Does a Computer Need a Graphics Card?

The answer comes down to what you do with your computer. Every computer needs some way to show pictures on your screen, but that doesn't mean you need a separate card. Most processors today come with graphics built right in.

Most people don't need a dedicated graphics card at all. Let's look at when you don't need one, when you do, and what the difference really means for you.

When You Don't Need One

For most everyday computer use, the graphics built into your processor work great. They cost less, use less electricity, and keep your computer cooler.

Everyday Tasks That Work Fine

• Web browsing, scrolling through websites, and watching online videos
• Office work like typing documents, making spreadsheets, and creating slideshows
• Video calls on Zoom, Skype, or Teams
• Watching movies and listening to music
• Basic photo editing, cropping, and touch ups

What Built-in Graphics Can Do Today

Modern built-in graphics are much better than they used to be. They can now do things that only separate graphics cards could handle a few years ago.

• Playing 4K videos from streaming sites or files on your computer
• Recording and converting video files quickly
• Running two or three monitors at once
• Playing older games and simpler newer games

When You Actually Need One

Some tasks need more graphics power than built-in chips can give you. For these jobs, you need a dedicated graphics card.

Gaming

Playing modern video games is the main reason most people buy a graphics card.

• Gaming at 1440p or 4K resolution with smooth frame rates
• Using high refresh rate monitors (144Hz, 240Hz, or higher)
• Ray tracing for lifelike lighting and reflections in games
• Running virtual reality (VR) headsets

Creative and Professional Work

People who create videos, designs, or 3D models need dedicated graphics cards to speed up their work and handle big projects.

• Editing 4K and 8K video, color grading, and adding effects
• CAD programs for architecture and product design
• 3D animation, motion graphics, and visual effects
• Working with large photo files for professional photography

Technical and Scientific Uses

Some specialized software takes advantage of graphics card power for calculations.

• Machine learning and artificial intelligence training
• Cryptocurrency mining
• Science simulations and data analysis
• Live streaming with video encoding and on-screen effects

Two Types of Graphics Processing

Every modern computer has some way to process graphics, but there are two main types. Each one works differently and has its own strengths.

Integrated Graphics (Built-in)

Integrated graphics are part of your computer's main processor (CPU). They share memory and power with the rest of your system. They handle basic screen output and light graphics work without needing extra parts.

• Built into the CPU, so no extra hardware is needed
• Uses your computer's regular RAM for graphics memory
• Uses less electricity and makes less heat
• Comes free with most processors

Dedicated Graphics Cards

A dedicated graphics card is a separate piece of hardware that plugs into your motherboard. It has its own processor, memory, and cooling fan. It gives you much more power for heavy graphics work.

• A standalone card with its own resources
• Has its own fast VRAM memory
• Built just for graphics processing
• You have to buy and install it separately

Performance Comparison: Real World Tasks

Here's how integrated graphics and dedicated graphics cards perform for different types of work.

Making the Right Choice

The right choice depends on what you do with your computer now and what you might want to do later.

Keep Using Integrated Graphics If:

• You want to save money on your computer
• You mainly browse the web, do office work, and watch videos
• You use a laptop or want a computer that uses less power
• You're building a small, compact PC

Get a Dedicated Graphics Card If:

• You play newer games at high quality settings
• You edit videos, create 3D models, or do design work
• You want your computer ready for future software that might need more power
• You use multiple high resolution monitors