If you're planning to build or upgrade your gaming PC, the graphics card is likely the first component that comes to mind—and for good reason. When it comes to PC gaming, the GPU plays a pivotal role in determining your system's raw frame rates. In most cases, a better graphics card directly translates to improved performance—up to a point. With the recent release of Nvidia's RTX 5090 and RTX 5080, here are the top graphics cards currently available.
TL;DR: The Best Graphics Cards
Our Top Pick### Zotac Gaming Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Super
2See it at Amazon
### Gigabyte Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090
2See it at Newegg
### Gigabyte AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX
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### Gigabyte AMD Radeon RX 7700 XT
0See it at Amazon
### MSI Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060
0See it at AmazonThese days, GPUs have evolved into luxury items. The Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090, for example, costs upwards of $1,999. While prices remain steep compared to earlier models like the GTX 970, you can still enjoy a solid gaming experience at a fraction of that cost—especially if you're okay with gaming at 1440p or 1080p. Over the past four generations, I've personally reviewed and benchmarked every GPU on this list. If none of these suit your needs, feel free to share what you're looking for, and I’ll help you find the perfect card for your setup.
What to Look for in a Graphics Card
While it might seem straightforward to recommend the most powerful GPU, choosing a graphics card requires thoughtful consideration. Not all GPUs are created equal, and everyone has different needs. Start by deciding on your desired gaming resolution. Whether you're building around an existing monitor or constructing a complete gaming station, knowing your resolution is key. For instance, a 4K-friendly GPU won't excel at 1080p, as evidenced by the RTX 5090's struggles at lower resolutions due to CPU bottlenecks.
Budget is another critical factor. Graphics cards continue to rise in price, so aim for something within reach. For around $200–$250, you can snag a decent 1080p GPU without compromising on performance. If you have a bit more to spend, the RTX 4060 offers advanced features like DLSS, though they matter less on lower-end hardware.
For those willing to splurge, $1,000 buys premium options like the AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX and Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080. Both deliver stellar 4K performance, with the choice depending on your preference for ray tracing. For raw gaming performance, the RX 7900 XTX is likely the better bet, but hold off for AMD's next-generation releases.
High-end GPUs demand significant power, so ensure your power supply meets the card's requirements. The Intel Arc B580 can run on a 450W PSU, but something more robust is needed for the Radeon RX 7800 XT, for example. Avoid overspending on a PSU with double the recommended wattage; just ensure it provides enough power for stable operation.
