The 6 best graphics cards of the moment: the best all-rounder, the best-value graphics card, the best budget option, the best choice if money is no object.
Updated: January 31, 2013 3:27 PM
By Régis Jehl

Editor's choice

Nvidia GeForce GTX 670 2 GB
Overview - Full review 4/5
User Score 5/5 (1) Post a review

Nvidia GeForce GTX 670 2 GB

The GTX 670 graphics card twins low power use with ultra-high performances. However, we'd recommend you look for a model with a modified cooling system, as the standard Nvidia module makes an unpleasant noise. Note too that some brands now sell overclocked versions of this card with performances equivalent to or better than the GeForce GTX 680, and all for a lower price!

Best of the rest

Hardcore Gaming

Nvidia GeForce GTX 680 2 GB award

Nvidia GeForce GTX 680 2 GB
This is an excellent  graphics card. Gaming performances are good, power use is relatively low and it's quiet to run. You also get Nvidia extras like 3D Vision, 3D Surround, Adaptative vSync, etc.

Overview - Full review 5/5
User Score 4/5 (6) Post a review

Top Value

AMD Radeon HD 7850 1 GB

AMD Radeon HD 7850 1 GB
You don't have to spend a fortune to get a graphics card that's decent for gaming. With this model, you get good performances and reasonable power use all at a competitive price.

Overview - Full review 4/5
User Score 4/5 (1) Post a review

Budget Option

AMD Radeon HD 7770 1 GB

AMD Radeon HD 7770 1 GB
You'll be able to play the latest games with this budget graphics card, although you'll probably need to turn down the graphics detail. All in all, it's a good tradeoff between price and performance.

Overview - Full review 3/5
User Score 4/5 (1) Post a review

Two alternatives

Mid-Range

Nvidia GeForce GTX 660 2 GB
Overview - Full review 4/5
User Score 4/5 (1) Post a review

Nvidia GeForce GTX 660 2 GB
This is a well-rounded graphics card with decent enough power use and gaming performances. However, make sure you pick up a modified model (e.g. MSI N660 Twin Frozr 2GD5/OC), as cards using the standard cooling system (seen in the Nvidia reference card) are way too noisy.

Top of the Range

Nvidia GeForce GTX 690 4 GB
Overview - Full review 4/5
User Score 4/5 (1) Post a review

Nvidia GeForce GTX 690 4 GB
This is an exceptional graphics card with monster performances, top-notch build quality and a high-end price tag to match. It's clearly reserved for a privileged few, but it's great for HD gaming over several monitors or in stereoscopic 3D.

> Compare these products in table format

ADVERTISING
I'm looking for
1 Our top choice Nvidia GeForce GTX 670 2 GB - $334.99 6 Our pick of the best 6 products selected from $99 to $1,000 34 All current reviews 8 smart filters for 34 reviews

DigitalVersus on...

Compare
Sony Xperia Tablet ZNikon Coolpix S31
Sony Xperia Tablet ZNikon Coolpix S31
Compare these products in the Face-Off