Part 3: Graphics Cards (GPUs)

The GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) handles everything you see on screen. It renders games, accelerates video editing, and powers creative applications.

Not everyone needs a dedicated graphics card, but for gaming - it's essential.

Do You Need a GPU?

You DON'T need a dedicated GPU if:

• ✓ Basic web browsing and office work
• ✓ Watching videos (YouTube, Netflix)
• ✓ Light photo editing
• → Use your CPU's integrated graphics (save $300+!)

You DO need a GPU if:

• ✗ Gaming at modern settings
• ✗ Video editing with effects
• ✗ 3D modeling or rendering
• ✗ Running multiple monitors (more than 2-3)

Understanding GPU Basics

• VRAM (Video Memory): Stores textures and game assets
  • 8GB: Good for 1080p gaming
  • 12GB: Great for 1440p gaming
  • 16GB+: 4K gaming and professional work
• Ray Tracing: Makes lighting look realistic
  • Newer feature that looks amazing
  • Costs performance (lower FPS)
  • Nice to have but not essential
• DLSS/FSR: AI upscaling for better performance
  • NVIDIA has DLSS (only on NVIDIA cards)
  • AMD has FSR (works on most cards)
  • Can boost FPS by 30-50%!

NVIDIA vs AMD

NVIDIA (RTX 4000 series):

• Better ray tracing
• DLSS is superior to FSR
• More expensive
• Higher power consumption

AMD (RX 7000 series):

• Better value for money
• More VRAM for the price
• Great performance without ray tracing
• Lower power consumption

For most people: AMD offers better value

Which GPU Do You Need?

Match GPU to your monitor resolution:

1080p Gaming (1920x1080):

• 8GB VRAM minimum
• Budget: RTX 4060 ($300) or RX 7600 ($270)
• 60+ fps in AAA games

1440p Gaming (2560x1440):

• 12GB VRAM recommended
• Mid-range: RX 7800 XT ($500) or RTX 4070 ($600)
• 80-100+ fps in most games
• Our recommendation below ↓

4K Gaming (3840x2160):

• 16GB+ VRAM recommended
• High-end: RTX 4080 ($1000+) or RX 7900 XTX ($900)
• 60+ fps at 4K

Our Recommendation

For 1440p gaming and great value:

AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT Check Price on Amazon

Why we love it:

• 16GB VRAM (future-proof!)
• Excellent 1440p performance
• 80-100+ fps in most games
• Good for content creation too
• Great value at ~$500

This GPU handles modern games beautifully at 1440p and will last for years.

Power and Size Considerations

GPUs need serious power:

RX 7800 XT requires:

• 700W power supply minimum
• 750W recommended (our Corsair RM750x is perfect!)
• Two 8-pin PCIe power connectors

Physical Size:

• Modern GPUs are BIG (often 12+ inches long)
• Check your case supports GPU length
• PCPartPicker will warn you if there's a problem

Common Mistakes

• ❌ Underpowered PSU - GPU won't work properly
• ❌ GPU too long for case - Won't physically fit
• ❌ Plugging monitor into motherboard - Use GPU ports!
• ❌ Not enough VRAM - Causes stuttering in games

Summary

• GPU essential for gaming, not for basic tasks
• Match GPU to your monitor resolution
• RX 7800 XT perfect for 1440p gaming
• Needs 750W power supply
• Verify size fits your case

Next: Part 4 - Storage →

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