Though a powerful GPU will help you enjoy the ultimate gaming. In addition to the budget, when choosing the graphics card, you should also consider other essential factors such as compatibility and onboard video memory. If you are tight on budget and need the best graphics card under 100, then you have absolutely come to the right place. To make sure you get some of the most excellent GPUs in your limited budget, I have reviewed the best graphics cards to let you play games smoothly. These graphics cards will not trouble your PC gaming performance. I understand the fact that not everyone can afford a mid-range or high-range graphics cards, but I made sure you get the best option available on the market in your budget. Let’s Begin!
Best Graphics Card Under 100 Comparison Chart
Best Graphics Card Under 100
#1- Gigabyte GeForce GT 1030 (Editor’s Choice)
Gigabyte GeForce GT 1030 is a low profile GPU under $100. I cannot consider it the most powerful unit, though it’s good enough for casual gamers and users who often work with 3D modeling applications. The graphics card comes with 2 GB of RAM and lets you play diverse games in high settings.
RAM: 2GB GDDR5 Cooling System: Silent Clock Speed: 1468Mhz Base Clock: 1228 MHz Memory Clock: 1502 MHz, 6008 MHz effective Ports DVI-D and HDMI Low profile design with 150 mm card length Dimensions: 0.58 x 2.71 x 5.9 in
Work impressively in eSports and DirectX9/11-based games Remarkably low 30W TDP Reasonably priced Single-slot or low profile form factor Power-friendly architecture
Imprints AMD’s Radeon RX 550 in DX12 games
It gives an optimal performance, particularly with games that are not much graphically advanced. Yet, it still manages to play recent releases on moderate settings without overheating. To prevent excessive heating, Gigabyte GeForce GT 1030 has an included fan and a heatsink. This combination operates silently. You can smoothly play your favorite game without hearing any unwanted buzz or sound. Further, it is equipped with AORUS that lets you overclock it with just a single click. The clock works relatively quickly and comes with a base speed of 1468Mhz. AORUS let you overclock it to 1506Mhz. It operates at an adequate speed to perform optimally and, at the same time, rending the hottest titles.
#2- MSI Gaming GeForce GT 710 (Best Budget)
This graphics card from MSI is certainly one of the finest budget GPUs on this list. It uses a GeForce GT 710 chip to let you manage the requirements of more serious gamers. I would recommend this graphics card for relatively lighter games and more for entertainment purposes where it comes economical and as a potent performer. This graphics card houses the GP108 die founded on the Nvidia Pascal architecture, which packs approximately 1,800 million transistors. The top-notch in-built interface lets you adjust the voltage, clock speediness, fan performance, and power board in real-time, primarily depending on your gaming needs. It perhaps clocks just a little bit slower compared to its bigger desktop-grade sibling.
Maximum Resolution on HDMI: 4096 x 2160 Base Clock: 954 Mhz DDR3 Memory: 2GB Chip: GT 710 Fan: Single Clock Speed: 1600Mhz Ports: Ports Display Port, HDMI, and DVI-Dual Link CUDA Cores: 192 PCI Express 2.0 x16 Dimensions: 5.75 x 0.75 x 2.72 in
Support in-game video recording Compatible with built-in DX12 effect test Low profile design saves more space Offers great environment for gaming and multimedia Large heat sink covers memory and GPU Low temperature and high efficiency
The card needs a power supply of a minimum of 300 watts
Though the 710 chip is an older model and is not advanced as the recent units, still powerful enough to handle many demanding titles with a reasonable graphics setting. The speed of the processor assists this graphics card to make the best out of its chip. It comes with a standard 2GB RAM setup and is sufficient enough to play most games smoothly. In addition to being an inexpensive option, MSI has made the most out of reasonably priced components. The GT 710 performs exceptionally as a major graphics card for beginners. Also, it’s a secondary card to help advanced gamers boost their systems to some extent.
#3- XFX RX 550 (Best Cooling)
RX 550 is the beginning point of the RX series of AMD. The graphics card is centered on the Polaris architecture. It is specially designed for gamers who are tight on budget. The MSI GeForce GT 710 comes with a big step in capabilities in comparison to most inbuilt graphics solutions and approximately 10 times faster. Effective performance with multi-monitor capabilities for up to three HD displays. In addition to playing games, you can watch movies, edit photos using advanced software and much more. Also, it’s suitable for small computer casings. Highly recommend it!
Memory: 2GB Gddr5 Memory Interface: 128-bit Core Clock: 1203Mhz Architecture: Polaris DirectX: 12 Interface Type: PCI Express 3.0 Max Resolution: 4096 x 2160 Outputs: 1x HDMI, 1x DVI-I, and 1x DP Stream Processors: 512 Process Technology: 14 nm
Contemporary ecosystem and media features Operates cool and quiet Great e-sports performance Offers value to home theatre PC owners Future-Proof Features No auxiliary power connector
Does not come with small form factor versions
If you want to invest, let’s say $300 in gaming PC that can operate games at 1080p, your dream can still come true. In less than $100, this card is what a gaming build requires. XFX RX 550 is available in two versions, including 2GB and 4GB. The latter is relatively expensive. Though I do not recommend you go for a 4GB version since you can buy better graphics card at this price such as RX 560. The 2GB version of this card is perfect for users who are looking forward to starting gaming at 1080p. If you don’t mind mid-range settings, this GPU is the best to opt for. XFX RX 550 doesn’t come with a PCI connector and subsequently draws the power from the motherboard PCI-Ex16 slot. It will make your PC work more efficiently and keep your expenses lower without requiring a heft power supply. You can operate the card on a cheap power supply conveniently, though I recommend you to go at least with a 400 Watts power supply from a cooler master or EVGA. The card operates on a 128-bit memory interface and is equipped with a core clock above 1100Mhz. Also, it can be overclocked above 1200MHz.
#4- EVGA GeForce GT 740 (Best Premium)
EVGA GeForce GT 740 is a better and advanced version of the GeForce GT 730 graphics card. This graphics card work quite effectively than GT 730. This graphics card is equipped with 384 Cuda cores and offers reasonable performance. XFX RX 550 runs almost all the recent games on medium settings at 1080p with 30-40fps. Though it is also capable of running games on medium-high settings with 40+ fps such as Fortnite and GTA V. This graphics card is not designed for intensive graphical games like Mass Effect or The Witcher 3. Still, it is compatible with 1080p medium settings with consistent 30+fps or even more. If you have a limited budget, you will surely don’t mind playing at 40fps on medium settings.
CUDA Cores: 384 GPU Clock: 1085 MHz Memory Clock: 5000 MHz Memory Size: 2GB / 4GB GDDR5 Memory Interface: 128-bit Bus Interface PCI Express 3.0, DirectX 12, OpenGL4.4 Output Ports: DVI-I, DVI-D, Mini-HDMI Screen Resolution: 4096 x 2160
Durable build quality Minimal heat generation Optimal power consumption Offers great value for money
Not a good option for high-end games
The GDDR5 memory of GT 740 comes with a 128-bit memory interface. This results in higher memory bandwidth and eventually enhanced performance. EVGA GeForce GT 740 is centered on Nvidia’s Kepler Architecture, which is somewhat older considering the Maxwell and Pascal Architecture that have launched recently. The only slight drawback about this graphics card is that it uses a bit more power compared to the previous version, the GT 720, and needs a 400W PSU. Further, this graphics card comes with 2GB & 4GB GDDR5 RAM. Again the 2GB version will cost you under $100 while the 4GB is relatively expensive.
#5- ViewMax GeForce GT 740 (High Performance)
When it comes to playing games, the ViewMax GeForce GT 740 is definitely one of the best graphics cards under $100. It is equipped with 4GB of GDDR3 RAM and has a memory clock that runs at 1600Mhz. EVGA GeForce GT 740 comes with a high GPU core and memory frequencies compared to an average design. It let you play games such as CS Go or GTA5 on medium or medium-high settings at higher resolutions. Also, the graphics card includes dual DVI and HDMI ports as display connectivity choices. Overall, if you are looking forward to a GPU that has better performance than GT 730, you should perhaps go with EVGA 740.
Interface: PCI Express 3.0 x16 Chipset Manufacturer: NVIDIA Core Clock: 1059 MHz Boost Clock: 1250 MHz Stream Processors and CUDA Cores: 384 Memory Size: 2GB Memory Interface: 128-Bit Ports: 1 x HDMI, Multi-Monitor Support, 1 x DVI Max Resolution: 4096 x 2160 Operating Systems Supported Dual-Link DVI Supported
4K Full Quad HD resolution production 3K Output over DVI Supports dual display Great audio
Somewhat more expensive
It won’t complete with an Nvidia Titan, but adequate for beginners who can save some bucks without being restricted to older games. ViewMax GeForce GT 740 is equipped with a multi-core GPU that operates extremely cool. The fans are relatively advanced for something that costs even less than $100. Furthermore, it requires only 65 watts of power to operate the GPU and the cooling system. This means you will require a 400-watt power supply. To make the package even more attractive, it comes with the totality of Nvidia’s performance software along with Lossless audio. The performance software makes it compete with high-end models which makes this unit an excellent budget-friendly option.
#6- ZOTAC GeForce GT 730 Zone Edition (Very Quiet)
The ZOTAC GeForce GT 730 Zone Edition is among the leading gaming graphics card under $100, and that’s primarily because of Nvidia chip. The GT 730 is impressive enough since the time it was launched. You should certainly trust ViewMax GeForce GT 740 for many reasons. One major reason behind its super-quality performance is its NVIDIA chipset that allows tremendous lag-free performance to serve you in the long run. The admirable 4GB RAM is completely compatible with the recent OpenGL and DirectX. Besides, it supports 4K Full Quad HD resolution. Overall, the popular graphics card is equipped with advanced specifications, which means the hardware will not get out of date anytime soon.
Core Clock: 902 MHz Compatible: 1 x DL-DVI 1 x HDMI CUDA Cores: 384 PCI Express 2.0 Memory speed: 1,600 MHz Memory: 4GB DDR3 Interface: PCI-E
High-quality build components Use advanced technology Convenient to install Come with high-end features Operate silently
Some users complain about its life span
It might not be able to handle the latest titles on the highest settings, but it does provide several benefits over other budget-friendly graphics cards. Moreover, this graphics card is equipped with 4GB of RAM, and its two times more than preceding models. The additional RAM makes sure that the GT 730 outdo almost any other graphics card in terms of high speed and rendering complicated models and images. The ZOTAC GeForce GT 730 Zone Edition is typically an upgrade to the MSI 710 and costs slightly more expensive. If you aren’t concerned about investing a little more money, this one is the best card you can get at this price point. It won’t disappoint you!
How To Choose The Best Graphics Card Under 100?
#1- V-RAM
VRAM is the specific memory that differs from the major system RAM and is only devoted to providing the horsepower that the graphics require. Every GPU has some dedicated VRAM which is frequently found in today’s graphics cards that vary from 1GB up to 16GB. With ZOTAC GeForce GT 730 Zone Edition, you can easily get drivers and optimize game settings with just a click using the GeForce experience. Featuring a selection of NVIDIA innovations such as adaptive vertical sync and FXAA Anti-aliasing mode, it will surely give you an experience that will elevate your game. Now enjoy all pictures and videos in HD with this super graphics card. Equipped with 2GB of DDR3 RAM, the model provides quick video editing, photo editing, and web browsing than other inbuilt graphics. The graphics card comes with low profile design and is configured with an all-inclusive features set. The package includes two low profile brackets for quick integration into HTPC and small form factor system. Lastly, the passive cooling solution allows peaceful computing experience. Impressive Though! If you want to play games on higher settings at 1080p, you need to have approximately 3-4GB VRAM on your graphics card. If you go beneath that, you might have to lower down some settings in your games to achieve good frames per second. On the other hand, if you are looking forward to anti-aliasing, maximum textures, shadows, etc. in the AAA games, you will require at least 6GB of VRAM for the high-end graphics cards. Though it will cost you more than $100. Currently, there aren’t any games that use more than this except in the case of high resolution such as 4K.
#2- Cooling
Low profile graphics cards come with small heatsinks. Though it is not effective enough in maintaining better temperatures if you overclock them. On the contrary, the graphics card with bigger aluminum heatsinks with copper heat pipes and equipped with two or more fans are practically useful for maintaining appropriate temperature even when overclocking to the full potential. If you are not involved in any type of overclocking, you should still be sure that your PC framework has adequate ventilation for enhanced air intake and exhaust.
#3- Power Supply
Different graphics cards come with various TCP and subsequently, their power usage varies. Remember to check the graphics card’s TDB before purchasing it. Make sure the power supply is equipped with sufficient wattage capacity to operate the entire system without any bottleneck. A system using low-end or budget elements will encounter no issues in operating on a 400 watts’ reliable power supply. Though in the case of operating multiple fans, multiple storage devices, RTX 2080 Ti, i7 9700K and AIO coolers, you will require a higher wattage power supply. Be sure to go through the TDP of all the components and check whether PSU has adequate wattage capacity to power your GPU.
#4- Clock Speeds
Clock speed typically comes in two variations. The memory clock speed is how quickly the VRAM can transfer information. On the other hand, GPU clock speed figures out how quickly the graphics card cores can process information. It’s better to go with the quick clock speeds to make the graphics card run smoothly. A reliable graphics card under 100 should feature a clock that operates around 1200Mhz at least. This is commonly quick enough to process gaming information. Also, it’s more than enough if you want to watch your favorite Netflix seasons and movies.
#5- Ports
Another important factor to consider is the graphics card power ports. Make sure the power supply has power connectors that your GPU requires. A graphics card with a 6-pin port will primarily use a 6-pin power connector from the power supply. Typically, most budget power supplies in modern times have a 6-pin power connector at the least. If your graphics card features 2x 8-pin power ports, your PSU should have those run operate the graphics card with improved stability. Ports are not as important as the main hardware used in the graphics card, still, it’s important to consider. They figure out how you can connect the graphics card to your PC. The most frequent ports are Display Ports and HDMI, and I recommend getting a graphics card that comes with both. DVI-Dual Link is also very common, and VGA is still being used by certain graphics cards. Many ports typically mean that you have multiple options with your graphics card. Though it’s not always important if you exactly know what ports you will be using. If you know what you are searching for, you can get an economical unit that only comes with the ports you require and save a lot of bucks. Its commonly not something that figures out whether you should or not buy a specific graphics card, but it truly comes in handy. If you have selected two similar cards, the only difference is an additional port that you might not need. Go for a cheaper option and save some of your precious money.
#6- Profile
Cases are specifically designed to hold a graphics card that fits into a certain size range. Make sure to consider the caus before buying a graphics card. Some cards are designed as low-profile and they can only fit into cases that are made to safely hold their small frame. Keep in mind that large graphics cards don’t fit into cases that are designed for low-profile cards. Take out some time to measure your case’s graphics card before you buy a certain card. You can also refer to a card’s listed dimensions to figure out if it fits well. No matter what you do, simply don’t let your graphics card accidentally flop around in your case just because you bought one that doesn’t appropriately fit into the graphics card slot. Also, it will result in the loss of your precious money.
#7- Size And Connectivity: Compatibility Is Necessary
When looking forward to buying the best graphics card under 100 for your gaming, remember size and compatibility are some of the important factors to consider. Firstly, you should see that your case is big enough to accommodate the graphics card of your choice, as I have discussed above. If you have a small PC case such as micro-ATX, a bigger graphics card with several fans and heavy heatsink won’t do the job perfectly done. On the other hand, if owning a large full-tower PC case, fitting a big graphics card won’t be an issue. You might be able to fit several graphics cards in your case if it’s big enough.
#8- Memory And Bandwidth: Speedy Performance
Memory and bandwidth are important considerations to look for when buying a graphics card for gaming. When it comes to memory, you should choose a card with at least 4GB of RAM for gaming at 1080p. You will require more if you want to do gaming at ultra-high resolutions such as 4K. Likewise, for bandwidth, I suggest GDDR5 memory as it offers better performance than GDDR3. Even 1GB GDDR5 works better than 4GB GDDR3 in terms of inclusive performance.
#9- Motherboard
While planning to install the graphics card to your system, make sure that the computer’s motherboard features an accessible PCIe x16 slot. If you need several GPUs, your PC motherboard should be armed with the essential PCIe slots. If you are unsure about choosing the best GPUs without ending up wasting your hard-earned money, you can consider the top picks. Further, to make a better choice you should be familiar with the fundamental aspects of GPUs. Don’t forget to go through the above factors and budget-friendly GPUs and make your way to building the optimal budget gaming PC.
Question 1: Is 2GB Graphics Card Enough for Gaming?
The graphic card memory directly influences the resolution at which you can run the game smoothly. Typically speaking, if you want to play gaming at 1080p, a 2GB of memory is a minimum requirement. Though 4GB is better for advanced games.
Question 2: What is the best low budget GPU?
The best low budget graphics card should come with at least 2GB of RAM so you can play multiple games in high settings, edit photos or videos on high-end software, and performing other computing functions. I would recommend XFX RX 550 graphics card to help with major operations without affects the graphics of the display or slow down the performance of your system.
Question 3: What is the best graphics card under 100?
If you are tight on budget, you can still find some best GPUs under 100. I would recommend MSI Gaming GeForce GT 710 and Gigabyte GeForce GT 1030 to do the job perfectly done from mid-range gaming to watching your favorite movies and other essential functioning. Though make sure to consider RAM, compatibility, clock speed, and overall profile.
