Graphics card power consumption: This is how high it is

The power consumption of graphics cards is an important factor when choosing new models. However, their usage behaviour is also of interest

Graphics card power consumption: important factors

Graphic cards are important components in your computer. Like any of the components, a certain amount of power is required to run them. This power consumption is to be expected:

• The power consumption of a graphics card depends on various factors, such as the power of the graphics card, the number of cores and the clock speed.

• Most modern graphics cards have a power consumption of about 100 to 300 watts. At three hours per day, this results in a power consumption of about 110 to 330 kWh. At 35 cents per kWh, the graphics card will cost you 38.50 to 115.50 euros.

• Some high-end graphics cards, however, can consume up to 500 watts or more.

• The power consumption of a graphics card also depends on the type of application. For example, a graphics card uses less power when playing videos than when running elaborate 3D games.

• Most graphics cards have a power supply via a PCIe slot on the motherboard. However, some high-end graphics cards require additional power via a 6- or 8-pin power connector.

• The power consumption of a graphics card depends on the efficiency of the power supply that provides the power to the graphics card.

• It is important to consider the power consumption of a graphics card when selecting a power supply to ensure that the power supply provides sufficient power to the graphics card.

Graphics card trivia

When choosing a graphics card, power consumption is certainly a decisive factor, but there are other facts worth knowing.

• Choose a graphics card that suits your needs: If you only do simple tasks like surfing the web or word processing, you don’t need a high-end graphics card. However, if you play games or edit videos, choosing a powerful graphics card is advisable.

• Look at the interfaces: Check that the graphics card has the right connectors for your computer. Most modern graphics cards use the PCIe connector, but older models may use AGP or PCI.

• Check compatibility: Make sure the graphics card is compatible with your operating system and motherboard. Also check that your power supply can provide enough power for the graphics card.

• Consider cooling: A powerful graphics card generates a lot of heat, so good cooling is important. Check whether the graphics card has a fan or water cooling.

• Look at the specifications: Check the graphics card specifications, including clock speed, number of shader units and memory size. These factors affect the performance of the graphics card.

• Compare prices: Graphics cards can be very expensive, so it is important to compare prices. Check different online shops and compare prices to find the best deal.