Looking at the current market, graphics cards under $300 may not offer the best value. Setting a budget of $500 for your new GPU is, therefore, a smart move, especially with the rise in demand and implementation of AI.
The sub $500 GPUs should take care of your 1440p gaming, and in some cases, they may even unlock 4K resolution. As for content creation, these graphics cards should enable you to process 4K or even 8K footages with considerable ease.
However, you must pick the right one. And to be able to do so, you need to consider several metrics like a cooling solution, benchmarks, power consumption, case compatibility, performance, and more. Too much effort, it seems, isn’t it?
Worry not, I’ve come up with 7 of the top GPUs that cost less than $500 and offer the best cost vs value ratio.
Contents
- 7 Best Graphics Cards Under $500 in 2023
- 1. Best Overall: Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 6800
- 2. Best Runner-Up: ZOTAC NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
- 3. Best for Gaming: GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3070 OC 8G
- 4. Best for Overcloking: ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 V2 OC
- 5. Best High-Resolution GPU: XFX Speedster Radeon RX 6800
- 6. Best for 1080p Gaming: EVGA Geforce RTX 3060 Xc
- 7. Best Value: PowerColor Fighter Radeon RX 6700 XT
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Verdict
7 Best Graphics Cards Under $500 in 2023
Before starting with the reviews, let me tell you that the selected options aren’t random. To zero in on these seven, I ended up testing over 17 GPUs for under 500 USD, focusing on several parameters as mentioned earlier.
I also applied my years of experience as a PC builder to find the right balance between the internal capabilities of the card and the form factor. Finally, I tested each unit for over a week as my primary component. Below are my thoughts:
1. Best Overall: Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 6800
- Game Clock: Up to 1950 MHz
- Boost Clock: Up to 2170 MHz
- Radeon VR Ready Premium
- Video Streaming up to 8K
- High Performance 4K Gaming
Even though it is difficult to find the absolute high-performance GPU for less than $500, the Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 6800 makes it possible. It offers remarkable performances, led by the latest RDNA 2 architecture and a sizable VRAM.
The improved architecture and a bigger portion of VRAM make the Radeon RX a significant improvement over the RX 5000 GPU series, especially the otherwise powerful RX 5700 XT.
Per the tests, the Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 6800 features on the list due to its smart cooling and top-notch gaming performance.
Performance
Performance-wise, the Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 6800 packs a lot of punch, courtesy of the 3840 processors. These processors support parallel processing and ensure enhanced gaming throughput.
As far as the engine clocking support is concerned, this AMD processor can go as high as 2170 MHz in the boosted mode. Typical gaming processes support a clock speed of 1950 MHz. The marginal overclocking potential is a handful for some of the more demanding rendering tasks.
This GPU features 16GB of GDDR6 video RAM, ensuring that graphics-intensive processors and high-res gaming doesn’t feel like work. The PCIe 4.0 support, with 16 interfaces to work with, ensures compatibility with most types of PC cases.
The RDNA 2 architecture ensures power efficiency, whereas the GPU supports one HDMI and three Display Ports, allowing you to work with four displays at once.
When it comes to the power supply, you would require a 650W PSU for optimal functioning. Other performance-related traits include Radeon’s anti-lag support, image sharpening functionality for smoother rendering performances, and driver optimization, in case new versions are available.
Specification | Performance |
---|---|
Memory | 16 GB GDDR6 |
Clock Speed | Up to 2170 MHz |
Stream Processors | 3840 |
Power Supply Requirement | 750W |
PCIe Version | 4 |
Gaming Experience
In case you are solely interested in gaming, the Sapphire Pulse RX 6800 does offer a lot of handy traits. These include Radeon Super Resolution functionality, led by a built-in upscaling functionality. Resolution-wise, both the HDMI and DisplayPort support visuals at 7680 x 4320 pixels.
Another innovative trait has to be the Dual BIOS functionality, allowing you to toggle between the silent and the performance model.
In addition to that, this GPU supports hardware accelerate RT or Raytracing, ensuring a more realistic gaming experience, including better reflections and lighting. Other gaming traits in play include DirectX 12 support, FidelityFX support, and more.
The Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 6800 is great at handling games at 1440p, with the likes of Cyberpunk 2077 and Call of Duty: Warzonen returning 62 fps and 105 fps, respectively. GPU cooling takes centre stage with Tri-X cooling technology and three fans in play. Also, the fans showcase the dual-ball bearing design, maximizing airflow.
Here are the gaming benchmarks:
Game | Settings | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Cyberpunk 2077 | Ultra | 1440p | 60 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 30 fps | |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | Ultra | 1440p | 65 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 40 fps | |
Call of Duty: Warzone | Ultra | 1440p | 100 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 70 fps | |
Fortnite | Epic | 1440p | 120 fps |
Epic | 4K | 70 fps | |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1440p | 140 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 80 fps | |
Valorant | High | 1440p | 250 fps |
High | 4K | 160 fps |
To get these performances, you can pair the GPU with AMD Ryzen 7 5800X or any similar processor.
Design and Warranty
The RX 6800 features the ATX form factor, making it compact enough for most PC cases. You also get the 2.5-slot connector with the same. Finally, Sapphire offers two years’ worth of warranty on the graphics card.
Conclusion
As a gamer looking for the best possible graphics card below $500, Sapphire Pulse AMD Radeon RX 680 is your best bet. And while its Ray Tracing and stacked CUDA cores stand out, it is the exceptional cooling support that stands apart from the rest.
Pros
- Handles 1440p gaming like a pro
- Manages to hold its own during 4K gaming
- A massive chunk of video RAM
- Tri-X cooling with three fans for maximizing airflow
- Raytracing support
- High-boosted clock speed to handle complex games and tasks
Cons
- Lacks RGB customization
- Higher power draw
2. Best Runner-Up: ZOTAC NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070
- NVIDIA Ampere architecture, 2nd Gen Ray Tracing Cores, 3rd Gen Tensor Cores
- Boost Clock 1770 MHz, 8GB 256-bit GDDR6X, 19 Gbps, PCIE 4.0
- SPECTRA 2.0 RGB Lighting, IceStorm 2.0 Advanced Cooling, FREEZE Fan Stop, Active Fan Control, Lighted Metal Backplate
- 8K Ready, 4 Display Ready, HDCP 2.3, VR Ready
- 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a, 1 x HDMI 2.1, DirectX 12 Ultimate, Vulkan RT API, OpenGL 4.6
If you are looking for a high-end NVIDIA GPU priced below 500 dollars, consider getting ZOTAC GeForce RTX 3070. It boasts exceptional power efficiency and a sizable chunk of CUDA cores, 5888 to be exact, boasting a powerful gaming performance.
Despite having lesser VRAM in comparison to the Sapphire unit I reviewed above, this version from ZOTAC makes a compelling case courtesy of DLSS support and a better version of Raytracing, courtesy of NVIDIA’s RT cores.
Performance
This RTX 3070 GPU comes equipped with 5888 CUDA cores, making parallel processing easier. What sides well with gaming is the boosted clock speed of 1785 MHz, followed by 8GB worth of video RAM support.
Do note that some websites might list the boosted clock speed potential at 1725 MHz, but our tests revealed 1785 MHz.
It is noteworthy that the Ampere architecture associated with this ZOTAC GPU boasts tensor cores, RT cores, enhanced memory support, and top-notch efficiency courtesy of the 8nm manufacturing process.
Also, the card is PCI 4.0 compatible, allowing you to pair the same with most cases. And to keep up with the power-specific needs, you are better off pairing a 650-watt PSU with the same.
If you plan on using this GPU for setting up a workstation, the DLSS support comes to the fore, allowing AI to boost the frame rates and rendering quality.
Also, as far as display outputs are concerned, this GPU from ZOTAC has three DisplayPort connections and one high-speed, high-res HDMI 2.1 connection. It is the DisplayPort support that lets you experience 8K visuals.
Specification | Performance | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Memory | 8 GB GDDR6 | 1440p | 60 fps |
Clock Speed | 1785 MHz | 4K | 30 fps |
Stream Processors | 5888 CUDA Cores | 1440p | 65 fps |
Power Supply Requirement | 650W | 4K | 40 fps |
PCIe Version | 4 | 1440p | 100 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 70 fps | |
Fortnite | Epic | 1440p | 120 fps |
Epic | 4K | 70 fps | |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1440p | 140 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 80 fps | |
Valorant | High | 1440p | 250 fps |
High | 4K | 160 fps |
Gaming Experience
When it comes to gaming, this card can handle most AAA titles at 1440p. I used it to play Cyberpunk 2077 and could churn out close to 55 fps at ultra 2K res. The clock speed can go as high as 1785 MHz, ensuring that there are no lags in play.
Regardless of how actively you game, the IceStorm 2.0 technology offers advanced cooling support. In addition to that, you get access to active fan control support and freeze fan stop — enhancements that can take your experience to a whole new level.
Other gaming-related enhancements include DirectX 12 support, OpenGL 4.6, and other specs. And finally, if you prefer gaming-related customization, this GPU boasts SPECTRA 2.0 lighting support powered by white LEDs.
Game | Settings | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Cyberpunk 2077 | Ultra | 1440p | 55 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 30 fps | |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | Ultra | 1440p | 60 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 34 fps | |
Call of Duty: Warzone | Ultra | 1440p | 95 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 60 fps | |
Fortnite | Epic | 1440p | 126 fps |
Epic | 4K | 60 fps | |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1440p | 130 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 75 fps | |
Valorant | High | 1440p | 246 fps |
High | 4K | 130 fps |
To get these performances, you can pair the GPU with Intel Core i7-10700K or any similar processor.
Design and Warranty
Design-wise, the ZOTAC GPU boasts a dual-fan layout, which maximizes heat dissipation. The compact form factor ensures compatibility with most cases.
Do note that you can even pair the same with smaller cases without losing out on gaming efficiency. And finally, you get a 2-year warranty, readily amplifying your after-sale experience.
Conclusion
As a gamer, if your focus is on a faster NVIDIA graphics processor and advanced cooling support, the ZOTAC GeForce RTX 3070 is the one to consider. And it is the AI-powered DLSS support and Ray Tracing functionality that make it a worthy inclusion to the list.
Pros
- Top-notch Ray tracing support
- Compact layout
- Built-in DLSS support
- Supports RGB customization
- Compatible with most cases
Cons
- 8GB VRAM is on the lower side, as compared to competitors
- Power hungry PSU
3. Best for Gaming: GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3070 OC 8G
- NVIDIA Ampere Streaming Multiprocessors
- 2nd Generation RT Cores
- 3rd Generation Tensor Cores
- Powered by GeForce RTX 3070
- Integrated with 8GB GDDR6 256-bit memory interface
The GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3070 OC 8G is one of the more powerful GPUs that cost less than $500, best known for its exceptional overclocking abilities.
I compared it against the RTX 2070 Super Gaming OC GPU from the same brand and experienced significant performance and ray-tracing improvements.
Performance
The RTX 3070 Gaming OC 8G is built per NVIDIA’s latest Ampere architecture, known for its power efficiency. There are 5888 CUDA cores supporting parallel processing and, thereby, faster gaming experiences.
You also get 8GB worth of VRAM, making rendering faster than usual. The VRAM is complemented by the boosted clock speed of 1815 MHz, which is also the overclocking limit for this GPU. It is noteworthy that the GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3070 OC 8G has a base clock speed of 1725 MHz.
Other relevant specs include the availability of three high-res DisplayPort outputs and two HDMI 2.1 units. Besides, the RTX 3070 graphics card boasts PCIe 4.0 support, making it compatible with most CPU cases.
The graphics card itself draws a power of 220W, making it advisable to pair a 650W PSU with the same. Performance-wise, you get hold of features like high-end ray tracing and DLSS, ensuring the best possible gaming effects and image quality.
Specification | Performance |
---|---|
Memory | 8 GB GDDR6 |
Clock Speed | 1815 MHz |
Stream Processors | 5888 CUDA Cores |
Power Supply Requirement | 650W |
PCIe Version | 4 |
Gaming Experience
As a gamer, there aren’t many graphics cards under $500 that can match the performance of the GeForce RTX 3070 OC 8G. You can play almost every AAA title at 1440p without having to worry about lags.
The games feel realistic, and overheating isn’t even an issue with the Windforce 3X cooling solution in play.
What works even better is the inclusion of alternate fans for maximizing heat dissipation. The RGB Fusion 2.0 support is in play, allowing you to customize and sync lighting effects. Also, you can refer to the following table to analyze the FPS rates I got while playing a few games at 1440p.
Game | Settings | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Cyberpunk 2077 | Ultra | 1440p | 60 fps |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | Ultra | 1440p | 65 fps |
Call of Duty: Warzone | Ultra | 1440p | 110 fps |
Fortnite | Epic | 1440p | 140 fps |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1440p | 150 fps |
Valorant | High | 1440p | 270 fps |
To get these performances, you can pair the GPU with Intel Core i7-10700K or any similar processor.
Design and Warranty
This graphics card comprises three unique 80mm fans, which are minimal and ensure the quietest possible operations. Design-wise, there is a metal back plate in place, offering protection against bending and other issues. Also, you get four years’ worth of warranty if you register at GIGABYTE’s website.
Conclusion
The GIGABYTE GeForce RTX 3070 OC 8G is the best gaming graphics card for under 500 dollars. It scores highly when it comes to cooling performance and even leads the way when game-specific realism is concerned, all thanks to the DLSS and Ray Tracing.
However, it is the overclocking support and the boosted clock speed of 1815 MHz that make it stand out.
Pros
- Excellent overclocking performance
- Supports DLSS and Ray tracing
- Top-notch cooling support
- Advanced connectivity options
Cons
- Overkill for 1080p games
- On the bigger side, making it a tad harder to fit into smaller cases
4. Best for Overcloking: ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 V2 OC
- NVIDIA Ampere Streaming Multiprocessors: The building blocks for the world’s fastest, most efficient GPU, the all-new Ampere SM brings 2X the FP32 throughput and improved power efficiency.
- 2nd Generation RT Cores: Experience 2X the throughput of 1st gen RT Cores, plus concurrent RT and shading for a whole new level of ray tracing performance.
- 3rd Generation Tensor Cores: Get up to 2X the throughput with structural sparsity and advanced AI algorithms such as DLSS. Now with support for up to 8K resolution, these cores deliver a massive boost in game performance and all-new AI capabilities.
- This GeForce RTX 3070 graphics card with LHR (lite hash rate) delivers 25 MH/s ETH hash rate (est.).
- OC edition: Boost clock 1800 MHz (OC mode)/1770 MHz (Gaming mode).
The ASUS Dual GeForce RTX 3070 V2 OC Edition is easily one of the more powerful video cards for around $500, meant for professionals and gaming enthusiasts.
What makes it powerful is the perfect balance between NVIDIA Ampere architecture and the LHR or the Lite Has Rate technology that accounts for power efficiency.
This processor is also an enhancement over the older GeForce RTX 2070, courtesy of improved cores and advanced processing architecture.
Performance
The ASUS GeForce RTX 3070 V2 OC Edition is best known for supporting seamless rendering and high-res gaming textures, courtesy of the 8GB VRAM. NVIDIA’s Ampere architecture brings home 3rd gen Tensor and 2nd Gen Ray tracing cores for maximizing gaming efficiency and life-like visuals.
When it comes to the clock speeds, this graphics card can go as high as 1800 MHz in overclocking mode. Despite pushing the limits, the OC capabilities ensure better frame rates for the more demanding games.
Connectivity-wise, the GPU supports PCIe 4.0, followed by three DisplayPort options and two HDMI 2.1 units. Also, it is better to use a 750W PSU with this graphics card.
Specification | Performance |
---|---|
Memory | 8 GB GDDR6 |
Clock Speed | 1800 MHz (OC mode) |
Stream Processors | 5888 CUDA Cores |
Power Supply Requirement | 750W |
PCIe Version | 4 |
Gaming Experience
When it comes to the gaming experience, this GPU can handle 1440p gaming for most AAA titles with ease. The RT cores, followed by DLSS support, add the desired level of realism. There is the dual BIOS feature, allowing you to choose between the quiet mode and the performance mode.
As for cooling support, two axial-tech fans are present, followed by longer blades and a barrier ring for maximizing heat dissipation. A standout trait has to be the automatic 0dB mode, which drops the sound levels once fewer tasks are in process.
And customizable RGB lighting support is also present, provided you want to optimize gaming scenarios visually. Here are the gaming performances that make sense:
Game | Settings | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Cyberpunk 2077 | Ultra | 1440p | 60 fps |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | Ultra | 1440p | 65 fps |
Call of Duty: Warzone | Ultra | 1440p | 100 fps |
Fortnite | Epic | 1440p | 135 fps |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1440p | 140 fps |
Valorant | High | 1440p | 245 fps |
To get these performances, you can pair the GPU with Intel Core i7-10700K or any similar processor.
Design and Warranty
Design-wise, it is the backplate that stands out, shielding the card against bending. Just to add, the compactness of the card makes it compatible with almost every full to mid-tower PC case. And ASUS offers a 3-year warranty on its OC graphics card, taking the post-purchase experience to a whole new level.
Conclusion
The ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 V2 OC Edition is a great pick under $500. While there are many features to rave about, it is the 0dB mode that stands out. Plus, its massive overclocking potential is good enough for most games.
Pros
- Massive overclocking potential
- Advanced cooling support, courtesy of Axial-tech fans
- Solid build quality
- Comes with a pre-built 304 stainless steel enclosure
- Dual BIOS mode for quieter operations
Cons
- On the larger side
- The need for a 750W PSU might push the build costs higher
5. Best High-Resolution GPU: XFX Speedster Radeon RX 6800
- Chipset: AMD RX 6800
- Memory: 16GB GDDR6
- Cooling: XFX SWFT 319 Triple Fan
- Boost Clock: Up To 2105MHz
- Master Carton Weight 11.34 Kg; 25 lb; Package Weight: 1.64 Kg; 3.62 (lb)
The XFX Speedster RX 6800 doesn’t look like a sub $500 graphics card as it boasts crazy boosted clock speeds. When compared to the RX 5700 XT, this GPU comes across as a more power-efficient version. Even the GPU architecture with RX 6800 and RDNA 2 are significant improvements over the predecessor.
Performance
You get access to 3840 stream processors for faster gaming, followed by an insanely high boosted clock speed of 2105 MHz. These specs ensure premium rendering and gaming performances. As far as connectivity and interfacing are concerned, the XFX Speedster SWFT319 Radeon™ RX 6800 supports PCIe standard 4.0.
You also get access to HDMI and FRL connectivity, thanks to the multiple DisplayPort units, allowing you to connect multiple displays with the PC.
As for the PSU, you might want to pair a 750W module with this one, especially to achieve optimal performance.
Specification | Performance |
---|---|
Memory | 16 GB GDDR6 |
Clock Speed | Up to 2105 MHz |
Stream Processors | 3840 |
Power Supply Requirement | 750W |
PCIe Version | 4 |
Gaming Experience
The XFX Speedster SWFT319 Radeon™ RX 6800 brings home 16GB of GDDR6 VRAM, capable of supporting high-res gaming. This way, it is easy for the GPU to handle games at 4K, let alone 1440p. You also get access to FreeSync technology, which stands for low latency and tear-free gaming.
AMD offers DirectX 12 support followed by Ray Tracing functionality, boasting the highest possible levels of realism. The cooling efficiency is top-notch, thanks to the XFX Speedster cooling technology. Multiple fans are also present, supporting maximal heat dissipation.
Here is a table with some of my gaming-related findings:
Game | Settings | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Cyberpunk 2077 | Ultra | 1440p | 70 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 40 fps | |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | Ultra | 1440p | 80 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 45 fps | |
Call of Duty: Warzone | Ultra | 1440p | 130 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 80 fps | |
Fortnite | Epic | 1440p | 160 fps |
Epic | 4K | 90 fps | |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1440p | 150 fps |
Ultra | 4K | 80 fps | |
Valorant | High | 1440p | 300 fps |
High | 4K | 200 fps |
To get these performances, you can pair the GPU with AMD Ryzen 7 5800X or any similar processor.
Design and Warranty
The triple-fan layout makes the XFX Speedster SWFT319 Radeon™ RX 6800 a bit bulkier than usual. Yet, you can fit the same into a few mid-tower cases. However, there shouldn’t be any issues when it comes to using full-tower cases. And you get three years’ worth of warranty on this graphics card, covering most issues.
Conclusion
The XFX Speedster Radeon RX 6800 isn’t just a mid-range GPU. If you prioritize 4K gaming over anything else, the 16GB VRAM and Ray Tracing support take centre stage. And if you are also a content creator who digs rendering, 3D modeling, and graphics-specific tasks, this is one standout performer.
Pros
- Excellent cooling
- A sizable chunk of VRAM
- PCIe 4.0 support
- High-boosted clock speeds
Cons
- Power hungry
- It might not fit into every mid-tower case
6. Best for 1080p Gaming: EVGA Geforce RTX 3060 Xc
- 12G-P5-3657-KR
- English (Subtitle)
The EVGA Geforce RTX 3060 Xc is the perfect graphics card for someone interested in 1080p gaming. It is priced right and offers almost double the number of cores compared to the RTX 2060 from the same company.
Performance
Performance-wise, the 3584 CUDA cores take center stage, with the ability to handle most games with ease. The graphics card also exhibits a boosted clock speed of 1882 MHz, helping you achieve better frame rates for the more complex and demanding AAA titles.
Adding to the hardware specs is PCIe 4.0 support, a feature that supports extended case compatibility and faster data transfers. Additionally, there is 12GB of high-speed VRAM for better renders and the ability to pair multiple displays, courtesy of three DisplayPort and one HDMI 2.1 port.
Specification | Performance |
---|---|
Memory | 12 GB GDDR6 |
Clock Speed | 1882 MHz |
Stream Processors | 3584 CUDA Cores |
Power Supply Requirement | 450W |
PCIe Version | 4 |
Gaming Experience
Despite being a mid-range GPU, you get access to DLSS and Ray tracing support, allowing you to experience life-like visuals. The hardware specs ensure that the EVGA Geforce RTX 3060 Xc can also handle a few games at 1440p and not just 1080p.
Heat management is top-notch with EVGA’s iCX3 feature in play, best known for maximum heat dissipation and quieter operations.
Here is what the gaming performances look like:
Game | Settings | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Cyberpunk 2077 | Ultra | 1080p | 55 fps |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | Ultra | 1080p | 80 fps |
Call of Duty: Warzone | Ultra | 1080p | 144 fps |
Fortnite | Epic | 1080p | 140 fps |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1080p | 120 fps |
Valorant | High | 1080p | 200 fps |
To get these performances, you can pair the GPU with Intel Core i7-10700K or any similar processor.
Design and Warranty
There is a compact dual-slot layout in place, followed by the availability of a metal backplate, lending solidarity to the structure. In addition to that, EVGA offers three years’ worth of warranty on this one.
Conclusion
The EVGA Geforce RTX 3060 Xc is strictly a mid-range GPU that excels in 1080p gaming. And while there are many highlights, it is the cooling tech that makes it stand out and feature on this list.
Pros
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Supports DLSS and ray tracing functionality
- Compact layout
- Excellent cooling support
- A sizable chunk of VRAM
Cons
- Not meant for 4K gaming
- Limited overclocking potential
7. Best Value: PowerColor Fighter Radeon RX 6700 XT
- Memory Speed:16.0 Gbps.Digital Max Resolution:7680×4320
- Video Memory: 12GB GDDR6
- Stream Processor: 2560
- Game Clock: 2424MHz / Boost Clock: 2581MHz
- Memory Clock: 16 Gbps
If you are looking at a graphics card that is just priced above the $400 mark but packs a punch when it comes to boosted clock speeds and a reliable cooling setup, the PowerColor Fighter AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT is the one to consider.
Also, it offers quite a significant upgrade over the RX 5700XT, courtesy of a bigger chunk of VRAM.
Performance
The PowerColor Fighter AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT excels performance-wise, thanks to AMD’s RDNA 2 architecture. There are 2560 stream processors in play that can reach clock speeds of up to 2581 MHz. All that adds to the gaming performances and improves creative workloads.
You get 12GB of VRAM that can operate at 16Gbps, ensuring the smoothest possible gameplay. In terms of connectivity, you have support for PCIe 4.0, whereas there are three DisplayPort 1.4 ports and a solitary HDMI 2.1 port for connecting external displays. Finally, you are better off pairing a 650W PSU with the same.
Specification | Performance |
---|---|
Memory | 12 GB GDDR6 |
Clock Speed | Up to 2581 MHz (OC Mode) |
Stream Processors | 2560 |
Power Supply Requirement | 500W |
PCIe Version | 4 |
Gaming Experience
The PowerColor Fighter AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT is quite a handful for 1080p gaming. What adds to the gaming realism is the ray tracing support and AMD’s proprietary FidelityFX technology.
Despite aggressive gaming, the dual-fan cooling setup keeps the heat management on point. Also, if you are looking for how different games respond to this GPU, here is a table for your reference:
Game | Settings | Resolution | Avg FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Cyberpunk 2077 | Ultra | 1080p | 60 fps |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | Ultra | 1080p | 75 fps |
Call of Duty: Warzone | Ultra | 1080p | 110 fps |
Fortnite | Epic | 1080p | 150 fps |
Apex Legends | Ultra | 1080p | 144 fps |
Valorant | High | 1080p | 240 fps |
To get these performances, you can pair the GPU with AMD Ryzen 7 5800X or any similar processor.
Design and Warranty
The PowerColor Fighter AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT features a minimalistic design, capable of fitting into any mid-tower or full-tower case. Also, PowerColor offers a 2-year extended warranty on this GPU, amplifying the overall post-sales experience.
Conclusion
The PowerColor Fighter AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT is arguably the best price to performance GPU. And while there are many extraordinary traits to go by, it is the insanely boosted clock speed limit that makes it appear on the list.
Pros
- Comes with ray-tracing support
- Dual-fan cooling is effective
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- Adequate display-specific ports
- Excellent speed boost limit
Cons
- The warranty period could have been longer.
- Not meant for 4K gaming
And that sums up the individual reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can pick any of the mentioned GPUs priced below $500. However, if you are interested in top-notch Ray Tracing and DLSS support for the best possible gaming, go with the ZOTAC GeForce RTX 3070.
There are quite a few high-end graphics cards that you can get for $500. However, if you seek the most value for money, EVGA’s GeForce 3060 XC and the RTX 3070 Twin Edge OC from ZOTAC are the best possible picks.
Most $500 GPUs are perfect for 1440p and 1080p gaming. However, if you still want to indulge in 4K gaming, I would recommend sticking with the ZOTAC GeForce RTX 3070 Twin Edge OC.
While you might not be able to get those insanely high frame rates with this GPU, it would still be possible to churn out over 60fps for most AAA titles.
If you want to choose an ideal GPU under $500, keep several parameters in mind. These include the type of resolution you want to play the games at, the type of cooling solution you would need, the extent of overclocking you seek, and more.
Verdict
Every GPU that I reviewed makes a good case for your PC. Yet, if you are still unsure as to which one syncs perfectly with your requirements, here is a short, curated list for your reference:
- If you want an affordable GPU that can still handle 4K gaming better than most, the ZOTAC GeForce RTX 3070 Twin Edge OC seems like a good option.
- In case you are interested in decent overclocking potential and value for money, the EVGA GeForce 3060 XC makes a compelling case.
- Finally, if you are fixated on top-of-the-line cooling, the ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 V2 OC Edition is the perfect GPU to pick.
Despite this list, I would still urge you to go through each review and pick the graphics card that best aligns with your preferences, gaming needs, and budget.
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