GPU Comparison Tool

Key GPU Specifications Explained

VRAM (Video Memory): Dedicated memory for storing textures, frame buffers, and game assets. More VRAM allows higher resolution textures and better performance at 4K. Modern games typically need 8-12GB for high settings at 1440p, and 16GB+ for 4K gaming.

Memory Bandwidth: The rate at which data transfers between VRAM and the GPU core, measured in GB/s. Higher bandwidth enables faster texture loading and smoother performance at high resolutions. GDDR6X and GDDR7 memory offer significantly higher bandwidth than standard GDDR6.

Shader Processors: NVIDIA calls these CUDA cores, AMD calls them Stream Processors. These parallel processing units handle graphics computations. More cores generally means better performance, though direct comparisons between brands aren't straightforward due to architectural differences.

Boost Clock: The maximum frequency the GPU reaches under load with adequate cooling. Higher clocks improve performance but also increase power consumption and heat output.

TDP (Thermal Design Power): The power consumption rating used for cooling system design. Higher TDP requires beefier power supplies and better case cooling. Consider using our PSU Wattage Calculator to ensure adequate power delivery.

Ray Tracing and Upscaling Technologies

Ray Tracing: Simulates realistic lighting by tracing light paths. NVIDIA cards typically have stronger ray tracing performance due to dedicated RT cores. AMD improved RT performance significantly with RDNA 3 but still trails NVIDIA in most RT benchmarks.

DLSS (NVIDIA): AI-powered upscaling that renders at lower resolution and upscales using machine learning. DLSS 3 adds frame generation for compatible games, dramatically boosting frame rates on RTX 40 series cards.

FSR (AMD): Open-source upscaling technology available on all GPUs. FSR 3 includes frame generation similar to DLSS 3. While slightly behind DLSS in quality, FSR works on both AMD and NVIDIA hardware.