Choosing a Graphics Card Under $200 for Gaming: A Comprehensive Guide
Building a gaming PC on a budget can be challenging, especially when it comes to selecting the right graphics card. While it might be tempting to try and stretch your budget with a card like the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4GB, the truth is that the benefits often don't justify the slight cost savings. With that in mind, let's explore the best options for your gaming rig, all priced under $200.
Overview of the Best Graphics Cards Under $200
When it comes to finding a good deal on a graphics card under $200, there are several options to consider. The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 is a solid choice if you're looking for something low-cost, but it may not provide the performance you need for mid to high settings. On the other hand, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 is a more robust option that offers better value for your money. Below, we delve into specific options and which might be best for you.
Specific Options Considered
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4GB
The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 4GB is a good budget option, but it's important to note that its performance is limited. It's acceptable for low detail settings but won't offer much in the way of gaming enjoyment at higher graphic settings. Given its low performance, it might be wise to find a 4080 owner who is willing to sell their 2070 card for a cheaper price. If you do manage to find a 4GB GTX 1650 for under $200, it could be a valuable add-on for an older build. However, chances are you'll come across better gaming cards within this budget range.
MSI GeForce 1650 4GB
The MSI GeForce 1650 4GB is another good option if you're able to find it for under $200. However, if you're looking to enter the used market, you might also consider the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti. Location and availability will play a significant role in finding a good deal on these used cards. Ultimately, the MSI GeForce 1650 is a low-profile card that fits well in small form factor PCs, making it a convenient option for those with limited space.
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660
For a more substantial budget, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 is highly recommended. This card offers significant performance improvements over the 1650, making it worthy of the slightly higher price. The GTX 1660 is faster than the lower-end cards like the RX 590 and the GTX 1060. It's also more energy-efficient, which can lead to longer battery life in laptops or lower power bills on desktops. This card can often be found for just under $200, making it an excellent investment for gaming enthusiasts.
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050Ti
If you're planning to build a barebones budget gaming rig, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050Ti might be the best option. Most sites list this card for around $180, making it a cost-effective choice for those willing to sacrifice some performance in favor of a more affordable overall build cost. It can still handle a variety of games at 1080p with lower settings or at 1440p with minimal settings, making it a good starting point for less experienced builders.
AMD RX 580 and RX 480
For a hardcore gamer on a budget, the AMD RX 580 and RX 480 are compelling options. The RX 580 8GB is particularly noteworthy, as it can often be found for as little as $160 and still offers strong performance in most games at 1080p at 60fps. If you're willing to take 4GB of VRAM, the RX 480 can be had for around $140. These cards are capable of handling most games at 1080p with 60fps, and with their lower price, you can afford to spend extra on a better CPU, SSD, or RAM.
Waiting for the Next-Generation Cards
If you're patient, you might consider waiting for the next-generation graphics cards from AMD and Nvidia. These cards are expected to release in the next few months and will likely bring significant improvements to the gaming world. Waiting can save you a considerable amount, although it's important to weigh the benefits of waiting against the current market conditions and your build timeline.
Conclusion
The absolute best options for a graphics card under $200 remain the 580 8GB and 590 8GB. These cards offer exceptional power and value, making them hard to beat. While the NVIDIA options like the 1060 are more powerful, they come with a higher price tag. The 750Ti is also an option for budget gaming, as it can handle almost all games at 768p with high settings and 60fps.
When building your gaming PC, remember that investing in a better CPU, SSD, or RAM can often improve overall performance and satisfaction more than a smaller upgrade to your graphics card. With careful consideration and patience, you can build a gaming PC that delivers great performance for your budget.