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While RGB for gamers is not much of a necessity, it sure is truly aesthetic. It gives a very good environment and ambiance to the gamer to play games in.
There are lots of gaming gadgets and PCs that have RGB lighting settings.
So, one important gadget that you can upgrade to is an RGB GPU. We have discussed their importance, functionality, and features in this article. Take a look.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best RGB GPUs
- OUR TOP PICK: ASUS ROG STRIX RTX 2060 SUPER
- RUNNER-UP: ASUS ROG STRIX GTX 1080TI OC
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Gigabyte AORUS GTX 1060 6G REV 2.0
Comparison of the Best RGB GPUs
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What Does a RGB GPU Do For My Set Up?
GPUs generally are referred to as graphics cards as well. These are the most crucial part of a PC, particularly for gamers. This is because it can do the following for a computer set up:
Image Creation
A GPU, or graphics processing unit, is the component responsible for rendering and manipulating the image creation process.
This means that when you are playing a video game or looking at photos on your PC, this component works by increasing the speed at which images change, alter, or buffer on your screen. Therefore, a GPU is simply responsible for accelerating this process.
Aesthetic Pleasure
An RGB CPU is one with RGB lights. These lights make it more prominent. Usually, more advanced and top-notch quality GPUs are equipped with these lights. Therefore, good appearance, as well as reliable performance, will be guaranteed for your setup with an RGB GPU.
Accommodates Heavy-Duty Tasks and Games
Games with resolutions of up to 4k require a good-quality GPU. Since RGB cards tend to be pricier and more advanced, they come in handy when streaming or playing 4K games.
Are All RGB GPUs the Same?
The biggest difference that occurs between the varieties of GPUs on the market is in their manufacturers. There are companies that manufacture GPUs from scratch. Meanwhile, some brands outsource the card and then add other components and extra features such as RGB lighting to them.
In fact, NVIDIA and AMD are the two biggest sellers of basic GPUs, which are bought by other companies such as ASUS, and they build upon these cards.
So basically, their core functionality is the same, and so is their build. The only difference lies in their RGB lighting system, synchronization capabilities, heat dissipation mechanism, and other such added-on features.
Review of the Best RGB GPUs
Here are some hand-picked best RGB GPUs that you can choose one from. They are reviewed in detail so you can decide which unit is better for you.
Best Overall:
ASUS ROG STRIX RTX 2060 SUPER
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People who have larger cases or more room for a GPU really liked this card's large size. They also report that it is very easy to install and does not require any special tools or techniques. Reports also tell us that this card has a good and solid backplate, along with a satisfactory cooling mechanism.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The ASUS RGB GPU is equipped with the NVIDIA chipset and processor. It features two DisplayPort and one HDMI port for versatile connectivity options. Other than its customizable and fully controllable RGB lighting, the card also impresses us with its powerful hybrid fans.
These fans are made with advanced technology and a specially patented wing-blade design. This ensures that they function silently and can be used all night long without disturbing your roommate’s peace.
Some other impressive features of this unit include its Auto-Extreme and aircraft-grade superior alloy-made components. These features guarantee that your gaming setup is durable and up-to-date.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this 8GB GPU by Asus is outstanding with its Aura Sync lighting system, hybrid fans, and robust construction. It is a top-notch product suitable for pro-level gaming. It is ideal for 1440p games.
Runner-up:
ASUS ROG STRIX GTX 1080TI OC
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most of the people who used this card were really satisfied with its simplistic and minimalistic design. Along with that, they also enjoyed a smooth and consistent performance of this product. People report that the card’s temperature does not significantly increase even when being used at full load.
Why it Stands Out to Us
ASUS is one of the most well-known brands in the market that give incredibly satisfying gaming gadgets. Therefore, this RGB GPU is worthy of all your attention. It is fully equipped with features such as Auto-Extreme and MaxContact technology that allow it to be used at full loads. These features guarantee that you can play heavy games without any disturbances.
Moreover, it has an excellent RAM of 11 GB that will accommodate all your precious data. It is equipped with advanced wing-blade design fans that make little to no noise at all. It can run four monitors at a time and is also compatible with VR headsets. All these features are supported by responsive and helpful customer support.
Bottom Line
To conclude, we find this card really impressive with its great-quality construction and advanced features. It has a good cooling mechanism, along with a low-profile and silent design that will be of great importance in pro-level gaming.
Best for the Money:
Gigabyte AORUS GTX 1060 6G REV 2.0
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
There were several buyers of this unit who used it for photoshop and video production purposes. They report that it handles heavy data easily and loads RAW images very quickly. People also used this budget-friendly unit for 1080p video games and reported it to have performed really well.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Featuring a sleek and long-lasting design, this graphics card stands out to us with top-quality construction and efficient data-handling capability. Firstly, it comes fully equipped with an advanced copper backplate. This plate does not heat up, and neither does it require any much effort from your side as it’s the best at offering a good cooling effect to the card.
Moreover, we recommend this unit to beginners or newbies to gaming. This is because the product comes with a detailed and helpful user manual that further makes it a user-friendly product. This is a multi-purpose card that is suitable for tasks and projects other than only gaming. It can be used for video editing, Photoshop, and photo manipulation too.
Bottom Line
Overall, if you use your PC setup for 1080p games and other projects, this unit is the ideal pick for you. It gives a good price-to-performance ratio, so people with tight budgets can also get their hands on this one.
Best MSI RGB GPU:
MSI RTX 2080 Super Gaming X Trio
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
After using it for hours, people reported the highest temperature to be the only 61˚C. Moreover, some buyers tell us that the card can be used for up to 1440p games, and it can work very steadily. Some reports also suggest that the fan very efficiently turns on or off automatically without any trouble.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The MSI RTX GPU is equipped with a versatile range of connectivity options, including three DisplayPort and an HDMI port as well. The card also comes pre-installed with a robust aluminum backplate that enhances the cooling mechanism. Moreover, we think this card is suitable for professional-level gaming since it comes with reliable software. The Afterburner software is very smooth, advanced, and remains up-to-date.
Another very notable feature of this unit is its advanced fans that work automatically. These fans save energy and stop working when the unit’s temperature is low. You will also not notice any faults or malfunctioning in the automatic functionality of these fans.
Bottom Line
Summing it up, this is a higher-end GPU that features an extraordinary cooling system and an efficient backplate. It also has a longer-lasting life, which adds great value to your money. It is a highly recommended product for 1440p professional gaming.
Editor's Pick:
ZOTAC RTX 2080 AMP Extreme
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
From its packaging to its performance, everything was loved by the buyers of this card. People were particularly happy with how advanced and updated it was. Buyers used it for playing 4K games at 60 fps and experienced a smooth and efficient performance.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The overall build quality of this unit is exceptional. It is one of the most durable cards you will find on the market. It features a strong and robust metal-made PCB, along with an NVIDIA Turing design and structure. It is also highly suitable for heavy-duty gaming, considering its advanced VR compatibility and 4K capability.
It has a marvelous Spectra 2.0 RGB lighting system, which has several configurable lighting effects. Some of these effects include flash, shine, static, and fade. You can customize this and make it sync with the rest of your set up.
Bottom Line
Wrapping it up, this ZOTAC GPU is our favorite for heavy-duty gaming. It is advanced, considering its features like VR capability and 1950 MHz Boost Clock. However, these features are also user-friendly and can be used by beginners too.
Characteristics of Our Favorite RGB GPUs
Certain features and functions make RGB GPUs worth your money. Therefore, only a handful of these is added to our article.
Here is a list of some top features that makes these products stand out.
Efficient TDP
TDP, or better known as thermal design power, refers to how well the unit works with heat. Heat dissipation is crucial for several reasons, particularly for your set up's security and safety, and for your comfort too. Some units are equipped with larger fans, while others are equipped with several efficient fans. TDP also determines the watt ratings needed. Therefore, the best products have higher TDP efficiency.
Higher Bandwidth
Greater memory or bandwidth makes a graphics card faster and better. Higher bandwidth means that your games will load and buffer much faster with greater capacity of withstanding heavy-duty games.
Warranty and Technical Support
This factor is crucial. You cannot underestimate the importance of good customer support or warranty policy. A warranty will cover any damages or repairs needed due to the brand’s negligence, and you have to pay an extra penny. Meanwhile, good technical support means that they are readily available to help you with the product.
Cautious Considerations to Keep in Mind
Now that you have made up your mind about buying a new GPU and upgrading your PC set up, here are some cautious considerations. Keep these in mind to ensure your safety and the GPU’s longevity.
Compatibility With Monitors
All GPUs are not universal. In fact, the monitors or PC setups are not universal either. Therefore, you need to check things like ports, pins, power supply, and room for the GPU before going ahead and buying one.
Know Your Resolution
Before buying the GPU, make sure that it has sufficient features that will make your experience flawless. This means that you need to match the card’s capabilities with your usage. A GPU with a slower speed, lower memory, or bandwidth cannot run 4k images or videos at the best resolution. Therefore, match these features before you make the purchase.
Installation Should Not Be Taken Lightly
Such technical equipment must be installed with immense care. If you are a beginner, a YouTube tutorial might not suffice to install a GPU properly. Poor installation can lead to several issues in the longer run.
How to Control RGB Lighting on a GPU
You need to know your GPU's exact model number and brand to access its RGB controls. Here are the steps you need to follow to control the lighting:
- To control the GPU's lighting, you need to first go to the respective brand’s website. You can do this by searching your product’s model number and brand name on Google. The authentic company’s link should be used only.
- From this website, download the software for the particular GPU model.
- Once the software is downloaded, it will automatically detect your GPU and show its performance factors and other settings, such as overclocking, health/performance, etc.
- Go to the “LED” option.
- Once you are in the LED settings pop-up, there will be tons of lighting options and controls given to you.
The following video will help you better understand what the software’s interface will look like. Take a look to follow the steps accurately.
Conclusion
Now that we have discussed GPUs in so much detail, you must be equipped with sufficient knowledge to make an informed decision. Always consider important factors such as power requirements and compatibility with existing setup before you buy a GPU.
People Also Ask
This section will cater to all left-over questions and queries. If you are a novice, the following questions and answers will be of great help.
Is RGB Overrated?
Having an RGB setup is a completely personal choice. While many pro-level gamers do not bother too much with RGB, some really like the aesthetics this brings to their gaming experience.
Can You Sync RGB From Different Brands?
Syncing RGB from different brands can be rather difficult. However, you can sync them manually by setting RGB profiles on different components and matching them with each other.
What is the Difference Between RGB and RYB?
RGB stands for red, green, and blue. These are the primary colors of light used in computers. RYB or red, yellow, and blue are primary colors of paint and can be manipulated to blend these colors according to our preferences.
Why Do Gamers Love RGB?
RGB is solely known for the aesthetic appearance it adds to your gaming setup. It does not have any other practical purposes other than how it lightens up your gaming station.
Do All Motherboards Support RGB?
Some motherboards support RGB but have either two or three headers. Some do not support RGB at all. It hugely varies from one model to another.
What is an RGB Card?
RGB or red, green, and blue are prefixed elements that are added to motherboards. These prefixes allow the card or the unit to display the primary colors of light, while also blending in to form other several colors.
Why is RGB So Popular?
RGB is popular due to its aesthetic look and recent association with gaming. It is identified as a sign that a PC setup is particularly for gaming purposes.
Is RGB Good For Gaming?
Like mentioned earlier, RGB does not necessarily affect the gaming performance of the user. However, it surely can affect the experience. It can create a more engaging and attractive environment that allows the player to indulge better in the game.
What Does RGB GPU Stand For?
RGB stands for red, green, and blue. GPU stands for the graphics processing unit.
How to Turn Off RGB on a Gigabyte GPU
A simple method to turn RGB off on a Gigabyte unit is to install and use the RGB fusion software. If the software does not work, you can contact the Gigabyte team to get an instant response.
Can I Add RGB to a GPU Backplate?
Yes, you can. If your GPU does not already have a backplate, you can use an acrylic plate and adjust it according to your GPU’s size. Sticking RGB LED strips to the backplate is the easiest and most practical method.
Is There Any Way to Manually Control My GPU RGB Lighting?
Manually controlling these lighting can be actually very risky, so we do not recommend it unless you are a tech guru. You can instead use third-party software or buy a controller separately to control RGB lights.
