with high graphics quality, where RTX offers enhanced visual immersion. Determining whether you need RTX technology depends on your preferences and how you want to use your graphics card. If you’re looking for the most realistic gaming experience and high-level graphics performance, RTX can be an important factor when choosing a video card.
How to choose a primary or secondary video card
Before you start choosing a video card, it is important to note that the ability to choose between a primary and secondary video card depends on the presence of a processor with an integrated graphics core. After this step, it is important to clearly define the role of the video card in your system. The difference between a primary and secondary graphics card depends on the functional tasks you want to perform. Detailed instructions for switching video cards can be found here.
Main video card:
- Gaming and professional tasks: If your goal is graphics-intensive gaming, video editing, 3D modeling or other professional tasks, you need a powerful main graphics card;
- Separate video card: Normally, graphics core cards are separate components installed on the motherboard. They are the main graphics processing thread in the system.
Additional video card:
- Expansion of the monitor room: Graphics cards can be used to connect additional monitors, which is useful in work environments where multiple displays are needed;
- Specific tasks: In some cases, additional graphics cards can be used to perform specific tasks such as distributed computing or parallel computing – these often require additional graphics power;
- Integrated graphics cards: Integrated graphics cards reside on the central processing unit and often perform basic graphics functions. They can serve as additional graphics cards, but their performance is usually lower compared to high-end standalone graphics cards.
How to view a video card on a PC
Before choosing a video card, make sure it is compatible with your system. Check if there are PCI Express slots available on the motherboard and note the power requirements. Also make sure that the video card has suitable ports for connecting monitors.
Follow these steps to find out which graphics card is already installed in your computer:
- Windows: Click “Win+R”enter “dxdiag” without quotes and press Enter. In chap “Monitor” you will find information about the current video card;
- macOS: Open “About programs” on the menu “Applications” and select “System information”. Then go to the section “Graph/Display”.
In this guide, we’ve discussed in more detail how to view the features of your PC.
Post created by user
Anyone can create posts on VGTimes, it’s very simple – try it!
Source: VG Times