11 Best Graphics Cards for Graphic Design 2023

As a graphics designer, the results that you will get when designing your content will depend on the type of graphics card that you are using.

With that said, you should consider using a dedicated graphics card that can render all visuals in real-time.

However, not all graphics processing units are equal since they differ when it comes to performance. As such we have assorted some of the best options that you can choose from.

Our review list is made up of both low-end and high-end graphics cards, so it is up to you to choose the device that best suits you.

With the right graphics card, you will be able to tackle 2D and 3D tasks with ease. Furthermore, most of the GPUs that we have covered have large RAMs that will allow you to run multiple graphic design software simultaneously, thereby increasing your workflow.

11 Best Graphics Cards for Graphic Design

Our Top Pick: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090

If you are a professional graphics designer, we highly recommend the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090.

Being one of NVIDIA’s latest releases, this graphics card has advanced features that will allow you to power through tasks with ease.

Plus, it has a graphics memory of 24GB, thus delivering unprecedented performance even when handling heavy workloads.

On top of this, the GDDR6X memory is innovatively designed to maximize the GPU’s performance, meaning this graphics card can handle virtually all graphic design software.

Also, this GPU is very responsive, so all the commands that you key in will be processed in real-time.

Despite being compact, this graphics card features multiple processors, which work in unison to ensure that users get high-grade performance.

It won’t matter whether you are rendering 2D or 3D scenes, this graphics card will help you get the job done.

Moreover, its AI performance is exceptional and allows you to work with the commonly used creative software in the graphics design industry.

The Tensor cores on this graphics card will accelerate all processes, thereby doubling the GPU’s overall throughput.

This means more data will be processed per unit time, so you will be able to accomplish the task within a limited duration.

The core clock has a maximum boost speed of 1.70 GHz, allowing for smooth performance. Nevertheless, this GPU is one of the most expensive options on the list.

All in all, the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 is a high-performance graphics card that you can count on when tackling just about any graphics project.

Pros

• Innovatively designed
• Quiet operation
• Very powerful

Cons

• No USB port

Best Graphics Card for 2D Graphic Design: Gigabyte GV-N105TD5-4GD

The Gigabyte GV-N105TD5-4GD is one of the highly-rated options that we tested, making it a dependable GPU for graphics designers.

This graphics card has multiple modes that you can choose from, but you can as well customize the settings to match your preference.

However, it only has a graphics RAM space of 4GB, so it can only handle light-duty graphic design tasks. This makes it a suitable option for 2D rendering or any other computing tasks that do not require a GPU with high specs.

The other thing that we liked about the Gigabyte Geforce GTX 1050 Ti is that it is fairly priced, thus making it one of the affordable options that you can go for if you are on a tight budget.

In terms of performance, the graphics card has a clock speed of 1316 MHz and is also equipped with a NVIDIA GeForce coprocessor that is built for performance.

On the other hand, the memory speed is rated at 7008MHz, so you can even use this GPU for video editing applications.

To add to this, the GPU is expertly designed with every user’s needs in mind, so you only have to pair it with the right monitor.

This graphics card features an advanced architecture and also provides you with helpful features that you can make use of when working on your projects.

It has an HDMI port, a DVI port, and a DisplayPort. On the downside, this graphics card has no Tensor cores compared to most competitor models.

Additionally, it is not as efficient when it comes to handling complex graphic design tasks that require more RAM space.

Pros

• Easy to install
• Compact design
• Maximizes heat dissipation

Cons

• A bit loud

Best Professional-Grade Graphics Card: PNY NVIDIA Quadro RTX 4000

This is one of the best graphics cards in NVIDIA’s RTX series. It has a large memory capacity of 8GB, so it can run most graphic design applications smoothly without giving you any problem.

Furthermore, this graphics card can support up to three monitors simultaneously. Nonetheless, this can only apply if all the monitors meet the minimal requirements.

This device is equipped with a precision-built fan that maximizes heat loss while minimizing noise. With that said, it won’t distract you when you are working.

Plus, it has a space-saving design and can easily fit into most PCs. That is not all; this graphics card is compatible with both Linux and Windows operating systems, so it won’t limit you in any way when it comes to choosing a graphic design software.

It is equally easy to install, thanks to its straightforward design. The ultra-fast GDDR6 memory allows for real-time rendering, so you can create your content in whichever way that you want without wasting time.

To make it even more reliable, the manufacturer has thoroughly tested this graphics card to ensure that you get a fully functional GPU that will increase your workflow.

Pros

• Has a USB Type-C port
• AI-augmented
• Ideal for 2D and 3D graphic design

Cons

• A bit expensive compared to most RTX graphics cards

Best Triple Fan Graphics Card for Graphic Design: EVGA GeForce RTX 3070

Unlike most of the graphics cards on our review list that have two fans, the EVGA GeForce RTX 3070 is fitted with three powerful fans that allow it to run cooler.

As such, it can particularly come in handy when handling projects that may require you to work for long hours.

It uses third-generation Tensor cores that are specially designed to increase user performance. And the fact that it has an 8GB RAM makes it even more efficient because you will be able to tackle even the most complex 3D designs with ease.

Powered by NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 2070 coprocessor, this GPU is basically a workhorse. The G6 memory will allow you to run multiple graphics design software at a go, while the multiprocessors will ensure that data is processed in bulk.

That means you can depend on this GPU when handling large projects that require precision. With this graphics card, all visuals will be rendered professionally, thus providing the user with top-grade results.

It has 5888 CUDA cores with a maximum clock speed of 1770 MHz, so no task will be too hard to handle, provided that you use a good graphic design software. The circuitry system features the NVIDIA Ampere architecture for maximum performance.

When it comes to durability, the manufacturer has only used high-quality components in the design, so you can rest assured that this GPU will serve you for a very long time.

You won’t have to worry about the core temperature since the backplate maximizes airflow, meaning the processors will operate at a favorable temperature at all times. Due to its size, this GPU may not fit some machines.

Pros

• Excellent performance
• Good quality
• Stable operation

Cons

• Not as compact compared to most GPUs on the list

Best Mid-Range Graphics Card for Graphic Design: MSI RTX 3060 Ti VENTUS 2X OC

If you are looking for a mid-range graphics card, the RTX 3060 Ti VENTUS 2X OC from MSI may just end your search.

Equipped with a high-speed graphics memory, this graphics card can rip through tasks effortlessly, thus boosting your overall performance.

It has a 256-bit memory interface that is intuitively designed to make your work easier when handling graphics-related projects.

This GPU can support monitors with a resolution of 7680 x 4320, meaning it can work with 8K displays.

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 TI chipset on this video card will provide you with clear images and realistic colors that will enable you to design high-quality content.

This unit has a dual-fan design, so the coprocessor and other components won’t overheat when the device is in use.

More on the fans, they are aerodynamically designed to minimize air resistance. Consequently, the fans will rotate smoothly without causing turbulence.

This equipment is equipped with both HDMI and DP ports, so you can connect it to a wide range of devices.

The highly advanced cores will enable you to accomplish tasks faster without sacrificing quality.

Pros

• Precision-designed
• Well built
• Designed to last

Cons

• It lacks a USB port

Best Graphics Card for Graphic Design Beginners: ASUS AMD Radeon RX 570

This graphics card is a bit different from the product that we have just reviewed in that it uses AMD’s RX 570 chipset.

Like the Gigabyte GV-N105TD5-4GD, this graphics card has 4GB of graphics memory. As such, it can efficiently handle less intensive tasks, thus making it an ideal option for beginners.

It can smoothly run applications like VECTR, CANVA, and other graphic design software that are commonly used by beginners.

The random access memory is of the GDDR5 type and offers up to 1310 MHz of memory speed.

This GPU is conveniently designed with an intuitive user interface that will give you direct access to the controls.

With this feature in place, you can adjust the parameters to match the requirements of the task at hand. It also has responsive temperature sensors that will ensure the cores are operating within the recommended temperature limit.

That way, the processors will not be pushed to overdrive, and neither will the components blow out even when the GPU is used for extended durations.

Moreover, the heatpipes are strategically placed to increase heat dissipation, so don’t expect this device to overheat.

In terms of connectivity, the ports will allow you to connect multiple monitors to this GPU. You have to keep in mind that this graphics card has limited RAM space, so it may not deliver good results when tackling complex designs.

Pros

• Easy to use
• Reliable
• Versatile

Cons

• Not as powerful

Best Value Graphics Card for Graphic Design: Sapphire 11265-05-20G Radeon PULSE RX 580 8GB

The graphics processing unit from Sapphire is not as expensive, but it performs exceptionally.

It is somewhat similar to the GPU just before it since it is fitted with an AMD chipset, but the only difference is that it uses the RX 580 series, while the former is powered by the RX 570 series.

Plus, it has an 8 GB GDDR5 RAM, which is professionally designed and tested to increase the GPU’s performance.

The fact that it has more RAM space means it can outperform the ASUS AMD Radeon RX 570.

This graphics card has two HDMI ports, a single DVI-D port, and two DP ports, which are well placed along the front edge to give users quick access when connecting the cables.

The ports are labeled for easy identification, so you won’t have a hard time finding the slot that you intend to use.

Also, this GPU can achieve up to 1750 MHz of memory speed when at optimal performance. The maximum clock speed, however, is at 1366 MHz, enabling users to work with both small and large graphic design software.

To make it even better, this GPU is compatible with most operating systems, and can particularly prove helpful when working with machines that run on Windows.

Aside from having two fans, the housing is vented, so air can flow in and out with minimal restriction.

Pros

• Ultra-fast
• Runs cooler
• Decent graphics memory

Cons

• Somewhat loud

Best Low-End Graphics Card: Docooler Yeston Radeon RX550

The Yeston Radeon RX550 is one of the low-end graphics cards that graphic designers can go for.

This GPU runs on an AMD Radeon RX 550 coprocessor that is intelligently designed with your needs in mind.

However, the random access memory is not as large compared to most of the graphics cards that we have looked at. It only offers 4GB of memory space, so you may experience a few problems, especially when rendering complex 3D designs.

Nevertheless, that does not mean it cannot handle light-duty tasks that require low specs. In as much as this GPU has limited RAM space, it offers an impressive 1071 MHz worth of clock speed and a memory speed of 6000 MHz.

The electrical components making up the circuitry system are made of materials that are of high quality to increase durability.

This device has three video output interfaces that you can use when connecting external monitors. You can connect up to three monitors to this graphics card at a go.

Nonetheless, ensure that you use monitors with the right specifications. Because the video card has a single slot design, you can easily install it on your machine in a matter of seconds. It has a large fan that will keep the heat levels at minimal levels.

Pros

• Energy-efficient
• Excellent airflow
• Durable

Cons

• Not suitable for heavy graphic design software

Best All-round Graphics Card for Graphic Design: NVIDIA Titan RTX

You can do just about anything with the NVIDIA Titan RTX. This graphics card is as versatile as they come, thanks to its large random access memory.

The only GPU on the list that can come close to this device in terms of performance is the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090.

Since this device is equipped with high-performance cores that are likely to overheat, the manufacturer has fitted it with dual fans to maximize the cooling effect.

Aside from that, this unit is designed with a large vapor chamber to increase heat dissipation to the heatsinks.

This graphics card is AI-augmented for your convenience, hence making it even more reliable.

It ships with stable drivers that you can update with ease should there be a need to do so. Like most GPUs in its class, this graphics card has multiple Tensor cores that will speed up all processes.

The main reason why we are recommending this graphics processing unit to graphic designers is that it has advanced CUDA cores, which allow the system to process graphics data at an enhanced pace.

As such, all items will be rendered accurately, thereby delivering professional-grade results. To top it all up, this graphics card is powered by NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, making this one of the ultra-fast GPUs that you can use for graphic design.

It is worth noting that this is a high-end graphics card, so it doesn’t come cheap. On the bright side, you won’t have to worry about performance when working with the Titan RTX.

Pros

• Offers more bandwidth
• Sleek design
• Extremely powerful

Cons

• Costly

Best Entry-Level Graphics Card for Graphic Design: GIGABYTE Gv-N2060OC-6GD GeForce RTX 2060

Gigabyte presents you with yet another reliable graphics card that you can use when designing new content.

Unlike the GV-N105TD5-4GD, which has 4GB RAM, this particular model is equipped with a 6GB GDDR6 RAM that will ensure you get the desired results.

It has three DisplayPorts and a single HDMI port, all of which can come in handy when working with other devices.

The core clock is rated at 1755 MHz and will allow you to run multiple computer applications simultaneously.

That way, you will be able to get more work done compared to when you are not multitasking.

The cooling system is designed in such a way that the fans can come to an automatic stop when the processors are not on load.

This minimizes fan noise, so you will be able to focus on what you are doing. The case is vented on all sides to prevent heat build-up when the graphics card is being used.

Also, the blade fans are uniquely shaped to maximize windforce. Unfortunately, this GPU does not have a USB Type-C port compared to competitor models.

Pros

• Real-time rendering
• Great performance
• Very efficient

Cons

• The backplate is likely to retain heat

Best Budget Graphics Card: XFX Radeon RX 5700

The XFX Radeon RX 5700 is also another high-quality graphics card that graphic designers can count on.

This GPU runs on an AMD Radeon RX 5700 coprocessor that will simplify most graphic design tasks for you.

It features a high-performance GDDR6 memory that offers up to 8GB of computing space. This means you can comfortably run large graphic design software without slowing down the machine.

This video card features an advanced RDNA architecture that will provide you with high performance in all scenarios.

Besides, it offers more bandwidth and allows users to render complex designs with minimal fuss. The housing is aesthetically designed, so you can even place the GPU in plain sight.

The powerful processors on this graphics card can handle even the most demanding graphic design projects, making it even more convenient.

Pros

• Highly responsive
• Easy to work with
• Quick installation

Cons

• High power consumption

Frequently Asked Questions

What graphics card is best for graphic design?

When it comes to graphics cards and other electronic gadgets, ‘best’ is determined by what matches your needs and budget. And that is exactly why we have included multiple products in our reviews to increase your chances of finding the best device.

Do graphic designers need a graphics card?

If you are a professional graphics designer who values his/her work, you should consider using a dedicated graphics card on your projects. Graphics will make your work way easier and will also enable you to create good content.

How much RAM do you need for graphic design?

This may vary depending on the type of graphic design software that you are using. However, an 8GB RAM can help you power throw most tasks smoothly.

Is GTX 1650 Good for graphic design?

The NVIDIA GTX 1650 is a high-spec GPU that delivers exceptional results when tackling any graphics-related task, so it can be an exceptional option for graphic designers.

What makes a good graphics card for graphic design?

As a graphics designer, there are several factors that you should put into consideration when choosing a graphics card. Ensure that you go for a GPU with more RAM space and multiple cores since this will increase the overall performance of the card.

Final Verdict

After going through our review list, we hope that you have found a graphics card that matches your needs and budget.

We have trawled the net intently to ensure that you get reliable information on each product that is listed above.

Furthermore, we have tested some of the products, so you can fully depend on this review article when buying your next graphics card.