For such computers, you should consider one of the best low profile graphics cards stated down below since they offer these features:
GPU Model: Before taking a look at any of the specifications of your graphics card, you should check its GPU model. This is due to a simple reason that a higher-end GPU model like the Nvidia GTX 1650 is going to be much more powerful than the lower-end Nvidia GT 710 GPU. VRAM: Even if you selected a certain GPU model, not all of them may offer the same performance as they tend to come with different amounts of VRAM. While a 1 GB or a 2 GB GPU is going to be enough for basic video output, you will need 4 GB of VRAM for playing any sorts of modern PC games. Clock Speeds: Another factor that heavily affects the performance of your graphics cards is its clock speeds. Similar to the processor of your computer, a GPU with higher clock speeds like 1500 MHz or similar is going to perform much better than GPUs with clock speeds around 1200 MHz even if they have the same GPU model and the same amount of VRAM.
While these features are quite important, there is still a lot to know before buying a GPU. Hence, all of the best low profile graphics cards present down below also have their significant features and options. When combined with their detailed “Buying Guide”, you can easily buy the best low profile graphics cards for you by the time you make it to the end.
Best Low Profile Graphics Cards 2023 Chart
Best Low Profile Graphics Cards 2023: Reviews
1. ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
Best RTX 3090 Graphics Card Best HDMI 2.1 Graphics Card Best RTX 3070 Graphic Cards Best RTX 2070 Super Graphics Cards Best 6800 XT Cards
Zotac is known to offer fairly value-for-money GPUs that offer decent performance without charging a premium for the same making them ideal for most computer users. The Zotac GeForce GT 1030 low-profile graphics card is present in the 1st position of this list since it offers a great balance between a GPU made for gaming and basic video output. Because you get a decent amount of 384 CUDA cores with this GPU that run at a base clock of 1227 MHz and a boost clock of 1468 MHz, you can expect fairly good performance out of it. Even though there is only 2 gigs of VRAM with this GPU, it is GDDR5 VRAM which has a memory clock of 6000 MHz for pretty high-performance output. To ensure that you get high performance out of it without any thermal throttling, Zotac has even included a fan with it. Coming to the back of this GPU, you will find a VGA and an HDMI port which can be a bit limited for some users. Fortunately, Zotac has not compromised in terms of durability since it includes a 3-year long warranty. Best Features:
Uses PCI Express 3.0 Bus Comes with 384 CUDA cores Includes 2 GB GDDR5 VRAM 1227 MHz base and 1468 MHz boost clock 30 watts power consumption Cooled by a single fan design Takes up 1x slot Includes 1 x VGA, 1 x HDMI ports Comes with a 3-year long warranty
Pros:
Decent for entry-level PC gaming Compact design with an inbuilt fan High-performance GDDR5 VRAM
Cons:
Limited port selection
2. MSI GT 1030 2GD4 LP OC Graphics Card
MSI is a global leader in developing gaming laptops with advanced features that also have a long service life. The brand is a one-stop platform that sells a wide range of products including laptops, motherboards, graphic cards, and all relevant computer components. This low profile graphics card comes with a memory speed of 1518 MHz and video memory of 2GB GDDR4 that provides a super fast performance. Besides, it has a memory clock of 6000 MHz that gives you a lag-free experience when you play high-end games or use software/apps that require a lot of power. Furthermore, MSI has used the latest Nvidia architecture in this and hence, you can get support and regular updates for a long time compared to the previous cards. One of the main advantages of this graphics card is its efficient cooling system. Although the fan is small, the sturdy design along with the solid capacitors dissipate the heat quickly allowing you to use your laptop for long hours. On top of this, the large heatsink offers a noise free experience that keeps you immersed while playing games or focusing on your professional tasks. For connectivity, you get two ports – DisplayPort and HDMI that you can use to connect it to your PC or laptops. With these ports, the installation is quick and easy. Along with the graphics card, you get cables, connectors, and a quick installation guide to help you get started. The warranty period is not explicitly mentioned on the product page. But MSI offers a 3 year warranty on this graphics card from the date of purchase. Best Features
Uses PCI Express 3.0 bus Includes 2 GB GDDR4 VRAM 1518 MHz memory speed and 6000 MHz memory clock 30 watts power consumption Cooled by a single fan design Includes one Display port and one HDMI port
Pros
Decent performance Sturdy fan with efficient cooling Quiet operation
Cons
Limited number of ports
3. ZOTAC GeForce GT 730 Zone Edition 4GB DDR3 Graphics Card
Zotac also offers slightly older GPU models that can still be a great option for a lot of buyers who want to get decent GPU performance without spending a lot of money. This Zotac GeForce GT 730 Zone Edition low profile graphics card is present in the 3rd position of this article because it is the best performing GT 730 available out there. Starting with its clock speeds, it is rated at 920 MHz base clock speed which is quite decent when you consider its 384 CUDA cores. But the best thing about this graphics card is that you get 4 GB VRAM with it which is much higher than most other options in its class. Unfortunately, it uses slowly DDR3 VRAM which is rated at 1600 MHz memory clock speeds for lower performance than GDDR5 GPUs. Despite having a higher 49-watt power consumption, Zotac has managed to include a passive cooler with optimum cooling performance. Another great thing about this GPU is that you get VGA, DVI-D, and HDMI ports on the back for easily connecting multiple displays. Similar to its newer GT 1030, this Zotac GT 730 also comes with a 3-year long warranty. Best Features:
Uses PCI Express 2.0 Bus Comes with 384 CUDA cores Includes 4 GB DDR3 VRAM 902 MHz base clock 46 watts power consumption Cooled by a passive radiator Takes up 2x slots Includes 1 x VGA, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x HDMI ports Comes with a 3-year long warranty
Pros:
High VRAM capacity GPU Offers multiple video output ports Passively cooled for silent operation
Cons:
Uses slower DDR3 VRAM
4. ZOTAC GeForce GT 710 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
Zotac also offers highly affordable offerings when it comes to buying low-profile graphics cards that are ideal for using in entry-level and compact computer builds. The Zotac GeForce GT 710 low profile graphics card is the cheapest option stated in this listicle making it an even better value for money offering than the previous MSI one. This is primarily due to the reason that you get the same performance at an even lower price tag. You get the same 192 CUDA cores clocked at 954 MHz with this GPU. It even comes with 1 GB DDR3 VRAM that has a memory clock speed of 1600 MHz. Being an entry-level low profile graphics card, its single-slot form factor along with the fanless passive radiator cooling design is to be expected. Another similarity between this Zotac and the previous MSI GT 710 GPU is that you get DVI-D, VGA, and HDMI ports on the back. Just like more expensive MSI graphic cards available out there, this one also includes a 3-year long warranty. Because this is an SC or super clocked model, you get a higher base clock speed of 1290 MHz along with a high boost clock speed of 1544 MHz. Such high clock speeds go great along with its 2 GB GDDR5 VRAM that is clocked at 6008 MHz for optimum performance. Because this is an overclocked GPU out of them, its included single fan cooler is to be expected. However, this does result in a slightly larger 1.5x slot form factor. On the back, you will find a DVI-D and an HDMI port due to which this EVGA GT 1030 is also limited in terms of the number of displays that you can connect to it. Another similarity between this EVGA and the previous Zotac GPU is that you get a 3-year long warranty with this as well. Best Features:
Uses PCI Express 2.0 Bus Comes with 192 CUDA cores Includes 1 GB DDR3 VRAM 954 MHz base clock 25 watts power consumption Cooled by a passive radiator design Takes up 1x slot Includes 1 x VGA, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x HDMI ports Comes with a 3-year long warranty
Pros:
Affordable low profile graphics cards Easily connect multiple monitors Long warranty for reliability and peace of mind
Cons:
Slightly higher power consumption
5. Gigabyte Geforce GTX 1050 Ti OC Low Profile Graphics Card
Gigabyte is another popular brand that specializes in developing high-end gaming laptops along with components and accessories for heavy-duty usage. The brand develops products with advanced features and customizable options to meet the diverse needs of consumers. This graphics card features a low profile design with a 167mm card length to save space fit into smaller systems. When it comes to performance, the graphics card runs at a boost clock of 1442 MHz and a base clock of 1328 MHz in OC mode. In gaming mode, it runs at a boost clock of 1417 MHz and base clock of 1303 MHz for a seamless experience. To monitor and tune the performance, you get an intuitive software. With a single click on the Xtreme engine utility, you can tune the card according to your requirements. This prevents the hassle of manual adjustment and you don’t need to have any knowledge of overclocking. The GPU is equipped with an effective ultra cooling system that uses lower RDS Mosfets for lower switching resistance and faster electric current charging. The metal choke holds energy longer to reduce energy loss and EMI interference. On top of this, the lower ESR solid capacitors provide better electronic conductivity for a superior performance and longer lifespan. The graphics card allows you to connect up to 4 display devices simultaneously. You get a dual-link DVI-D port, a DP port, and 2 HDMI ports. Best Features
Low profile design with a 167mm card length Includes a 4GB GDDR5 Comes with 128bit memory 1442 MHz boost and 1328 MHz base clock in OC mode 1417 MHz boost and 1303 MHz base clock in gaming mode One-click super overclocking Intuitive Xtreme engine utility Ultra cooling and low power loss Includes 1 x dual link DVI-D, 1 x DP, and 2 x HDMI ports 3 years warranty
Pros
Easy to change settings Multiple connectivity ports Long life span
Cons
Drop in performance after a few months
6. VisionTek Radeon 7750 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
In comparison with most other GPUs from Nvidia, AMD offers highly specialized graphics cards that offer unique features making them ideal for certain users. VisionTek’s Radeon 7750 low profile graphics card is most likely the perfect option for those of you who wish to get a computer made for a large multi-monitor setup. Since this GPU will not be used for gaming, its 512 cores clocked at 850 MHz are more than enough. Similarly, its 2 GB GDDR5 VRAM is more than enough as well which is clocked at 1200 MHz. Coming to the key feature of this GPU, you get a total of 6 mini DisplayPorts on the back along with various adapters for this smaller video port. Thanks to these ports, you can connect up to 6 4K displays to your computer at the same time. Another great thing about this GPU is that it also doubles as a 7.1 surround sound card making it the perfect choice for your HTPC setup. As you must have seen with most Nvidia GPUs. Such high clock speeds go great along with its 2 GB GDDR5 VRAM that is clocked at 6008 MHz for optimum performance. Because this is an overclocked GPU out of them, its included single fan cooler is to be expected. However, this does result in a slightly larger 1.5x slot form factor. On the back, you will find a DVI-D and an HDMI port due to which this EVGA GT 1030 is also limited in terms of the number of displays that you can connect to it. Another similarity between this EVGA and the previous Zotac GPU is that you get a 3-year long warranty with this as well. Best Features:
Uses PCI Express 3.0 Bus Comes with 512 CUDA cores Includes 2 GB GDDR5 VRAM 850 MHz base clock 55 watts power consumption Cooled by a single fan design Takes up 1x slot Includes 6 x mini DisplayPorts Comes with a 3-year long warranty
Pros:
Works as a 7.1 surround sound audio card Excellent for connecting 6 4K displays at once Uses a fan for proper cooling
Cons:
Quite expensive for a non-gaming GPU
7. EVGA GT 710 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
EVGA also offers entry-level graphics cards similar to the MSI and Zotac models stated up above in this listicle that tend to offer high value for money. This EVGA GeForce GT 710 low-profile graphics card can be another great option if you want something highly affordable. Because this is an entry-level offering from EVGA, you get a total of 192 CUDA cores with it. Since all of these CUDA cores run at 954 MHz base clock paired with 1 GB VRAM which happens to be DDR3 and rated at 1800 MHz, this GPU is only ideal for basic video output. Thankfully, despite being a budget option, you still get an inbuilt fan with this graphics card which ensures that it does not have any heating issues. As this graphics card is primarily going to be used for video output and not gaming, EVGA has included VGA, DVI-D, and HDMI ports on the back. Another great thing about this entry-level EVGA GPU is that you get a 3-year long warranty with it similar to other higher-end offerings. Best Features:
Uses PCI Express 2.0 Bus Comes with 192 CUDA cores Includes 1 GB DDR3 VRAM 954 MHz base clock 25 watts power consumption Cooled by a single fan design Takes up 1x slot Includes 1 x VGA, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x HDMI ports Comes with a 3-year long warranty
Pros:
Excellent cooling with an inbuilt fan Viable entry-level low profile GPU Ideal option for basic video output
Cons:
Not a fanless design
8. Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1650 Super OC 4G Graphics Card
You can find a lot of high-end graphics cards from Gigabyte that are known to offer excellent performance which is also true for its low profile GPU models. Even if you want to play modern PC games on your computer while having a low-profile graphics card, you can still do so using the Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1650 Super OC. With this Gigabyte GPU, you get a total of 1280 CUDA cores which is much higher than most others. And since this is a super OC or overclock edition GPU, you get an excellent base clock speed of 1410 MHz along with an equally excellent boost clock speed of 1740 MHz with it. To ensure that your gaming performance stays smooth and snappy, Gigabyte has also offered 4 GB GDDR6 VRAM with this graphics card which is clocked at 12000 MHz memory clock for an excellent performance. The only issue with this 2x slot GPU is that it is a bit large in size and consumes 75 watts of power from its 6 pin power connector. Although, the larger size does allow it to include DVI-D, VGA, and HDMI ports on the back. Because this is a high-performance GPU, you also get a 3-year long warranty with it. Best Features:
Uses PCI Express 3.0 Bus Comes with 1280 CUDA cores Includes 4 GB GDDR6 VRAM 1410 MHz base and 1740 MHz boost clock 75 watts power consumption via 6 pin power connector Cooled by a single fan design Takes up 2x slot Includes 1 x VGA, 1 x DVI-D, 1 x HDMI ports Comes with a 3-year long warranty
Pros:
Includes modern GDDR6 VRAM Excellent for playing modern PC games Features multiple video output ports
Cons:
Slightly high power consumption
Buying Guide for the Best Low Profile Graphics Cards
Just as you would guess, a low-profile graphics card is quite small and compact which is possible thanks to the entry-level GPU chips that they use. Even though such graphics cards may not be the most powerful ones, they certainly make for a great pick for using with HTPCs, small office PCs, and other similar applications. Thus, you can find a few of the best low profile graphics cards up above in this listicle as well as their details like features and specifications. And if you wish to know, even more, we are here with a complete buying guide for the best low profile graphics cards:
1. GPU Model
Out of the various factors to consider before getting a GPU for your computer, you should first check its GPU model. This is due to the reason that the performance of graphics cards varies a lot between different models. If you wish to get a small low profile graphics card for your computer, then you can find GPU models like GT 710, GT 730, GT 1030, and GTX 1650 from Nvidia as well as the Radeon 7750 from AMD. When compared with each other, the GTX 1650 offers the best performance and the GT 710 is an entry-level model with the rest falling in between these in terms of their performance. In general, a higher GPU model is going to offer better performance in most cases.
2. VRAM
Whether you wish to connect to multiple high-resolution displays to your computer or want to play games, having a decent amount of VRAM in your GPU is highly important. In other words, a GPU with higher VRAM is going to offer better performance than a low VRAM model even if they have the same GPU model. You can find entry-level models with either 1 GB or 2 GB of VRAM which is decent for video output and basic computing tasks. However, if you want to play any modern PC games using your low profile graphics card, then it is highly recommended to get one with at least 4 gigs of VRAM.
3. Clock Speeds
If you are familiar with computers, then you must know that the performance of a processor is determined by its clock speeds. Similarly, graphics cards also have different clock speeds which can include ratings like 1200 MHz, 1350 MHz, 1500 MHz, and even higher in some cases. Out of all these options, the higher 1500 MHz clock speed is going to offer much better performance than other entry-level models. And just like VRAM, two GPUs with the same GPU model and VRAM capacity will differ in performance with different clock speeds.
4. CUDA Cores
You should also check the number of CUDA cores or computing cores offered by your graphics card to get an idea of its performance. Just like the VRAM and clock speeds of your computer, having a higher core count results in better performance especially when you are talking about gaming. While budget-friendly graphics cards may only offer around 200 cores, higher-end GPUs made for gaming can come with around 800 cores making them much more powerful.
5. Form Factor
As per the name, a low-profile graphics card is going to be quite small and compact. Because of their compact form factor, they can be used even in mini ITX cases without any compatibility issues. Except for a few higher-end low-profile graphics cards, most of them are single slot GPUs which is perfect for using along with other expansion cards in your computer.
6. Cooler Type
Since all of the low profile graphics cards stated above are quite small and compact, keeping them properly cooled is quite important as they are going to have restricted airflow. Hence, it is quite important to check the cooler type used by your graphics card. If you are going with an entry-level GPU made for video output, you will find most of them to have a passive radiator cooler which is a bit limited in terms of cooling performance. Thankfully, any high-end low profile graphics card designed for gaming is going to have a single fan cooling design to ensure that you do not face any thermal throttling issues with it.
7. Power Consumption
Whether you are buying a full-size or a low-profile graphics card, it is highly important to check its power consumption. This is to confirm that the power supply can handle its power requirements without running into issues. Fortunately, almost all low-profile graphics cards use entry-level GPU models that are quite limited in terms of their performance as well as power consumption or TDP. These low-profile graphics cards generally fall between 25 watts and 75 watts which is fairly low for a graphics card. As for their power input, almost all of the low-profile graphics cards stated above get their power directly from the PCIe slot which means that you do not need any extra power cables from PSU.
8. Bus Interface
Similar to any other component installed in your computer, your graphics card also gets connected directly to the motherboard. And if you know a thing or two about computers, you must be familiar about the PCIe slot that GPUs use for their connection. Although, not all PCIe slots are the same despite having the same physical connector. This is due to the reason that you can find different bus interfaces like PCIe 1.0, PCIe 2.0, and PCIe 3.0 while buying low-profile graphics cards. While it is recommended to get a GPU with PCIe 3.0 for the fastest connection speeds, you can also use older versions. But you have to ensure that the PCIe version used by your GPU is compatible with your motherboard to get the most out of your GPU.
9. Ports
Once a graphics card has been installed in your computer, you can go ahead and connect your monitor to it. But, if you already have or wish to get multiple monitors for your computer, then it is highly important to check the type and number of ports offered by your GPU. Other than older video output ports like VGA and DVI-D, you can also find modern connectors like HDMI and DisplayPort on the back of a lot of low-profile graphics cards. As for the number of ports offered by GPUs, most of them will include either 2 or 3 output ports. Although, a few GPUs made specifically for connecting multiple monitors may even include up to 6 mini Display Ports making them ideal for a multi-monitor setup.
10. Warranty
Even if you are going with an entry-level low-profile graphics card, you would still want it to last for as long as possible. Thus, it is always a great idea to get a reliable and durable GPU that can stay functional for as long as you are going to use your CPU. As a result, almost all GPUs come with a 3-year long warranty irrespective of its price.
Conclusion
Even if you are not going to play a lot of games on your computer, there is still a pretty good chance that you would want to get an entry-level graphics card for connecting multiple displays or for basic graphic-intensive tasks. In such cases, going with something like the best low-profile graphic cards stated above can be a great idea. Thanks to all their features and details stated above along with a comprehensive buying guide, you must have selected the right one for you by now. In case not, consider going with one of our ideal picks for the best low profile graphics cards:
Those of you who wish to play computer games but also want to have a low-profile GPU can go with the Gigabyte GTX 1650 GPU. Even though it is a double slot graphics card, it is still quite compact with its single fan design. Since it offers 4 gigs of VRAM along with 1740 MHz boost clock speeds, you can expect great performance from it at the given price tag. In case that you are on a tight budget but still want a low-profile graphics card for your compact computer, then you can go with the Zotac GT 710 GPU. Because it comes with 1 GB VRAM and a boost clock speed of 950 MHz. Since this GPU will be primarily used for video output, you get VGA, DVI-D, and HDMI ports on the back. Speaking of video output ports, the Vision Tek Radeon 7750 GPU includes a total of 6 mini Display Ports on the back making it the ideal option for using with multiple monitors. As for its specifications and performance, you get 2 GB VRAM along with a decent 850 Mhz boost clock speed.
Comment * Name * Email * Website
Δ
