GPUs are essential components in a gaming rig, responsible for processing complex algorithms and rendering high-quality visual images. A powerful GPU ensures a higher FPS, crucial for a smooth gaming experience. While several factors influence FPS, the GPU is the most critical. Here are the five best GPUs for gaming in 2024 across various budget categories.

 

1. RTX 4080 Super ($999)

The RTX 4080 Super is an excellent choice for playing modern AAA titles at maximum graphics settings with ray tracing enabled. Retailing at around $999, this GPU offers exceptional value for its performance.

  • Specifications:

    • CUDA Cores: 10,240
    • Tensor Cores: 320
    • RT Cores: 80
    • Boost Clock: Up to 2550 MHz
    • Memory: 16 GB GDDR6X
    • Memory Interface: 256-bit
    • Memory Bandwidth: 736 GB/s
    • TDP: 320W

  • Pros:

    • Powerful performance in gaming
    • Excellent ray tracing capabilities

  • Cons:

    • Upcoming 50-series GPUs may offer better performance at a similar price

2. RX 7900 XTX ($869)

The RX 7900 XTX is a formidable competitor at this price point, providing excellent raw and ray tracing performance. Priced around $869, it is a strong contender against the RTX 4070 Ti Super.

  • Specifications:

    • Architecture: RDNA 3
    • Process Node: 5nm
    • Stream Processors: 6144
    • Game Clock: 2365 MHz
    • Boost Clock: Up to 2500 MHz
    • Memory: 24GB GDDR6
    • Memory Bus: 384-bit
    • Memory Bandwidth: 960 GB/s
    • RT Cores: 96
    • TDP: 355W

  • Pros:

    • Excellent 4K gaming performance
    • High ray tracing capabilities

  • Cons:

    • FSR is not as refined as DLSS

3. RX 7900 GRE ($529)

The RX 7900 GRE, priced at $529, offers tremendous value. It competes well with the RTX 4070 Super and is a great entry-level 4K gaming card.

  • Specifications:

    • Architecture: RDNA 3
    • Process Node: 5nm
    • Stream Processors: 5120
    • Game Clock: 1880 MHz
    • Boost Clock: Up to 2245 MHz
    • Memory: 16GB GDDR6
    • Memory Bus: 256-bit
    • Memory Bandwidth: 576 GB/s
    • RT Cores: 80
    • TDP: 260W

  • Pros:

    • Great 4K performance at a budget
    • 16 GB of VRAM

  • Cons:

    • Ray tracing performance is limited

4. RX 7800 XT ($479)

The RX 7800 XT, retailing at $479, excels in 1440p gaming. It offers better performance in both ray tracing and non-ray tracing scenarios compared to its predecessors.

  • Specifications:

    • Architecture: RDNA 3
    • Process Node: 5nm
    • Stream Processors: 3840
    • Game Clock: 2124 MHz
    • Boost Clock: Up to 2430 MHz
    • Memory: 16GB GDDR6
    • Memory Bus: 256-bit
    • Memory Bandwidth: 624 GB/s
    • RT Cores: 60
    • TDP: 263W

  • Pros:

    • Excellent 1440p gaming performance
    • 16 GB of VRAM

  • Cons:

    • Ray tracing could be better

5. RX 6800 ($349)

The RX 6800 from AMD’s previous generation remains a solid choice for 1440p gaming, offering better performance than many competitors in its price range.

  • Specifications:

    • Architecture: RDNA 2
    • Process Node: 7nm
    • Stream Processors: 3840
    • Game Clock: 1815 MHz
    • Boost Clock: Up to 2105 MHz
    • Memory: 16GB GDDR6
    • Memory Bus: 256-bit
    • Memory Bandwidth: 512 GB/s
    • RT Cores: 60
    • TDP: 250W

  • Pros:

    • Excellent budget 1440p gaming GPU
    • 16 GB of VRAM

  • Cons:

    • Limited ray tracing performance

Conclusion

Choosing the right GPU depends on your budget and gaming needs. These five GPUs offer excellent performance across various price points, ensuring that you get the best value for your money in 2024. Whether you're looking for top-tier 4K gaming or a budget-friendly 1440p experience, there's a GPU on this list that will meet your needs.