Best Graphics Cards for the Money (Archive)

[RedJaron]

What kind of calls do most resellers get? What is the best VGA card for under $150 or can you tell me the Best card for HD (720p) & eSports? I've never ever had anyone ask the later only the former. The categories like Best @ HD (720p) & eSports is good for conversations perhaps, though I've never had anyone ask for a Best @ HD (720p) & eSports card ever. To me it's pointless information I may get a call for once in 10 years, when it happens if Tom's is still here I'll let you know.

When people post build and upgrade threads asking about GPUs, I always ask them what games they play and what resolution they play. After that I ask their budget. Both are critical to getting the best solution for a given situation. Going by price alone can leave someone just shy of the performance threshold they want ( they specified $100 max, but could have significantly stepped up performance for only $20 more ). Going by use case only can mislead them in thinking they need to spend more money than necessary ( if they game at 1080, but only simpler games, they might be better served with a cheaper 950 than a more expensive 480 or 1060 ).

Let's not make the mistake of thinking price is more important that use case. They are both equally important.

 

[AndrewJacksonZA]

I feel for the author."

Yep.

Let's not make the mistake of thinking price is more important that use case. They are both equally important.

This might just be because I'm busy creating a cube at the moment, but can the data not be stored in such a way that the article can start with an editorial and show the 720/1080/1440/4K/VR recommendations, and then with the click of a button the data will swop out and the reader can see the sub-$100, $100, $150, $200, $250, $300, $400, $500, and $700+ recommendations? Or at least click the "Next Page" button.

Thank you.

 

[vertexx]

If you look at the way AMD and Nvidia are marketing their cards, this new review format is aligning with that approach.

Just take this article: http://www.tomshardware.com/news/amd-rx460-rx470-polaris-graphics,32355.html

RX480 is marketed as entry level VR, mid-range 1440p, maxed 1080p
RX 470 is marketed as mainstream 1080p
RX 460 is marketed as the eSports GPU

While I'm not a system builder, I do work with customers in another business. IMO, just telling your customer what GPU they can buy for how much $$ is actually doing a disservice. In any customer service business, the provider who can provide an objective based recommendation, in this case, helping the customer create a purpose-built system, is providing a better service and will make more $$ at higher margins in the long run.

If someone came to you and said, "I have $260 to spend on a GPU", most of the people on this board would say to buy a 1060.

I would want to know what their objective is with the system. If it is AAA 1080p play, then I would probably recommend a 4GB RX 480 (assuming they are actually available some day AMD) and to put the extra $$ toward that SSD upgrade they want or the next game they want. Heck, I might even say to wait until the 470 comes out to save even more $$.

All that said, I would like to see the performance/$$ chart make a comeback, but alas, that's more work for TH, and they seem to be in cost cutting mode over the last year.

 

[vertexx]

Furthermore, this article probably isn't even oriented toward system builders - it's oriented for the person who knows nothing about GPUs and is just out there Googling "best graphics card". For that person, this article is clearly a better fit.

If you want to know what graphics card you can buy for how much $$, all you have to do is go to PCPartpicker - you don't need this article. It's a lower level of thought.

 

[C_Ray]

Price range recommendations please.

 

[bigjimid]

I'd like to suggest a mix of the two formats. I really did like the price format, but the new one is also super valuable. But what if I want to play at 1080p but don't need/care for 120+ FPS, ultra settings, god mode performance? What would you recommend for 1080p 60+ FPS high-ultra setting, great performance?

So I'd suggest keeping the 720p, 1080p, 1440p, and 2160p categories with Low, Medium, and High cards (or just Good and Best). That way you could easily navigate to 1080p gaming category and see the cards for both the maxed out, 120+ FPS, "Best" 1080p card there is, or the 60+ FPS "Good" 1080p card. That way we can see that $250-$300 gets you the best 1080p card there is that also does 1440p well, or $150-$200 that does 1080p great but 1440p no so well.

 

[filippi]

Maxed-Out @ UHD (2160p): GTX 1080. Absolutely right!

If you are ok playing top AAA titles in your brand new 4k gaming rig @ 40-50 fps i mean.

 

[YouhelpmeIhelpYou]

Well i do, 40-50 fps is good enough, you must have spent too much time in your sli setups

 

[cangelini]

I cannot believe you are recommending a 1080 for "maxed out UHD (2160p)" when it clearly cannot maintain consistent playable framerate at that resolution especially with graphics "maxed out".

I mean, this recommendation even contradicts your own review verdict for crying out loud.

This was addressed in the write-up. We *know* that two 1070s would be better. But given the direction AFR-based mGPU is heading, it's disingenuous to guide enthusiasts down that path only to see them possibly hung out to dry later. We picked one fast GPU or over two slower, cheaper ones.

What part of the launch review does this contradict? From my conclusion:

"Enabled in part by TSMC’s 16nm FinFET+ process, the 1080’s GP104 GPU wields 2560 CUDA cores at an unprecedented 1607MHz base clock rate. It offers a substantial step up from GM204 and an impressive boost compared to the former flagship GeForce GTX 980 Ti. In fact, across the eight real-world games we benchmarked today, GeForce GTX 1080 averages 34%-higher frame rates than the 980 Ti at 3840x2160. That’s enough performance to let you run with taxing detail settings and still enjoy the experience."

 

[jitpublisher]

This format is awful, useless as far as I'm concerned.

 

[cangelini]

mm ok I hate the new format. And now you've recommended all the new releases which you say are all out of stock. How about recommending cards that are actually obtainable? The Best graphics card articles have been really enjoyable over the years. I have to say, I'm disappointed.
There have been plenty of times in the past where you've passed on recommending cards due to limited stock. Now you have an article full of them.

"Are we done with this format? Can we go back to the format that gave the best $100 card or the best $150 card? Guess this 'best for 1080p' format helps someone, but not me. The old format clearly gave the strength of cards vs price so you could find the cards that were options and research them for your needs."

Agreed, I can't help but wonder... I respect Chris and have followed the monthly articles religiously for years, but I don't like this direction at all. Please consider bringing back some of the old features so folks know exactly what to go out and buy. Performance relative to price is essential.

We're going to discuss the format internally--I don't mind the continued feedback on how these picks are presented, and in fact appreciate it (even if I don't have the final say on it).

As far as availability goes, that's just where we are right now. We can't recommend previous-gen cards just because they're available, particularly when Pandora's Box is already open. I did try to add a disclaimer in the write-up:

'Moreover, be aware that many vendors are exploiting the shortages to charge big mark-ups. Our recommendations are exclusively based on the prices given by AMD, Nvidia, and their respective partners.'

Basically, we have these new 1x nm-based boards out there, offering higher performance/$ than ever. Demand is high. So try to catch one in stock as they appear, or wait until they're readily available. Don't spend big bucks on the old cards today when both AMD and Nvidia have something better to offer.

 

[Samer1970]

mm ok I hate the new format. And now you've recommended all the new releases which you say are all out of stock. How about recommending cards that are actually obtainable? The Best graphics card articles have been really enjoyable over the years. I have to say, I'm disappointed.
There have been plenty of times in the past where you've passed on recommending cards due to limited stock. Now you have an article full of them.

"Are we done with this format? Can we go back to the format that gave the best $100 card or the best $150 card? Guess this 'best for 1080p' format helps someone, but not me. The old format clearly gave the strength of cards vs price so you could find the cards that were options and research them for your needs."

Agreed, I can't help but wonder... I respect Chris and have followed the monthly articles religiously for years, but I don't like this direction at all. Please consider bringing back some of the old features so folks know exactly what to go out and buy. Performance relative to price is essential.

We're going to discuss the format internally--I don't mind the continued feedback on how these picks are presented, and in fact appreciate it (even if I don't have the final say on it).

As far as availability goes, that's just where we are right now. We can't recommend previous-gen cards just because they're available, particularly when Pandora's Box is already open. I did try to add a disclaimer in the write-up:

'Moreover, be aware that many vendors are exploiting the shortages to charge big mark-ups. Our recommendations are exclusively based on the prices given by AMD, Nvidia, and their respective partners.'

Basically, we have these new 1x nm-based boards out there, offering higher performance/$ than ever. Demand is high. So try to catch one in stock as they appear, or wait until they're readily available. Don't spend big bucks on the old cards today when both AMD and Nvidia have something better to offer.

Please bring back the Price/Best card old format .

Hint : people dont care much about Max Setting gaming , they care more about What is best for their budget ...

you can Add info about Max Setting Gaming resolution within the old format as well ...

 

[swagatrath]

When can you add the gtx 1060 and rx 480 in the performance hierarchy chart??

 

[f-14]

EVGA GTX1060 SC vs RX480 - Mid Range GPU WAR!!! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=no_NBTivfgY
JayzTwoCents
Published on Jul 19, 2016

time for toms to get with the 2000teens everythings gone video now. plus toms is over a week late to the battlefield on 1060

 

[nate1492]

i guess the 750 ti is better for e-sports gaming

Nope. Both R7 360 and GTX750Ti relatively comparable in performance. None the wiser, imo. However, right now, the 360 can be had for as low as sub $100. No 750Ti are priced that low. So right now, Tom is right with this recommendation.

The only thing to consider, albeit both had about the same performance, is how you'd need to power it. 750Ti don't need any additional power, meanwhile R7 360 requires 6pin power cable. And that's it.

https://www.amazon.com/Gigabyte-GV-N75TOC2-2GI-GDDR5-2GB-2xHDMI-Graphics/dp/B015E9VDC0/ref=sr_1_7?ie=UTF8&qid=1470050128&sr=8-7&keywords=geforce+750ti

https://www.amazon.com/Gigabyte-Overclocked-Graphics-GV-R736OC-2GD-REV2-0/dp/B01DT48WSU/ref=sr_1_3?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1470050313&sr=1-3&keywords=amd+360

I mean, it took me 2 minutes to find a sub $100 750ti... Seems a bit like a swizz to pretend the 360 is cheaper.

Same price, so choose what you think is better.

Consider power consumption is reduced for the 750ti, so you save electricity (and therefore money).

Also, you don't need a good CPU with NVIDIA DX11 gaming, but for AMD, you may get bottlenecked with a low end CPU.

 

[Stardude82]

Right now, I'd still pick a 75W GTX 950 @ $140 over a R7 360 @ $120. I picked one up for $100 AR. Much faster, better hardware decoding, bus powered and HDMI 2.0.

 

[tsnor]

Right now, I'd still pick a 75W GTX 950 @ $140 over a R7 360 @ $120. I picked one up for $100 AR. Much faster, better hardware decoding, bus powered and HDMI 2.0.

The GTX950 come in a 75W version? Neat. Most I've seen are 90W with the factory OC versions naturally coming in higher. Can you give a pointer ?

 

[logainofhades]

Right now, I'd still pick a 75W GTX 950 @ $140 over a R7 360 @ $120. I picked one up for $100 AR. Much faster, better hardware decoding, bus powered and HDMI 2.0.

The GTX950 come in a 75W version? Neat. Most I've seen are 90W with the factory OC versions naturally coming in higher. Can you give a pointer ?

http://pcpartpicker.com/products/video-card/#c=366&sort=a8&page=1

 

[TallestJon96]

I do not like this categorization system. It would be better to just start at the bottom with the cheapest graphics card worth buying, and then listing the cards that are worth considering above that one. You can also list special use cases as honable mentions.

My list:

Gtx 750 ti at $100
Rx 480 4gb at $200
Gtx 1060 at $250
Gtx 1070 at $400
Gtx 1080 at $700
Pascal Titan at $1200.

Pretty simple right now, basically if you are going to buy a card, get one of the new releases, or if they cost to much, get a 750 ti. Also, the 8gb rx 480 isn't a good buy compared to the 1060.

 

[filippi]

I do not like this categorization system. It would be better to just start at the bottom with the cheapest graphics card worth buying, and then listing the cards that are worth considering above that one. You can also list special use cases as honable mentions.

My list:

Gtx 750 ti at $100
Rx 480 4gb at $200
Gtx 1060 at $250
Gtx 1070 at $400
Gtx 1080 at $700
Pascal Titan at $1200.

Pretty simple right now, basically if you are going to buy a card, get one of the new releases, or if they cost to much, get a 750 ti. Also, the 8gb rx 480 isn't a good buy compared to the 1060.

Maybe swap the $100 750ti for a $125 GTX950 (imho) but yeah the new tech defines the landscape now.

 

[Zaxx420]

Or wait 2 weeks and smoke the 950 with a 460/470. Since low/mid range next gen cards are still launching, I'd say wait a few weeks for custom cooled AiB cards to actually be widely available at msrp as well as their reviews...then make a list. I think the 470 is gonna surprise a lotta folks...fairly sure it'll also be a damn good overclocker with a 8 pin...esp at $150ish.

 

[tsnor]

I do not like this categorization system. It would be better to just start at the bottom with the cheapest graphics card worth buying, and then listing the cards that are worth considering above that one. You can also list special use cases as honable mentions.

My list:

Gtx 750 ti at $100
Rx 480 4gb at $200
Gtx 1060 at $250
Gtx 1070 at $400
Gtx 1080 at $700
Pascal Titan at $1200.

Pretty simple right now, basically if you are going to buy a card, get one of the new releases, or if they cost to much, get a 750 ti. Also, the 8gb rx 480 isn't a good buy compared to the 1060.

Consider the value of knowing HOW MUCH BETTER one of these cards is then the current card you are using. For example, an HD 5850 is still a reasonable card. Is buying a GTX 750 ti an upgrade, or a downgrade compared to the 5850 ? That was the value of the hierarchy chart, which used to be an important part of "best card for the money". It is now a separate article, but really should be linked to and updated with the "best card" article.

Aside, I think the list you gave is excellent, but has too many holes. I liked Stardude82 and LogaonofHades' point that a 75w gtx950 beats a 75W gtx 750ti. The best card for the money article should give those options too, not just a few select points.

 

[burnnotice206]

NEWEGG EVGA GeForce GTX 1070 FTW DT GAMING ACX 3.0 edition for only $419 today only (8-6-2016).

 

[jarfin]

nvidia rules,its ture.

i chech this case long time and fact is that buying nvidia gpu's u get quality ,excellent game performance and great effyency.
its cost,specially high end little more,but worth evry penny.

if we too mainstream gpu, gtx 1060 is top and stay there,also VR is much better than rx 400 series.

the truth is out there,internet sites for test and review. nvidia win.

hmm,amd's point looks low price,but i'm poor and i dont have cash to buy low quality and bad effyeency gpu,even what ever they want 'took' for rx 480 for gooodies,its not.

gtx 970,gtx 1060,gtx 1070 and final gtx 1080 nad if u are rich titan x.

 

[Sam Hain]

The Asus Strix and Giga Xtreme GTX 1080's offer better performance for price than the founder edition GTX 1080's you have listed as well as the vendor GTX 1080's you've got listed by EVGA and MSI.

Not knocking EVGA or MSI, but those two 1080's are not on the same shelf as the STRIX and XTREME. Even with that said, these cards (in single-mode) cannot push 4k at 60 FPS with settings in ULTRA/AA maxed.