Today we take a look at the best AMD graphics cards on the market. The graphics card of a computer is the electronic element enabling it to display images and animations. It is, therefore, a central element for video games. In this comparison, we present to you the selection of the best products based on the information we have gathered in the opinions and tests of users. You want to know more? So read on.
What types of graphics cards are there?
The AMD graphics card
AMD graphics cards are entry-level or mid-range products providing a good compromise between display quality and price. On the other hand, they offer fewer onboard technologies than the direct competitor: NVIDIA.
NVIDIA graphics card
Having dominated the market (as the only manufacturer) for years, NVIDIA continues to distinguish itself today with very high quality graphics cards. The cards from this manufacturer offer a host of technologies, each more useful than the last. Due to their high price, they are more intended for professionals or those who invest in gaming.
The Best AMD Graphics Cards
In this next part, you can discover the graphics cards that have made users happy.
1. XFX RX570RS XXXEdition Radeon 8GB
To start in style, we bring you an AMD graphics card with dual fans providing an excellent value. As a result, it is found among the best in customer reviews and tests.
Produced by the XFX brand, this graphics card belongs to the AMD family. It displays a processor frequency of 1286 MHz. Regarding the maximum resolution, it reaches 4096 x 2160 pixels here.
The bus memory for its part amounts to 256 bits. Designed for use on a PC, with this product, you have an HDMI port for your connections. Add to that the manufacturer’s 2-year warranty, and you have one of the best AMD graphics cards of the year.
Advantages:
- Very good cooling system.
- Easy installation.
- Integrates beautifully with Windows.
- Excellent value.
Disadvantages:
- Quite noisy when running at full speed, according to tests and reviews.
2. XFX RX550P4SFG5 AMD Graphics Card
Looking for power at a low price? You just found it! With its price tag of just over $100, here you have a high-quality AMD graphics card that will do the job.Â
This card has 4 GB of GDDR5 memory, enough to run most of your games. As it is also compatible with 4K, you will enjoy your games in the best conditions. The whole thing is also supported by a factory overclock at 1203 MHz.
Clocked at 7 GB, you have a very powerful little graphics card. The manufacturer also automatically offers you a 3-year warranty on this product. Another proof of the confidence he places in his product.
Advantages:
- Excellent value for money once again.
- Little noisy.
- Very powerful for its price.
Disadvantages:
- The installed drivers are obsolete based on tests and reviews. You will therefore need to download the latest drivers before using it.
3. MSI RX 570 Armor 8G OC Graphics Card AMD
If you work or play in Linux, you are certainly struggling to find a compatible AMD graphics card. This is why we have decided to present one to you in this comparison. As a result, this model from the Armor brand is compatible both on Windows and Linux.Â
This card offers no less than 8 GB of RAM and a processor frequency of 1268 MHz. You also have several ports for your connections, including an HDMI, 1 DVI-D, 3 Display Ports, and of course PCI Express. The dual fan system is also well designed and provides good graphics card cooling when needed.
This product also benefits from a factory warranty. In this case, the latter extends over two years. So you can go there with confidence, knowing that you are covered if something goes wrong.
Advantages:
- Low power consumption.
- One of the best value for money on the market.
Disadvantages:
- Quite noisy from 50% use based on several tests and reviews.
4. Sapphire 11265-09-20G AMD Graphics Card
The last product in this comparison pushes up the price range slightly. But we remain reasonable, especially for the quality you get in exchange! Let’s take a closer look.
With its 4 GB of RAM and clock frequency of 1257 MHz, you have a powerful graphics card perfectly suited for HD video games. You will find the HDMI (2 in this case) and DVI ports to connect your card.
The card is equipped with two fans for cooling. The latter is also perfectly adjusted and does not trigger without reason (when you do office automation, for example). The manufacturer once again offers a guarantee, this time for 3 years. So don’t be afraid to give it a try.
Advantages:
- Incredible graphics at a low price.
- Suitable for multi-screen.
- Low power consumption.
Disadvantages:
- Still, a lot of noise when the fans are on.
The criteria for buying an AMD graphics card
Use
AMD cards are entry-level or mid-range products. They will then be able to run video games, even the most recent, but not necessarily with the most advanced graphics settings. That is why you must take into account your use for your purchase. If you only need a graphics card for watching videos or playing small games, you don’t have to invest all your money. On the other hand, if you are looking for graphics performance, don’t hesitate to pay the price.
CompatibilityÂ
Another very important criterion to take into account when buying a graphics card. Not all cards will be compatible with all computers, nor with all operating systems. If you’re on Windows with a newer computer, you shouldn’t have major compatibility issues. On the other hand, under Mac or Linux, the problem is complicated a little. Unfortunately, fewer manufacturers are venturing to supply quality graphics cards for gaming on these machines.
The cooling system
Video games are very resource-intensive for your machine. The more demanding the game, the faster and harder your graphics card will heat up. To prevent overheating and damaging the card, it is equipped with fans that allow it to cool. So you need to make sure there is enough cooling for the games you plan to run.Â
Alternatives to an AMD graphics card
As we have seen, the alternative of these products is NVIDIA graphics cards. The latter cost much more to purchase. On the other hand, they are also more powerful and offer many onboard technologies that greatly improve your gaming experience.
FAQ
Do I have to install the drivers when I receive an AMD graphics card?
This is strongly advised. Manufacturers regularly update their card drivers to improve their performance. If you receive your product and an older version of the driver is installed, you may experience performance issues. It is even possible that the card does not work at all. So avoid that and just download the drivers from the official website of the manufacturer.
What is an AMD graphics card used for?
A computer’s graphics card is the electronic component that enables it to display images and animations. It is, therefore, the central component for everything that is video games.Â
Can the latest games be played with an AMD graphics card?
In theory, yes, the latest AMD cards are capable of running the latest games. On the other hand, you certainly won’t have the quality of an NVIDIA, which offers much finer graphics with impressive levels of detail.
How much does an AMD graphics card cost?
For these graphics cards, there are entry-level around $80/100. When it comes to the highest prices, AMDs rarely exceed $500.Â