What Is a Graphics Card?

Most of you would know the PC hardware and have basic information about all major PC components. But we will provide you with profound information to satisfy the question, what is a graphics card? Since this component is one of the essential components that PC builders fit inside the computer. The graphics card, also termed a graphics controller or a graphics adapter, deals with the graphical responsibilities of the computer.

What to know about graphics cards

What does a GPU do, and why are the gamers and content creators going gaga over it? This integral piece of hardware renders all your computer screen’s images and graphics; thus, high-end games benefit the most. The graphics card is pretty much like a mini computer in itself as it has its RAM, a GPU, and a processor that works seamlessly. Why did we mention a GPU? Well, the GPU is a component of the whole graphics card, which we term Graphics Processing Unit. Now we will discuss a bit about the types of GPUs. Following are two of its main types:

• An integrated GPU: This type of GPU is irreplaceable as the manufacturers build it right into the motherboard. You cannot replace it, and it works on the minimalist side. Usually, it does not cost a lot but is not upgradeable either, which is not much of a desirable option for professional gamers who always seek better. These GPUs do not come with memories of their own and rely on the system for such needs. Being soldered on the system already, it can be the go-to option for those who are not into PC building or are beginners who would like to keep things simple. They are physically smaller and slimmer than their counterparts, not to mention they crave lesser power too.

• A discrete GPU: As shown by its name, a discrete GPU is sold separately and not already built inside the system. It has a different architecture as it comes with memory. Thus, it does not require any assistance from the CPU. It takes a lot of load off of the processor. It deals with all graphical tasks using its RAM. That additional memory, known as VRAM, is a true blessing for gamers, content creators, and others with heavy tasks to perform. But it too has its plus points and setbacks. It has all the capabilities of an integrated GPU by default, thus outshines the latter. However, it generates far more heat than an integrated one would do.

A graphics card is one of the most intricately designed pieces of hardware and is a fine entry into the technological world. If you are a gamer, who plays for several uninterrupted hours and aims to win esports titles, getting a graphics card is the best choice you could ever make. This marvelous invention helps the gamers play their favorite game at the highest resolution the system can support. Also, who would like lags or constant buffering while in the middle of a crucial gaming session?

The item helps in that aspect and provides faster frame rates. Apart from helping the rig out in basic gaming, a graphics controller also offers several modern technologies so the users can enjoy the PC using experience afresh. Raytracing is one of those latest and widely-acclaimed technologies. Not all graphics cards offer this technology yet, but the massive acceptance shows that it will soon be in every system.

When a sturdy graphics adaptor is a part of your computer, you do not need to worry about your processor getting exhausted. The GPU shares much of the burden that the CPU would have been dealing with otherwise. Even if your rig is not for gaming purposes, you should look for other factors that may help you choose whether or not to go for it. PC users who perform intense tasks like video editing or animation must not deny the importance of this hardware.

Types of graphics cards

If the query what is a graphics card is answered, let’s move on to its types. When purchasing a component for the rig you’ve been building zealously, you must be aware of the factors you need to consider. You must keep that item’s budget, modern features, and top manufacturers. These days, two companies lead the technical market; AMD and NVIDIA. Any graphics card you find in a PC around you must be a product of these two brands as people trust them massively.

So this point makes things far easier because an AMD GPU would work almost the same no matter which manufacturer you purchase it from, and the same goes for NVIDIA. A similar underlying architecture would make an RTX 3080 bought from any manufacturer work almost the same way. That is why the user needs to opt for a card from one of the top two companies first and then move on to the manufacturing companies.

However, choosing a GPU depends mainly on personal preferences, as both companies have pros and cons. NVIDIA provides state-of-the-art products with the latest technologies and high-end features. Meanwhile, AMD, on the other hand, offers top-notch products to mediocre ones, so every type of user gets to choose what he pleases. Generally, the masses consider AMD a budget-oriented option, while NVIDIA is a fierce competitor.

Applications for graphics cards

The graphics adapter is, by all means, the most complex part of the PC after the processor. As we have already said, it comes with all the main components of a PC itself; thus, the processing power is utterly impressive. The gamers benefit the most from the class-leading technologies. The professional video editors, animators, and computational photographers also seem to enjoy it since the sturdy thing does wonders with all sorts of graphics. Sometimes, they work far more than expected, just like in non-graphical processes like Cryptocurrency mining. The more you dig into it, you will be equally amazed by the ideas like real-time raytracing and dealing with artificial intelligence.