If you’re building a gaming PC from scratch or upgrading your current set-up, there’s a list of basic hardware that’s absolutely essential: The monitor, the keyboard, the PC itself (of course). But don’t sleep on the importance of the graphics card. This powerful component is responsible for everything you see when you’re gaming or using the PC in any capacity, and a great graphics card — or, indeed, a dud one — can be the difference between an incredible or lacklustre gaming experience.
But getting the right graphics card is sometimes easier said than done. There is just so much tech available — all with the rapidly-accelerating specifications and capabilities — and there’s so much to consider in terms of what works for your computer and its compatibility. It’s all too easy to get blinded by science and muddled by jargon.
Fear not, PC gamers. We can help put you in the picture with the best graphics cards on the market. And just in case you’re new to the world of PC gaming, or you need a refresher, we’ve put together a quick guide on everything you need to know, along with a selection of the best graphics cards you can buy right now.
What is a graphics card?
A graphics card aka GPU is one of the most important parts of any PC. It works alongside the CPU (or processor) to turn data into images. The best graphics cards process data at a faster rate and make those images sharper and more realistic. Modern graphics cards are capable of processing incredible 3D images with an almost non-existent lag between the commands you physically input with your controller or keyboard and the resulting action on the monitor.
Do you really need a graphics card?
If you’re a reasonably enthusiastic PC gamer, then yes. Games are becoming increasingly sophisticated, with ever improving 4K and ray tracing, so you’ll need the hardware to keep up with the pace. PC gamers are familiar with upgrading their machines regularly and the graphics card is the key component in next gen-level gaming. However, if you’re just using your computer for everyday tasks, such as web browsing, emails, and video streaming, a specialised GPU is probably unnecessary.
Are graphics cards only for gamers?
Graphics cards are widely associated with gaming and that’s where most of the power lies. However, graphics cards can be important for creative professionals and designers too, with processing capabilities for video editing and decoding, 3D rendering, and graphic design-based apps. If you’re upgrading your GPU for creative design work, check that it’s made to handle those tasks. Some graphics cards are for gaming only.
What is VRAM?
You’re no doubt familiar with regular RAM (random access memory). VRAM is the graphics card equivalent (it stands for video random access memory) and is a core component with the graphics card. It effectively stores all the data your GPU needs to create images in a “pool”. Different graphic cards have different VRAM gigabyte capabilities. A standard 8GB will be sufficient for gaming at 1080p but you’ll need something more powerful for 4K gaming or tasks such as video editing. In that case look for 16GB of VRAM or more.
Will every graphics fit your computer?
Not necessarily. It depends on the size of the PC or laptop. Not to mention the fact that more powerful graphics cards can actually be quite big. Be sure to check out the measurements before you buy a GPU, as well as your machine capacity. But that’s not the only thing you need to look out for when it comes to compatibility. Be sure that the PC can supply the GPU’s power requirements (or PSU wattage to use the proper computer jargon) and that the PCle slots are compatible.
What is PCIe?
PCIe stands for peripheral component interconnect express. In layman’s terms, it’s a connection point to the motherboard and allows the transfer of high-speed data. In other words, this is the interface where you connect your graphics card. All the GPUs listed below are PCIe 5.0, the most advanced version in consumer tech.
Does Nvidia make the best graphics cards?
A cursory glance at online reviews would suggest that to be the case. Nvidia GeForce GPUs lead the pack, certainly in the mid-range and premium end of the market. That doesn’t mean you have to pay big bucks for the best Nvidia GeForce GPU. Top competitor AMD offer good options, particularly at lower price points.
What are third party graphics cards?
This is when another manufacturer uses the GPU of a top brand — such as Nvidia and AMD — to create its own version. These are perfectly acceptable and in some cases more readily available. When Nvidia drops a new product, for instance, they can be like GPU gold dust. In which case it’s easier to get a third party version.
What is the best graphics card?
That’s really for you to decide, based on the specifications and requirements of your PC setup. What we can tell you, however, is that we’ve done the work of researching for you. We’ve scanned the internet and reviews to find the best options for every gamer.
These are the best graphics cards in 2025.
