If you’re deciding to put together a small PC build, one of the most important components that will affect performance is the graphics card. For those who are trying to save space but don’t want to sacrifice performance, low-profile graphics cards are the ideal solution. These cards are usually used in compact PC cabinets where space is limited, but at the same time must provide the performance needed for demanding applications or gaming. Low profile cards are also ideal for office PCs and workstations where space is an important factor. This article focuses on a comparison of some of the most powerful low profile graphics cards available on the market.
Key points:
- Space-saving design: ideal for small PC cabinets and compact workstations.
- Acompromise between performance and size: Smaller footprint, but enough power for common and professional tasks.
- Suitable for both gaming and work: Support for Full HD gaming but also professional use – rendering, 3D, CAD or multimedia work.
- Efficient power consumption: low power consumption and quiet operation.
- Economical choice: Affordable solutions with a good price/performance ratio for different budgets.
What are low-profile graphics cards?
Low-profile graphics cards offer an excellent compromise between compact design and performance. They are ideal for users who need to handle graphics-intensive tasks such as Full HD gaming, rendering or multimedia work in space-constrained setups. While their smaller size means some performance limitations compared tofull-size graphics cards, modern low-profile models can offer enough performance for most common and professional tasks thanks to advanced architecture and optimizations. In addition, their efficient power consumption and quiet operation make them ideal for small computer cabinets and workstations.
In this article, we’ll take a look at popular low-profile graphics cards currently available on the market and compare them in terms of GPU specs, performance, and price. In our comparison, we have focused on gaming low profile graphics cards or low profile graphics cards for work.
Low-profilegaming graphics cards
Low-profile gaming graphics cards are ideal for compact PC builds that require a smaller footprint without compromising on performance. These cards offer enough graphics performance to play less demanding games or e-sports titles smoothly. Thanks to efficient cooling and low power consumption, they are suitable for small enclosures and HTPCs.
Asus GeForce RTX 4060 LP BRK OC
The Asus GeForce RTX 4060 LP BRK OC is a graphics card based on NVIDIA’s Ada Lovelace architecture that delivers revolutionary improvements in image processing and performance. Its low-profile design makes it ideal for space-constrained builds while retaining the ability to handle modern gaming titles and graphics-intensive tasks.
This card is optimized for 1080p gaming, where it offers smooth performance combined with advanced GPU technologies such as ray tracing and DLSS 3. With a power consumption of only 115W, it is both efficient and power-efficient. Powerful cooling is provided by three fans that maintain a stable temperature even during intense gaming.
The GeForce RTX 4060 LP supports the latest connectivity standards, including HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a, enabling display on modern displays with up to 8K resolution. This model is an excellent choice for gamers and users looking for reliable performance in a compact design.
- Price: from 359 €
- GPU Architecture: Ada Lovelace
- Shaders: 3072
- Base Frequency: 2490 MHz
- Boost frequency: 2520 MHz
- Memory: 8 GB GDDR6
- Memory bus width: 128-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 272 GB/s
- Dimensions: 188 mm x 69 mm x 39 mm
Interfaces and connectivity
- Interface: PCIe Express 4.0 x8
- Outputs: 2x HDMI 2.1, 2x DisplayPort 1.4a
- Maximum resolution: 7680 × 4320 @ 60 Hz
Performance in games
- Cyberpunk 2077: 110 FPS (Medium settings, Full HD)
- Call of Duty: MW2: 95 FPS (High settings, Full HD)
- Fortnite: 120 FPS (High settings, Full HD)
Gigabyte Radeon RX 6400 4Gb (D6 Low Profile)
The AMD Radeon RX 6400 is based on the RDNA 2 architecture, which delivers improved graphics quality and image processing optimization. With its compact design, it fits seamlessly into PCs where space is limited but expectations for gaming performance remain high.
This card is ideal for 1080p gaming, where it offers smooth performance for less demanding titles and allows you to take advantage of modern technologies such as DirectX 12 Ultimate. With a power consumption of just 53W, it requires no external power supply, saving both space and cost. Cooling is provided by an efficient fan that keeps temperatures stable even during extended gaming. The Radeon RX 6400 can also handle demanding visual tasks and offers high-quality output for 4K displays thanks to HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a connectivity.
Basic Information
- Price: from 180 €
- GPU Architecture: RDNA 2
- Shaders: 768
- Base frequency: 1923 MHz
- Boost frequency: 2321 MHz
- Memory: 4 GB GDDR6
- Memory bus width: 64-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 128 GB/s
- Dimensions: 182 mm x 69 mm x 36 mm
Interfaces and connectivity
- Interface: PCI Express 4.0 x4
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4a
- Maximum resolution: 7680 × 4320 @ 60 Hz
Performance in games
- Cyberpunk 2077: 40-45 FPS (Medium settings, Full HD)
- Call of Duty: MW2: 55-60 FPS (High settings, Full HD)
- Fortnite: 80-90 FPS (High settings, Full HD)
Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1650 4Gb (Low profile)
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 is a versatile gaming graphics card designed for modern gaming and smooth running multimedia applications. It takes advantage of the Turing architecture to deliver optimized performance with low power consumption. Its compact design and single-slot format make it easy to fit into smaller PC builds, making it the ideal choice for space-saving gaming systems.
This card offers excellent power efficiency with a power consumption of only 75W and is powered directly via PCI Express 3.0 x16, thus requiring no additional power connectors. Its active cooling is designed to handle high loads without overheating, while the fan ensures quiet and stable operation. The GeForce GTX 1650 supports technologies such as DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.6.
It is the ideal choice not only for e-sports gamers, but also for creative projects such as video editing or multimedia work. Its affordable price also makes it an appealing option for a wide range of users.
Basic Information
- Price: from 140 €
- GPU Architecture: Turing
- CUDA cores: 896
- Base frequency: 1485 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1665 MHz
- Memory: 4 GB GDDR5
- Memory bus width: 128-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 128 GB/s
- Dimensions: 168 mm x 69 mm x 37 mm
Interfaces and connectivity
- Maximum resolution: 7680 × 4320 @ 60 Hz (on multiple displays)
- Interface: PCI Express 3.0 x16
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.0b, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x DVI-D
Performance in games
- Cyberpunk 2077: 30-35 FPS (Medium settings, Full HD)
- Call of Duty: MW2: 50-55 FPS (High settings, Full HD)
- Fortnite: 70-80 FPS (High settings, Full HD)
Professional low-profile graphics cards (workstation GPUs)
Professional low-profile graphics cards(workstation GPUs) are designed for compact workstations where high performance and precision in applications such as CAD, 3D modelling or video production are a priority. Low power consumption, efficient cooling and optimization for professional software make them the ideal choice for creators, engineers and designers who need a powerful and reliable solution in a compact form factor.
NVIDIA RTX A2000
TheNVIDIA RTX A2000 is a professional graphics card based on the Ampere architecture, designed for workstations and graphics-intensive applications. It is ideal for users who need reliable performance when working with 3D models, CAD applications, AI computing or rendering.
The card offers 6 GB of GDDR6 memory and supports PCIe 4.0 x16 interface, ensuring sufficient bandwidth for professional applications. It is designed with a low profile, allowing it to be used in compact systems with limited space. Thanks to its power consumption (TDP 70 W), it does not require an external power supply, which saves space and simplifies installation.
This card offers a maximum resolution of 7680×4320 (8K) at 60 Hz and features 1x HDMI 2.0b, 1x DisplayPort 1.4 and 1x DVI-D outputs, allowing multiple monitors to be connected for advanced multitasking and professional work with visual content.
Basic Information
- Price: from 390 €
- GPU Architecture: Ampere
- CUDA Cores: 3328
- Base frequency: 562 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1200 MHz
- Memory: 6 GB GDDR6
- Memory bus width: 192-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 288 GB/s
- Dimensions: 167.7 mm x 69 mm x 39 mm
Interfaces and connectivity
- Maximum resolution: 7680 × 4320 @ 60 Hz (on multiple displays)
- Interface: PCI Express 4.0 x16 (with optimization for PCIe 3.0 if needed)
- Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.0b, 1x DisplayPort 1.4, 1x DVI-D
AMD Radeon Pro WX 3200
TheAMD Radeon Pro WX 3200 is a graphics card designed primarily for professional applications such as CAD, 3D modeling, visualization, and other graphics-intensive tasks in compact workstations. This card is based on the Polaris architecture and is designed to provide optimal performance for professional graphics applications.
It has 4GB of GDDR5 memory and a 128-bit memory bus, allowing it to handle more demanding visualization tasks in multi-monitor environments. It features a PCIe 3.0 x16 interface that provides high bandwidth for fast data transfer. The Radeon Pro WX 3200 is ideal for working with 3D modeling, CAD applications, and for graphics applications that require stability and accuracy.
The card has support for a maximum resolution of 5120×2880 (5K) at 60Hz, thanks to 1x DisplayPort 1.4 and 1x HDMI 2.0 outputs, allowing multiple high-resolution displays to be connected for seamless multitasking.
The Radeon Pro WX 3200 consumes only 50W(TPD) and requires no external power supply. It is suitable for professionals who need reliable performance in small and quiet workstations.
Basic Information
- Price: from 130€
- GPU Architecture: Polaris
- CUDA cores: 640
- Base frequency: 1250 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1295 MHz
- Memory: 4 GB GDDR5
- Memory bus width: 128-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 82 GB/s
- Dimensions: 168 mm x 68.9 mm
Interfaces and Connectivity:
- Interface: PCIe 3.0 x16
- Outputs: 4x mini DisplayPort 1.4
- Maximum Resolution: 7680×4230 @ 60 Hz
NVIDIA Quadro P1000 4Gb
The NVIDIA Quadro P1000 is a compact and powerful graphics card designed for professional applications. Its low-profile single-slot format and dimensions of only 145mm x 68.9mm make it ideal for workstations with limited space. Despite its small size, it offers top performance and support for up to four 4K displays via quad mini DisplayPort 1.4 outputs with a maximum resolution of 5120×2880 at 60 Hz.
This card doesn’t need external power and its TDP is just 47W. It is fully powered via a PCI Express 3.0 x16 interface, making it energy efficient. It is equipped with active cooling with a fan that guarantees reliable operation even under heavy use. It supports modern graphics technologies including DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.5 and Vulkan 1.0, ensuring compatibility with the latest applications and tools.
The NVIDIA Quadro P1000 also excels in professional features such as NVIDIA Mosaic support for multi-monitor configurations, but is not optimized for virtual reality (VR). The Quadro P1000 delivers superior image quality with support for HDR, 10-bit color, and FSAA anti-aliasing. This card is a reliable choice for professionals who need precision performance in a compact package.
Basic Information
- Price: from 300€
- GPU Architecture: Pascal
- CUDA cores: 640
- Base frequency: 1354 MHz
- Boost frequency: 1493 MHz
- Memory: 4 GB GDDR5
- Memory bus width: 128-bit
- Memory bandwidth: 82 GB/s
- Dimensions: 145 mm x 68.9 mm
Interfaces and Connectivity:
- Interface: PCI Express 3.0 x16
- Outputs: 4x mini DisplayPort 1.4 (supports up to 4 4K displays)
- Maximum resolution: 5120×2880 @ 60 Hz
Difference between “low profile” and standard graphics (full-size)
Low-profile cards have smaller cooling systems and lower clock speeds, which affects their performance. However, their compactness and lower power consumption make them a great choice for builds where space is limited.
Benefits of low profile cards
- Space saving: ideal for small setups where standard graphics cards are not suitable.
- Lower power consumption: Most models operate without additional power connectors.
- Quiet operation: Some GPU models are passively cooled, minimizing noise.
- Lower price: Compared to standard cards, they are more affordable.
Disadvantages
- Limited performance: not suitable for demanding game players or professional applications.
- Impaired cooling: Smaller coolers can have problems at higher temperatures.
- Lower memory: Many low-profile cards offer less VRAM memory (e.g., 4GB GDDR5/GDDR6), which can be limiting when working with large graphics projects or playing newer games with higher graphics requirements.
Which low-profile card is ideal for you?
- Budget card for gamers: if you’re looking for a low-profile graphics card for gaming, the Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1650 4GB LP is a great choice. It may be an older card but with enough performance for 1080p gaming and low power consumption, it’s perfect for compact PC builds.
- A happy medium: the Gigabyte Radeon RX 6400 4GB LP offers good performance already for newer games at 1080p and supports technologies like DirectX 12 Ultimate. It’s ideal for those looking for a balance between price and performance, while also fitting into small cabinets.
- Budget for professionals: the AMD Radeon Pro WX 3200 is a great choice for those who work with CAD or 3D modelling and need a basic workstation GPU. With a compact design and graphics editing power, it’s ideal for small workstations.
- For demanding professionals: the NVIDIA RTX A2000 is the best choice for professional applications with high performance requirements. With modern Ampere architecture, 6GB GDDR6 memory and support for Ray Tracing, it’s ideal for demanding visualization tasks.
- Best for modern games The Asus GeForce RTX 4060 LP BRK is the ideal choice for those looking for a powerful low-profile card for modern games and graphics applications. With Ada Lovelace architecture and 8GB GDDR6 memory, it delivers great performance for gaming and working with 3D graphics.
FAQ: low-profile GPU FAQ
Low-profile graphics cards are smaller graphics cards designed for compact PC cabinets. They combine a space-saving design with enough performance for common tasks, gaming or professional work.
Yes, many low-profile cards can handle less demanding games and e-sports titles in Full HD. However, for more graphically demanding games, we recommend full-featured cards.
They are smaller, have lower power consumption and fit better into small PC setups. However, their performance can be lower than standard models.
Popular models include the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 and AMD Radeon RX 6400. However, the choice depends on your needs, whether it’s gaming, work or budget.
Limited performance compared to full-featured cards and fewer options for extremely graphics-intensive tasks. However, their compact design makes them an ideal choice for small builds.