Comparison of Popular Graphics Cards in 2024 and the Difference Between Onboard and Dedicated Graphics Cards

Comparing graphics cards can be a daunting task, especially for those who are not well-versed in technology. However, it is crucial to choose the right graphics card that suits your machine. In this article, we will help you compare and choose between integrated and dedicated graphics cards, as well as between RTX and GTX graphics cards.

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Graphic cards are a crucial part of graphic processing tasks. Therefore, to choose a graphic card that suits your computer, you can refer to the popular graphic card comparisons in 2024 below.

Things to know before comparing graphic cards

A Video Graphics Adapter (VGA) is an important component in a computer, responsible for processing graphic data and displaying images on the screen.

A VGA card is usually installed on the motherboard or plugged into an expansion slot on the motherboard as a separate component, helping to process graphics faster and more powerful than the computer’s main processor (CPU).

Currently, there are two main types of graphic cards:

  • Onboard graphic card: This is a type of graphic card that is integrated into the computer’s motherboard. It usually shares the main system memory (RAM) and has lower performance compared to separate graphic cards. Therefore, the performance will be limited when processing complex graphics or playing 3D games. This type of card is suitable for basic office tasks, web browsing, etc.
  • Dedicated graphic card: This is an independent graphic card that is not integrated into the motherboard. A dedicated graphic card has its own graphic processor and memory, resulting in higher performance. It is suitable for games, graphics, and applications that require high graphic performance.

Comparison between onboard and dedicated graphic cards

After understanding the concept of onboard and dedicated graphic cards, to know the differences and which type is suitable for your needs, continue reading the following graphic card comparison.

Onboard graphic card

An onboard graphic card is suitable for office tasks. The following are the highlights of onboard graphic cards.

  • Less error-prone: An onboard graphic card is integrated into the CPU and RAM hardware. This ensures stability during operation.
  • Compatible with computer hardware and components: An onboard card is designed to be compatible with other computer components such as the motherboard, CPU, and RAM. 
  • No additional cost: An onboard card is integrated into the computer, so there is no additional cost to purchase.

Although it has the advantages mentioned above, when compared to dedicated graphic cards, onboard graphic cards have some drawbacks, such as:

  • Lower processing performance compared to dedicated graphic cards: An onboard card has to share resources from the shared memory (CPU and RAM) of the computer, so the ability to process complex graphics and 3D games is limited.
  • Uses system RAM: An onboard card uses the same RAM as the computer, which makes the memory heavier. Heavy graphics processing can overload the memory, reduce performance, and cause system hang-ups.
  • Multitasking limitations: An onboard card cannot process multiple tasks simultaneously. Using multiple applications at the same time can slow down the computer.

Dedicated graphic card

When comparing dedicated graphic cards with onboard graphic cards, the following advantages cannot be overlooked:

  • Independent GPU: A dedicated graphic card has an independent GPU, without sharing CPU and RAM resources. This allows the dedicated graphic card to optimize graphic performance.
  • Good performance in heavy gaming and design software: A dedicated graphic card with a powerful GPU can handle applications that require high graphic performance.
  • Upgrade and customization: A dedicated graphic card is easier to upgrade and replace. This improves performance and supports new features. This helps extend the lifespan of the computer and can meet flexible specialized requirements.
  • Excellent 3D gaming experience: This type of card is perfect for 3D games with high image quality and smooth speed.

Although dedicated graphic cards have many advantages, they still have some drawbacks, such as:

  • High price: One of the major limitations of dedicated graphic cards is the high price.
  • Inappropriate cooling system: Dedicated cards are heavy and require a suitable cooling system to ensure safe operation. Poor heat dissipation can cause the computer to heat up, resulting in reduced performance and system hanging.
  • Comparison of graphic card compatibility: Dedicated graphic cards are prone to compatibility issues with some systems or software. This can cause display errors, performance issues, or instability.

Comparison between RTX and GTX Graphic Cards

RTX and GTX graphic cards are two product lines of NVIDIA that are popular choices, each line has its own features and technologies. The differences between the two types of cards are:

Comparison of RTX Graphic Cards:

  • RTX cards are designed with advanced features such as ray tracing, unique graphic technologies that create realistic images with natural light and reflections. They have integrated tensor cores and Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology to optimize image quality.
  • RTX cards also use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to improve graphic performance. However, these advanced features often lead to higher prices. Suitable for those who need high graphic quality and prioritize new technologies.

Comparison of GTX Graphic Cards:

  • The GTX series focuses on high-quality graphic performance without integrating features like ray tracing and tensor cores. The prices are lower compared to equivalent RTX cards.
  • GTX is a good choice for users who want to enjoy high-quality gaming and graphics with a limited budget.

Conclusion

FPT Shop has compared popular graphic cards in 2024. Each type of card, whether onboard or dedicated, or RTX and GTX, has its own advantages. Therefore, depending on your usage needs and budget, you can make an appropriate decision.

Frequently asked questions

There are two primary types of graphic cards: onboard and dedicated. An onboard graphic card is integrated directly onto the computer’s motherboard, sharing system memory (RAM). Dedicated graphic cards, on the other hand, are independent units with their own graphic processor and memory, offering superior performance for gaming, graphics-intensive applications, and specialized tasks.

Onboard graphic cards are well-suited for basic office tasks and web browsing. They are integrated into the CPU and RAM hardware, ensuring stable operation and compatibility with other computer components. Additionally, they incur no extra cost as they are built into the computer system.

Onboard graphic cards have lower processing performance compared to dedicated cards as they share resources from the computer’s CPU and RAM. This limits their ability to handle complex graphics and 3D gaming. They also use system RAM, which can lead to memory overload and slow down the overall performance of the computer during heavy graphics processing.

Dedicated graphic cards offer several advantages, including an independent GPU, which optimizes graphic performance without sharing CPU and RAM resources. They excel in heavy gaming and design software, providing excellent 3D gaming experiences. Additionally, they are easily upgradeable, ensuring improved performance and support for new features over time.

Dedicated graphic cards tend to be more expensive, and they require an appropriate cooling system due to their heavy processing power. Inadequate heat dissipation can lead to reduced performance and system instability. They may also encounter compatibility issues with certain systems or software, resulting in display errors or performance problems.

Intel and NVIDIA graphic cards offer distinct advantages. NVIDIA’s RTX line features advanced technologies like ray tracing and Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS), creating realistic images with natural lighting and reflections. RTX cards also leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) to boost performance but come at a higher price point. The GTX series, on the other hand, focuses on delivering high-quality graphic performance without these additional features, making them more affordable.

The choice between an onboard or dedicated graphic card, or between RTX and GTX lines, depends on your specific usage needs and budget. Onboard cards are suitable for basic tasks, while dedicated cards excel in gaming and graphics-intensive applications. Similarly, RTX cards offer advanced features for those prioritizing new technologies, while GTX cards provide high-quality performance at a lower cost.