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.
DisplayPort
The number of DisplayPort outputs provided by the graphics card.
DisplayPort is a digital media interface similar in many ways to HDMI, but primarily used in computers. The specific capabilities of this interface depend on the version (see below), but even in the most modest modern version of DisplayPort, it allows at least 4K at 60 frames per second and 5K at 30 fps. Another interesting feature of this standard is the ability to daisy-chain multiple screens to one port (“daisy chain” format).
In light of the latter, we can say that the number of DisplayPort outputs corresponds to the number of screens that can be connected directly to the graphics card, without using a daisy chain. Such a connection may be required, in particular, for monitors that do not support daisy chaining. If such a mode is supported, the maximum number of screens will be at least twice as high as the number of connectors. However, it is worth considering that the resolutions supported by the video adapter itself may not reach the maximum capabilities of the DisplayPort version used.
Monitors connection
The maximum number of monitors that can be connected to the graphics card at the same time and shared.
Simultaneous connection of several screens allows you to expand the visual space available to the user. For example, it can be useful for designers and layout designers when working with large-format materials, for programmers to separate tasks (one monitor for writing code, the second for searching for the necessary information and other auxiliary purposes), and for gamers-enthusiasts — to ensure the maximum immersion effect. Thanks to advances in technology today , even low — cost graphics cards can typically handle at least
three monitors, while advanced models can support
four or
more displays .
Lighting
The graphics card has a
backlight system. This feature gives the board an original appearance, which is especially appreciated by gamers and fans of external PC modding. The backlight may have a different colour, in some models this colour may even change. At the same time, note that this feature does not affect the functionality of the graphics card, but it significantly affects the cost. So it's worth specifically looking for a graphics card with backlighting only in cases where an unusual design is no less important to you than performance. It should also be borne in mind that such adapters must be installed in the appropriate cases — open or with a viewing window, otherwise the backlight will simply not be visible.
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.
Length
The total length of the graphics card.
In this case, the length means the size of the device from the plate with connectors (which is attached to the back wall of the system unit) to the opposite side. The plate itself and the outwardly protruding connectors are usually not taken into account.
Data on the length of the graphics card is needed primarily in order to assess whether there is enough space for it in a particular case. In addition, longer boards, usually, have more advanced characteristics (although there is no hard dependence here, and video adapters of similar class may have different lengths). As for specific values, the most compact solutions nowadays have a size of
150 – 200 mm or
less ; an indicator of
200 – 250 mm can still be considered relatively small,
250 – 290 mm — medium, and many models (mostly advanced) have a length
of more than 290 mm.
