Best Computer Video Cards

Buying Guide

 

For the less experienced computer user, graphics cards may be uncharted territory, but if you want to improve the graphics on your system, whether it is for gaming, productivity, or general quality, you will want to choose the best option for your needs. To help you out, we have compiled this buyer’s guide to answer some common questions.

Key Terms For Graphics Card

 

GPU - This is the Graphics Processing Unit, and it does the heavy lifting when it comes to displaying video, handling frame rate, and providing the correct resolution. When looking at graphics cards, the higher the number on the end of the product name (e.g., RTX 3060), the better and newer it is.

 

VR Support - If you like to play games in virtual reality, such as Playstation VR or Oculus, then you will want to find a card that offers VR (Virtual Reality) support. There are several on this list. If you don’t need VR, then you will likely save a few bucks.

 

Dual-Card Support - If you see this term on your computer or the card then you are able to use more than one graphics card at once, and they will work well together. Yes, you can have more than one graphics card installed, and when you do, your graphics will be more vivid and impressive.

Choosing the Physical Size Of Your Card

 

As you probably saw while reviewing this list, some graphics cards are much larger in physical size than others, and while a larger card doesn’t mean it is always more powerful, that is typically the case. However, before you buy the largest card you can find, you need to verify that it will actually fit inside of your PC.

 

Newer computers typically have smaller components installed, and they will often have plenty of space for the largest graphics cards, but if you have an older computer, space may be tight. To check your computer, you can literally look through the back of your computer tower or unscrew and pull off the case to see where you have an open port and how much space you have to work with. Then, look at the specs on the product page and ensure that the card will fit and suit your needs.

Do You Really Need A Graphics Card? If So, Which One

 

You first need to ask yourself if you need a graphics card in the first place. If you typically only use your computer for general office work and to watch videos on YouTube, and you don’t have any problem with the visuals or the smoothness of your images, then you are probably good with what you have. Computers continue to evolve over time, and so do the graphics cards that come stock in those devices.

 

If you use your computer for those tasks, but you also play video games, then you will likely want to invest in a graphics card. Not only will a card enable you to play those games, but you will see clearer and more vivid visuals than you would if you didn’t upgrade. The type of card you get depends on the types of games you play. 

 

Those who play graphics-intensive games like Battlefield, Witcher 3, or PUBG will want to find a graphics card with a better GPU, which may be more costly. If you play less intensive games like Minecraft, then a graphics card will help, but you don’t need the strongest or most expensive card on the market (and sometimes no upgrade at all). If you play those bigger games, then you will also want to find a card that supports 4K or HDMI.

Bottom Line

In the end, any of the graphics cards on this list will suit your basic needs for small to medium-sized video games and movies. Consult the reviews above to find the model that works best for your needs. If you need help with installation or settings, contact the manufacturer of the model. Enjoy!