Yes, a PC does require a graphics card, even if you don’t game. GPU helps render visuals, images, animations, and videos. It also works in tandem with the CPU to process different tasks.
But then, most CPUs available today have a GPU within. Now the question remains, does your PC need a dedicated GPU, or is the integrated GPU just fine? Well, you don’t need a discrete GPU unless you deal with graphics-intensive activities such as video editing, 3D modeling, animation, and gaming!
With that out of the way, I shall now deep dive into the world of GPU use cases, purposes that need a dedicated graphics card, when you can avoid splurging and stick to the integrated variant, and more.
Contents
Does a PC Need a Graphics Card?
The short answer to the question above is yes; a PC must have a graphics card. But the short answer doesn’t always cut it for a critical user.
Firstly, an integrated GPU would work just fine if you are only planning to build a PC for standard office work — typing, data entry, and more.
However, heavy graphics-hungry activities require a bit more firepower and won’t be good with an integrated GPU. But before I discuss the use cases, let us understand how and where the integrated and discrete GPUs differ:
The built-in graphics card is more of a processor-adhering component, usually a part of low-end and even some mid-range builds. Some examples of Integrated GPUs include Intel’s UHD or Iris Xe lineups or AMD’s Radeon Vega lineup.
The integrated GPUs make a good case if you are only interested in basic HD video streaming, web browsing, content writing, and other productivity-specific tasks that do not require a lot of separate processing firepower.
Dedicated or rather discrete GPUs fit into specialized motherboard slots. Their chips come separately from the processor and cater to a wide range of use cases and users. Depending on your PC building purpose, you can also choose between budget-specific, mid-range, and premium variants.
Some of the more popular examples include the GeForce RTX 3060 from NVIDIA or even the much-advanced RTX 3090, meant for the advanced gaming and professional clientele.
Still, these are some of the more high-end options. In case you are looking for some cost-effective picks, Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super and AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT make the cut to the list of popular.
While these are some of the differences, the list doesn’t end here. Integrated GPUs are more power-efficient and require less overwhelming cooling resources. However, they cannot be upgraded without replacing the entire processor-motherboard setup.
Another crucial distinction is how they use memory. Integrated GPUs piggyback on the system RAM and therefore aren’t as effective.
Dedicated GPUs come with their own memory or VRAM for handling graphics-intensive tasks. And finally, a dedicated GPU offers much better multi-monitor and graphics output support, making sense to video editors and other professionals.
Now that I have mentioned the most obvious differences between integrated and dedicated GPUs, here are the use cases that make sense for the latter.
Yet, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all GPU for every high-end requirement. From gaming to rendering engineering models, there are quite a few discrete GPU variants to pick from. I shall discuss each use case and the relevant GPU (s) in a bit.
Tasks That Need Discrete GPUs
While I did mention a few use cases or, rather, tasks that are better handled using discrete GPUs, I shall now add a few more and discuss each at length.
1. Gaming
Everybody thinks of gaming the moment the mention of a dedicated GPU comes up. Having a dedicated or discrete graphics processing unit helps with smoother and faster graphics rendering. Plus, you get better frame rates — provided the monitor permits the same.
With a powerful GPU, it is easier to get hold of more processing capabilities as there is much more VRAM (Video RAM) to use. The right GPU for a gaming PC can handle game-specific shaders, textures, and graphics.
When it comes to picking a GPU according to the level, it is your gaming prowess and expectations that count. For instance, if you like playing games in 1080p, preferably in a medium to high settings, a mid-range RTX 3060 makes sense.
For 4K or even 1440p games at ultra or high settings, you can opt for the likes of GeForce RTX 4090 from Nvidia or the AMD Radeon RX 6950 XT. Coming to the games, the basic options that can work with the likes of GTX 16-series or even the Radeon RX 6600 GPUs include Overwatch, Fortnite, or even Apex Legends.
The more advanced games, including the likes of Cyberpunk 2077, and Red Dead Redemption, respond the best to the likes of the Radeon RX 6800 XT or some of the other GPUs that I already discussed.
Even if you get the right GPU for seamless and optimal gaming performance, you would need to take care of a few other things. These include a powerful processor, a minimum of 16GB RAM, fast storage, a gaming-specific monitor with a refresh rate of 144Hz or higher, a good CPU cooler, and a reliable PSU.
2. Video Editing
As a video editor, you would need a dedicated GPU to handle tasks related to color grading, effects management, rendering, and more. The more powerful the graphics card is, the better the performance concerning video playback, render times, and handling multiple video streams.
Professionals who regularly use the likes of DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Pro, and similar apps can be benefitted using dedicated GPUs.
As far as the choice of GPU is concerned, anything basic to mid-range, including exposure to apps like Edius Pro, Final Cut Pro X, and more can work really well with the likes of RTX 3060 or even the Radeon RX 6700 XT.
But then, advanced editing needs that deal with 4K or even 8K footage, are better handled by the likes of RTX 3080, Radeon RX 6800 XT, and similar GPUs.
In case you are more interested in matching GPUs with the type of applications, Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer, and more are the ones that might need the highest level of GPUs.
You would also need to focus on choosing the right CPU, preferably anything equal to or above the Core i7 category, at least 16GB of RAM, a faster storage module, preferably an SSD, a high-res monitor, and other top-notch components to achieve optimal professional performances.
3. Streaming
If you are an inexperienced streamer, you should make it a point to invest in a good GPU while assembling the PC. A potent graphics processing unit would help streamers handle video encoding better.
Additionally, the frame drops reduce considerably, and the streaming experience remains consistent for the viewers.
The choice of GPU would depend on the streaming apps you use. Basic and mid-range apps like Twitch Studio, ShadowPlay from Nvidia, Lightstream Studio, and more respond well to mid-range GPUs like the GTX 1660 from Nvidia.
This is considering you keep your streaming preferences limited to 1080p and also 30 to 60 FPS. However, 4K streaming via apps like OBS Studio and vMix work really well with the likes of AMD Radeon RX 6800 and GTX 3070.
And while the GPU is important enough, an optimal streaming experience also depends on the quality of streaming peripherals like a microphone, webcam, and more, a strong internet connection, a high-end PSU, and more.
4. 3D Rendering
3D rendering involves a lot of complex geometry, high-end calculations, textures, and more. With a powerful GPU to work with, 3D rendering can become faster and smoother. Dedicated GPUs can speed up the render times, offer improved viewport performances, and allow you to work with detailed 3D models.
The GPU to pick for 3D rendering can get tricky. The best way to choose is according to the 3D rendering app you plan on using.
For instance, if you have basic to mid-range rendering needs, via apps like SketchUp, 3DS Max, Modo, and even Blender, you might want to pick something along the lines of RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon 6700 XT. A choice like this will give access to a VRAM of up to 12GB, Ray tracing technology and DisplayPort support.
High-end rendering requirements involving large scenes, complex lighting, and high-res textures might need you to go for something like the RX 6800 XT or the RTX 3080 if you prefer NVIDIA. As for the supported apps, you can deploy these high-end GPUs for handling the likes of Houdini, Cinema 4D, Maya, and more.
Finally, for your 3D rendering profession to shine through, you would also need a powerful processor, a high-resolution monitor, and other powerful components, along with the already impactful GPU.
5. Machine Learning
In case you plan on building a setup for training machine learning models and developing your choice of AI or a resource for your client, a powerful graphics processing unit is a must.
A reliable GPU can handle parallel computations, making interference and training easier. With a capable graphics processor, you can train models quicker, achieve faster model convergence, and work with larger datasets with ease.
Machine learning PCs work well with specialized GPUs like NVIDIA A100 and Tesla V100. These GPUs are capable of handling high-performance computing, mixed-precision computing, and neural network training with ease.
Also, if you are into machine learning-focused content creation and even gaming, Nvidia’s Titan RTX GPU with 576 tensor cores and 24GB worth of VRAM can be an excellent pick.
In addition to the specialized GPUs like the ones mentioned above, mid-range machine learning apps like Keras, Caffe, and more can work really well with the quintessential GPUs like the GTX 3060, AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT, and more.
Advanced machine learning and deep learning resources like TensorFlow, PyTorch, and MXNet can work really well with the GPUs that I mentioned above.
And while a powerful GPU is necessary, machine learning PCs might also need a powerful PSU, high-end processor, and a massive chunk of RAM (16GB to 32GB preferably) to return desirable results.
6. Graphic Design and Digital Art
As a designer interested in handling effects, complex vector graphics, image manipulation, and other tasks involving digital art, you are better off getting a discrete GPU.
Having a good one, something that aligns with your purpose and skill sets, can help with faster rendering, better management of high-resolution images, and smoother performances.
In case your requirements are restricted to the likes of Affinity Designer, GIMP, and other basic to mid-range designing apps, a standard GeForce GTX 1660 GPU or even the AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT might help.
However, suppose you are a high-level professional with a focus on 3D elements and complex illustrations via CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator, and more. In that case, you might want to get something along the lines of NVIDIA GTX 3070.
You should note that a standard gaming GPU works just as fine for graphic design and digital art. However, to maximize performance, you might want to supplement the GPU with the right processor, a 16GB of RAM (minimum), a color-accurate display, and other reliable PC components.
7. VR and AR
If you have plans of foraying into the metaverse with relevant Virtual and augmented reality projects, you might want to consider powerful discrete GPUs.
From rendering complex environments to simulating virtual physics to managing user and participant interactions in real-time, there are a lot of VR and AR processes that can be made easier with the right graphics processing unit.
The right VR and AR-focussed GPU can offer a smoother and a more immersive experience to the creator and also the user, reducing lag and latency. Plus, users experiencing life in the metaverse will have to deal with fewer spells of motion sickness with a high-end GPU in place.
But then, the level and choice of GPU depend on the nature of the work you are considering. For instance, if you are looking to work on basic VR and AR experiences via Google Cardboard or similar apps — superimposing or experiencing characters in real-time, standard GPUs like the Radeon RX 5500 XT and GTX 16-series make sense.
Mid-range apps like Beat Saber, HoloLens 2, and others can be handled really well with RTX 20 and RTX 30-series graphics processing units.
But then, if you have plans of using VR editors like Unity or resources like the AutoDesk VRED for professional usage and high-end gaming projects, specialized GPUs like the NVIDIA Titan RTX, RTX 3090, or RTX 4090 make sense, depending on your budget.
Besides the GPUs, you might also want to get the right processor, a sizable RAM module, effective cooling solutions, and other top-notch PC components to make life easier and the performances smoother.
8. Cryptocurrency Mining
If you are into crypto mining, including bitcoin mining, you might want to consider the right set of GPUs for your builds. The GPUs can help perform complex calculations with ease, something you would need to mine Proof-of-Work cryptos like Bitcoin, Litecoin, and more.
And even though a powerful CPU is needed to mine, GPUs are more important as they can handle parallelizable workloads more efficiently, increasing the hash rate and chances of mining profitability in the process.
When it comes to the type and level of GPUs, the mining hobbyist in you can go with some basic options like the Radeon RX 5500 XT or the GTX 1660 Super.
However, these GPUs might not work for mining the more popular cryptos like BTC. In case you run a mining business or are a professional, the likes of RTX 30 and 40-series GPUs can fit in well.
Some miners can even consider getting specialized, mining-only cards like the NVIDIA CMP or the Radeon Instinct MI Series options to take the mining performances to a whole new level.
But for the best results, any GPU should be paired with the right kind of processor, a powerful PSU, and a reliable cooling solution.
In addition to the mentioned tasks, professional specializations like handling fluid dynamics, scientific visualization and simulations, image processing, and ray tracing would also need dedicated GPUs.
However, choosing between the likes of RTX 4090, Radeon RX 6650 XT, and other powerful GPUs should be able to cover most of the bases.
When Should You Avoid Getting a Discrete GPU?
Dedicated graphics cards are cool, but some questions keep popping up, including “Can you run a PC without a GPU” or “Do you need a GPU to run a PC”? If you have been hearing or even asking questions similar to these, the answer is yes and no.
You can still run a PC without a dedicated GPU, provided you have a powerful processor and decent RAM. Or, if the purpose of building a PC in the first place majorly involves handling office productivity tasks, watching videos, casual gaming, or even web browning, an integrated GPU works just fine.
11th gen Intel chipsets and other powerful processors already have some of the best-integrated GPUs in the market, which are even capable of handling 2D design tasks and lightweight photo editing using the likes of Canva and Photoshop Elements.
And finally, if your target is to lower power consumption while building an HTPC PC or a home theater PC, it is advisable to avoid discrete or standalone GPUs.
In summary, integrated GPUs have grown quite powerful, and if you have basic to mid-range requirements to deal with, that too on a budget, they can be worthy substitutes for discrete ones.
Does a Server Need a GPU?
Before I answer this highly underrated question, it is important to understand what does a graphics card do?
A graphics card handles graphics-intensive tasks and displays them as output. Therefore, most servers or server PC could do without them as the primary tasks include network resource management, web hosting, and file storage.
In special cases where the server must deal with GPU-accelerated Machine Learning data or high-performance computing, a powerful GPU like the Nvidia A100, Nvidia Tesla V100, or the AMD Radeon Instinct M100 is welcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
A dedicated graphics processing unit can be useful even if you aren’t much of a gamer. You can deploy the same for tasks such as video editing, graphic designing, machine learning, and more. However, the nature of the GPUs might vary from those suited for gaming.
The number of graphics cards that a PC can have depends on the PCIe slots present on the motherboard. Most motherboards have one to two x16 slots, whereas some high-end ones can even house three to four PCIe slots. Apart from the PCIe slots, the cooling capabilities and the capacity of the power supply have a role to play in deciding how many GPUs a PC can have.
Yes, in most cases, graphics and video cards are used interchangeably. Both these devices are capable of processing and rendering visual information, including images, 3D models, videos, and more, to a monitor-specific output.
Yes, a streaming PC can be made better with a dedicated GPU. The discrete graphics card can then help the CPU offload some video encoding and other relevant tasks to it, thereby making the streams smoother in the process. However, if you are only planning to stream the webcam feed, which might not even be 1080p at times, an integrated GPU might also be able to help.
Every final build (computer) has some sort of GPU to process graphics and similar requirements. While some have discrete GPUs that fit into motherboard slots, there are several PCs where GPUs come integrated or as parts of the computer processors.
Conclusion
GPUs are ever-evolving. But so are our computing requirements. And while most of the GPUs mentioned here work really well for most of the listed use cases, I would ask you to delve deeper into the world of CUDA cores, tensor cores, GPU clock speed, and more to be able to choose them more professionally.
Leave a Reply