Many situations call for a compact and small computer. These compact computers are great for small offices, HTPCs, and any other situation in which a powerful computer is unnecessary. These features are why you should choose one of these low-profile graphics cards:
GPU Model: Before reviewing your graphics card’s specifications specs, check the GPU model. Sometimes, you need a mini PC graphics card. But if you are working on a high workload, you need a powerful GPU model, such as the Nvidia GTX 1650, as this type of card lies under the category of best graphic cards under $200.
VRAM: You may not get the same performance if you choose a specific GPU model. They all have different amounts of VRAM. A 1 GB or 2 GB GPU will suffice for primary video output. as compared to a single slot GPU, which is 20GB of GDDR6 memory, much more powerful for big tasks. However, 4 GB VRAM is required to play modern PC games. Problem understanding VRAM?
Speeds of the Clock: The clock speed of your graphics card is another factor that can significantly impact its performance. A GPU with a 1500 MHz or higher clock speed will perform better than GPUs with clock speeds of around 1200MHz, even though they share the same GPU model with the same amount of VRAM.
These features are essential, but there’s still much to learn before you buy a GPU. All the low-profile graphics cards listed below have significant options and features. These features are combined with the detailed “Buying Guide.“If you want a pre-built pc under 1000$, this article suits you.
If you want to buy a motherboard, here is a low-profile one with WiFi Reviews & Buying Guide.
You can easily find the lowest profile graphics cards by the time it ends.
Best Low Profile Graphics Cards 2023: Reviews
1. ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
Zotac GPUs are affordable and perform well, making them an ideal choice for most computer users.
Because it is a balanced GPU that can be used for gaming and primary video output, the Zotac GeForce GT1030 low-profile graphic card ranks at the top of this list. You get 384 CUDA cores, a decent amount. This GPU runs at a base clock at 1227 MHz, and a boost clock at 1468 MHz can be expected to deliver a very good performance.
Although there are only two gigs of VRAM, This GPU uses GDDR5 VRAM.Memory clock at 6000 MHz for high-performance output. Zotac even includes a fan to ensure the best performance without thermal throttling.
You will find the following information at the back of the GPU: An HDMI and VGA port can make it difficult for some users. However, Zotac is durable because it comes with a 3-year warranty.
There are many variants in GTX 1030. You can find which one fulfills your workload.
Features of ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
- Uses PCI Express 3.0 bus.
- Includes 384 CUDA cores.
- Includes 2 GB GDDR5 RAM.
- 1227 MHz base clock and 1468 MHz booster clock.
- Consumption of 30 watts.
- Cooled by one fan design.
- Uses a 1x slot.
- Included 1 x VGA and 1 x HDMI ports.
- Three-year warranty.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Decent entry-level gaming experience | ❌ Port selection limited |
✔ Compact design with built-in fan | |
✔ High-performance GDDR5 VRAM |
2. MSI GT 1030 2G LP OC Graphics Card
MSI is a world leader in developing gaming laptops with advanced features and a long life expectancy. In addition, MSI is a single-stop shop that sells all aspects of computer components, including motherboards, graphics cards, and laptops.
This low-profile graphics card has a memory speed of up to 1518 MHz and video memory up to 2GB GDDR5 for super-fast performance. It also has a memory clock speed of 6008MHz, ensuring a smooth experience with high-end games and apps that use a lot. In addition, MSI used the most recent Nvidia architecture to make this card. You will get regular updates and support longer than the older cards.
The cooling system is one of the critical advantages of this card. The fan is small, but the robust design and solid capacitors quickly dissipate heat, allowing you to use your laptop for hours. In addition, the large heatsink provides a quiet environment that allows you to focus on work or play games.
You have two options for connectivity: DisplayPort and HDMI. These ports can be used to connect to your laptop or PC. These ports make it easy to install. You will also receive cables and connectors along with the graphics card. The warranty period is not mentioned on the product page. MSI provides a 3-year warranty on the graphics card starting from the date of purchase.
Features of ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
- Uses PCI Express 3.0 bus
- Includes 2 GB GDDR5 RAM
- 1518 MHz memory speed, 6008 MHz memory clock
- Consumption of 30 watts
- Cooled by one fan design
- One HDMI and one Display port included
- Warranty: 3 year
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Excellent performance | ✔ Ports: Very few |
✔ High-quality fan with effective cooling | |
✔ Operation is quiet |
3. ZOTAC GeForce GT 730 Zone Edition 4GB DDR3 Graphics Card
Zotac also has older GPU models that are still a great choice for buyers who want decent GPU performance but don’t have the budget.
Because it is the most powerful GT 730, the Zotac GeForce GT 730Z Edition low profile graphics card is ranked third. It is a rated base clock speed of 920 MHzThis is quite a good deal, especially when you think about its size.
384 CUDA Cores. The best part about this graphics card?
4GB VRAM is also much more expensive than other options in the same class.
It uses slow DDR3 VRAM, rated at1600 MHz memory clock speeds lower than GDDR5 CPUs. In addition, even though they can provide a higher 49-watt power consumptionZotac has included a passive cooler that provides optimal cooling performance.
Another advantage of this GPU is that it offers a great deal of memory.VGA, DVI, and HDMI ports can connect multiple displays using the back connector. Like its GT 1030 predecessor, the Zotac GT 730 has a 3-year warranty.
Features of ZOTAC GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
- Uses PCI Express 2.0 Bus
- Includes 384 CUDA cores
- Includes 4GB DDR3 RAM
- Base clock 902 MHz
- 46 watts of power consumption
- A passive radiator cools the room
- You can use two slots
- Included: 1 x VGA and 1 x DVI–D ports.
- Three-year warranty
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ High VRAM capacity GPU | ✔ Slower DDR3 VRAM |
✔ Multiple video output ports are available | |
✔ Passive cooling for silent operation |
4. Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1650 Super OC 4G Graphics Card
Gigabyte has a wide range of high-performance graphics cards. This is true even for the low-profile GPU models.
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1650Super OC is a great option for anyone who wants to play modern PC games while using a low-profile GPU. This Gigabyte GPU gives you a total of 1280 CUDA Cores. This is a much better choice than many others. This GPU is a super OC (or overclock) edition. It offers an exceptional experience. The base clock speed of 1410 MHz Along with an equally great boost clock speed of 1740MHz.
Gigabyte offers a variety of gaming services to ensure your gaming experience is smooth and quick with 4 GB of GDDR6 RAM. This graphics card is clocked at12000 MHz memory clock an outstanding performance.
This 2x slot GPU has one problem: It is too large and takes up too much space. Seventy-five watts can draw power from its 6-pin power connector. Nevertheless, its larger dimensions allow it to contain. DVI-D, VGA, and HDMI ports on the back. This GPU is extremely powerful, and you get a 3-year warranty.
Features of Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1650 Super OC 4G Graphics Card
- Uses PCI Express 3.0 bus
- Includes 1280 CUDA cores
- Includes 4 GB GDDR6 RAM
- 1410 MHz base clock and 1740 MHz booster clock
- 75 watts of power consumption via a 6-pin power connector
- Cooled by one fan design
- Uses 2x slots
- Included: 1 x VGA and 1 x DVI–D ports.
- Three-year warranty.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Modern GDDR6 VRAM | ❌ Very low power consumption |
✔ Great for modern PC games | |
✔ Multiple video output ports |
5. ZOTAC GeForce GT 710 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
Zotac offers low-profile graphics cards at very affordable prices that can be used in compact and entry-level computer builds.
This Zotac GeForce GT710 low-profile graphics card is cheaper than any MSI option. You get the same performance for a lower price. The same performance.192 CUDA cores clocked to 954 MHzThis GPU. It even comes with1 GB DDR3 RAMThat has a memory clock speed of 1600 MHz
It is a low-profile entry-level graphics card with a single-slot form factor and fanless passive radiator cooling design. The Zotac is similar to the MSI GT 710 GPU in that it comes with the same features. DVI-D, VGA, and HDMI ports on the back. This MSI graphic card is just like the more expensive MSI graphics cards out there. It also comes with an a3-year warranty.
This model is super clocked or an SC, which means you will get a higher clock speed. The base clock speed of 1290MHz Along with a high boost clock speed of 1544 MHz these clock speeds are great for their reliability.2 GB GDDR5 VMRAM. It is set at 6008 MHz to ensure maximum performance. In addition, this GPU is overclocked, so a single fan cooler is included.
However, it does lead to a form factor for 1.5x slots slightly higher. In addition, you will find a DVI-D HDMI port, which means that the EVGA GT 1030 has a limited number of displays you can connect to. The EVGA GT 1030 shares a similarity to the Zotac GPU.3-year warranty is also possible.
Features of ZOTAC GeForce GT 710 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
- Uses PCI Express 2.0 Bus
- Includes 192 CUDA cores
- Includes 1 GB DDR3 RAM
- Base clock 954 MHz
- 25 watts of power consumption
- Passive radiator cooling
- Uses 1x slot
- Included: 1 x VGA and 1 x DVI–D ports.
- Three-year warranty.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Modern GDDR6 VRAM | ❌ Very low power consumption |
✔ Great for modern PC games | ❌ Limited overclocking potential |
✔ Multiple video output ports | ❌ Potential for heating issues |
6. Gigabyte Geforce GTX 1050 Ti OC Low Profile Graphics Card
Another popular brand is Gigabyte, which specializes in high-end gaming laptops and accessories for heavy-duty use. This brand creates products that are versatile and feature advanced features to satisfy the varied needs of customers.
The graphics card is slimmer, with a card length of 167mm. This allows for more space in smaller systems. The graphics card has a boost clock of 1442 MHz and a base clock of 1328 MHz when in OC mode. It runs in gaming mode at a boost clock of 1417MHz and a base clock of 1303MHz to provide seamless experiences.
Intuitive software is available to monitor and adjust the performance. In addition, you can adjust the card to your specifications by simply clicking on the Xtreme engine utility. This eliminates the need for manual adjustments and doesn’t require any prior knowledge about overclocking.
Ultra cooling is used to cool the GPU. It uses lower RDS Mosfets, which provide faster charging and lower switching resistance. To reduce energy loss and EMI interference, the metal choke retains energy for longer. In addition, the solid capacitors with a lower ESR provide greater electronic conductivity, which leads to a longer life expectancy and superior performance.
You can connect up to four display devices simultaneously to the graphics card. The graphics card includes a dual-link DVI/D port, a DVI-D port, and two HDMI ports.
Features of Gigabyte Geforce GTX 1050 Ti OC Low Profile Graphics Card
- Design with low profile and a 167mm card size
- Includes a 4GB GDDR5
- Includes 128bit of memory
- In OC mode, 1442 MHz boost clock and 1328 MHz base clock
- Gaming mode: 1417MHz boost and 1303MHz base clock
- Super-overclocking in a click
- Utility for Intuitive Xtreme engines
- Low power loss and ultra cooling
- Includes 1 x DVI-D dual link, 1 x DVI-D DP and 2 x HDMI ports
- 3-year warranty
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Easy to modify settings | ✔ After a few months, performance drops |
✔ Multiple connectivity ports | |
✔ Longevity |
7. VisionTek Radeon 7750 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
AMD graphics cards are more specialized than most GPUs made by Nvidia and offer many unique features that make them perfect for specific users.
VisionTek’s Radeon7750 low-profile graphics card may be the best choice for anyone who wants a computer that can handle a large multi-monitor setup. The GPU’s 512 cores are not intended for gaming. 850 MHz They are more than enough. It is also a great place to shop for your everyday needs.2 GB GDDR5 VMRAM It is also more than enough, which is why it is clocked at 1200 MHz
This GPU’s key feature is storing a maximum of Display Ports in miniature; you will find adapters and other accessories for the smaller video port on the back. These ports allow you to connect up to six 4K displays to your computer simultaneously. This GPU also doubles as a 7.1 surround soundcard, making it an excellent choice for your HTPC setup. As you can see, this GPU is compatible with almost all HTPC setups. Nvidia GPUs
These clock speeds are great for their reliability.2 GB GDDR5 VMRAM That is the time it takes.6008 MHz For the best performance. It is a GPU with an overclocked CPU, so a single fan cooler is normal.
This does, however, mean that the overall size of the GPU is slightly higher.1.5x Slot form factor, you will also find DVI/D and HDMI ports on the back. This limits the number of displays you can connect to the EVGA GT1030. The EVGA GT 1030 is similar to the Zotac GPU in that it comes with an HDMI port and a DVI-D 3-year warranty.
Features of VisionTek Radeon 7750 2GB GDDR5 Graphics Card
- Uses PCI Express 3.0 bus
- Includes 512 CUDA cores
- Includes 2 GB GDDR5 RAM
- Base clock 850 MHz
- 55 watts of power consumption
- Cooled by one fan design
- Uses 1x slot
- Include 6 x mini DisplayPorts
- Three-year warranty
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ Decent performance for casual gaming | ❌ Aging architecture |
✔ 2GB GDDR5 VRAM for graphics tasks | ❌ Limited performance for modern games |
✔ Energy-efficient and low power consumption | ❌ Outdated VRAM standard (GDDR5) |
✔ Multiple connectivity options | ❌ Not suitable for VR applications |
✔ DirectX 11 support | ❌ Lacks advanced features of newer GPUs |
8. EVGA GT 710 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
EVGA also offers entry-level graphics cards, similar to the MSI or Zotac models mentioned above. These cards offer high value and are often very affordable.
If you are looking for something extremely affordable, the EVGA GeForce 710 low-profile graphics card is a great choice. This entry-level EVGA product comes with a warranty. Total of 192 CUDA Cores It. These CUDA cores are database clock 954 MHzPair with1 GB RAM Which happens to be DDR3 Rated and reviewed 1800 MHz This GPU is not ideal for producing basic video output.
This graphics card is a budget option but still includes an inbuilt fan that ensures it doesn’t have heating problems.
EVGA included this graphic card because it is primarily intended for video output, not gaming. VGA, DVI, and HDMI ports on the back. The best thing about the entry-level EVGA GPU? It comes with a 3-year warranty. Thus, it is comparable to higher-end products.
Features of EVGA GT 710 1GB DDR3 Graphics Card
- Uses PCI Express 2.0 Bus
- Includes 192 CUDA cores
- Includes 1 GB DDR3 RAM
- Base clock 954 MHz
- 25 watts of power consumption
- Cooled by one fan design
- Uses 1x slot
- Included: 1 x VGA and 1 x DVI–D ports.
- Three-year warranty
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔ A built-in fan provides excellent cooling | ✔ This is not a boring design. |
✔ The ideal option for basic video output |
The Best Low Profile Graphics Cards: A Buying Guide
As you might expect, low-profile graphics cards are very small and compact thanks to the entry-level GPU chips they use. These graphics cards are not the most powerful, but they make a great choice for small offices, HTPCs, and similar applications.
This list contains details about the features and specifications of some of the most popular low-profile graphics cards. We have compiled a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best low-profile graphics cards.
1: GPU Model
Before you buy a GPU for your PC, there are many factors that you need to take into consideration. This is because the performance of different graphics cards can vary greatly between models.
You can get a low-profile graphics card that is small and affordable from Nvidia or AMD. The GTX 1650 is the most powerful model, while the GT 710 offers the lowest performance. All other models fall somewhere in the middle of the range in terms of performance. A higher GPU model will generally offer better performance in most cases.
2: VRAM
It doesn’t matter if you want to connect to multiple high-resolution displays on your computer or play games.
A GPU with more VRAM will offer greater performance than one with less VRAM, even though they share the same model. Entry-level models can be found with 1 GB or 2, which are sufficient for basic computing tasks and video output. It is recommended that you get at least 4 gigs of VRAM if your goal is to play modern PC games with a low-profile graphics card.
3: Clock Speeds
You should be familiar with computers. The clock speed determines the processor’s performance. Graphic cards can also have different clock speeds, which can be as high as 1200 MHz or 1350 MHz.
The faster clock speed of 1500 MHz will offer better performance than the entry-level models. Similar to VRAM, performance between two GPUs of the same model and VRAM capacity with different clock speeds will vary.
4: CUDA Cores
To get an idea about your card’s performance, you should also look at the number of CUDA or computing cores that it offers. A higher core count will result in better performance, especially for gaming. Budget-friendly GPUs may have only 200 cores. Gaming-oriented GPUs can have around 800 cores.
5: Form Factor
A low-profile graphics card will be small and compact, as indicated by its name. They can fit in any mini ITX case because of their small size. The majority of these single-slot GPUs can be used with any other expansion cards except for a few high-end, low-profile cards.
6: Cooler Type
Because these low-profile graphics cards are small and compact, it is important to keep them cool as they will have limited airflow. It is important to verify the cooler type of your graphics card.
A passive radiator cooler is the best option for entry-level GPUs that are designed for video output. Any low-end graphics card that is designed for gaming will have a single fan cooling design. This ensures that there are no thermal throttling problems.
7: Power Consumption
It doesn’t matter if you buy a full-sized or low-profile graphic card, it’s important to verify its power consumption. This is done to ensure that the power supply can meet its power needs without causing any problems.
Most low-profile graphics cards are made with entry-level GPU models, which are very limited in terms both of performance and power consumption. These low-profile cards typically consume between 25 and 75 watts, which is quite low for a graphics card. The power input for these low-profile graphics cards is directly from the PCIe slot. This means you don’t need additional power cables from PSU.
8: Bus Interface
Your graphics card is connected to your motherboard in the same way as any other component. If you are familiar with computers, you will be able to identify the PCIe slot used by GPUs for their connection. Even though they share the same physical connector, different PCIe slots can be used.
This is because you can buy low-profile graphics cards with different bus interfaces such as PCIe 1.0 and 2.0. For the fastest connections, it’s recommended that you get a GPU with PCIe 3.0. However, older versions can be used. To get the best out of your GPU, make sure the PCIe version you use is compatible with your motherboard.
9: Ports
After your graphics card is installed, you can connect your monitor to it. If you have multiple monitors or want to purchase them, it is important to verify the number and type of ports provided by your GPU.
You will also find older video output ports such as DVI-D and VGA on many low-profile graphics cards. Modern connectors like HDMI or DisplayPort are also available. Most GPUs will have two or three output ports. Some GPUs are designed to connect multiple monitors and include six mini Display Ports, making them suitable for multi-monitor setups.
10: Warranty
Even though you’re choosing a low-profile entry-level graphics card, it must last as long as you can. It is a good idea to invest in a durable and reliable GPU that will last as long as your CPU can be used. Most GPUs have a 3-year warranty, regardless of their price.
11: Noise
Low-profile graphics cards have smaller fans and are quieter than high-end ones. This is especially true if your GPU’s performance is high. The fans spin faster to prevent the GPU from overheating.
Even when tested to their limits, all of the low-profile GPUs in this guide are quite quiet. Some GPUs are quieter than others, and almost no GPU has fans that make any noise.
Fanless GPUs are the best option if noise is an issue.
11: Performance
Is the low-profile graphics card you are interested in able to run the games you want at the FPS and the quality you require? Does the low-profile graphics card you want work with your current build? Is it possible that the card could slow down performance?
These are the questions you should ask yourself before making a purchase. You can find a lot of compatibility and performance-analyzing websites online that will give you an idea of what you can expect from your low-profile GPU.
Conclusion
Even if your computer is not used for a lot of gaming, it’s still possible that you will need an entry-level graphic card to connect multiple displays and perform basic graphics-intensive tasks. Therefore, it is a good idea to choose one of the low-profile graphics cards mentioned above.
It would help if you made the right choice based on all of their details and features, as well as a detailed buying guide. If not, you might consider one of our top picks for low-profile graphics cards:
If you want to play computer games but still have a low-profile GPU, the Gigabyte GTX 1650 GPU. It is compact despite being a dual-slot card. It boasts four gigs VRAM and 1740 MHz boost clock speeds so that you can expect excellent performance for the price.
If you have a limited budget and still need a low-profile graphic card for your small computer, you can choose the Zotac GT 710 GPU. It has 1 GB of VRAM and a boost speed of 950 Mhz. This GPU is primarily intended for video output. It has VGA, DVI, and HDMI ports at the back.
The video output ports are the vision Tek Radeon 7750 GPU It has six mini Display Ports at the back, making it an ideal choice for multiple monitors. It has a 2 GB VRAM and a decent 850 Mhz boost speed.