All computers come with video cards that have at least minimum graphics characteristics. However, in order to play the latest games, connect two monitors or a high-end monitor, you need to purchase a good graphics card. This article will guide you on how to choose a graphics card from the many available.
Steps
Step 1. Fall asleep the purpose for which you need a video card
Prices for graphics cards range from $ 30 (entry-level card) to $ 900 (top-end card is newest and best). Do you need a graphics card to get the highest resolution and all the visuals in the latest games? In this case, choose expensive cards from $ 250. If you need a graphics card to connect two monitors or a high-end monitor, buy a mid-range card. Keep in mind that the price / performance ratio is steadily falling for cards from $ 150, that is, prices for video cards are described by an exponential curve, with cards with the highest performance for the optimal price being in the $ 200 range.
Step 2. Determine the connector to which you will connect the video card
Video cards can be connected to three types of connectors (in order of decreasing performance): PCI Express (PCIe), AGP, PCI. If your computer is over 5 years old, it only has a PCI slot. Some computers have an AGP connector; AGP cards are usually $ 10 - $ 20 cheaper than PCI cards and 2-4 times faster; however, AGP cards are currently being replaced by PCIe cards. If you bought a computer recently, it will have a PCIe slot.
Step 3. Select the brand of the video card chip
ATI or NVIDIA. These companies make GPUs, while the video cards themselves are made by other companies. Recently, AMD / ATI processors have pushed NVIDIA processors on the market (although, according to some experts, AMD / ATI has lost some of its positions again). The choice of manufacturer is up to you: review the specifications of the specific video card you want to buy. Then on the Internet (or in specialized magazines) read reviews about this card, find its analogue from a competitor and read reviews about a similar card. You can also visit the website of the graphics card manufacturer (such as Diamond Multimedia) for more information on the graphics cards offered.
Step 4. Select the manufacturer of the video card, for example, Diamond Multimedia or PNY
Different manufacturers offer different terms of warranty and customer support. Many cards are sold at a discount at certain times (for example, when school starts), so buy cards at the most affordable price.
Step 5. Choose a method of purchasing a video card
You can buy it from an electronics store or online. Prices in stores are generally substantially higher than prices on the Internet. If you still want to buy a graphics card in a store, wait for the discounts. And you can compare prices in most electronics stores using dedicated online services.
Step 6. Install your graphics card and enjoy the new graphics capabilities
Warnings
- Make sure your PSU is powerful enough, as top-end graphics cards consume a lot of power.
- Choose a graphics card that matches the type of connector on your motherboard. Before purchasing a video card, determine the type of connector (PCI, AGP, PCI Express, or a combination thereof) on the motherboard.
- When installing the video card, be sure to turn off the power supply! Handling computer components while the power cord is connected (even if the computer itself is turned off) may damage the components.
- Top-end video cards have connectors for connecting additional power. If no additional power is connected, the card will not work and you will hear a beep notifying you of this.