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Low-power GPUs are gaining traction among budget and eco-conscious gamers in 2024, supplying robust gaming performance without steep energy demands. Opting for one of these graphics cards when building a PC strikes an optimal balance between power and efficiency. They enable high-quality gameplay without sacrificing performance or overspending on PSUs.
While most low-power graphics cards are also some of the weakest options in the market, some of the latest ones offer competent performance. They are enough to handle some of the latest titles at 1080p resolutions without breaking a sweat, which is plenty for most budget and entry-level gaming rigs.
This article explores the top ten low-power GPUs that provide remarkable value without massive power supplies.
These low-power GPUs offer the best value for money in 2024
1) Intel Arc A380 ($115)
The Intel Arc A380 is an excellent budget low-power GPU delivering excellent 1080p gaming performance. With its low 75W TDP, it averages 60+ FPS in modern titles at high settings while playing at 1080p.
While not surpassing the RTX 3050 or RX 6600 in raw speed, support for Intel's version of DLSS and ray tracing, coupled with its affordable pricing and ample 6GB memory, make the A380 an attractive choice for budget-focused gamers seeking 1080p gameplay.
2) Radeon RX 5500 XT ($146.99)
The Radeon RX 5500 XT is a terrific budget low-power GPU for gamers seeking smooth 1080p gameplay minus heavy energy demands. It impresses with 4GB GDDR6 memory and sub 150W efficiency that delivers great performance without a high-wattage PSU.
Despite its growing age, it can average around 60 FPS in modern titles with some compromises. This makes the RX 5500 XT appeal to gamers wanting high FPS without compromising their budget or power.
3) Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 ($149)
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650, which debuted in 2019, is still a superb low-power gaming GPU. With its 4GB GDDR6 memory and Turing architecture efficiently consuming just 75W, it delivers impressive performance ideal for budget-focused gamers.
Retaining features like Nvidia's Turing NVENC encoder and G-Sync, the GTX 1650 remains an appealing, power-friendly graphics card without sacrificing key functions.
4) Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 Super ($200)
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 Super remains a great budget pick for a low-power GPU. It surpasses the 1050 Ti with 4GB GDDR5 memory and 1280 CUDA cores that supply solid performance. Drawing just 100W of power, it won't tax your PSU or wallet. Backed by Nvidia's Turing encoder and G-Sync, this GPU strikes an optimal balance between features and efficiency.
For budget-focused 1080p gamers seeking power-friendly prowess, the GTX 1650 Super still reigns supreme.
5) AMD Radeon RX 6600 ($209.99)
The AMD Radeon RX 6600 has emerged as a top low-power GPU for gaming in 2023, blending performance and efficiency. Its power-conscious 132W design and 8GB GDDR6 memory make it ideal for budget gamers seeking balance. Boasting AMD's FidelityFX Super Resolution and ray tracing, this model enables immersive 1080p gameplay at high settings.
Competitive pricing and a low power draw make the RX 6600 a compelling choice for maximizing capabilities while minimizing energy usage.
6) Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super ($229)
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Super is a standout low-power gaming GPU with 6GB of GDDR6 memory. It strikes an impressive balance between performance and efficiency with 1,408 CUDA cores and a 1,785 MHz boost clock. It excels at 1080p gaming while only consuming around 125W.
The GTX 1660's power efficiency, Nvidia Turing NVENC encoder for smooth streaming, and G-Sync compatibility make it a top contender among budget gamers seeking optimal 1080p gameplay.
7) AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT ($230)
The AMD Radeon RX 6500 XT is an impressive budget GPU in 2023. Its efficient 107W design emerges as an exceptional low-power solution, eliminating the need for a high-wattage PSU. With 8/4GB GDDR6 memory enabling seamless performance, it also supports AMD's FidelityFX Super Resolution and Smart Access Memory for heightened gaming benefits.
The RX 6500 XT stands tall among low-power GPUs, delivering superb value for those wanting remarkable yet affordable performance without power-related expenses.
8) Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 ($249)
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 proves its budget-friendly prowess with 2560 CUDA cores, 8GB GDDR6 memory, and a 1.78 GHz boost clock that shines for 1080p gaming. Delivering steady 60 FPS averages, it handles modern games at high settings adeptly.
Despite having slightly slower ray tracing capabilities than pricier RTX variants, its low power consumption and quiet operation make for an ideal low-power GPU for efficient yet impressive gaming, especially in small form factor builds.
9) Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti ($279)
The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 Ti remains a leading low-power GPU for gamers in 2023. Drawing just 120W, it provides superb performance through 1536 CUDA cores and 6GB GDDR6 memory. Though lacking ray tracing capabilities of pricier RTX options, Nvidia's Turing encoder and G-Sync reduce streaming artifacts and tearing.
Boasting power efficiency and robust gaming capabilities, the 1660 Ti is an ideal pick for gamers wanting smooth 1080p play without a high-wattage PSU.
10) Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 ($299)
The Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060, which debuted in January 2023, is one of the best low-power GPUs for gaming this year. With 8GB GDDR6 memory and an efficient 115W design, it perfectly balances performance and energy savings.
Excelling in 1080p and 1440p gaming while supporting Nvidia's ray tracing and DLSS features, the moderately priced RTX 4060 is positioned as a top pick for gamers wanting robust capabilities in a lower power package.
In summary, these top 10 low-power GPUs in 2023 supply remarkable gaming capabilities without sacrificing efficiency. With impressive features, they redefine power-friendly experiences and prove immersive gaming can be achieved responsibly with low energy requirements.
