What is a GPU and what does it do in your PC?
A GPU (graphics processing unit) is the specialized processor inside your graphics card that turns game and app data into the images sent to your monitor. Your CPU still runs game logic, physics, and networking; the GPU focuses on huge batches of parallel math—shading pixels, texturing, ray-traced lighting, and AI upscaling when supported.
On RankedGPU, each table row is a merchant listing for a specific card: chip name (e.g. RTX 4070), VRAM size, memory type (GDDR6/GDDR6X), cooler style, and price. The goal is to compare price per GB of VRAM and value scores within the filters you choose—then open the marketplace page to confirm fit, warranty, and final checkout price.
Discrete GPU vs integrated graphics
Many CPUs include integrated graphics (iGPU) for displays and light tasks. A discrete graphics card plugs into a PCIe slot and adds dedicated VRAM and much higher 3D performance. For 1080p/1440p gaming or GPU-accelerated creative work, a discrete card is usually the right tool.
Why VRAM appears in every headline
VRAM is memory on the card that holds textures, frame buffers, and assets the GPU needs right now. Too little VRAM forces quality reductions or streaming from system RAM, which hurts performance. Listing titles often repeat VRAM (e.g. “12GB GDDR6X”) because it is one of the first specs to match to your resolution and game settings.
When you are ready to shop, try cards with at least 8GB VRAM as a common baseline for modern titles at 1080p/1440p, then refine by chip and budget.
Cooling and power: not just the chip
Two cards with the same GPU chip can perform differently: cooler design, factory overclocks, power limits, and case airflow all matter. Our cooling style field (e.g. dual-fan vs triple-fan) is a rough hint from the listing—not a substitute for reviews and noise testing.
Always pair a new GPU with a PSU that can deliver stable power for the card's peak draw and use the correct cables. See PSUs, PCIe, and GPU power for a practical overview.
Next: NVIDIA vs AMD or how much VRAM for gaming.