With the launch of the new GeForce RTX 4060, NVIDIA has added another superb option to the budget graphics card market. The RTX 4060 aims to maximize the price-to-performance factor by providing excellent 1080p gaming performance at a reasonable price point. The addition of innovative new technologies like DLSS 3.0 is a welcome bonus that elevates the value proposition of the RTX 4060 even more.
Here’s a quick look at the best RTX 4060 graphics cards, along with a brief comparison of their specs:
Last update on 2023-09-21
If you have a higher budget, the best RTX 4060 Ti graphics cards might appeal to you.
Best RTX 4060 Graphics Cards
Here is a selection of the best RTX 4060 graphics cards that you can buy right now:
- ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4060 OC
- ASUS Dual GeForce RTX 4060 OC Edition
- Gigabyte AERO OC GeForce RTX 4060
- Gigabyte GeForce RTX 4060 Gaming OC
- ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 4060 SOLO
ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4060 OC
Best High End RTX 4060
Boost Clock: 2700 MHz | Dimensions: 311.4 x 133.5 x 61.9 mm | Display Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.1a, 3x DisplayPort 1.4a | Recommended PSU: 550W | Power Connectors: 1x 8-pin PCIe | Power Limit: +25% | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- Extraordinary cooling solution
- Silent Axial-Tech fans
- Decent overclocking headroom
- Impressive boost clock
Cons
- Very expensive
- Large size
The ASUS ROG Strix series continues to carry the banner of premium flagship graphics cards for ASUS, with the new ROG Strix RTX 4060 aiming to live up to the same standards. Enthusiasts have shown a great deal of trust in the ROG Strix series over the past few years, and the resulting products have largely met the expected high demands of power users. The ASUS ROG Strix RTX 4060 OC targets the high-end market and delivers an excellent overall package.
The star of the show is indeed the extraordinary cooling solution that ASUS has employed in this graphics card. The 3.1-slot design allows ASUS to put a massive heatsink in the Strix frame, therefore increasing the surface area of the metal. The 4 nickel-plated copper heat pipes are ideally placed to be in direct contact with the heat-generating components through a large copper baseplate. The heat pipes also curve through the heatsink array multiple times to maximize heat dissipation.
ASUS has complemented the heatsink assembly with 3 Axial-tech fans, which are custom-designed to maximize airflow and reduce turbulence. The dual-ball bearing design improves the reliability and lifespan of the fans, while the custom fan blades allow 21% more air to be propelled through the card. The noise levels are extremely impressive during general use, and the fans are equipped with 0dB technology as well. The middle fan spins in the opposite direction to the other two fans in order to minimize turbulence.
The power delivery system of the ASUS ROG Strix RTX 4060 OC is also quite well-built. The card features a robust 5-phase VRM design, allowing the GPU to sustain higher boost clocks in a reliable manner. The factory overclock is also quite sizeable, and you can manually overclock the core even further, thanks to the card’s impressive VRM and +25% power limit. The card also features a Dual BIOS switch, allowing you to choose between “performance” and “quiet” modes with the push of a button.
The ROG Strix RTX 4060 OC manages to stand out from the crowd when it comes to design. The faceplate of the card features some aggressive red and blue styling which signifies the ROG Strix theme, while the right end of the card has an RGB strip around its boundary. This RGB strip, along with the ROG script on the side, provides a splash of lighting on this card which looks very pleasing to the eye. Of course, the ASUS Aura Sync software can be used to customize this look.
The ROG Strix variant also makes an appearance in our selection of the best RTX 3070 Ti and best RTX 4070 Graphics Cards.
It has to be taken into account that the ROG Strix RTX 4060 OC is a fairly large graphics card, so it may raise some compatibility issues if you have a smaller micro ATX or mini ITX case. Moreover, the card is definitely in the premium category in terms of pricing and can definitely leave a dent in your wallet. Nonetheless, this variant delivers good value for money since it offers exceptional cooling performance and loads of features.
What We Liked
Cooling Performance: The Strix features an exceptional 3.1-slot cooling solution with quiet Axial-Tech fans.
Power Delivery: The 6-phase VRM design is quite robust and great for overclocking.
What We Disliked
High Price: The ROG Strix RTX 4060 OC is a fairly expensive variant.
Large Size: At 311mm long, the Strix is a large graphics card and may struggle to fit in compact PC cases.
Who Is It For?
If you are looking for a premium RTX 4060 variant that does not leave room for compromises, then the ASUS ROG Strix RTX 4060 OC is the best choice for you.
What Makes It The Best High End RTX 4060?
The combination of extraordinary cooling, silent Axial-Tech fans, and a robust VRM design with versatile features makes the ASUS ROG Strix RTX 4060 the best high end RTX 4060 on the market.
| Performance: 10/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 10/10 | Design: 9/10 |
ASUS Dual GeForce RTX 4060 OC Edition
Best Overall RTX 4060
Boost Clock: 2535 MHz | Dimensions: 227.2 x 123.2 x 49.6 mm | Display Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.1a, 3x DisplayPort 1.4a | Recommended PSU: 550W | Power Connectors: 1x 8-pin PCIe | Power Limit: +20% | RGB Lighting: No
Pros
- Compact size
- Relatively affordable
- Solid cooling performance
- Excellent acoustics
Cons
- No RGB lighting
The ASUS Dual OC is aimed at the mid-range of aftermarket variants for the GeForce RTX 4060. It is a relatively affordable version that checks a lot of boxes and does not have any major flaws when you look at the bigger picture. The Dual OC RTX 4060 offers excellent value for money and is a great all-rounder, making it an easy recommendation.
Despite being a value-oriented version of the RTX 4060, the Dual OC has a very well-built cooling solution. ASUS has employed a 2.5-slot design for this particular variant, with the heatsink assembly taking up the majority of the thickness of the card. ASUS uses a copper baseplate with three heat pipes that spread the heat throughout the heatsink assembly to lower GPU temperatures. The heatsink also contacts the VRM and memory chips through conveniently placed thermal pads. The metal backplate also provides a bit of structural rigidity to the card.
ASUS has used two Axial-tech fans to complement the heatsink assembly with airflow. The fans use the custom ASUS design with several long curved blades that are specifically designed to channel air straight through the heatsink with minimum turbulence. The fans automatically stop when the GPU temperature is below 50 degrees Celcius, allowing you to work or surf the internet in complete silence. The overall acoustic experience of the ASUS Dual OC RTX 4060 is quite impressive, and the card certainly overperforms its price tag here.
Under the hood, the Dual OC RTX 4060 uses a 4-phase VRM with 65A power stages, which is a fairly competent power delivery system for the RTX 4060. The Dual OC also comes with a noticeable factory overclock, allowing you to squeeze a bit more performance out of your RTX 4060 GPU. ASUS has also provided a +20% max power limit on the Dual OC, which can help tremendously in manual overclocking. Of course, the Dual BIOS feature is also a great addition to the feature set of the ASUS Dual OC RTX 4060.
In terms of looks, the Dual OC RTX 4060 is a bit simple and understated. While it does not look bad by any means, it lacks the elegance of more premium variants and does not have the flair of RGB lighting either. However, this variant is perfect if you are building a stealthy PC (like a workstation) for which you need a plain and understated graphics card. The metal backplate also helps to give this card a very stealthy look.
Considering the position of the Dual OC RTX 4060 in the market, it is safe to say that this variant offers incredible value for the money. It delivers great cooling and acoustic performance, has a solid power delivery system with a respectable power limit, and comes at a reasonable price point. The Dual OC is the one to shortlist if you are looking for a great mid-range RTX 4060 variant that checks a lot of boxes and does not have any major flaws.
If you want a more powerful graphics card option, the RTX 4080 and RTX 4090 are exceptional offerings at the high end.
What We Liked
Affordable: The Dual OC RTX 4060 is a relatively affordable variant, delivering great value for money.
Cooling Performance: Thanks to the well-designed cooling solution and quiet Axial-Tech fans, the Dual OC delivers great cooling performance.
What We Disliked
No RGB: The ASUS Dual OC RTX 4060 lacks the flair of RGB lighting, which is a minor downside.
Who Is It For?
The ASUS Dual OC RTX 4060 is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a great all-rounder variant of the RTX 4060 that checks a lot of boxes without having any major flaws.
What Makes It The Best Overall RTX 4060?
Thanks to its compact design, affordable price point, competent cooling, and no obvious weaknesses, the ASUS Dual OC RTX 4060 is the best overall RTX 4060 that you can get.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 8/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 8/10 |
Gigabyte AERO OC GeForce RTX 4060
Best White RTX 4060
Boost Clock: 2550 MHz | Dimensions: 281 x 114 x 38 mm | Display Outputs: 2x HDMI 2.1a, 2x DisplayPort 1.4a | Recommended PSU: 450W | Power Connectors: 1x 8-pin PCIe | Power Limit: +13% | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- Attractive white aesthetics
- Factory overclocked
- Great acoustics
- Excellent thermal solution
Cons
- A bit pricey
- Minimal lighting zones
White-themed PC builds have taken the DIY PC building scene by storm over the past few years and for good reason. As we concluded in our white PC building guide, it is quite easy nowadays to build a white setup that combines unique styling with competitive performance. If you’ve managed to get your hands on a white PC case for your build, you should take it up a notch and pair it with the sleek Gigabyte AERO OC GeForce RTX 4060 graphics card.
The AERO OC RTX 4060 from Gigabyte is certainly one of the most beautiful graphics cards on the market. The card’s elegant fan shroud boasts a textured white finish, adding a touch of sophistication and personality. Even the fan blades join the white theme, a thoughtful design choice that contributes to the card’s overall cohesive look. On the side profile, you’ll find a fixed gradient and a glowing AERO script illuminated with customizable RGB colors, allowing you to match it with your other components.
While some users might find the RGB lighting a bit unconventional, as it’s limited to the AERO script, you can still customize the lighting using the Gigabyte RGB Fusion software utility. Overall, the card’s captivating design makes it a perfect match for any top-notch white-themed PC build.
Adding function to form, the Gigabyte AERO OC RTX 4060 comes equipped with the reliable Windforce 3X cooler that is known for its excellent cooling performance. The heatsink assembly is massive and makes use of two large copper heat pipes with 2cm thickness in conjunction with 3 finned aluminum blocks. The heat pipes make direct contact with the GPU core via a large baseplate, maximizing the heat dissipation capabilities.
To complement the cooling solution, Gigabyte has integrated three 90mm fans, working in harmony with the heatsink assembly to provide optimal airflow. The fan blades are smartly designed with serrations along the edges, improving airflow and reducing turbulence for a quieter user experience. Moreover, the fans remain idle until the card comes under load, resulting in significantly reduced noise levels. The central motor uses Graphene Nano Lubricant, which enhances the durability of the fans by a factor of 2.1 times.
Moreover, the PCB design of the card is worth complimenting as well. Gigabyte is using an impressive 5-phase VRM design in the Gigabyte AERO OC RTX 4060, which is a very robust configuration for this GPU. The additional 13% power limit also increases the overclocking headroom of the card, while the Dual BIOS feature is a neat addition to the feature set as well.
Considering the impressive feature set, even though the Gigabyte AERO OC RTX 4060 may fall towards the higher end of RTX 4060 variants, it’s well worth it. The unique AERO theme adds extra allure and desirability to the card. Taking everything into account, it’s safe to say that the Gigabyte AERO OC RTX 4060 stands as one of the most compelling and feature-rich graphics cards available in the market today.
You can also look into the best RTX 3070 graphics cards if you are after more budget options.
What We Liked
Aesthetics: The white design of the AERO OC RTX 4060 sets it apart from the crowd.
Power Delivery: The 5-phase power delivery system is very robust and offers decent overclocking headroom.
What We Disliked
Price: The Gigabyte AERO OC RTX 4060 is a bit on the premium side of pricing, but the value proposition is still very compelling overall.
Who Is It For?
If you have a white-themed PC build and are looking for a white RTX 4060 variant to complement your setup, the Gigabyte AERO OC RTX 4060 is the one for you.
What Makes It The Best White RTX 4060?
The Gigabyte AERO OC RTX 4060 is the best white RTX 4060 thanks to its unique white theme, complemented by a superb cooling solution, quiet acoustics, and a very robust power delivery system.
| Performance: 9/10 | Value: 7/10 |
| Features: 9/10 | Design: 10/10 |
Gigabyte GeForce RTX 4060 Gaming OC
Best Value RTX 4060
Boost Clock: 2550 MHz | Dimensions: 281 x 114 x 40 mm | Display Outputs: 2x HDMI 2.1a, 2x DisplayPort 1.4a | Recommended PSU: 450W | Power Connectors: 1x 8-pin PCIe | Power Limit: +13% | RGB Lighting: Yes
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Triple fan design
- Great cooling performance
- Decent power delivery
Cons
- Plain looks
- Relatively large card
When talking about value options in the RTX 4060 lineup, it doesn’t get better than the Gigabyte Gaming OC RTX 4060. This aftermarket variant carries the core features of premium versions but at a very affordable price point. Gigabyte has priced the Gaming OC quite close to MSRP pricing, so you can enjoy a very well-rounded graphics card without completely breaking the bank.
We also chose a Gigabyte AORUS variant in our selection of the best RX 6900 XT graphics cards.
It is quite a pleasant surprise to see that Gigabyte has employed its triple-fan Windforce 3X cooling solution in the Gaming OC. The cooling elements are very well-designed and maximize the thermal performance of this configuration. At the heart of the massive heatsink assembly are two large copper heat pipes which make direct contact with the GPU core and carry the heat to the massive aluminum heatsink. The large nickel-plated base plate also makes contact with the VRM chips and the memory via thermal pads.
Gigabyte has complemented the heatsink array with three dual-ball bearing Windforce fans, spinning in alternate directions to minimize turbulence. The “3D Active” fans are optimized for silence, as they stop completely when the card is under low loads. The fan blade is custom designed with a triangular edge that guides the air smoothly through the heatsink fins. The fan motor uses Graphene Nano Lubricant, further extending the lifespan of the fans. Gigabyte also uses pass-through cooling in this variant with a cutout in the backplate, allowing for even better heat dissipation in that section of the heatsink.
In addition to the welcome Dual BIOS feature, the Gigabyte Gaming OC RTX 4060 also offers other great features to maximize overclocking headroom. The PCB is very well-equipped, with a robust 4-phase VRM design with 63A power stages designated for the GPU. The card also offers a +13% power limit, which is helpful when overclocking the card manually. You may not even need manual overclocking, however, since the card already comes with a decent factory overclock.
The Gigabyte Gaming OC RTX 4060 takes a very simplistic approach to design. The fan shroud is rather barebones and understated, with no major design elements that help it stand out. You do get a minor RGB element on the side of the card with the Gigabyte script, but that is the only bit of RGB lighting on this card. At the same time, the simple design of the Gigabyte Gaming OC RTX 4060 does make it a great choice for all-black builds.
Gigabyte demands a very nominal price premium for the Gaming OC RTX 4060, making it an excellent value for the money. It might lack the bells and whistles of premium variants, but it delivers in all the necessary areas without leaving a major dent in your wallet. Just be sure to check that it actually fits in your PC case since the 3-fan design makes it a relatively long graphics card.
On the subject of value, the Radeon RX 6700 XT and RX 6800 XT are great value alternatives from AMD.
What We Liked
Value: At a relatively affordable price point, the Gigabyte Gaming OC RTX 4060 delivers superb features and great cooling, making it a great value option.
Cooling Performance: The excellent Gigabyte Windforce triple-fan cooler does a great job of keeping the internals cool.
What We Disliked
Plain looks: The Gaming OC RTX 4060 lacks distinct design elements and has minimal RGB lighting.
Large Size: While it isn’t particularly thick, the 281mm length might become an issue if you are using a compact mini ITX or micro ATX PC case.
Who Is It For?
The Gigabyte Gaming OC RTX 4060 is great for those gamers who want a respectable RTX 4060 graphics card without spending a fortune on the variant.
What Makes It The Best Value RTX 4060?
The affordable price point, along with the great features and superb cooling, makes the Gigabyte Gaming OC RTX 4060 the best value RTX 4060 graphics card.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 7/10 | Design: 8/10 |
ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 4060 SOLO
Best Compact RTX 4060
Boost Clock: 2460 MHz | Dimensions: 163 x 117.6 x 39.5 mm | Display Outputs: 1x HDMI 2.1a, 3x DisplayPort 1.4a | Recommended PSU: 500W | Power Connectors: 1x 8-pin PCIe | Power Limit: +4% | RGB Lighting: No
Pros
- Ideal for compact PCs
- Acceptable cooling performance
- Affordable
Cons
- Slightly loud fan
- No backplate
Compact PCs have made a comeback in the last few years, and the trend of small form factor (SFF) cases is back in full force. Many users like to make small and silent PCs that they can just tuck away under their desks on in a cabinet. With the rise of media PCs, the demand for compact graphics cards is on the rise. The ZOTAC GeForce RTX 4060 SOLO is an ideal graphics card for compact gaming and streaming PCs.
You can also browse our selection of the best RX 7600 graphics cards for compact options from the Red Team.
ZOTAC has used a single-fan design in this particular variant to minimize the footprint of the graphics card. The card covers only 2 slots when installed, and it is only 163mm in length. This means that you can have the power of the RTX 4060 in most mini ITX and micro ATX cases without any compatibility issues. The card is also a great fit for custom SFF cases, many of which use PCIe riser cables to plug in the graphics card. Of course, ZOTAC had to cut some corners to achieve this compact form factor.
Under the hood, the heat-generating components make direct contact with a large heatsink assembly through a baseplate. ZOTAC uses two rather sizeable nickel-plated copper heat pipes, which spread the heat throughout the heatsink array. The single fan provides a vertical airflow channel, thus forcing the heat out of the sides and rear of the card. The heatsink fins are aligned laterally, thus providing a channel for the warm air to travel through the heatsink assembly and out of the rear ventilation holes.
Although the single fan does an admirable job of keeping the temperatures under control, it does tend to get a bit loud towards the higher end of the fan curve. Nevertheless, the acoustics are acceptable in the majority of scenarios. Moreover, the card does have a decent power delivery system along with a +4% power limit, allowing it to boost above 2460 MHz under ideal conditions. The manual GPU overclocking experience on this card does not yield a lot of favorable results, but that is to be expected.
The ZOTAC GeForce RTX 4060 SOLO is a simple card that fits a particular purpose, so it is no surprise that it has a rather plain design. The black fan shroud is inoffensive and does its job, while the rear of the card is bare and uncovered. We would have liked to see a metal backplate to add a bit of personality and structural rigidity, but that is a minor inconvenience. Nevertheless, the card also lacks any sort of RGB lighting, which may be a potential downside for some users.
When looking at aftermarket variants of the RTX 4060, it is hard to find a version that is as compact and as well-rounded as the ZOTAC GeForce RTX 4060 SOLO. Not only does it have a great set of features, but it is also relatively affordable therefore making it a great value for the money. It does make a few compromises here and there, but none of them make a dent in the performance and value of this GPU.
Speaking of value, our selection of the best RTX 3060 graphics cards can also be of interest to you if you want the last-gen alternative.
What We Liked
Compact size: At just 163mm long, the ZOTAC RTX 4060 SOLO is great for small form factor PCs and compact mini ITX cases.
Affordable: The ZOTAC RTX 4060 SOLO provides great value for money thanks to its low price premium.
What We Disliked
Plain design: Having a backplate and some RGB lighting would have elevated the looks of this graphics card.
Who Is It For?
If you have a mini ITX or micro ATX case and want an RTX 4060 graphics card, the ZOTAC SOLO is the perfect variant for you.
What Makes It The Best Compact RTX 4060?
The ZOTAC GeForce RTX 4060 SOLO is the best compact RTX 4060 due to its single-fan design, 2-slot thickness, and 163mm length while having a very respectable cooling solution.
| Performance: 8/10 | Value: 10/10 |
| Features: 7/10 | Design: 7/10 |
Verdict: What Is The Best RTX 4060?
In a nutshell, the ASUS Dual OC RTX 4060 is the best RTX 4060, thanks to its superb versatility and enticing value proposition. The Dual OC features a very competent cooling solution with quiet Axial-Tech fans while having a robust power delivery system under the hood. It also boasts a relatively affordable price point, making it a great value option for a variety of gamers.
Gaming Benchmarks Of The Best RTX 4060 Graphics Cards
Our team of specialized PC hardware experts conducted a comprehensive range of tests to precisely evaluate the performance of different RTX 4060 variants. These tests were carefully designed to assess various aspects, including thermal efficiency, acoustic output, overclocking potential, and overall stability in different scenarios. Finally, the cards were put through a gauntlet of gaming benchmarks.
Do You Need an ATX 3.0 Power Supply?
The latest standard for power supplies in the consumer desktop market is ATX 3.0, primarily designed to enhance the interaction between power supplies and graphics cards. Currently, GPUs typically rely on a combination of 6-pin and 8-pin PCIe cables, which can deliver 75W and 150W of power draw, respectively.
However, with the introduction of ATX 3.0 PSUs, significant changes are underway. Modern graphics cards, starting with NVIDIA’s RTX 40-series, now employ a more advanced and reliable PCIe connector. This new connector has 16 pins, configured as 12+4, with 4 of those pins dedicated to communication between the PSU and the graphics card.
To accommodate this new connector, ATX 3.0 PSUs come with a specific cable called the 12VHPWR cable, also known as PCIe Gen 5 or PCIe 5.0 cable, depending on the manufacturer. These cables have varying power limits, ranging from 150W to 600W. For most consumer desktop GPUs, power supplies typically include the 450W cable.
We have already covered the best PSU for RTX 4090 and the best PSU for RTX 4080 in previous articles.
However, in the case of the RTX 4060, Nvidia has not made a Founder’s Edition graphics card. All aftermarket AIB variants of the RTX 4060 use traditional 8-pin PCIe connectors for their power demands. Therefore, you do not need an ATX 3.0 power supply if you want to buy an RTX 4060 graphics card.
Is DLSS Worth It?
DLSS, or Deep Learning Super Sampling, is an innovative technology that has taken the PC gaming world by storm. DLSS uses artificial intelligence and deep learning algorithms to downscale native images to lower resolutions and then upscale them in real time. For gamers with modern RTX graphics cards, DLSS can provide a substantial performance gain, allowing them to play games at higher frame rates and resolutions while maintaining image quality.
By utilizing machine learning neural networks, DLSS can analyze and reconstruct images with astonishing precision, resulting in clearer textures, reduced aliasing, and overall improved visuals. With RTX 40-series graphics cards, NVIDIA has brought DLSS 3.0, which can even generate synthetic frames to improve framerate. Furthermore, DLSS enables gamers to better take advantage of Ray Tracing technology, which enhances lighting and reflections in supported games without causing a severe drop in frame rates. This makes DLSS a vital tool for those seeking to strike the perfect balance between performance and visual fidelity.
We have also covered the difference between Nvidia DLSS vs. AMD FSR for a more in-depth look at the two upscaling technologies.
DLSS is undoubtedly worth it for PC gamers who own compatible NVIDIA graphics cards and play supported games. Its ability to enhance performance, preserve image quality, and improve ray tracing features makes it a game-changer in the world of gaming technology. As developers continue to integrate DLSS into their titles, its value will only increase, offering an optimized gaming experience that’s both immersive and smooth. For any gamer looking to get the most out of their hardware and enjoy cutting-edge visuals, enabling DLSS is a no-brainer.
Check out our guides on the best graphics cards for 1440p and the best graphics cards for 4K if you want to game at those resolutions.
Important GPU Key Terms
When in the market for a new GPU in 2023, keep in mind the following key terms.
- GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): A specialized electronic circuit designed to accelerate the rendering of images and videos, commonly used in graphics-intensive tasks.
- CUDA Cores: Parallel processing units within NVIDIA GPUs responsible for executing tasks in parallel, essential for a wide range of GPU-accelerated computing tasks.
- VRAM (Video Random Access Memory): Dedicated high-speed memory on a GPU used to store textures, frames, and other graphical data for rapid access by the GPU.
- Shader: Small programs executed on the GPU that control the rendering of graphics, allowing for complex visual effects and realism in games and simulations.
- TDP (Thermal Design Power): The maximum amount of heat a GPU is designed to dissipate under load, crucial for selecting appropriate cooling solutions and power supplies.
- TGP (Total Graphics Power): The total power consumption of a GPU, including the GPU core and its associated components, which affects thermal and power requirements.
- Bus Width: The capacity for data transfer between the GPU and its memory, influencing memory bandwidth and overall performance.
- VRM (Voltage Regulator Module): A crucial component on a graphics card that regulates and supplies the appropriate voltage to the GPU, aiding in stability and overclocking.
- Overclocking: The process of increasing a GPU’s clock speed and voltage beyond its factory settings to achieve higher performance, often at the risk of increased heat
- Ray Tracing: A rendering technique that simulates the behavior of light rays as they interact with objects, producing highly realistic lighting and reflections in graphics.
- Tensor Cores: Specialized hardware units within modern GPUs that accelerate tensor operations, crucial for deep learning and AI workloads.
- SLI (Scalable Link Interface): A technology from NVIDIA that enables multiple GPUs to work together in parallel for increased graphics performance in compatible systems.
How We Picked The Best RTX 4060 Graphics Cards
Choosing the best graphics card variant is a tricky business. There are so many factors that influence the quality and durability of a graphics card in the long term. Product pages and manufacturer websites are notoriously unhelpful in this regard since they are pretty much filled with marketing jargon. Here are some of the factors that we used to choose the best RTX 4060 variants.
It may also be helpful to know how we test graphics cards in order to understand our ranking system.
Thermal Performance
Evaluating a graphics card’s cooling performance is crucial before making a purchase for several reasons. Firstly, efficient cooling ensures that the graphics card operates within optimal temperature ranges, preventing overheating and potential degradation. Secondly, a well-cooled graphics card can maintain consistent performance during intense gaming or demanding tasks, avoiding thermal throttling that can result in decreased performance. Lastly, effective cooling also contributes to the longevity of the graphics card, reducing the risk of premature failure and the need for costly replacements.
You can look at the heatsink assembly, the configuration of the heat pipes, and temperature data available online to judge the cooling solution of a particular graphics card before buying.
Noise Levels
Considering the noise level of a graphics card is essential prior to purchase. A silent GPU enhances the overall gaming or computing experience by reducing distracting background noise. Additionally, a quieter graphics card can contribute to a more peaceful and immersive environment, especially during late-night gaming sessions or in noise-sensitive environments. Moreover, a low-noise GPU indicates efficient cooling, as excessive noise may indicate that the fans are working harder to lower GPU temperatures, potentially affecting the longevity and performance of the card.
Power Delivery
The power delivery or VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) of a graphics card is a crucial component that is often overlooked. A robust VRM design ensures stable and reliable power delivery to the GPU, which is essential for achieving higher clock speeds in both stock and overclocked scenarios. A well-designed power delivery system also allows for better energy efficiency, minimizing power wastage and reducing the strain on other system components. You should also consider the power limit if you are interested in overclocking. Many aftermarket variants have increased power limits that allow the GPU to use more power to achieve higher clocks.
Related Read: Can Overclocking Damage a GPU?
Aesthetics
Beyond its functional capabilities, the visual appeal of the card plays a significant role in creating an attractive and visually cohesive PC build. A well-designed graphics card with sleek lines, innovative design elements, and thoughtful details can elevate the overall aesthetics of the system, making it a source of pride for the user. Furthermore, a visually striking graphics card often incorporates customizable RGB lighting options, allowing users to personalize and match their system’s theme or create dynamic lighting effects. Ultimately, investing in a visually appealing graphics card not only enhances the overall look of the PC but also offers a sense of satisfaction and enjoyment for the user.
Price and Value
Price is indeed the ultimate consideration when purchasing a graphics card, as it directly impacts the value for money. Assessing the price in relation to the performance and features offered by the graphics card helps determine if it aligns with your budget and requirements. It’s essential to strike a balance between affordability and the desired level of performance, considering factors such as the card’s cooling capabilities, unique features, and reliability. By carefully evaluating the price and overall value, you can make an informed decision and find a graphics card that delivers the best combination of performance and affordability.
Why You Should Trust Us
With over a decade of experience in the technology industry, Tech4Gamers has become a prominent force. Our skilled team members are experts in researching, reviewing, and writing. This has led to recognition from renowned companies like GIGABYTE, MSI, ASUS, Deepcool, and others, establishing us as a trusted source of hardware and technology content.
Dedicated to maintaining high standards for ourselves and our users, Tech4Gamers conducts extensive studies and in-depth analyses. In our latest roundup, we focused on the best RTX 4060 graphics cards. Each variant was meticulously tested by our team of PC hardware specialists to ensure unbiased and objective data, thus curating a list of the top-performing RTX 4060 graphics cards.
FAQs
Yes, 8GB VRAM should be enough for the near future. However, it is impossible to predict how the memory demands of games will change in the coming years. Still, 8GB VRAM should be good enough for 1080p for a few more years.
No, the RTX 4060 is not better than the RTX 3070. At 1080p, the RTX 4060 lags behind the RTX 3070 by about 12-15%, while this difference grows to 15-20% at 1440p. The RTX 4060 does have the benefit of DLSS 3.0 over the RTX 3070.
Yes, 500W is enough for the RTX 4060. Nvidia officially recommends a 550W power supply for the RTX 4060, but there are many variants that recommend a 450-500W PSU for the same graphics card. Unless you’re buying a premium variant, 500W should be enough.
Yes, the RTX 4060 can do 1080p 144Hz in certain games if you are willing to lower the graphics settings. You can get 144Hz in light multiplayer games like Valorant, Fortnite, and CS:GO, but not in heavy single-player titles.
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