GPU clock speed
The frequency of the graphics processor of the graphics card. As a general rule, the higher the frequency of the GPU, the higher the performance of the graphics card, but this parameter is not the only one — a lot also depends on the design features of the graphics card, in particular, the type and amount of video memory (see the relevant glossary items). As a result, it is not unusual for a model with a lower processor frequency to be more performant of two video cards. In addition, it should be noted that high-frequency processors also have high heat dissipation, which requires the use of powerful cooling systems.
Memory clock
The speed at which a video card can process data stored in its video memory. In fact, the indicator determines the maximum number of operations to receive or transmit data by a memory module per unit of time. This frequency is expressed in megahertz (MHz) – millions of operations per second. High video memory frequency helps improve performance when performing resource-intensive tasks such as texture processing, graphics rendering and other graphics operations. However, the parameter is by no means the only factor that influences the overall performance of the video card – it is important to take into account the GPU architecture, number of cores, core frequency and other characteristics.
Power consumption
Maximum power consumed by the graphics card during operation. This parameter is important for calculating the total power consumed by the entire system and selecting a power supply that provides the appropriate power.
Minimum PSU recommendation
The smallest power supply recommended for a computer with this graphics card.
This parameter, usually, is much higher than the power consumption of the graphics card itself. This is natural — after all, the PSU must provide electricity to the entire system, not just the video adapter. At the same time, the higher the power of the graphics card, the inevitably higher the power consumption of the PC as a whole. Moreover, this is due not only to the “voracity” of the graphics adapter itself, but also to the consumption of other PC components: a high-end graphics card, usually, is combined with an equally powerful (and energy-intensive) system.
With this in mind, manufacturers indicate the minimum recommended power supply. Of course, such recommendations are not mandatory; however, when using a PSU with a power lower than the recommended one, the probability of malfunctions increases significantly — to the point that even a very limited system may simply “not start”.
Number of slots
The number of slots occupied by the graphics card on the back of the system unit.
This indicator allows you to estimate the amount of space required to install a video adapter. It is relevant in the light of the fact that modern video cards can have a fairly extensive set of connectors, and for this set there has long been little standard lanyard for 1 slot. This is especially true for powerful performant models. Thus, many solutions, especially mid-range and top-end ones, occupy
two or even
three slots at once.
Separately, it is worth touching on models for which the characteristics indicate a fractional number of slots — usually 2.5 or 2.7. This detail is provided by the manufacturer for promotional purposes — as confirmation that the graphics card is smaller than a full-fledged 3-slot solution. However, in fact there is no difference between these options: adapters for 2.5 or 2.7 slots still block the third slot (albeit partially), making it unusable.
