Looking for the cheapest graphics cards that offer adequate performance for gaming or multimedia applications? In this article, we’ll compare the cheapest graphics cards on the market, look at their details, pros and cons, and help you figure out which one is the most worthwhile.
Asus DUAL RTX3050 O6G V3
Asus DUAL RTX3050 O6G V3 is one of the cheapest graphics cards with modern GPU technologies. Built on the Ampere architecture, it provides 6GB of GDDR6 memory and supports ray tracing and DLSS, making it a great choice for 1080p gaming. Thanks to the advanced DLSS technology, you’ll be able to play games smoothly with the card even at higher graphics settings.
This card has a PCIe 4.0 interface, a base frequency of 1,550 MHz, and a boost frequency of 1,777 MHz. Power consumption is 130 W, so it can get by with a power supply of around 500 W. Outputs include HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a, which allow you to connect multiple high-resolution monitors.
Compared to the competition at this price level, the Asus DUAL-RTX3050-O6G V3 stands out with better support for advanced technologies, which is customary with NVIDIA cards. It is an ideal choice for gamers looking for a bargain card with modern features.
Basic Information
- Price: 210€
- Architecture
- Shaders: 2 560
- Base Frequency: 1 550 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1 777 MHz
- Memory: 6 GB GDDR6
- Memory bus width: 192-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 224 GB/s
- Dimensions: 200 mm x 123 mm x 38 mm
- Maximum resolution: 7680 x 4320 (8K)
- Interface: PCI Express 4.0 x16
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.1, 3x DisplayPort 1.4a
Current price
Performance in games
- Cyberpunk 2077: 55 FPS (1080p, High settings, DLSS enabled)
- Fortnite: 90 FPS (1080p, Epic settings, DLSS on)
- CS2: 120 FPS (1080p, High settings)
Sapphire Radeon RX 6400 PULSE GAMING 4GB GDDR6
Sapphire Radeon RX 6400 PULSE GAMING is the ideal choice for the casual gamer. With RDNA 2 architecture and 4GB of GDDR6 memory, it can handle less demanding games at 1080p. The card is designed as a low-cost solution for gamers who don’t need the latest features like ray tracing.
The card uses PCIe 4.0 x4, a base frequency of 1,923 MHz and a boost frequency of 2,321 MHz. Power consumption is only 53W, which means it is suitable for small builds without additional power. Connectivity includes HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4.
Although the performance of the RX 6400 PULSE GAMING falls short of the RTX 3050, the low power consumption and compact design make it ideal for those on a smaller budget. However, it should be taken into account that its performance in demanding games is limited, which is also why it is one of the cheapest graphics cards.
Basic Information
- Price: 130-140 €
- Architecture: RDNA 2
- Shaders: 768
- Base frequency: 1 923 MHz
- Boost frequency: 2 321 MHz
- Memory: 4 GB GDDR6
- Memory bus width: 64-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 128 GB/s
- Dimensions: 170 mm x 110 mm x 40 mm
- Maximum resolution: 7680 x 4320 (8K)
- Interface: PCI Express 4.0 x4
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
Performance in games
- Cyberpunk 2077: 30 FPS (1080p, Medium settings)
- Fortnite: 60 FPS (1080p, High settings)
- CS2: 80 FPS (1080p, Medium settings)
MANLI GeForce GTX 1660
The GeForce GTX 1660 from MANLI is a graphics card based on the Turing architecture. It offers 6 GB of GDDR5 memory and reliable performance for 1080p gaming on medium to high settings. Compared to newer models, it lacks some advanced features, but the card still offers solid performance.
This card has PCIe 3.0, a base frequency of 1,530 MHz, and a boost frequency of 1,785 MHz. Power consumption reaches 120 W. Outputs include HDMI 2.0b and DisplayPort 1.4, allowing for multiple monitors to be connected.
The GTX 1660 is suitable for gamers who don’t need ray tracing and are looking for stable performance at a reasonable price. It’s ideal for older and mid-range games.
Basic Information
- Price: 200 €
- Architecture
- Shaders: 1 408
- Base frequency: 1 530 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1 785 MHz
- Memory: 6 GB GDDR5
- Memory bus width: 192-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 192 GB/s
- Dimensions: 229 mm x 112 mm x 40 mm
- Maximum resolution: 7680 x 4320 (8K)
- Interface: PCI Express 3.0 x16
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.0b, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
Performance in games
- Cyberpunk 2077: 45 FPS (1080p, Medium settings)
- Fortnite: 75 FPS (1080p, High settings)
- CS2: 100 FPS (1080p, High settings)
Palit GeForce RTX 3050 StormX 6GB GDDR6
The Palit GeForce RTX 3050 StormX 6GB GDDR6 is one of the best choices in the mid-range segment if you’re looking for a card that offers solid performance for 1080p gaming while supporting the latest technologies like ray tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling). This card is designed for gamers who want to experience newer games with increased detail and effects without having to reach for more expensive models like the RTX 3060 or 3070.
With 6GB of GDDR6 memory, 192-bit memory bandwidth, and Ampere architecture, the RTX 3050 can easily handle modern games at 1080p and medium to high settings. The card features hardware support for ray tracing and DLSS, which means it enables a better experience without a significant performance drop.
When testing games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider, where ray tracing contributes to higher performance requirements, the RTX 3050 still delivered smooth FPS even when using these effects on medium settings. If you’re a fan of new technology and want to enjoy modern games with quality graphics, the RTX 3050 StormX is a great solution. The card has a power consumption of only 130W, which means you don’t need an extra powerful power supply, plus it’s also suitable for smaller builds.
Basic Information
- Price: approx. 250 €
- Architecture: Ampere
- Shaders: 2 560
- Base frequency: 1 500 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1 777 MHz
- Memory: 6 GB GDDR6
- Memory bus width: 192-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 288 GB/s
- Dimensions: 167 mm x 112 mm x 40 mm
- Maximum resolution: 7680 x 4320 (8K)
- Interface: PCIe 4.0 x8
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4a
GIGABYTE GTX 1650 D6 OC 4G
The GIGABYTE GTX 1650 D6 OC 4G is a card that has gained popularity with gamers looking for an affordable solution to 1080p gaming without sacrificing all their savings. With 4GB of GDDR6 memory, the card delivers enough performance for most modern games, though it’s no longer on par with the latest high-end models. However, if you have a budget that doesn’t allow you to jump on more powerful cards like the RTX 3050, the GTX 1650 D6 OC 4G will be a solid solution.
In testing games like Call of Duty: Warzone and Watch Dogs: Legion, we found that this card can run stably even on medium to high settings. And while its performance isn’t quite on par with more powerful cards, it can handle smooth gameplay at 1080p without a significant drop in FPS. With its low power consumption (75W), it fits into smaller builds that don’t require additional power, another benefit that will be appreciated by those looking to build a compact PC. With PCIe 3.0 x16 technology now commonplace, you won’t have compatibility issues with older motherboards.
Basic Information
- Price: approx. 150 €
- Architecture: Turing
- Shaders: 896
- Base frequency: 1 530 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1 740 MHz
- Memory: 4 GB GDDR6
- Memory bus width: 128-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 192 GB/s
- Dimensions: 177 mm x 112 mm x 40 mm
- Maximum resolution: 7680 x 4320 (8K)
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x16
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
Performance in games
- Call of Duty: Warzone: 55 FPS (1080p, Medium settings)
- Watch Dogs: Legion: 40 FPS (1080p, Medium settings)
- Rocket League: 120 FPS (1080p, High settings)
Biostar Radeon RX 580 8GB GDDR5
The Biostar Radeon RX 580 8GB GDDR5 VA5815TQ82 is the choice for those looking for a card with higher performance and more memory capacity, making it suitable for playing more demanding games on higher settings. With 8GB of GDDR5 memory and a 256-bit bus width, this graphics card can handle great 1080p gaming at high detail, while also supporting 1440p gaming with no problem. The card may be older, but it still delivers very good performance in games like Far Cry 5 or The Witcher 3.
When we tested the RX 580 in more demanding games like Red Dead Redemption 2 and Battlefield V, the card performed excellently at 1080p and high settings, and even when playing at 1440p it managed to maintain a stable FPS. It’s ideal for those who don’t plan on upgrading to 4K or playing with ray tracing, but want high quality graphics at 1080p.
The higher power consumption of 185W means you’ll need a quality power supply to handle these demands. On the other hand, the connectivity (HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4) is very flexible, so you’ll have no problem connecting it to more modern monitors.
Basic Information
- Price: approx. 130 €
- Architecture: Polaris
- Shaders: 2 304
- Base frequency: 1 257 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1 340 MHz
- Memory: 8 GB GDDR5
- Memory bus width: 256-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 256 GB/s
- Dimensions: 235 mm x 130 mm x 40 mm
- Maximum resolution: 7680 x 4320 (8K)
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x16
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DisplayPort 1.4
Performance in games
- Far Cry 5: 60 FPS (1080p, High settings)
- The Witcher 3: 50 FPS (1080p, Ultra settings)
- Battlefield V: 70 FPS (1080p, High settings)
GIGABYTE GT 1030 OC 2G
The GIGABYTE GT 1030 OC 2G is a card that’s perfect for casual users who need basic graphics for office work, video playback and occasional gaming. With 2GB of GDDR5 memory and very low power consumption, this model is ideal for compact builds that only need basic graphics.
If you’re looking for the absolute cheapest graphics card, this is the one for you. On the other hand, you can’t expect this card to perform in demanding games, but it can handle older titles or less demanding games like Diablo III or Stardew Valley – no problem. You can also play Minecraft or World of Warcraft at lower settings, but don’t expect high FPS at 1080p with high detail.
Consumption of only 30W makes this card ideal for extremely power-efficient builds. On the other hand, if you’re planning to play newer games or applications with more demanding graphics requirements, you’ll need to reach for powerful models.
Basic Information
- Price: approx. 80 €
- Architecture: Pascal
- Shaders: 384
- Base frequency: 1 213 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1 302 MHz
- Memory: 2 GB GDDR5
- Memory bus width: 64-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 48 GB/s
- Dimensions: 151 mm x 69 mm x 18 mm
- Maximum resolution: 5120 x 3200 (5K)
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x4
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.0, 1x DVI-D
Performance in games
- Diablo III: 60 FPS (1080p, Medium settings)
- Stardew Valley: 120 FPS (1080p, High settings)
- Minecraft: 50 FPS (1080p, Medium settings)
How to choose the right budget graphics card?
Choosing the right budget graphics card can be challenging, but with a few key factors it can be easier.
Graphics card performance
The first step is to determine what your performance requirements will be – modern gaming on medium settings, casual use, or professional applications. If you plan to play games, check which models provide the best FPS (frames per second) for your favorite games.
Compatibility
Also check compatibility with your computer, especially the motherboard and power supply.
GPU memory
GPU VRAM memory is also an important factor – look for models with at least 4GB of GDDR5 or GDDR6 memory for better gaming performance.
Price and reviews
Don’t forget to factor in price and user reviews. The popular cheapest graphics cards from the NVIDIA GeForce GT series, AMD Radeon RX 500, or Intel Iris Xe integrated are good choices to start with.
When deciding between different models, often the cheapest graphics cards are the ideal choice for those who don’t want to invest a lot of money but still want a quality gaming experience. These graphics cards can also be great for low-maintenance users who don’t require the latest technologies such as ray tracing.
Is it worth upgrading an older graphics card?
Deciding whether to upgrade to an older graphics card depends on a number of factors, including your current needs and budget. If your existing graphics card can’t keep up with modern games or demanding applications, upgrading can bring significant improvements in performance and visual quality. Many newer graphics cards support technologies such as ray tracing and DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) that enhance the gaming experience.
On the other hand, if you’re only using your graphics card for casual tasks and low-maintenance gaming, it may be more cost-effective to stick with an older card. Another consideration is compatibility – make sure your motherboard and power supply support the newer graphics card. If you’re on a budget, consider graphics cards that provide good performance for common tasks and less demanding games, while still allowing you to upgrade to newer models in the future. For those looking for a balance of price and performance, the cheapest graphics cards can be a great choice to start with, but with an eye towards possible upgrades if your demands increase.
The cheapest graphics cards suitable for gaming include the GIGABYTE GT 1030 OC 2G, which can handle less demanding games on medium settings and is very affordable.
Yes, the cheapest graphics cards like the GIGABYTE GTX 1650 D6 OC 4G can handle modern games on medium settings at 1080p, although performance in more demanding games will be limited.
The cheapest graphics cards with ray tracing support include the Palit GeForce RTX 3050 StormX 6GB GDDR6, which provides good performance in modern games with this technology.
The cheapest graphics cards like the GT 1030 or GTX 1650 have lower performance compared to more expensive models like the RTX 3060 or RTX 3080, which offer higher memory, better ray tracing capabilities and performance suitable for 4K gaming, but are no longer among the cheapest graphics cards.