If you’re searching for an affordable graphics card that won’t break the bank, the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1030 might be your ticket to gaming bliss as it lies under the best graphics cards under $200, which is Released on May 17th, 2017,
This entry-level mini PC graphics card is here to showcase that gaming greatness doesn’t always come with a hefty price tag. Let’s investigate the details and uncover what the GTx 1030 has in store.
The GT 1030 showcases the GP108 graphics processor, a small yet powerful chip with a die area of only 74 mm². Don’t be deceived by its size – this processor delivers a punch with 384 CUDA cores, 24 texture mapping units (TMUs), and 16 Raster Operation Pipelines (ROPs). Together, these components breathe life into your games, providing remarkable visual fidelity for a low-profile graphics card.
The GTX 1030 has 2GB of GDDR5 video memory, ensuring your gaming experience remains smooth and glitch-free. The memory dances to the tune of an effective frequency of 1502 MHz (or 6 Gbps). Regarding the core clock speed, you’re looking at a base clock of 1265 MHz, which can ramp up to 1518 MHz during those intense gaming moments.
The Power of Compatibility: E-sports Reimagined
Now, we know you’re itching to ask about compatibility. Well, fear not – the GT 1030 comes with DirectX 12 support. This means you’ll have no trouble diving into modern games and their stunning graphical effects. And here’s the best part: the GT 1030 is the perfect companion for e-sports enthusiasts. Games like League of Legends, Rocket League, and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is right up its alley, delivering a smooth and immersive experience without a hitch.
Small Form, Big Impact: The Design Advantage
If space is a concern in your gaming setup, the GT 1030 has you covered. It is designed as a single-slot card, so it won’t hog your precious real estate. And don’t let its compact dimensions fool you – this card connects to your system through a PCI-Express 3.0 x4 interface, ensuring a seamless link to power your gaming adventures.
Buying Guide
- Game Plan: Identify the kind of games you’re looking to play. For e-sports and less demanding titles, the GT 1030 shines.
- Hardware Harmony: Check that your system can accommodate the card. An available PCI-Express x4 slot is your green light.
- Power Play: Verify that your power supply can comfortably handle the GT 1030’s 30W power draw.
- Case in Point: If your gaming rig is smaller, rest easy – the GT 1030’s compact size is your ally.
- Budget-Friendly: Price matters, so compare the GT 1030’s cost with other budget graphics cards to find your perfect fit.
- Future Vision: Are you planning an upgrade soon? If so, consider whether the GT 1030 aligns with your plans.
Benchmarks of the GTX 1030 in popular games:
Game | Resolution | Settings | Average FPS |
---|---|---|---|
Grand Theft Auto V | 1080p | Low | 50-60 fps |
Fortnite | 1080p | Low | 60 fps |
CS:GO | 1080p | Low | 80-100 fps |
League of Legends | 1080p | Low | 100+ fps |
Minecraft | 1080p | High | 60 fps |
Dota 2 | 1080p | Low | 60 fps |
World of Warcraft | 1080p | Low | 60 fps |
Rocket League | 1080p | Low | 60 fps |
Overwatch | 1080p | Low | 60 fps |
Rainbow Six Siege | 1080p | Low | 60 fps |
Call of Duty: Warzone | 1080p | Low | 30-40 fps |
Red Dead Redemption 2 | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
Assassin’s Creed Odyssey | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
Horizon Zero Dawn | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
Cyberpunk 2077 | 1080p | Low | 20-30 fps |
Far Cry 5 | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
Doom Eternal | 1080p | Low | 60 fps |
Control | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
Metro Exodus | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
Resident Evil Village | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
God of War | 1080p | Low | 30 fps |
1. Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1030 OC
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1030 OC is a testament to this notion, offering an attractive solution for budget-conscious gamers seeking a blend of efficiency and affordability. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this graphics card that has captured the attention of budget gamers far and wide.
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1030 OC arrives on the scene armed with a remarkable advantage – a factory overclock that elevates its performance by a staggering 10%. This boost isn’t just about numbers; it translates to tangible improvements in your gaming experience. This is the perfect option for those looking to maximize their graphics card’s capabilities without delving into manual overclocking.
When the gaming intensity rises, you can rest easy knowing that the Gigabyte GTX 1030 OC has a single-fan cooler designed for peak efficiency. It’s engineered to keep the card cool even during intense gaming sessions. This means you can push the boundaries of performance without worrying about overheating issues disrupting your experience.
Specifications:
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Graphics processing unit (GPU) | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1030 |
CUDA cores | 384 |
Memory | 2GB GDDR5 |
Memory bandwidth | 128 GB/s |
Base clock speed | 1227 MHz |
Boost clock speed | 1518 MHz |
Memory interface | 64-bit |
Power consumption | 20W |
Dimensions | 170 x 111 x 40 mm |
Weight | 250 g |
Output ports | DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, DVI-D |
DirectX version | 12 |
OpenGL version | 4.6 |
Supported operating systems | Windows 10, Linux |
The Gigabyte GTX 1030 OC isn’t just a one-trick pony reserved solely for gaming. This graphics card showcases its adaptability by being a solid companion for various tasks beyond gaming. Whether you’re engrossed in web browsing, video streaming, or photo editing, this card maintains reliability and efficiency.
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1030 OC has etched its name into the budget gaming landscape with a factory overclock that adds a commendable performance boost. Its ability to stay cool under pressure and support various tasks beyond gaming makes it a versatile contender. While it might not compete with the highest-tier graphics cards, it confidently carves out a niche for budget gamers seeking affordable and dependable graphics cards for their gaming escapades.
Pros:
- Affordable: Offers budget-friendly pricing.
- Performance: Balanced performance for the cost.
- Factory Overclock: Ready-made performance boost.
- Cooling: Effective single-fan cooling solution.
- Compatibility: Supports DirectX 12.
- Driver Support: NVIDIA Game Ready Drivers.
Cons:
- Performance Limitations: Not for high-end gaming.
- Latest Games: Might struggle with demanding titles.
2. MSI GeForce GTX 1030 LP
When it comes to gaming, size doesn’t dictate performance. The MSI GeForce GTX 1030 LP proves this point by delivering impressive power within its compact form. This low-profile graphics card is designed for small PCs and emphasizes efficiency and reliability, making it a favorite among budget-conscious gamers.
Despite its small profile, the MSI GeForce GTX 1030 LP is not lightweight. Boasting 384 CUDA cores and 2GB GDDR5 memory, it seamlessly handles gaming tasks and multitasking. Its memory bandwidth of 128 GB/s ensures smooth data transfer, while its base clock of 1227 MHz (boostable to 1518 MHz) guarantees responsiveness during intense gameplay.
Specifications:
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Graphics processing unit (GPU) | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1030 |
CUDA cores | 384 |
Memory | 2GB GDDR5 |
Memory bandwidth | 128 GB/s |
Base clock speed | 1227 MHz |
Boost clock speed | 1518 MHz |
Memory interface | 64-bit |
Power consumption | 20W |
Dimensions | 159 x 69 x 19 mm |
Weight | 132 g |
Output ports | DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0 |
DirectX version | 12 |
OpenGL version | 4.6 |
Supported operating systems | Windows 10, Linux |
Don’t be deceived by its size; the single-fan cooler of the MSI GTX 1030 LP works tirelessly to maintain optimal temperatures, ensuring consistent performance whether you’re conquering bosses or diving into lengthy gaming sessions.
This card’s versatility extends beyond gaming, featuring DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 output ports for compatibility with modern displays and accessories. It’s equally adept at multimedia tasks like video streaming, web browsing, and photo editing.
The MSI GeForce GTX 1030 LP is a prime choice for budget gamers seeking compact excellence. CUDA cores and GDDR5 memory drive it, and seamlessly suits older games and lighter titles. Its integration into small form factor PCs enhances its appeal, offering versatility for both gaming and multimedia activities. For those seeking a reliable and cost-effective graphics card that doesn’t compromise on performance, the MSI GeForce GTX 1030 LP is the answer.
Pros:
- Affordable: Wallet-friendly pricing.
- Performance Value: Commendable performance for its cost.
- Low-Profile Design: Perfect fit for small form factor PCs.
- Cooling Efficiency: Single-fan cooler keeps temperatures in check.
- DirectX 12 Support: Modern gaming compatibility.
- Driver Support: Benefits from NVIDIA Game Ready Drivers.
Cons:
- Performance Limitations: Not intended for high-end gaming.
- Demanding Titles: May struggle with the latest graphically intensive games.
3.EVGA GeForce GTX 1030 SC:
The EVGA GeForce GTX 1030 SC redefines budget-friendly graphics cards, offering a fusion of enhanced performance and thoughtful features. Don’t let its affordability fool you – this graphics card is designed to cater to budget-conscious gamers seeking a touch of brilliance. Let’s dive into the details of this remarkable card that seamlessly blends cost-effectiveness with overclocked ingenuity.
With 384 CUDA cores and 2GB GDDR5 memory, the EVGA GeForce GTX 1030 SC transcends its price tag, poised to handle gaming tasks and multitasking seamlessly. The memory bandwidth, at 128 GB/s, ensures smooth data transfer, translating to consistently immersive gameplay.
Operating at a base clock speed of 1290 MHz, this card offers a subtle boost compared to the base GTX 1030. But the card flexes its muscles when the gaming heat rises, accelerating to a boost clock speed of 1544 MHz. This dynamic responsiveness makes it a perfect companion for intense gaming moments.
Specifications:
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Graphics processing unit (GPU) | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1030 |
CUDA cores | 384 |
Memory | 2GB GDDR5 |
Memory bandwidth | 128 GB/s |
Base clock speed | 1290 MHz |
Boost clock speed | 1544 MHz |
Memory interface | 64-bit |
Power consumption | 30W |
Dimensions | 170 x 111 x 40 mm |
Weight | 250 g |
Output ports | DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, DVI-D |
DirectX version | 12 |
OpenGL version | 4.6 |
Supported operating systems | Windows 10, Linux |
Adding an extra layer of allure, the EVGA GeForce GTX 1030 SC arrives with EVGA’s Precision X1 software, empowering users to overclock the card and monitor its performance. This customization lets you add extra performance and fine-tune the card according to your gaming requirements.
This graphics card transcends its budget-friendly status by offering multiple connectivity options. Featuring DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, and DVI-D output ports, it seamlessly adapts to the demands of modern displays and accessories. The card’s versatility extends beyond gaming, proving its mettle in multimedia tasks like video streaming, web browsing, and photo editing.
The EVGA GeForce GTX 1030 SC is a striking choice for budget-conscious gamers. Its affordability doesn’t hinder its prowess; driven by CUDA cores and GDDR5 memory, it aligns seamlessly with the needs of older games and less resource-intensive titles. The inclusion of EVGA’s Precision X1 software adds a touch of personalization, allowing you to fine-tune performance to your liking.
The card’s capacity to cater to modern connectivity needs while maintaining an affordable price tag renders it versatile for gaming and multimedia endeavors. If you’re seeking an affordable and dependable graphics card that doesn’t skimp on performance, the EVGA GeForce GTX 1030 SC deserves your consideration.
Pros:
- Enhanced Clock Speed: Outperforms the base GTX 1030 with a higher clock speed.
- EVGA Precision X1: Equipped with overclocking and performance monitoring capabilities.
- DirectX 12 Support: Modern compatibility for enhanced gaming experiences.
- Driver Support: Benefits from NVIDIA Game Ready Drivers.
Cons:
- Performance Limitations: Falls short of higher-end graphics cards.
- High-End Titles: May struggle with the latest graphically demanding games.
4. ASUS GeForce GTX 1030 2G
When it comes to unlocking gaming potential without breaking the bank, the ASUS GeForce GTX 1030 2G takes center stage. Tailored for essential gaming and everyday computing tasks, this budget graphics card offers a remarkable balance of performance and affordability. Let’s delve into its specifications and discover why it’s capturing the attention of budget-conscious gamers.
The heart of the matter lies in the ASUS GeForce GTX 1030 2G specifications. With 384 CUDA cores and 2GB GDDR5 memory, this graphics card offers a formidable foundation for gaming and multitasking. The memory bandwidth of 128 GB/s ensures seamless data transfer, resulting in fluid and immersive gameplay experiences.
Specifications:
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Graphics processing unit (GPU) | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1030 |
CUDA cores | 384 |
Memory | 2GB GDDR5 |
Memory bandwidth | 128 GB/s |
Base clock speed | 1227 MHz |
Boost clock speed | 1518 MHz |
Memory interface | 64-bit |
Power consumption | 20W |
Dimensions | 170 x 111 x 40 mm |
Weight | 250 g |
Output ports | DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, DVI-D |
DirectX version | 12 |
OpenGL version | 4.6 |
Supported operating systems | Windows 10, Linux |
Operating at a base clock speed of 1227 MHz, this card forms the backbone of your gaming endeavors. When the demand for power arises, the card dynamically boosts its performance to a clock speed of 1518 MHz, ensuring you’re equipped to tackle intense gaming moments head-on.
The ASUS GeForce GTX 1030 2G is a reliable and cost-effective graphics card for budget gamers. With a clear focus on affordability, this card doesn’t compromise performance. Armed with 2GB GDDR5 memory and directed by CUDA cores, it harmonizes well with the demands of 1080p resolution gaming and general computing tasks.
While it might not contend with higher-end graphics cards, the ASUS GeForce GTX 1030 2G is a dependable solution for gamers seeking a balance between cost and performance. If you’re searching for a reliable companion that complements your budget while delivering enjoyable gaming experiences, the ASUS GeForce GTX 1030 2G deserves your consideration.
Pros:
- Enhanced Clock Speed: Outperforms the base GTX 1030 with a higher clock speed.
- EVGA Precision X1: Equipped with overclocking and performance monitoring capabilities.
- DirectX 12 Support: Modern compatibility for enhanced gaming experiences.
- Driver Support: Benefits from NVIDIA Game Ready Drivers.
Cons:
- Performance Limitations: Falls short of higher-end graphics cards.
- High-End Titles: May struggle with the latest graphically demanding games.
5. Palit GeForce GTX 1030 StormX
The Palit GeForce GTX 1030 StormX emerges as a beacon of performance and affordability when the pursuit of gaming greatness meets budget-consciousness. Engineered to deliver commendable performance within a budget-friendly range, this graphics card has a single-fan cooler designed to keep the card cool even during intense gaming sessions.
The Palit GeForce GTX 1030 StormX is an enticing option for budget-conscious gamers seeking a graphics card that manages 1080p resolution gaming effortlessly. Additionally, its capabilities extend beyond gaming, catering to everyday tasks like web browsing, video streaming, and photo editing.
Specifications:
Specification | Value |
---|---|
Graphics processing unit (GPU) | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1030 |
CUDA cores | 384 |
Memory | 2GB GDDR5 |
Memory bandwidth | 128 GB/s |
Base clock speed | 1227 MHz |
Boost clock speed | 1518 MHz |
Memory interface | 64-bit |
Power consumption | 20W |
Dimensions | 170 x 111 x 40 mm |
Weight | 250 g |
Output ports | DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0, DVI-D |
DirectX version | 12 |
OpenGL version | 4.6 |
Supported operating systems | Windows 10, Linux |
In summary, the Palit GeForce GTX 1030 StormX establishes itself as a worthy choice for budget-conscious gamers seeking an affordable graphics card that doesn’t compromise performance. Driven by 384 CUDA cores and armed with GDDR5 memory, it balances gaming and general-purpose tasks.
Adding a single-fan cooler ensures your gaming experience remains consistent even during demanding sessions. If you’re looking for a dependable graphics card that is a testament to budget-friendly performance, the Palit GeForce GTX 1030 StormX stands as a compelling option.
Pros:
- Affordability: A budget-friendly solution that doesn’t compromise on performance.
- Performance Value: Delivers commendable results within its price range.
- Single-Fan Cooler: This keeps the card cool even during intense gaming.
- DirectX 12 Support: Ensures compatibility with modern gaming technologies.
- Driver Support: Benefits from NVIDIA Game Ready Drivers.
Cons:
- Performance Limitations: Not intended for high-end gaming demands.
- Graphically Demanding Games: Might not excel at running the latest titles at high settings.