The best thing about them is that they don’t cost a fortune. You can get a good graphics card well under $200 for a decent performance. However, the high end graphics cards cost well over $1,000. When you are on a budget, it is very important to get the specifications right and ensure that they can fulfill your requirements. The first thing to check is the processor that is used to power the graphics card. It should be powerful enough to create and deliver the image quality you need. Plus, you should also keep an eye on the RAM’s version and its size to ensure that your needs are met.
Graphics Processor: The graphics processor is the one that powers the graphics card. It is similar to what a motherboard is to a computer. The graphics processor performs the actual processing to deliver the images and graphics. When it comes to graphics processors, only two brands stand out. You either have to go with Nvidia processors or AMD processors. RAM Size: The size of RAM determines the performance of high graphics games and other visual software programs that need to display complex images. It determines how fast the graphics card can process information and display on the device. While a RAM size of 512MB can handle graphically demanding titles, sizes of 1GB and above provide a more fluid experience. RAM Version/Standard: The version or standard of the RAM is as important as the RAM size. The latest version is GDDR5. The version determines the performance-oriented features such as the bandwidth and memory. The GDDR5 version is twice as fast as the GDDR3 version and has a bandwidth of 73.6 GB/s. The graphics card should have at least the GDDR2 version to deliver a decent performance in handling high graphics content.
While these are the primary features, there are still several other features that determine the performance of a graphics card. You can find the complete list of features with detailed specifications in the “Buying Guide” section of this article. But before moving to that, please check our curated list of the Best Graphics Card Under $200.
Best Graphics Card Under $200
Best Graphics Card Under $200 Reviews
1. Zotac GeForce GT 730 Graphics Card
Based in Hong Kong, Zotac is a popular computer hardware brand that has been developing innovative PC components since 2006. The brand manufactures graphics cards, gaming PCs, and mini Pcs with innovative designs and superior performance. Zotac’s GeForce GT 730 graphics card features 4GB DDR3 RAM that allows you to run high performance games with higher resolution and refresh rates. It is powered by an Nvidia GeForce processor and is equipped with innovative features including Adaptive Vertical Sync, Surround, and FXAA Anti Aliasing Mode. The graphics card is HDTV ready and supports resolutions up to 4K. The graphics card has a low profile design with an easy integration into small form factors computers and HTPCs. It has 384 processor cores and consumes maximum power of 25 watts. It supports 3 display connections simultaneously with the help of HDMI, VGA, and DVI ports. It has an engine clock of 902 MHz and memory clock of 1600 MHz. Best Features
Nvidia GeForce processor 4GB DDR3 RAM 902 MHz engine clock and 1600 MHz memory clock Adaptive Vertical Sync, Surround, and FXAA Anti Aliasing Mode HDMI, VGA, and DVI ports Low profile design
What we didn’t like about it
Heatsink is thick and blocks access to the PCI slot
2. VisionTek Radeon 5450 Graphics Card
VisionTek manufactures PC and Mac accessories with advanced features and user-friendly options. The brand has a premium line of graphics cards, docking stations, webcams, audio peripherals, adapters, solid state drives, and memory storage devices. VisionTek’s 5450 graphics card is powered by an AMD radeon processor to provide a boost to your gaming performance. It has a high bandwidth and supports Dolby TrueHD and DTSHD Master Audio with 7.1 surround sound. Plus, it supports a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It is equipped with a decent 2GB DDR3 SDRAM for supporting advanced graphics. The graphics card features multiple video output interfaces including VGA, DVI, and HDMI ports. The graphics card is designed to be used with full size cases and requires 250-watt power supply or higher. Using this graphic card, a second monitor can be configured for an additional display. It is equipped with an X16 lane PCI Express slot for connectivity. The graphics card is backed by a 5-year warranty period from the original date of purchase. Best Features
AMD Radeon processor 2GB DDR3 SDRAM Supports up to 1920 x 1080 resolution Supports Dolby TrueHD and DTSHD Master Audio VGA, DVI, and HDMI ports 250-watt power supply 5-year warranty period
What we didn’t like about it
Does not come with a low profile bracket Does not provide a major upgrade to your gaming performance
3. Asus ATI Radeon HD6450 Graphics Card
Asus is an industry leader in the development of gaming PCs, laptops, and relevant gaming accessories to meet the high demands of hardcore gamers. The brand’s products feature attractive designs with vibrant colors and RGB lighting that light up the environment. Asus’ HD6450 graphics card is powered by an AMD Radeon processor with integrated HDMI support. It is equipped with an EMI shield that reduces 66% of electromagnetic signal for delivering a stable connection with a safer computing environment. It has 1GB DDR3 SDRAM for delivering a smooth gameplay. Plus, it has a memory clock speed of 1200 MHz. The graphics card features a low profile design that includes low profile bracket bundles for easy installations. It is equipped with an efficient 0dB thermal design for faster heat dissipation without producing any noise. The graphics card has been optimized to support resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 along with Blu-ray 3D. It has 3 video output interfaces including HDMI, VGA, and DVI. Best Features
AMD Radeon processor 1GB DDR3 SDRAM 1200 MHz memory clock speed Support resolutions up to 1920 x 1080 0dB thermal design HDMI, VGA, and DVI ports
What we didn’t like about it
Thermal design is not effective – get overheated
4. MSI Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 Graphics Card
MSI is another popular brand that develops advanced computing systems for high power demanding tasks. The brand has a premium line of powerful gaming laptops along with business and productivity laptops. The brand also sells PC components including motherboards, graphics cards, and monitors with latest features. MSI’s 1030 graphics card is powered by the Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 processor to support high resolutions and for boosting your gaming experience. It has 2GB GDDR5 RAM along with 6000 MHz memory clock speed that allows your system to access more information in a short time. The GDDR5 RAM has low latency and delivers a better performance. The graphics card features a compact design and only takes up a small amount of space that make it ideal for HTPCs and small form factor systems. It features two video output interfaces – HDMI and DVI ports. Plus, it has a PCI Express x4 hardware interface for supporting external connections. Best Features
Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 processor 2GB GDDR5 RAM 6000 MHz memory clock speed Low profile design PCI Express x4 hardware interface HDMI and DVI ports
What we didn’t like about it
Lacks VGA output interface Expensive
5. GigaByte GeForce GT 710 Graphics Card
GigaByte is a one-stop platform for all your PC and computer needs. The brand develops a wide range of products including gaming laptops, creator laptops, motherboards, graphics cards, monitors, computer cases, storage devices, and other computer peripherals. GigaByte’s 710 graphics card is equipped with an Nvidia GeForce GT 710 processor that provides powerful processing power for supporting high graphics games. Plus, it uses a 2GB GDDR5 integrated RAM with a 64-bit memory interface to provide a boost to the performance. It has a 954 MHz core clock with 5010 MHz memory clock speed. The graphics card features a low profile design for consuming less space and fitting into compact sized systems. It is equipped with an intuitive interface for tuning clock speeds, fan performance, voltage, and power target depending on your gaming requirements. The graphics card has PCI Express 2.0 x8 bus hardware interface for supporting external connections. Besides, it is equipped with HDMI and DVI-D video output interfaces. The graphics card requires a 300-watt power supply. Best Features
Nvidia GeForce GT 710 processor 2GB GDDR5 integrated RAM 954 MHz core clock with 5010 MHz memory clock speed PCI Express 2.0 x8 bus hardware interface HDMI and DVI-D ports 300-watt power supply
What we didn’t like about it
Lacks VGA output interface Not the best option for graphics card
6. PNY Quadro P400 Graphics Card
PNY has grown into a reliable brand by manufacturing advanced consumer and business-grade electronics for the past 30 years. The brand develops graphics cards, flash drives, mobile storage devices, solid state drives, and microSD and SD flash cards. PNY’s graphics card is powered by the latest Nvidia Quadro Pascal processor to deliver professional application performance. The 2GB GDDR5 RAM along with the 32 GB/s memory bandwidth provides a powerful boost to your gaming performance. It is equipped with a PCI Express 3.0 x16 hardware interface for supporting external connections. The graphics card features a low profile design with a single slot that makes it compatible with even the most compact systems. It is capable of supporting three 4K display monitors simultaneously with HDR for the most dynamic visual workspace. Plus, it is equipped with a DisplayPort 1.4 interface that can support resolutions of up to 5K (5120 x 2880) at 60 Hz refresh rate through a single cable. The DisplayPort also supports contrast ratios of up to 10,000:1. Best Features
Nvidia Quadro Pascal processor 2GB GDDR5 RAM with 32 GB/s memory bandwidth DisplayPort 1.4 interface and ethernet Supports maximum resolution of 5K at 60 Hz refresh rate Supports 3 4K monitors simultaneously Low profile design with a single slot
What we didn’t like about it
Lacks HDMI and DVI-D ports
7. EVGA GeForce 6200 Graphics Card
EVGA is a relatively small brand. However, it manufactures reliable PC gear engineered for computer enthusiasts. The brand has a limited product portfolio including motherboards, graphics cards, backlit keyboards, PSU sleeved cables, and other peripherals. EVGA’s 6200 graphics card is powered by an Nvidia GeForce processor to provide a seamless experience. It is equipped with a 512MB 64-bit SDRAM that delivers a decent gaming performance. Plus, it has a memory clock speed of 300 MHz along with 4.26 GB/s memory bandwidth and 2.5 ns memory speed. The graphics card supports a high refresh rate of 240 Hz. It has been optimized for Microsoft DirectX 9.0 support and Open GL 2.1 support. The graphics card features a single slot design and is designed for maximum compatibility with Microsoft 2000, Microsoft XP, and Microsoft Vista. It is designed to consume low power and is equipped with a passive heatsink technology. It supports a maximum analog resolution of 2048 x 1536 and maximum digital resolution of 1920 x 1200. It features VGA and DVI video output interfaces. The graphics card is backed by a 1-year warranty period from the original date of purchase. The warranty period can be extended to 2 years by registering the graphics card on the official website within 30 days of purchase. Best Features
Nvidia GeForce processor 512MB 64-bit DDR2 SDRAM 300 MHz memory clock speed, 4.26 GB/s memory bandwidth and 2.5 ns memory speed Microsoft DirectX 9.0 support and Open GL 2.1 support optimization Microsoft 2000, Microsoft XP, and Microsoft Vista compatibility Supports 2048 x 1536 maximum analog resolution and 1920 x 1200 maximum digital resolution VGA and DVI ports 1-year warranty period; can be extended to 2 years
What we didn’t like about it
No HDMI port RAM size is small Installation and setup is a bit difficult for Windows XP
8. MaxSun GeForce GT 1030 Graphics Card
MaxSun is another small brand that specializes in developing advanced graphics cards powered by Nvidia and AMD Radeon processors. The brand also sells a premium line of Intel and AMD motherboards. MaxSun’s graphics card is powered by an Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 processor for a powerful gaming performance. Besides, it supports all the most advanced features including GeForce 3D Vision, Nvidia CUDA, G-Sync-ready, PureVideo HD 4K hardware decoding, and GPU Boost 3.0. The graphics card features an ITX size that makes it compatible for any case, irrespective of the size. It is equipped with 2GB GDDR5 RAM with 6000 MHz memory and provides memory speed of up to 1468 MHz. It has an HDMI port and a DVI port that can be used to support dual monitors. The graphics card is equipped with a 9CM fan that not only provides huge airflow and prevents overheating but also does it in a quiet manner. It also features a custom-designed cooler with an 80mm cooling fan and an aluminum heatsink for effective heat dissipation. Plus, it has solid capacitors and silver plated PCB to maintain the temperature and stability. Best Features
Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 processor 2GB GDDR5 RAM 6000 MHz memory and 1468 MHz memory speed Supports advanced Nvidia features Custom-designed cooler HDMI and DVI ports
What we didn’t like about it
Not powerful enough Lacks VGA port
9. Zotac GeForce GT 1030 Graphics Card
Another graphics card from Zotac makes it to our list. This speaks about the versatility and the functionalities of the brands’ products. This graphics card is equipped with an Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 processor that delivers an immersive gaming performance along with flawless photo and video editing workflow. The 2GB GDDR5 RAM along with 6 GHz memory clock and 1468 MHz engine boost provides a powerful boost to the system’s performance. Further, it is equipped with all the latest Nvidia features including Nvidia Pascal Architecture, GeForce Experience, Nvidia GameWorks, and Nvidia GPU Boost 3.0. The graphics card features a low profile design for maximum compatibility with small form factor systems. Plus, it is compatible with Windows 10, 8, and 7 operating systems. The driver updates are easy to access and you can optimize the game with a single click using the GeForce experience. The HDMI and DVI ports allow you to connect and configure a second display. The graphics card requires a 300-watt power supply. Along with the graphics card, you also get a driver disk and quick installation guide. Best Features
Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 processor 2GB GDDR5 RAM 6 GHz memory clock and 1468 MHz engine boost Supports advanced Nvidia features Low profile design HDMI and DVI ports Windows 10, 8, and 7 OS compatibility 300-watt power supply
What we didn’t like about it
Supports 4K only at 30 Hz refresh rate Does not work quietly – fan produces noise
10. VisionTek Radeon 7750 SFF Graphics Card
As mentioned already, VisionTek manufactures a diverse range of PC components and accessories with the most innovative features. This is an advanced graphics card compared to the previous VisionTek’s option on our list. VisionTek’s 7750 SFF graphics card is powered by an AMD Radeon processor for delivering a powerful performance. It uses the award winning GCN architecture with a high speed 1GB DDR3 SDRAM for providing impressive game texture and lighting effects. It is equipped with AMD ZeroCore Power feature that not only makes it super fast but also highly efficient. The graphics card is compatible with Windows 7, Vista, and XP operating systems. The graphics card features an innovative low profile design with a short form factor that makes it compatible with low profile small form factor systems and workstations. The graphics card can also be converted to standard ATX design with the help of the included tall bracket. It is equipped with HDMI, DisplayPort, and mini DisplayPorts to support dual display. Along with the graphics card, you get a tall bracket, HDMI to DVI adapter, setup CD, and installation guide. Best Features
AMD Radeon processor 1GB DDR3 SDRAM GCN architecture and AMD ZeroCore Power feature Windows 7, Vista, and XP OS compatibility Low profile design with a short form factor HDMI, DisplayPort, and mini DisplayPorts
What we didn’t like about it
Needs an adapter to use DisplayPort simultaneously with the two HDMI ports Fan is louder
Features to Check Before Buying the Best Graphics Card Under $200
Aside from the performance, you should also check the durability and if the graphics card is compatible with your computer’s case and operating system. This ensures that you get maximum value for money. Below is the complete list of features you need to check before purchasing the perfect Graphics Card Under $200.
1. Bandwidth
While RAM represents the total memory, the bandwidth refers to the amount of memory the graphics processor can access at any given time. A higher bandwidth runs games and video graphics at a high clarity. The bandwidth of a graphics card is determined by two factors – memory speed and bus width. Memory speed, also known as clock speed, is measured in MHz. It determines the latency, frame rate, and input lag. The graphics card should be able to read at least 64 bits of information at any given time for a decent experience. The bus width multiplies the bandwidth of the graphics card. If the bus width is 64 x 2, the graphics card can read 128 bits of information, instead of 64.
2. Cooling
Just like the motherboard, a graphics card will also generate a lot of heat. The heat output is represented as the TDP value. If the TDP value becomes high, it affects the overall performance of your system. To prevent overheating, the CPU should be equipped with an efficient heat sink with multiple fans. If your system has a large computer tower, then it won’t be a problem. It can accommodate multiple fans to maintain the system temperature. However, if your computer has a small tower case, then you should consider a graphics card with a low TDP value.
3. Design
There are two types of graphics cards – low profile and standard size. A low profile graphics card is smaller in size that makes it perfect for small form factor CPUs. They consume less power. However, the problem with the low profile graphics cards is that they don’t deliver the same performance as compared to the standard graphics card. Furthermore, they feature only a single slot that limits the connectivity options as well. The standard graphics cards are designed only to be used with large computer cases. Plus, you should also consider if the case can accommodate a cooling system, in addition to the graphics card. They consume more energy, but they justify it in terms of the power they deliver in running games and displaying high graphics content. The design also determines how difficult or simple it is to install the graphics card in your system. Some graphics card come with brackets for easy installation.
4. OS Compatibility
The graphics card will not be compatible with all operating systems. So, you will have to check the list of compatible OSes before purchasing a graphics card. While the primary purpose is to get a graphics card compatible with your current OS, a wide range of compatible OSes will increase the versatility of the graphics card.
5. Warranty
The most frequent problem with graphics cards is that they are prone to overheating. While it affects the performance, too much overheating can lead to the complete failure of the graphics card. They are also susceptible to physical damage. Purchasing a graphics card with at least a 1-year warranty period will protect your money incase of product failure. Plus, some brands also offer free extended warranty when you register the graphics card on their official website within 30 days of purchase.
Conclusion:
Still unable to make up your mind? Please check out our favorite picks
Zotac GeForce GT 730 Graphics Card is one of the most powerful options on our list. It is powered by an Nvidia GeForce processor that delivers a powerful performance. Plus, it is equipped with a large RAM size of 4GB DDR3 to further enhance the performance. It features three video output interfaces. PNY Quadro P400 Graphics Card delivers the most impressive image quality. With the latest DisplayPort 1.4 interface, the graphics card supports high resolutions of up to 5K at 60 Hz refresh rate. Plus, it can support 3 4K resolution display devices simultaneously. It is equipped with a 2GB GDDR5 RAM and is powered by an Nvidia Quadro Pascal processor. Asus ATI Radeon HD6450 Graphics Card is the most affordable option on our list. It is powered by an AMD Radeon processor and has 1GB DDR3 SDRAM that boosts your gaming performance. Plus, it has two video output interfaces that support resolutions of up to 1920 x 1080 along with Blu-ray 3D.
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