Virtual reality gaming has come a long way, and having the right hardware can make all the difference. The best graphics cards for VR offer the power needed to deliver smooth frame rates and stunning visuals, ensuring an immersive experience. In this guide, we’ll explore a range of VR-ready graphics cards suitable for various needs and budgets. Whether you’re into gaming, content creation, or both, we’ve compiled some excellent options to enhance your virtual reality adventures.
Key Factors To Consider
- VR Requirements: Before deciding, check the specifications for your desired VR headset. Understanding the minimum graphics card performance needed will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Ensure that the minimum requirements are met, but aim for the recommended specs for optimal performance.
- Resolution And Refresh Rate: Higher resolutions and refresh rates require more powerful GPUs to deliver smooth gameplay. Look for a resolution range from 1920×1080 to 3840×2160 (or higher) and refresh rates between 90Hz and 120Hz (or higher). Meeting these criteria will enhance your visual experience and immersion in VR environments.
- VRAM: Consider the amount of video memory (VRAM) your graphics card has, as VR applications can consume significant amounts. A minimum of 6GB is recommended to handle most VR applications effectively. More VRAM will allow for better performance, especially in more demanding games or simulations.
Best Graphics Cards for VR – A Quick Look
| Product Name | VRAM | Performance | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS GeForce RTX 2060 Overclocked 6G | 6GB | Mid-range | Check On Amazon |
| MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Super 6GB | 6GB | Good | Check On Amazon |
| ASUS GeForce GTX 1660 Super Overclocked 6GB | 6GB | Good | Check On Amazon |
| XFX Radeon RX 580 GTS XXX Edition 8GB | 8GB | Moderate | Check On Amazon |
| MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1650 4GB | 4GB | Budget | Check On Amazon |
Best Graphics Cards For VR – Reviewed
1. ASUS GeForce RTX 2060 Overclocked 6G
From the very first use, the ASUS GeForce RTX 2060 Overclocked 6G made a strong impression on us. Powered by NVIDIA’s Turing architecture, this VR-ready graphics card is built for users looking for both performance and stability. It boasts a 1785 MHz boost clock and 1920 CUDA cores, ensuring a seamless gaming experience. For those into VR gaming or intensive tasks like VRay rendering, its 6GB GDDR6 memory handles workloads effortlessly, supporting up to 4 monitors via DisplayPort, HDMI, and DVI.
In comparison to other VR-ready GPUs, the RTX 2060 excels with its Wing-Blade fans for efficient cooling and a dust-resistant design that ensures longevity. Additionally, the GPU Tweak II software is a nice touch for performance monitoring, especially if you’re into streaming or gaming. For anyone seeking the best budget GPU for VR, this card is a solid contender in its range.
Specifications:
- VR Requirements: VR Ready (Matches)
- Resolution/Refresh Rate: Suitable for 1080p/1440p gaming (Matches)
- Clock Speeds: 1785 MHz (Matches)
- Architecture: Turing (Modern, Matches)
Pros:
- Handles multiple monitors with no issues
- Decent frame rates in games like COD: Black Ops 3 (~70 FPS on high settings)
- Good price-to-performance ratio for gaming and network modelling tasks
- Quiet operation with manageable fan noise
- Smooth gaming experience for games like Witcher 3, Cyberpunk 2077, and GTA V at high settings
Cons:
- GPU died after 3 months, and warranty service was complicated and expensive due to international shipping
- Loud fan noise and overheating issues; fans frequently max out, disrupting gameplay
2. MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Super 6GB
From the moment we used the MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 Super 6GB, we were impressed by its power and efficiency. The 14 Gbps memory speed and 1815 MHz boost clock provide strong performance, making this card a great choice for anyone looking for a GPU for VR. With its 192-bit memory interface and 6GB GDDR6 memory, it handles VR tasks with ease, making it one of the best graphics cards for VR in its price range.
For those seeking a VR-ready graphics card, the GTX 1660 Super supports a 7680×4320 max resolution, making it an excellent option for immersive experiences. Its multiple outputs 3x DisplayPort (V1.4) and 1x HDMI 2.0B ensure smooth connectivity for VR-ready GPUs. If you’re in the market for the best GPU for VR, the GTX 1660 Super should be at the top of your list.
Specifications:
- VR Requirements: VR Ready (Matches)
- Resolution/Refresh Rate: Suitable for 1080p/1440p gaming (Matches)
- Clock Speeds: 1815 MHz (Matches)
- Architecture: Turing (Modern, Matches)
Pros:
- Supports four monitors and handles graphics-intensive tasks
- Performs well with popular games like Grand Theft Auto V and World of Warships
- Ideal for budget gaming builds with good value for money
- Clean and fast shipping experience from the seller
Cons:
- Damaged after about a year of use; experienced display issues with multiple monitors
- Inconsistent performance with screen artefacts and poor rankings in benchmark tests
3. ASUS GeForce GTX 1660 Super Overclocked 6GB
As longtime users of ASUS, we were eager to try the GeForce GTX 1660 Super Overclocked 6GB and see how it performs. Right from the start, its Auto-Extreme technology caught my attention, boasting aerospace-grade components for faster, more reliable performance. This feature promises a 15% speed boost and a lifespan of 2.5 times longer than regular GPUs, making it ideal for long-term use.
In terms of VR, this card is a great choice for those seeking a budget-ready graphics card. With 1408 CUDA cores and 6GB GDDR6 memory, it handles demanding VR applications like VRChat seamlessly, potentially making it the best GPU for VRChat in its price range. It’s also well-suited for VRay rendering, providing a strong alternative to an AMD-ready graphics card. For its price, it’s an excellent pick for any VR VR-ready GPU list.
Specifications:
- VR Requirements: VR Ready (Matches)
- Resolution/Refresh Rate: Suitable for 1080p/1440p gaming (Matches)
- Clock Speeds: 1830 MHz (Matches)
- Architecture: Turing (Modern, Matches)
Pros:
- Excellent for budget-friendly builds, providing great performance for 1080p gaming
- Works well for encoding video on a Plex NAS server, handling 4K ultra streaming without issues
- A strong choice for older PC builds or Linux setups
- Impressive performance in demanding applications and games
Cons:
- Numerous technical issues, including screen artefacts and poor benchmark performance from day one
- GPU died after 5 months of use, requiring extensive troubleshooting
4. XFX Radeon RX 580 GTS XXX Edition 8GB
If you’ve ever wondered whether the XFX Radeon RX 580 GTS XXX Edition 8GB is worth your time, let us share our experience. From the moment we started using it, the performance was impressive, thanks to its Polaris architecture and 4th-generation GCN graphics cores. This card not only excels in standard gaming but also stands out as a VR-ready graphics card, making it an excellent choice for anyone interested in virtual reality.
With multiple factory GPU overclocked settings, achieving a boost clock of 1386 MHz was seamless. This is essential for anyone looking to run demanding applications and games smoothly. For VR enthusiasts, the Radeon RX 580 is often considered the best graphics card for VR, providing a stutter-free experience thanks to AMD’s LiquidVR technology. If you’re in the market for the best GPU for VR, this one is worth considering.
Specifications:
- VR Requirements: VR Ready (Matches)
- Resolution/Refresh Rate: Suitable for 1080p gaming (Partial Match)
- Clock Speeds:37 GHz (Partial Match)
- Architecture: Polaris (Older but capable, Partial Match)
Pros:
- Solid performance for mid-tier gaming like Red Dead Redemption
- Good value for money, ideal for those not wanting to spend on higher-end GPUs
- Works well for additional monitor ports, even when paired with a higher-end GTX 3060
- Compact and powerful, fits in any case and offers compatibility with NVENC Gen 7th
Cons:
- Mislabeled product (received 1650 OC instead of 1660 Ti/Super) led to disappointment despite overclocking efforts
- Damaged HDMI port in a newly purchased unit, rendering it unusable
5. MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1650 4GB
As a fan of MSI, we were excited to try the MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1650 4GB. This graphics card delivers solid performance with its Boost Clock of 1620 MHz and 4GB GDDR6 memory, making it suitable for casual gaming and even light VR experiences. Its memory interface of 128-bit ensures smooth gameplay, while the multiple output options, including HDMI and DisplayPort, provide flexibility for different setups.
When comparing it to the GeForce GTX 1660, the latter stands out with its higher performance and enhanced capabilities, making it one of the best graphics cards for VR. While the GTX 1650 serves well for entry-level gaming, the GTX 1660 is a VR-ready GPU that can handle more demanding applications and games, which makes it a better choice for those seeking a more immersive VR experience. If you’re looking for the best budget GPU for VR, the GTX 1650 is a good starting point, but the GTX 1660 is the stronger option for serious VR enthusiasts.
Specifications:
- VR Requirements: VR Ready (Matches)
- Resolution/Refresh Rate: Suitable for 1080p gaming (Partial Match)
- Clock Speeds: 1620 MHz (Matches)
- Architecture: Turing (Modern, Matches)
Pros:
- Excellent for budget-friendly gaming, handling mid-range games like Red Dead Redemption well
- Ideal for non-gaming tasks like providing extra monitor ports, particularly useful in multi-GPU setups
- Compact and powerful, fitting in small cases and equipped with a TU106 chip for NVENC compatibility, making it better than other 1650 models with TU117 chips
- Provides good value for those looking for a reliable low-budget GPU
Cons:
- GPU arrived defective, with HDMI ports not functioning or recognized
- Defective unit on arrival, rendering the GPU unusable and causing disappointment right out of the box
Top Factors To Look For In A Graphics Card For VR Gaming
When selecting the best GPU for VR, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure an immersive and smooth experience. This guide will help you navigate the essential specifications to look for in a VR-ready graphics card.
1. VR Requirements
The first step is to check the specifications required by your desired VR headset. Different headsets have varying demands on performance, making it essential to confirm compatibility.
- Minimum: Check the specific headset requirements to find the lowest-performing GPU that can provide an adequate experience.
- Recommended: Always aim for the higher end of the requirements for better performance.
2. Resolution And Refresh Rate
VR experiences are highly dependent on both resolution and refresh rate. Higher values will demand more from your graphics card.
- Resolution: Look for GPUs that can support resolutions from 1920×1080 to 3840×2160 (or higher).
- Refresh Rate: Aim for a refresh rate of 90Hz to 120Hz (or higher) to avoid motion sickness and provide smooth gameplay.
3. VRAM
Video memory is critical for VR applications, which utilize substantial resources.
- Minimum: Ensure the GPU has at least 6GB of VRAM.
- Recommended: For future-proofing, opt for a GPU with 8GB or more of VRAM to accommodate more demanding applications.
4. Clock Speeds
The clock speed can significantly impact VR performance, especially in fast-paced games.
- Core Clock Speed: A core clock speed of 1500MHz or higher is recommended for optimal performance.
5. Architecture
Modern GPU architectures provide notable performance enhancements, making them better suited for VR.
- NVIDIA: Consider GPUs from the Ampere
- AMD: Look for options within the RDNA 2
6. Ray Tracing And DLSS
Advanced features such as ray tracing and DLSS can enhance visuals and performance in VR environments.
- Ray Tracing: Ensure the GPU supports ray tracing for more realistic lighting effects.
- DLSS: Check for support of DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) to improve frame rates without sacrificing quality.
7. Power Consumption And Cooling
High-performance VR-ready GPUs typically consume more power and generate heat. Make sure your setup can accommodate this.
- PSU: Verify that your power supply unit meets the GPU’s power requirements.
- Cooling: Ensure your system has adequate cooling solutions to maintain optimal temperatures.
8. Price
Establish a budget that reflects your performance needs and features. GPUs can range significantly in price.
- Budget Range: Prices will vary based on your specific needs and the desired performance level.
9. Read Reviews
Check reviews for insights on performance, VR compatibility, and user experiences. This will provide valuable information before making a decision.
- Recommended Action: Consult multiple sources to gain a well-rounded understanding of each GPU’s strengths and weaknesses.
10. Additional Tips
Consider future-proofing your investment. New technologies and demanding games are released regularly, so keeping your GPU up to date is essential.
- Future-Proofing: Prioritize features like VRAM and modern architecture.
- Budget: Older models may still provide viable performance for a lower price.
FAQs:
The best GPU for VR gaming typically includes options from NVIDIA’s Ampere architecture or AMD’s RDNA 2 architecture, designed to handle the high demands of virtual reality.
A VR-ready graphics card should meet or exceed the minimum specifications required by your VR headset, including adequate VRAM, clock speeds, and support for high resolutions and refresh rates.
Yes, you can use a budget VR-ready graphics card, but it may limit your experience with less demanding games. Always check the specific performance requirements for the VR applications you intend to use.
For optimal performance in VR applications, a VR-ready GPU should ideally have at least 8GB of VRAM to handle higher resolutions and more complex textures.
Clock speed is crucial; higher core clock speeds, preferably above 1500MHz, enhance performance and responsiveness in VR environments.
The best GPU for VRChat should support high resolutions and frame rates, ideally from the latest GPU architectures, to ensure smooth performance during gameplay.
Yes, AMD VR-ready graphics cards from the RDNA 2 architecture are suitable for VR applications and can compete effectively with their NVIDIA counterparts.
When seeking the best GPU for VRay rendering, prioritize models with high VRAM and support for ray tracing, which enhances rendering quality and performance.
Yes, you can find a VR-ready GPU list that highlights the top-performing models from various manufacturers, detailing their specifications and capabilities.
VR-ready GPUs often consume more power, so ensure that your PSU meets the GPU’s requirements and has adequate cooling solutions to maintain optimal performance during extended use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right VR-ready graphics card is crucial for an enjoyable and seamless virtual reality experience. The graphics cards discussed here cater to a range of budgets and performance needs, ensuring that everyone can find a suitable option. From budget VR-ready GPUs to high-end models, these selections offer excellent performance for any VR application, including gaming and content creation. Upgrade to one of these top graphics cards for VR and enjoy the full potential of virtual reality.
One Response
The best GPUs for VR are all 5 year old cards selling above their original MSRP.. riiiight..