When buying a gaming computer, the first thing most people look for is a graphics card. Without it, it is impossible to fully enjoy the graphics that modern games offer, therefore, in order to choose the right option, the editorial staff of the site "bestx.htgetrid.com/en/" offers you a rating of the best gaming video cards from budget to expensive models.
Content
Why do you need a video card and what to focus on when choosing?
The main task of a video card is to display graphic data on a monitor by converting them into video signals, and also, due to autonomous operation, to reduce the load on the processor of a personal computer.
Interface
This slot allows you to connect a video card to the motherboard, but in addition, it directly affects the speed of the device. Today, 6 types of connection are known, 3 of which are actively used, 2 are outdated (PCI-E 1.1 and PCI-E 2.0), and one is under development (PCI-E 6.0):
- PCI-E1: maximum operating speed - 2.5 gigatransactions per second (GT / s);
- PCI-E 2.0 - 5 GT / s;
- PCI-E 3.0 - 8 GT / s;
- PCI-E 0 - 16 GT / s
- PCI-E 0 - 32 GT / s;
- PCI-E 0: The developers assume that the speed will be 64 GT / s.
When choosing a video card for this parameter, it is important to consider what type of PCI-Express the motherboard supports, because if it is designed for PCI-E 3.0, then a video card with a more advanced version will not be able to provide the specified operating speed.
Video memory, its volume, bus width, clock frequency, etc.
Designed to store various graphic information. There are several types of memory:
- First generation GDDR;
- GDDR2 second generation;
- GDDR3 third generation;
- GDDR4 fourth generation;
- Fifth Generation GDDR5.
GDDR3 became widespread a few years ago (even though GDDR4 was released). It met most of the requirements, but the situation changed with the release of the fifth generation GDDR.
With the amount of video memory, everything is much simpler. Basically, it is measured in gigabytes and the higher it is, the better performance it can provide, but do not forget that with a small amount of RAM, you should not expect a high result.
To ensure good performance, the memory bus width must have a bandwidth of at least 256 bits, preferably even more.
The clock speed is responsible for the speed of the video card, therefore, the higher it is, the better, but also more expensive.
For gamers, an important parameter is DirectX driver support.
One computer can install 2 or more types of cards. This will increase performance several times (relevant only for applications that are capable of using at least 2 GPUs), however, this idea can be implemented only if the video card supports SLI (for nVidia) or CrossFire (for AMD).
You should also take into account the video card connector, because the image transfer speed and clarity will depend on it. At the moment, it is considered relevant to use video cards with an HDMI connector or Mini Display Port. The latter will become an indispensable assistant for people who work with multiple monitors at the same time.
Cooling type
There are two types of cooling in total:
- Passive.It is used in budget models with low performance, cooling is due to a radiator.
- Active type. A built-in cooler is used, so cooling is more intensive, but consumes a large amount of energy.
There may be several fans depending on the video card model.
Overall dimensions
Often there are cases when a person took into account all the parameters, except for the dimensions and, upon arriving home, wonders why the video card does not fit into the slot on the motherboard. It is for this reason that this indicator is no less important than the amount of memory or frequency, because what is the use of a new video card if it cannot be connected or it completely interferes with the connection of other devices.
Since the video card is the most energy-consuming device, for full functioning it is necessary to purchase a powerful power supply unit, otherwise, the work will be carried out incorrectly or the card will not start at all due to the lack of additional power supply.
A few words about the types of video cards
Today there are three types of video cards: built-in (integrated), external and discrete.
The integrated video card is not capable of providing the user with high performance and high quality graphics. On the other hand, it has low cost and low power consumption. Previously, this device was built into the motherboard, but over time, most developers abandoned this idea and in the modern version the video card is built into the central processing unit (CPU).
The advantages of this type of device include: cost up to 10,000 rubles, ease of use, minimum power consumption, no noise.
But the device also has drawbacks: low performance, so most modern games will not pull such a computer, it produces a weak image, and if a breakdown occurs, you will have to change the entire CPU, because due to the fact that a common cooling system is used during operation, the processor heats up faster ...
Discrete graphics is the most common option. It has its own GPU, video memory, cooling, video outputs, and more, which makes it the best in performance of all options. A significant disadvantage is the cost, because most of the good models can be bought from 20,000 rubles, and the top ones cost over 100,000 rubles.
The advantages of a discrete video card include: high performance and quality, as well as work with multiple monitors. If a malfunction occurs, it can be repaired or replaced with a new model. Also, if the model supports SLI or Crossfire, it becomes possible to connect another device, which will increase the performance of the graphics card 2 times or more. In addition, it can be used to mine cryptocurrency.
The disadvantage is the high cost and energy consumption. Coolers make noise (but this can be corrected, if desired), and you also need to take into account the compatibility of the video card with the monitor, otherwise you will not be able to connect it.
External or USB video card. It is mainly actively used by people who have a faulty built-in video card, and do not have time for repairs or need to connect another monitor. The device is a box that connects to the monitor on one side and to the computer on the other.
The advantage of this type of graphics cards is the low cost, which varies from 500 to 1500 rubles, as well as ease of use.
Disadvantages: very poor performance. If the built-in video card can handle some modern games or heavy programs, then the external one is not designed for this, so it must be purchased only for work or watching movies. In all other cases, it is not necessary.
TOP-6 best video cards of different price segment
Palit GeForce GTX 1060 6Gb
Previously, the company produced video cards that did not satisfy many consumers in terms of characteristics, but with the release of this model, most people became interested in their product. The device has a low cost and good performance.The graphics card is 26 cm long and 11 cm wide.
The cooling system lacks a reinforcing plate on the back, making the equipment lightweight. The card can be connected through many popular connectors. Also, for proper operation, you need to use additional power, the device has a special 6pin connector. The manufacturer extends a three-year warranty on the video card, the assembly is done at a good level.
There are two fans, due to which cooling is fast and quiet, coolers do not work under light load, which makes the video card completely silent. Unlike some large manufacturers, this video card has an average price. The base clock speed is 1.5 GHz, the type of video memory is GDDR5, the bus width is 192 bits and the power consumption is 120 W.
The maximum operating temperature is 94 degrees Celsius. With this video card, you can enjoy most modern games at medium / high settings, if you set it higher, you will notice freezes and lags.
The average cost is 16 890 rubles.
Advantages:
- Low cost;
- Good speed;
- Does not make a lot of noise during operation;
- Build quality.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for older monitors.
MSI Radeon R7360 OC
A simple video card from AMD. It is not intended for games with high graphics, on the contrary, the device focuses on popular online games such as LoL, CS: GO, DOTA 2, etc. Although the card was released in 2015, even now it is actively used by many gamers who prefer team games. The video memory has a volume of 2 GB, type GDDR5, clock frequency 1.1 GHz, there is support for CrossFire. The PCI-E 3.0 interface is used, the bus width is 128 bit. Also, for comfortable work, you need to connect to an additional power supply, since there will be insufficient energy from the motherboard.
The dimensions of the device are average (165x110x37), so it fits perfectly into various cases. There is one fan that does a great job as long as the unit is not subjected to high loads. In general, most buyers are satisfied with the work of this model, and most of all they are satisfied with the low cost, which ranges from 8,000 to 10,000 rubles.
Advantages:
- Price-quality ratio;
- Doesn't get very hot;
- Good performance;
- Attractive design.
Disadvantages:
- No VGA output.
GIGABYTE GeForce GTV 750 Ti
This option is no less popular among many gamers. If you delve into the settings, then the video card will pull some popular games at high settings. Supports work simultaneously with 4 monitors. The clock speed of the graphics processor is 1 GHz, the amount of video memory is 2 GB, the type is GDDR of the fifth generation. The bus width is 128 bits.
Most users note the low power consumption (55W). For its price segment (7,000 rubles), the model has received wide recognition and distribution. By the way, for 2020 there is a more advanced version of the device: 1050 Ti, but the cost of the equipment is much higher. Thanks to the presence of 2 fans, the video card does not make much noise.
RAMDAC frequency 400 MHz. Dimensions 204x144x42 mm.
Advantages:
- Does not heat up;
- Cost;
- Performance;
- Quiet work.
Disadvantages:
- Not suitable for many modern games at high settings.
Radeon RX 470
With the release of the video card, most users were divided into two "camps": some argued that the build quality of the device would be perfect for the middle price category, others attributed its parameters to the premium segment. The device has an attractive design and uses a high-quality cooling system - DirectCU II. The length of the video card reaches 24 cm with a width of 11.4 cm.
The manufacturer removed the base plate, but added an additional stiffener. The device uses an average amount of electrical energy: 120 W. Equipped with a beautiful LED backlight that informs the user about the degree of heating of the video card.The amount of video memory is 4 GB at an operating frequency of 1.2 GHz. The model copes with almost all modern and popular games. The video memory bus width is 256 bits. There is support for CrossFire X. Average price from 14,000 rubles, in some regions it may be higher or lower.
Advantages:
- High-quality assembly;
- Nice design;
- LED lights;
- Removable fans.
Disadvantages:
- Noises when working;
- Poor equipment.
ASUS GeForce GTX 1060
The first thing that catches your eye when buying a video card is the presence of three coolers and large dimensions (the device is 30 cm long). There is a backlight that can be observed through the slots in the edges of the plastic casing. With the help of a special application, the user can independently configure it.
For greater reliability, the back of the video card is protected by a metal plate. There are two HDMI and DisplayPort connectors, and there is also one connector for DVI. The presence of two HDMIs is necessary for people with a virtual reality helmet. The radiator consists of 2 sections and provides reliable cooling. The volume of video memory is 6 GB with a core frequency of 1.6 GHz., Memory - 8.2 GHz. With the help of a special program, the video card can be overclocked and increased performance. Some experts have tested the video card using various tests and demanding games.
In most of the tests, the device coped with the assigned tasks and showed high performance. As noted by most buyers, at such a cost (24,000 rubles), the equipment does an excellent job of launching many games, so it can often be seen in various tops and recommendations. The fans run quietly and do not cause discomfort. For correct operation, you need to purchase an additional power supply, the recommended power of which must be at least 500 W.
Advantages:
- Performance;
- High quality and fast cooling;
- Attractive appearance;
- Easy customization through a dedicated app;
- The presence of two HDMI;
- Long-term guarantee.
Disadvantages:
- Dimensions.
GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 2070
The video card demonstrates a new way of looking at games. The device passed 94% of the hard tests. Dimensions - 289x105x50 mm, and weight - 982 grams. The video memory is 8 GB, type GDDR6. The popular PCI-Express 3.0 interface is used.
For stable operation, you need to connect a power supply unit with a power of 650 watts to the device, but whoever has little performance of such a video card can buy another one of the same and combine them using the SLI mode, but in this case the power of the power supply unit must be at least 815 watts ... The device itself is made of quality materials.
The GPU frequency is 1.7 GHz, and the video memory is 14000 MHz. The bus bandwidth is 256 bits, which ensures high speed of work. There are three fans that do not make much noise during operation. Supports all top games at maximum settings, so the user can fully enjoy the graphics. The average cost of the device is from 38,000 rubles, but if you order from China, the price may be lower.
Advantages:
- Excellent performance;
- RGB backlight;
- Strength;
- Quiet operation of coolers;
- High quality cooling system.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
Output
The modern world offers gamers a wide variety of video cards, each of which is capable of satisfying even the most whimsical user. This top features models that have received many approvals from various players. If you have experience in using the gaming video cards described in the rating, or a more interesting model, tell us about it in the comments.
