How to buy a GPU in 2025

Finding the right video card for a gaming PC can be challenging, and buying the wrong model can hinder the gaming experience. The type of games you want to play is a key factor in choosing a GPU, with competitive shooters requiring less powerful GPUs and modern single-player games needing more powerful ones. The resolution and frame rate you want to play at also play a crucial role, with 4K resolution being particularly demanding. A midrange card that can comfortably render games at 1440p and 144 frames per second is a good bet. There are three main players in the GPU industry: AMD, Intel, and NVIDIA, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. NVIDIA was previously the undisputed king of the market, but AMD and Intel offer better value for entry- and mid-level GPUs. Ray tracing is a key feature to consider, with NVIDIA still offering an edge in this area. Refresh rates and frame rates are also important, with a higher refresh rate requiring a GPU that can consistently render a game at the appropriate frame rate. Upscaling technologies like DLSS, FSR, and XeSS can help improve performance, and driver support and VRAM are also important factors to consider. Finally, size and power draw should be taken into account when choosing a GPU, and buying a used GPU may not be the best option due to limited availability and potential performance issues.