You might not need to invest in a dedicated graphics card if your PC activities are limited to video streaming, web browsing, and similar tasks—especially if your CPU comes with integrated graphics.
However, for high-end activities like 3D rendering, gaming, and more, a discrete graphics card becomes essential.
Who needs a GPU?
It is a misconception that only gamers need GPUs. If you have spare time, you can even locate the best graphics card(s) for non-gamers.
But before you go on a search spree, let us quickly list out the type of folks/tasks that would require a GPU.
Gaming
Imagine trying to run these high-octane games on anything less than a top-tier GPU—it’s like entering a Formula 1 race with a go-kart. Sure, you’re on the track, but you’re not exactly competing.
If you are a gamer, investing in a discrete video card is almost a must.
Top-tier games like “Red Dead Redemption 2” and “Cyberpunk 2077” demand the high performance that NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX and GTX graphics card variants provide.
These cards excel at managing complex lighting and detailed environments, all while delivering the smoothest frame rates possible.
Professional Use
Professionals involved in tasks like 3D modeling, video editing, and more can also rely on dedicated graphics cards.
Some of the go-to software solutions in this regard include Adobe Premiere for video editing, Adobe Photoshop, and more. GPUs, in this regard, come in handy for handling visual tasks and speeding rendering.
As for the best graphics card for non-gamers, I would recommend the Quadro RTX 4000 from NVIDIA or something similar.
Emerging Tech
For handling emerging tech tasks, including the likes of AI and ML modeling or something else, you might also need to rely on dedicated video cards.
Looking for the best options? Well, The NVIDIA Tesla V100 is a solid choice for these kinds of jobs. It’s built to handle large data sets and multitasking efficiently.
Because let’s face it, trying to do AI without a good GPU is like trying to stream 4K video on dial-up. Not happening, chief.
Future-proofing
When building a PC setup to last for years, choosing the right GPU is crucial once you’ve settled on a processor. Opt for a GPU with a solid number of CUDA cores, RT cores, and tensor cores to stay ahead.
If you’re looking for an alternative to NVIDIA, consider the AMD Radeon RX 6900 XT—a reliable choice that’s built to last.
Because when you’re future-proofing, you’re not just buying a GPU. You’re buying peace of mind. And who doesn’t want to avoid the tech equivalent of ‘Oh no, it’s outdated already?’
Who doesn’t need a GPU?
Does a PC need a GPU in every given situation? Well, the easy answer is yes. But there might be scenarios when you do not need to cut corners and start saving for a dedicated graphics card.
Everyday Computing
Let’s be real.
Nobody needs a jet just to go grocery shopping. Similarly, your daily computer tasks probably don’t need the horsepower of a high-end GPU.
However, if you’re the type to go full cinema mode with high-resolution movies, the integrated graphics might start sweating. Sometimes, you just need that extra oomph.
Casual Gaming
Do you need a GPU to run a PC, especially for gaming? No, you can certainly manage some light gaming with an integrated GPU, especially if you have the latest Intel or AMD processor. This setup is fine for less demanding games.
Think casual Friday but for gaming. Titles like Minecraft and The Sims 4 don’t require you to bring out the big guns.
So, if your gaming taste doesn’t venture beyond the gentle hills of casual games, save your pennies—no need for a fancy GPU.
The basics do the job just fine.
Basic Photo Editing
For basic tasks like resizing images or applying simple filters, an integrated GPU will serve you well.
These aren’t heavy-duty tasks, so the CPU’s integrated graphics should suffice.
Just keep in mind, that as your editing ambitions grow, so might your waiting times. a computer without a graphics card might feel like you’re waiting in line at the DMV—slow and frustrating.
Cost and Power Considerations
If you’re assembling your first rig and budget is a priority, you might consider skipping the dedicated graphics card.
A processor with good integrated graphics, like the Intel Xe, can handle many tasks adequately.
Plus, no dedicated GPU means lower power requirements, that’s a happier wallet and lower electric bill.
And hey, less complexity under the hood means fewer things that could go wrong.
