Which graphics card do you need? Guide for different games

The graphics card is the single most important component in how your games look and feel. But you don't need the most expensive card – you need the right card for your games and your display. Here's how to choose.

The graphics card controls your gaming experience

It's the graphics card that draws each frame in the game. A more powerful card gives you a higher frame rate, higher resolution, and the ability to turn on more graphics effects. But the need depends entirely on what screen you're playing on.

Match the graphics card to your resolution

1080p

For 1080p gaming, a mid-range graphics card will go a long way and deliver high frame rates in most titles – perfect for esports and popular games.

1440p

At 1440p you want a slightly more powerful card to maintain high frame rates with fine settings. A good balance between sharpness and performance.

4K

4K is demanding and requires a powerful graphics card to maintain a consistent frame rate at high settings.

Consider the rest of the computer

A powerful graphics card requires a processor that can keep up, enough RAM, and a power supply that can handle the load. Otherwise, you risk bottlenecks that hold back performance.

Our recommendation

Choose a graphics card based on your screen and your games – not the other way around. A card that matches your resolution gives you the best value. With us you will find graphics cards and components for all levels.

Not sure about the whole thing? Read about our processors and finished gaming computers where everything is balanced for you.