Which is Better: GTX 960m or AMD Radeon R7-M440?
When choosing between the NVIDIA GTX 960m and the AMD Radeon R7 M440, the answer is clear: the GTX 960m is significantly superior in terms of performance and reliability. This article provides a detailed comparison, backed by game benchmark tests, to help you make an informed decision.
GPU Performance in Gaming
In game benchmark testing, the GTX 960m outperforms the AMD Radeon R7 M440 by a considerable margin. For example, in games like Bioshock Infinite, Battlefield 4, and Metro Last Light, the R7 M440 becomes almost unusable, with frame rates plummeting as low as 6 to 12 FPS, often accompanied by stuttering. In contrast, the GTX 960m maintains functional frame rates of 30 to 40 FPS, making it a far more enjoyable and playable experience.
Technical Specifications
The superior performance of the GTX 960m can be attributed to its advanced technical specifications. With more than double the effective memory clock speed, five times the memory bandwidth, double the floating-point performance, double the texture rate, double the shading units, double the render output processors, and a 25% higher clock speed, the GTX 960m is clearly the winner. These features collectively contribute to its superior gaming capabilities, making it a more reliable choice than the R7 M440.
Reliability and Heat Management
The GTX 960m also excels in terms of reliability and heat management. While the R7 M440 is often prone to overheating, as evidenced by issues encountered in the iMac 5K that uses mobile Radeons, the GTX 960m is known for its stable performance. This makes it a safer and more dependable option for high-performance gaming.
Use Cases and Price
It is important to consider the use case when choosing between these GPUs. If you are using the GPU primarily for gaming, the GTX 960m is the clear choice. However, for business machines where cost is a significant factor, the AMD Radeon R7 M440 might be a more affordable option. Additionally, the choice of drivers can also impact performance and stability. Some brands, such as HP, may require specific driver approval to ensure proper installation and performance.
Compatibility and Cooling Requirements
When selecting a GPU, it's also crucial to consider the chipset compatibility. I recommend using NVIDIA with Intel and AMD with Radeon for optimal performance. Furthermore, while some might argue that NVIDIA GPUs heat up more slowly, my experience suggests that the high temperatures in the GTX 900m series cards require the same stringent cooling standards as their AMD counterparts.
Conclusion
In summary, the NVIDIA GTX 960m is the better choice for gaming due to its superior performance, reliability, and heat management. While the AMD Radeon R7 M440 may be more budget-friendly for non-gaming use cases, the GTX 960m remains the gold standard for gaming enthusiasts and power users looking for a reliable and high-performance GPU.