GPU clock speed
The frequency of the graphics processor of the graphics card. As a general rule, the higher the frequency of the GPU, the higher the performance of the graphics card, but this parameter is not the only one — a lot also depends on the design features of the graphics card, in particular, the type and amount of video memory (see the relevant glossary items). As a result, it is not unusual for a model with a lower processor frequency to be more performant of two video cards. In addition, it should be noted that high-frequency processors also have high heat dissipation, which requires the use of powerful cooling systems.
HDMI
The number of HDMI outputs provided by the graphics card.
HDMI is by far the most popular interface for high-definition video and multi-channel audio (it can be used for video and audio at the same time). This connector is almost standard for modern monitors, in addition, it is widely used in other types of screens — TVs, plasma panels, projectors, etc.
The presence of several outputs allows you to connect several screens to the graphics card at the same time — for example, a pair of monitors for organizing an extended workspace. However, there are never more than 2 HDMI ports in video cards — for a number of reasons, for several screens at once, in this case it is easier to use other connectors, primarily DisplayPort.
HDMI version
HDMI interface version supported by the graphics card. For details about HDMI itself, see above, and its versions can be as follows:
— v.1.4. The earliest HDMI standard found in video cards; was introduced in 2009. Despite its “venerable age”, it has good capabilities: it supports 4K video (4096x2160) at a frame rate of 24 fps, Full HD (1920x1080) at a frame rate of up to 120 fps, and is also suitable for transmitting 3D video.
— v.1.4b. The second improvement of the above v.1.4. The first update, v.1.4a, introduced support for two additional 3D video formats; and in HDMI v.1.4b, mostly minor improvements and additions to v 1.4a specifications were implemented, almost imperceptible to the average user.
— v.2.0. Standard introduced in 2013 to replace HDMI v.1.4. Thanks to its full 4K support (up to 60 fps), it is also known as HDMI UHD. In addition, there is enough bandwidth for simultaneous transmission of up to 32 audio tracks and up to 4 separate audio streams, and the list of supported frame formats has been replenished with ultra-wide 21:9.
— v.2.0b. The second update of the HDMI 2.0 standard described above, which differs primarily in HDR support. However, HDR compatibility itself appeared in the first update, v.2.0a; and version 2.0b added the ability to work with HDR10 and HLG standards.
— v.2.1. The newest common HDMI standard released in 2017. Capable of providing a frame rate of 120 fps in ultra-high resolu...tion video signal — from 4K to 8K inclusive; some improvements related to the use of HDR were also provided. Note that all the features of HDMI v.2.1 are available only when using cables marked Ultra High Speed, although basic functions work through ordinary cables.
Monitors connection
The maximum number of monitors that can be connected to the graphics card at the same time and shared.
Simultaneous connection of several screens allows you to expand the visual space available to the user. For example, it can be useful for designers and layout designers when working with large-format materials, for programmers to separate tasks (one monitor for writing code, the second for searching for the necessary information and other auxiliary purposes), and for gamers-enthusiasts — to ensure the maximum immersion effect. Thanks to advances in technology today , even low — cost graphics cards can typically handle at least
three monitors, while advanced models can support
four or
more displays .
Lighting sync
Backlight synchronization technology provided in a graphics card with an associated design.
By itself, synchronization allows you to "match" the backlight of the graphics card with the backlight of other system components — the motherboard, case, keyboard, mouse, etc. Thanks to this matching, all components can change colour synchronously, turn on / off at the same time, etc. Specific features the operation of such backlighting depends on the synchronization technology used, and, usually, each manufacturer has its own (Mystic Light Sync for MSI, RGB Fusion for Gigabyte, etc.). The compatibility of the components also depends on this: they must all support the same technology. So the easiest way to achieve backlight compatibility is to collect components from the same manufacturer.
Power consumption
Maximum power consumed by the graphics card during operation. This parameter is important for calculating the total power consumed by the entire system and selecting a power supply that provides the appropriate power.
Length
The total length of the graphics card.
In this case, the length means the size of the device from the plate with connectors (which is attached to the back wall of the system unit) to the opposite side. The plate itself and the outwardly protruding connectors are usually not taken into account.
Data on the length of the graphics card is needed primarily in order to assess whether there is enough space for it in a particular case. In addition, longer boards, usually, have more advanced characteristics (although there is no hard dependence here, and video adapters of similar class may have different lengths). As for specific values, the most compact solutions nowadays have a size of
150 – 200 mm or
less ; an indicator of
200 – 250 mm can still be considered relatively small,
250 – 290 mm — medium, and many models (mostly advanced) have a length
of more than 290 mm.
