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.
Stream processors
The number of stream processors provided by the graphics card.
A stream processor is a separate part of the GPU, designed to execute one shader at a time. Shaders, in turn, are small programs responsible for creating individual graphic effects (for example, surface gloss, glare on the surface of water, motion blur, etc.). Accordingly, the more stream processors provided in the design, the more shaders the graphics card can simultaneously execute and the higher its computing power. However, in general, this is a rather specific parameter, relevant mainly for professional developers, modders and enthusiastic gamers.
Texture units
The number of texture units contained in the GPU.
As the name implies, such blocks are responsible for working with textures. Texture, in turn, is one of the main elements of 3D graphics: an image superimposed on the surface of a three-dimensional object (similar to, for example, wallpaper pasted on a wall or a label on a box). The specific purpose of texture blocks is to select textures and apply them to the surface of geometric objects. Other things being equal, more of these blocks means higher graphics performance; although in general this is a rather specific parameter, intended mainly for specialists and rarely needed by ordinary users.
Lighting sync
Backlight synchronization technology provided in a graphics card with an associated design.
By itself, synchronization allows you to "match" the backlight of the graphics card with the backlight of other system components — the motherboard, case, keyboard, mouse, etc. Thanks to this matching, all components can change colour synchronously, turn on / off at the same time, etc. Specific features the operation of such backlighting depends on the synchronization technology used, and, usually, each manufacturer has its own (Mystic Light Sync for MSI, RGB Fusion for Gigabyte, etc.). The compatibility of the components also depends on this: they must all support the same technology. So the easiest way to achieve backlight compatibility is to collect components from the same manufacturer.
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.
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.
