How to make modern games work: Top graphics cards

Each year, video games push the boundaries of visual realism, making it increasingly difficult to tell the difference between graphics and reality. This trend not only fuels a plethora of online memes but also escalates the system requirements for these games. When a new major title hits the market, the list of specifications can be daunting. Consider Civilization VII, for instance; its requirements might give even seasoned gamers pause—and that's just for a strategy game, not a hyper-realistic shooter!

Gamers often find themselves in a cycle of upgrading their PCs, with the graphics card typically being the first component on the list. Which cards topped the charts in 2024, and what should you consider for 2025? We'll explore the top picks among players and highlight the best graphics cards. Additionally, check out our article on the most visually stunning games of 2024 to see where you can best utilize your upgraded PC's power.

Table of Contents

• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
• AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti
• AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Super
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090
• AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX
• Intel Arc B580

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060

We begin with a model that's fast becoming a classic. This "workhorse" has been the go-to graphics card for everyday gamers for years, capable of handling nearly any task. With memory options ranging from 8GB to 12GB, support for ray tracing, and solid performance under high loads, the RTX 3060 is a reliable choice. However, as time moves forward, it's showing its age and might struggle with some modern games, yet it remains a popular choice.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080

While the RTX 3060 may be on its way to the hall of fame, the RTX 3080 continues to reign supreme. Many gamers still consider it NVIDIA's flagship due to its powerful and efficient performance, even outperforming newer models like the RTX 3090 and RTX 4060. A bit of overclocking can make a significant difference. In terms of price-to-performance, it remains an excellent option in 2025, making it ideal for those looking to upgrade without breaking the bank.

AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT

The Radeon RX 6700 XT offers an impressive price-to-performance ratio, running modern games with ease and challenging NVIDIA's sales of the GeForce RTX 4060 Ti. With more memory and a wider bus interface, it ensures smooth gameplay at resolutions like 2560x1440. Even when compared to the more expensive GeForce RTX 4060 Ti with 16GB of video memory, the Radeon RX 6750 XT holds its own as a formidable competitor.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 Ti

Unlike its less successful sibling, the RTX 4060, the RTX 4060 Ti stands strong and is widely used in PCs around the globe. While it doesn't significantly outshine AMD's offerings or the RTX 3080, it delivers solid performance. On average, it's 4% faster than its predecessor at 2560x1440 resolution, and its performance is further enhanced by the Frame Generation feature.

AMD Radeon RX 7800 XT

The Radeon RX 7800 XT outperforms NVIDIA's pricier GeForce RTX 4070 by an average of 18% at 2560x1440 resolution, putting pressure on NVIDIA to rethink their strategy. With 16GB of video memory, it ensures longevity and beats the GeForce RTX 4060 Ti by a remarkable 20% in games with ray tracing at QHD resolution.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 Super

Competition drives innovation, and NVIDIA has responded with the GeForce RTX 4070 Super, which offers a 10–15% performance boost over the RTX 4070. For gaming at 2K resolution, it's arguably the best choice. Its power consumption has only slightly increased from 200W to 220W, and undervolting can further enhance performance and lower temperatures.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080

This graphics card delivers outstanding performance for any game and is considered the top choice for 4K gaming. With ample video memory and enhanced ray tracing capabilities, it's more adaptive and efficient. Many gamers view it as NVIDIA's flagship, though there's an even more advanced option available.

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090

The true flagship for top-tier builds, the RTX 4090 ensures you won't need to worry about performance for years. Although it doesn't significantly outpace the RTX 4080, considering the expected pricing of the upcoming 50-series models, the RTX 4090 and its variations may become the go-to choice for high-end NVIDIA setups.

AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX

AMD's top-tier model, the Radeon RX 7900 XTX, rivals NVIDIA's flagship in performance but offers a significant advantage in price. It's a more affordable option that meets all gaming needs for years to come.

Intel Arc B580

Intel made waves at the end of 2024 with the release of the Arc B580, which sold out in just one day due to its impressive performance and price. Outperforming the RTX 4060 Ti and RX 7600 by 5–10%, it offers 12GB of video memory for just $250. Intel's plans to continue releasing budget-friendly yet powerful models suggest tough competition for NVIDIA and AMD in the future.

From this list, it's evident that despite rising prices, gamers can still enjoy modern games. Even with a modest budget, it's possible to purchase a graphics card with solid performance. High-end models, on the other hand, will remain relevant for years, ensuring smooth gameplay and a future-proof gaming experience.