Why Best Graphics Cards Are Needed in Gaming Builds?
Graphics cards aka GPUs are way advanced vga (video graphic array) cards that we use to get true-to-life display on screen. They are probably the second most powerful component in any gaming machine with own processor unit and cooling mechanism. Sort of a mini graphics engine solely responsible to deliver flawless image rendering without compromising performance in realtime.
Graphic chips are kind of similar to heavy processors that works for long hours and as a result produce heat, in order to maintain an acceptable temperature air flow or liquid based cooling systems are used.
Both Ati Radeon and Geforce released new GPUs for next generation gaming needs especially for Haswell compatible DDR4 based motherboards. For many geek gamers this is just like dream coming true since 4th generation memory and processors will be able to break speed barrier and achieve mind blowing performance that was not possible in earlier PC generations.
Graphics Card Comparison Via GPU Benchmarks: 3DMark
This piece compare graphic cards for their performance and provides threshold levels that fall under entry-level, mid-range, high-end geek and enthusiast level video cards, this makes it easier for the reader to find the right GPu for their new rig. Criteria: Benchmarks are done by running multiple preset tests for measuring graphics and video rendering performance that is then analyzed, finally a rating to each GPU is assigned which is directly proportionate to efficiency in virtual game sessions, So a higher Benchmark point (number) means more efficient gaming performance. For the compilation of our best 10 graphics cards we are using score from 3DMARK. It will be stupid to buy expensive card that has low benchmark rating than a cheaper GPU available in the market but still people go after their favorite card as they also take in consideration the physical look, its driver installation part and compatibility with their system where it will be installed. Plus the popularity factor remains crucial, if you are being recommended by friends and through online communities towards a specific GPU, you will be more prone in being biased and this will definitely affect your selection of graphics card.
Top 10 GPUs – Sorted By Performance And Price
Professional: High-End Graphics Cards
1) Radeon R9 295X2
Price: $800-$2000 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 26410
Expert: Enthusiast Level Graphics Cards
2) GeForce GTX 980
Price: $550-$850 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 18050
3) GeForce GTX 970
Price: $350-$450 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 15690
4) Radeon R9 290
Price: $280-$350 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 14850
Moderate: Mid-Range Graphics Cards
5) Radeon R9 280X
Price: $190-$350 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 10900
6) Radeon R9 270X
Price: $160-$220 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 8550
7) GeForce GTX 750 Ti
Price: $130-$160 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 5620
Beginners: Entry-Level Graphics Cards
8) Radeon R7 260X
Price: $100-$140 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 6160
9) Radeon HD 7770
Price: $80-$100 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 4100
10) GeForce GT 730 64-bit GDDR5
Price: $60-$80 | Benchmark 3DMark 11 Score: 1550
Since the best selling cards are sorted according to consumer expertise, this will make it easier to find in which category you fall: if you are a beginner you should stick to cards in Entry-level range (8, 9, 10), this way you will not waste money ending up buying a Graphics adapter which has power more than you actually need. In order to understand better and get performance updates in comparison to other cards it is best to read detailed review with full GPU specifications, so you can be confident before selecting the right card for your gaming build.
