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AMD has been nailing it in the tech market thanks to its compatibility with the recent CPU models by being super-efficient in comparison to other brands at a very competitive price point.
What makes GPUs so special is their ability to maintain a balance between speed and power, something that even the 8th Generation Intel series have not been able to achieve.
Below you can expect to find some indicators to help with your purchasing decisions and find the best GPU for Ryzen 5 2600 within your budget.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best GPUs For Ryzen 5 2600
- OUR TOP PICK: XFX RX-590P8DFD6 Radeon Rx 590
- RUNNER-UP: MSI GTX 1660 TI Ventus XS 6G OC
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: EVGA GTX 1050 SC Gaming 3GB
Comparison of the Best GPUs For Ryzen 5 2600
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Can Any GPU Be Used With a Ryzen 5 2600?
The Ryzen 5 2600 does not have an integrated GPU, and neither does it require a dedicated GPU for efficient functioning. However, if you want to boost up the performance levels or are looking for pro-gaming, you can purchase a GPU separately. For the Gyzen 5 2600, AMD has its own vega line of GPUs designed specifically for it. However, you can also choose from options offered by Nvidia.
Both of these make equally good options for the Ryzen 5 2600 when it comes to heavy multitasking, casual gaming, or displaying resolutions lower than 1080p. To sum it up, while you can use any GPU with this model from the Ryzen series, a more suitable choice would be to go for the GPU by AMD as they have better integration ability in comparison to the Nvidia GPUs that were originally designed to cater to the Intel CPU.
What to Look For When Buying a GPU for the Ryzen 5 2600
Having a good graphics processing unit is essential to make Ryzen 5 2600 run smoothly. This is because, for most users, performance is the key, and everyone can use the extra speed they can get. If you are a gamer or professional who is looking to invest in a GPU for Ryzen 5 2600, here are some key aspects you should look for:
Thermal Design Power (TDP)
This has to do with the power supply; GPUs have the tendency to produce a lot of heat and thus call for adequate cooling to function smoothly. The majority of the graphics cards come with suggestions for the power supply size, so you need to consider any other parts of your device that have the tendency to heat up. The TDP is shown in watts.
Memory
If you need a good amount of storage, you will need to consider the RAM in your GPU, which will allow you to run high-performance games and software. Even for running high-end 4K displays, you will require more graphics RAM.
Interface
GPUs require connection with the PCIe slots depending on their slot widths, which come in single, double, and triple slots. Users are advised to ensure that their motherboard has sufficient space for the GPU of their choice.
Connections
A good GPU is one that has compatibility with most other devices to run and take control of the display. Make sure the GPU you go for is connectable to DVI, HDMI, and DisplayPort.
XFX RX-590P8DFD6 Radeon RX 590
Review of the Best GPUs For Ryzen 5 2600
Good GPU helps your device not get heated up and contributes to the overall display quality and performance. To help you land the GPU best suited to your needs, we have compiled some of the best ones in the market below.
Best Overall:
XFX RX-590P8DFD6 Radeon Rx 590
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Known for its boosted core clock at an affordable price point, users also enjoy its less power demand of 185 watts compared to competitor models. Users also liked the Polaris GPU architecture, which signifies how AMD is pushing its boundaries.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The focus of XFX with this model lies on the price point rather than on the performance. It is offered at a pretty sweet deal, considering the fringe benefits it offers you, such as the free games along with the purchase; Tom Clancy's The Division 2, Resident Evil 2, and Devil May Cry 5. These all are the top games and require a graphics card of such caliber.
In relation to its smart marketing, it has really swept the market away by reminding them of the benefit of saving up on certain gaming titles because their purchase price can end up adding a lot more to the final price. The best part about it is its ability to compete at 1,580MHz, a significant leap from the 1,469MHz that is sufficient for Ryzen 5 2600.
Bottom Line
If you require a compact, well-thought-out GPU design, RX 590 should be at the top of your list too. Not only is its core clock 100MHz higher, but it also has sound construction to support a cooling system to prevent any battery or performance issues.
Runner-up:
MSI GTX 1660 TI Ventus XS 6G OC
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Having some of the top custom GeForce GTX and GeForce RTX series graphics cards for gamers and designers, MSI has gone a step further with this flagship MSI GeForce GTX 1660. Going over what users said, it is usually sought by gamers who enjoy boost clocks.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Although not a rare feature to have at this price point, this model offers 1500MHz base GPU frequency with GPU boost clocks at 1875MHz. This gets the users more performance for games depending on the resolution.
It is a well-balanced model that has achieved everything in moderation regarding performance, power, and design for the ultimate gaming experience. It has a technological benefit over other cards by providing a smooth experience when it comes to 1080p and 1440p displays. So when playing games such as Fortnite and Apex Legends, you can consider yourself covered as you will be getting 120FPS at 1080p.
Bottom Line
Overall, this makes for a great option if you are looking for a high-end GPU at a more affordable price point. It can easily compete with other high-end units and promises a significant benefit for users in terms of customization.
Best for the Money:
EVGA GTX 1050 SC Gaming 3GB
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Packed with extra VRAM for higher performance in texture-heavy games, this one has beaten all others by a long run for certain users. It has been reported to outperform certain other models while offering decent memory bandwidth.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The introduction of the 3GB card had increased everyone's expectations, and EVGA has fulfilled every one of them by enhancing performance and performing better when running games with more visual texture. This improvement has also significantly improved the lagging issues faced by some users in the previous models.
It makes for a great choice for enthusiastic designers and gamers alike, packing in an efficient thermal system to offer a one-stop solution for cooling. It also has one-click overclocking, which makes it an uncontested option at this price point.
Bottom Line
As a budget GPU, GTX 1050 3GB has done pretty well for itself. It has improved on its earlier models and has derived unique solutions for performance-related issues to offer the smoothest gaming experience to the user.
4. MSI RTX 2060 Ventus 6G OC
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 2060 has pleasantly surprised everyone with its capability to offer smooth, high-end gaming. The graphics have been reported to have turned out pretty well on 1080p and 1440p resolution screens.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For a high-end gamer, this is something unbeatable. Not only does it offer a steady frame rate, but it also runs resource-heavy games like no other. If you wish to probe deeper, the only thing amiss is a VirtualLink port, but even that can be connected using an external cable.
It is on par with its competitor GPU models that are compatible with Ryzen. Its aluminum body with copper workings holds well for high-end games; it allows for heat dissipation in a much more subtle way.
Bottom Line
Overall, the RTX 2060 comes at a pretty reasonable price, with its 3GB card holding great potential in terms of versatility and performance. It can be a good choice for those looking to connect to more than a single monitor for work.
5. EVGA RTX 2070 Super FTW3 Ultra+
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Most users have reported it to emit less noise thanks to the fans present in the main hub. It is also liked for its cooling technology, which has been known to have 11.5% more airflow.
Why it Stands Out to Us
EVGA GeForce RTX 2070 comes with a completely new design (an alien-like aesthetic from its previous models). It is retrofitted with a custom made PCB and has Hydro Dynamic Bearing (HDB). This helps in controlling excess noise and increases its overall battery life.
Underneath the fans, a heat-sink array can be found. This is made of a solid sheet of metal. There is a metal plate on the exterior, which helps in heat dispersal. It is easily spottable how EVGA has taken special care of the cooling system for this new generation update.
Bottom Line
To sum it up, the EVGA RTX 2070 has a cooler design but misses out on the additional temperature sensors that help in the hardware's shelf life. Being a conventional two-slot, 10.6-inch-long card, its overall design is pretty much compatible with most devices.
Benefits of Investing in a Quality GPU For Ryzen 5 2600
There is always something to gain once you invest in a quality GPU for Ryzen 5 2600. It saves you from the annoyances of low-performance GPUs while ensuring a good user experience and battery intact. Investing in a quality GPU is sure to land you the following benefits;
Performance Gains
The GPU's improved computing not only provides better performance, but it also makes editing apps related to designing, animation, and video, run smoothly too.
Good for High-fps 1080p and 1440p Gaming
Along with faster desktop response rates, having 1080 or 1440 p allow for better multi-tasking, which is an essential requirement by most users.
Quiet Cooling
Even though it does not seem like that big of a concern, even a little fan noise can spoil the mood when you are indulged in gaming or using professional software.
Reasonable Overclocking Capabilities
Overclocking abilities allow the work to be done faster. So, the Radeon Rx 590 basically frees the CPU of its primary task by offering power when high powered games or applications require it.
What Do I Need to Know Before Buying a GPU for My Ryzen 2600?
There are many factors that should be accounted for before buying a GPU for Ryzen 5 2600. To help you get acquainted with the essentials that cannot be compromised upon, we have compiled them below:
Memory Amount
The higher the amount of memory of the graphic cards for Ryzen 5 2600, the more life-like the graphics would be. For a good user interface experience at an HD quality, go for 4GB to 6GB. Otherwise, 8GB would work well for a 4k resolution.
Power Connectors
Typically, a good GPU should have extra two-pin, six-pin, and eight-pin ports, so the user does not face any trouble connecting it to various devices. Moreover, some graphics cards don’t even work with an external connector, which is why you need to prevent getting a non-flexible one for long-term usage.
Clock Speed
This is directly related to a higher speed, which increases efficiency. The best range to look for is between 1607MHz and 1835MHz. These will land you good speeds to make apps work smoothly.
Memory Speed
This is another factor that feeds into a better performance as a result when operating large-size applications such as AutoDesk or Sketchup. A good memory speed means you will have an easier time re-opening files and restoring them.
XFX RX-590P8DFD6 Radeon Rx 590
Conclusion
The presence of multiple technical aspects makes choosing a product pretty tricky, especially if you want to get your hands on a good GPU that is tailored to meet your needs. However, you can use the above laid out guide to help you make a list of what to keep in mind.
People Also Ask
There might be times when you have covered all the technical aspects of a GPU for Ryzen 5 2600, but you may still face difficulties in terms of its usage. To help you get sorted, we have answered some frequently asked questions below:
Can a Ryzen 5 2600 Run VR?
If paired with a good GPU, the Ryzen 5 2600 can run a range of VR games. The Ryzen CPU comes unlocked, which is an added benefit for gamers who would like to make the most out of the feature.
Can You Run a Ryzen 2600 Without a GPU?
Although being a beast in today's tech world, an integrated GPU is still not possible for Ryzen 5 2600, which is why it has to be bought additionally. The graphics card would be responsible for the quality you witness on the screen when playing games.
EVGA GTX 1050 SC Gaming 3GB
Should I Get a GPU With a Ryzen 5 2600?
Investing in a good GPU for Ryzen 5 2600 is very important, and with some bucks, you can connect it to most other GPUs well. Ensure that you have GTX 1070 at the very least so that the GPU can take up most of the workload.
Does the Ryzen 6 2600 Have a Built-In GPU?
The Ryzen 6 2600 does not have a built-in GPU. APU products are the ones that usually contain a CPU and built-in GPU duo. If you are looking for a built-in GPU, go for the Ryzen APU series, which has a flagship status and impressive performance stats.
