A graphics card is a staple for a good gaming rig. But even if you are not a gamer, a good video card can work wonders to give a noticeable boost to your system. This is especially true if you have an ancient PC that you bought back in the early 2000s. It's understandable if you don't want to spend a lot on video cards, especially when you are not gaming.

best graphics card for autocad

Realistically speaking, you do not have to buy a high-end graphics card to run AutoCAD. But you do need something better than your integrated video card to display 2D and 3D models. Graphics cards offering the barest minimum is enough if you only work with 2D models. However, 3D designs require slightly more than a basic GPU. I will list down some of the best graphics card for AutoCAD so that you can check which features meet your needs the best.


10 BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD REVIEW

1.MSI GAMING GEFORCE GT 710 - BEST GPU FOR VIDEO EDITING

MSI GT 710 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 9.49 x 6.61 x 2.05 inches
  • Item model number: GT 710 1GD3H LP
  • Item Weight: 13.9 ounces
  • Memory Speed: 1600 MHz

MSI Gaming GeForce GT 710 is the best graphics card for autocad , that comes with an entry-level graphics card suitable for low-end computers. It is an inexpensive option if you want the bare necessities. The main aim of GT 710 is to provide an HDMI jack to a computer system lacking a digital video output. You do not need graphic-intensive juices to run AutoCAD.

Something a little more than your vintage integrated graphics card is more than enough for your 2D design workflow. It is also capable of running Photoshop without lag. It comes with all solid capacitors and a low-profile design. Built upon the older version of Kepler architecture, it features a GPU base clock of around 954 MHz.

The typical configuration of GT710 usually comes with 64-bit memory, providing a memory bandwidth of approximately 14.4 GB/s and 1GB of DDR3. The GT 710 is superior when compared to integrated graphics cards. Most Nvidia systems support PhysX, PureVideo, FXAA, and other technologies and will be able to handle GPU intensive video-decoding.

It also includes DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.5 support, HDMI, DL-DVI-D, and VGA. Other than the features, it consumes a very low power of 19W. Overall, it is not a graphics card that will transform your system into a gaming PC or will let you perform 3D rendering.

But if you don't play games and want something to meet the basic needs like the 2D design on AutoCAD and run graphic programs, I would recommend this.

FEATURES:

  • Low-Profile design
  • Silent Performance
  • Easy Plug-and-Play installation
  • HDMI, DVI, and VGA
  • Afterburner Overclocking Utility
  • DirectX 12 support and OpenGL 4.5
  • Solid Capacitors

PROS

  • Easy to install
  • Dirt cheap
  • Does a great job with 2D designing
  • Low power consumption
  • Small and easily fits into most CPU units

CONS

  • Not compatible with 3-D rendering

2. EVGA GEFORCE 8400 GS - BEST NVIDIA CUDA GRAPHICS CARD

 EVGA 8400 GS  - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 11 x 1.5 x 7.5 inches
  • Item Weight: 11.2 ounces
  • Item model number: 01G-P3-1302-LR
  • Memory Speed: 520 MHz

NVIDIA GeForce 8400 GS is built upon the Unified Shader Architecture, providing a unified platform for geometry shaders, vertex shaders, and pixel shaders. It also features NVIDIA GigaThread Technology, which allows many independent threads to function simultaneously inside the graphics card's core.

The card's graphics clock speeds are 520 MHz and 1200 MHz, respectively. It boasts of 8 CUDA cores and 1024MB DDR3 memory. Moreover, NVIDIA's CUDA support enhances and accelerates operations like video transcoding.

This best graphics card for autocad is compatible with a wide range of desktops and can even run on laptops. However, if you plan to play video games with this, please turn away and look for something high-end. The EVGA GeForce 8400 GS is a media-focused graphics card, owing to its true 128-bit Floating Point High-Dynamic Range (HDR), which is useful for watching full-resolution videos and Blu-Ray movies.

It's PureVideo HD Technology offers you a full-HD experience through enhanced colors, smooth video, video decode acceleration, post-processing, and accurate image scaling. It supports up to 2 monitors, so you can be highly productive by working on your design on AutoCAD on one monitor and perform calculations on the other.

The only drawback is that the GPU is not silent. You will hear the continuous drone, which is very distracting while working.

FEATURES:

  • Unified Shader Architecture
  • True 128-Bit Floating Point High Dynamic-Range (HDR)
  • Media-centric card for watching HD DVD and Blu-ray movies
  • PureVideo HD Technology for the complete HD experience
  • Compatible with low-end systems
  • 24/7 EVGA Customer Support
  • Supports PCI Express 2.0 and 3.0

PROS

  • Can handle 2 monitors smoothly
  • Good performance for a low-end graphics card
  • Not power-hungry
  • Can run in most low-end systems
  • Perfect for running designing and programming

CONS

  • GPU is not silent

3. VISIONTEK RADEON 5450 - BEST RADEON GRAPHICS CARD

VISIONTEK RADEON 5450 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 9.75 x 7 x 1.75 inches
  • Item Weight: 11.2 ounces
  • Item model number: 900860
  • Memory Speed: 667 MHz

Radeon is not known for being budget-friendly, but recently, they moved their focus to making budget graphics cards. The VisionTek Radeon HD 5450 is the most inexpensive card that supports DirectX 11. It offers a wide range of graphic solutions for popular applications. It is a good boost to your old gear to increase productivity.

This one stands third in our list of best graphics card for AutoCAD as it offers 1 GB DDR3 memory and VGA, HDMI, and DVI video output. VisionTek's Avivo Technology Enhanced Unified Video Decoder 2 (UVD 2) and Dolby TrueHD support give a decent video and audio experience. The multi-monitor feature increases efficiency by allowing you to multitask on separate screens. Now you can check your emails, work on your latest blueprint design, and browse the web all at once!

It is also good for corporate settings. You can showcase your presentations and drafts with the help of digital signage video walls. It is even beneficial for a restaurant or a cafe. Give an oomph to your business by putting up digital signage menus.

You can update discount notices and offers and show off some of the live-action footage of your signature dishes being cooked. VisionTek Radeon Graphics Card is perfect to meet your professional needs and will not disappoint you if you are solely looking for something to upgrade your workstation.

FEATURES:

  • Suitable for corporate and restaurant settings
  • High-Quality Digital Signage
  • Expanded Multiple Display for Multitasking
  • Avivo Technology Enhanced Unified Video Decoder 2
  • Dolby TrueHD and DTSHD Support
  • Windows 7 Support
  • HD Gaming Experience

PROS

  • Multi-solution graphics card
  • Impressive video quality
  • Easy to install
  • No external power supply required
  • Runs on very old systems

CONS

  • No driver CD included

4. ASUS GEFORCE GT 710 - BEST NVIDIA GRAPHICS CARD

ASUS GT 710 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 0.7 x 2.7 inches
  • Item Weight: 11.2 ounces
  • Item model number: GT710-SL-1GD5-BRK
  • Memory Speed: 5012 MHz

This is the seventh installment to the different variants by GeForce GT 710. This Asus best graphics card for AutoCAD offers a user-friendly, single-slot design that also features passive-cooling. Asus provides a Kepler- powered graphics card based on GK208 silicon that uses GDDR5 at the clock speed of 5012MHz. The auto-extreme technology of Asus is equipped with aerospace-grade Super Alloy Power II components.

Most of the GT 710 cards utilize only DVI and VGA. However, Asus offers four HDMI ports and also supports DirectX 12. Therefore, it is an affordable option for those who want to use multiple monitors that are good for multitasking with AutoCAD. The GeForce 710 does not require a PCI 3.0 slot and can function well with PCI 2.0.

The GPU Tweak II helps in making overclocking easier and provides better visuals. On top of this, its silent performance is perfect for the office environment. It supports Windows 7, so you do not need to get the latest Windows OS if you do not have it installed. It is very easy to install and does not require any external power supply as it draws its power from the PCI-E slot. If you require a graphics card that offers a lot of benefits at a low-cost, take a look at this.

FEATURES:

  • Kepler-powered graphics
  • Auto-Extreme Technology with Super Alloy Power II components
  • 4 HDMI ports
  • Dolby TrueHD and DTSHD Master Audio Support
  • Passive Cooling Technology
  • GPU Tweak II for easy overclocking
  • DirectX 12 support

PROS

  • Good for multitasking
  • Good DirectX 12 supported graphics card
  • GPU Tweak II makes video interface smoother
  • Silent operation
  • Value for money

CONS

  • No HEVC encoding

5. DIAMOND ATI RADEON 5450 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR THE MONEY

DIAMOND ATI 5450 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 6 x 1.2 x 4 inches
  • Item Weight: 9.6 ounces
  • Item model number: 5450PE31G
  • Memory Speed: 1 GHz

The Diamond Multimedia offers satisfactory performance with its renowned ATI Radeon HD 5450 series graphic processor. You receive dual-link HDMI, VGA, and DVI ports, which will enable you to use dual monitors efficiently.

You can now speed up your tasks with the ATI Stream technology to make video editing and transfer data to media players easier than before. It also boasts of AMD's ATI Catalyst software with its DirectX 11 support and OpenGL 4.2.

Video output is modest and okay if you want to use it for non-gaming purposes. Video output features advanced post-processing and scaling, adaptive anti-aliasing, accelerated video encoding, and HDR texture compression. It also comes with CrossFireX Multi-GPU technology and 2nd-Generation TeraScale Engine.

With all these video features, you will have no problems with video artifacts or ghosting. The problem with this card is that it has a hectic installation process and only comes with drivers for Windows 7. Otherwise this is a best graphics card for AutoCAD.

FEATURES:

  • Dual-Link HDMI, VGA, and DVI ports for smooth dual-monitor experience
  • ATI Stream Technology
  • CrossFireX Multi-GPU Technology
  • 2nd Generation TeraScale Engine
  • ATI Catalysts Software
  • Passive Cooling

PROS

  • Perfect for a dual-monitor setup
  • Supports 5.1 audio
  • Moderate image and video quality
  • Inexpensive

CONS

  • Comes with only Windows 7 drivers

6. ZOTAC GEFORCE GT 1030

ZOTAC GT 1030 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 6.77 x 0.63 x 4.38 inches
  • Item Weight: 6 ounces
  • Item model number: ZT-P10300A-10L
  • Memory Speed: 6000 MHz

The prestigious NVIDIA Pascal architecture powers the Zotac GeForce GT 1030. It features 384 shaders plus its cutting-edge video codecs make it a good upgrade if you use your computer for non-GPU tasks. It is perfect for running full-resolution 4K videos.

Zotac also offers HDMI-2.0b ports, which will allow you to run 4K content at 60 Hz. However, you will not find the DisplayPort port. This means that older displays with HDMI-2.0b port will only play 4K content at 30 Hz.

The GT1030 has a clock speed of 6000 MHz. This might differ at different temperatures, so you need to keep your case well-ventilated if you want the clock speed to remain consistent. It is PCI-E powered, so you do not need an extra power supply. This means less clutter and fewer wires. The best part is that it utilizes a modest 30W so that it won't put much pressure on your system.

You will be able to play some lightweight games like the Grand Theft series and PUBG. Performance-wise, it is much faster than the Geforce 710 graphics cards. If you want a video card that is quiet and efficient for casual use, like watching 4k content, graphic designing, and video editing, then this is made for you!

FEATURES:

  • NVIDIA Pascal Architecture
  • PCI-E Powered
  • Whisper Quiet operation
  • Super compact
  • 30W Power Consumption
  • Single-slot
  • Extended Warranty of 5 years with product registration

PROS

  • 4k content plays smoothly
  • Allows low-level gaming
  • Faster than Geforce 710 cards
  • Low-power consumption
  • Quiet

CONS

  • Single-link DVI

7. MSI RADEON RX 5600 XT

 MSI RX 5600 XT - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 11.7 x 1.7 x 5.6 inches
  • Item Weight: 3.34 pounds
  • Item model number: Radeon RX 5600 XT GAMING MX
  • Memory Speed: 1620 MHz

The MSI's Radeon RX 5600 XT is one of the best graphics card for AutoCAD. It offers high-performance RDNA architecture to enhance functions like FidelityFX, Radeon Image Sharpening, and VR technologies to give you smooth performance and stunning visuals.

Radeon Anti-lag reduces input lag to allow you to work on large graphic projects. So Radeon is more stable as compared to NVIDIA's mid-range products. Thanks to MSI's mastery over aerodynamics' art with their Torx fan 3.0 and Twin Frozr 7 cooling, it does not heat the system.

It increases the space between the PCB and the backplate to improve air-flow. All is good except for the inability to access the NVIDIA Turning Hardware Encoder (NVENC), in case you want this feature to stream with XSplit broadcaster or OBS. Moreover, it is slightly more expensive than the other mid-range graphics cards. If you want something high-end without being over-demanding, have a look!

FEATURES:

  • High-performance RDNA architecture
  • Twin Frozr 7 Cooling
  • Radeon Anti-lag
  • Radeon Image Sharpening
  • Torx Fan 3.0
  • Widely recognized MSI Afterburner Overclocking Software
  • VR Support

PROS

  • Good cooling system
  • Lots of scope for overclocking
  • VR support at a reasonable price
  • Good performance

CONS

  • Can't stream with XSplit broadcaster or OBS

8. MSI GEFORCE GTX 1650

MSI GTX 1650 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 9.6 x 1.5 x 5 inches
  • Item Weight: 2.42 pounds
  • Item model number: GTX 1650 D6 Gaming X
  • Memory Speed: 1710 MHz

The MSI GeForce GTX 1650 is built upon the Turing architecture with the latest TU117 processor. It is suitable for 75w power consumption, drawing its power from the PCI express slot. It has a six-pin auxiliary connector, and if you don't use it, you will run into a message asking you to connect to the PCIe cables when you boot up.

It has a Twin Frozr cooling system for providing consistent air-flow. It has a base clock rate of 1,485 MHz, so it works on lower frequencies as well. It is good for graphic design and video editing but nothing more than that.

FEATURES:

  • Zero Frozr technology
  • Dragon Centre for Mystic Light Functionality
  • Adaptive Shading Technology
  • Up to 70% faster than GTX 1050
  • Anti-tearing

PROS

  • No extra power required
  • Faster than GTX 1050
  • Good video quality for low-price
  • Suitable for graphic design

CONS

  • Cannot work without a six-pin connector

9. VISIONTEK RADEON 7750

VISIONTEK 7750 - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 13.6 x 5.2 x 2.7 inches
  • Item Weight: 1.05 pounds
  • Item model number: 900574
  • Memory Speed: 800MHz

The VisionTek Radeon 7750 serves as a nice improvement over integrated graphics. With a low-profile design, it is small, and you can plug it into any desktop system. Based on the GCN Architecture, it offers features like PCI Express 3.0 and AMD ZeroCore Power Technology.

Increase your productivity with Eyefinity Technology with DisplayPort that allows you to view three DVI-D monitors simultaneously. If you want to run the latest games on it, you would be in for a disappointment. But if you are the kind of person who plays casual online games and wants to work with AutoCAD, then you might like this one.

FEATURES:

  • GCN architecture
  • Avivo Video and Display Technology
  • AMD ZeroCore Power
  • PCI Express 3.0
  • Eyefinity Technology

PROS

  • Low-cost dual HDMI video card
  • Minimal noise
  • Runs old games
  • Video quality is good

CONS

  • Issues with Windows 10 support
  • Sort of slow performance

10. PNY VCGGT610XPB NVIDIA GEFORCE

 PNY VCGGT610XPB - BEST GRAPHICS CARD FOR AUTOCAD

PRODUCT INFORMATION

  • Product Dimensions: 12.5 x 2.5 x 6.3 inches
  • Item Weight: 15.2 ounces
  • Item model number: VCGGT610XPB
  • Memory Speed: 1000 MHz

The PNY GeForce GT 610 is a nifty upgrade for your work computer. This best graphics card for AutoCAD is worth buying even its in the last, as their PureVideo HD Technology allows you to have great HD video viewing and smooth web performance. It also offers 3D Blu-ray support for you to enjoy a cinematic experience just by plugging your PC into a 3D-compatible TV.

NVIDIA's FXAA Technology offers shader-based anti-aliasing that allows ultra-fast processing. The PCI Express 2.0 is designed to offer high transfer speeds for 3D rendering. The DTS-HD's lossless multi-channel HD audio codecs create a rich audio experience. It is a mediocre graphic card that will suit your basic professional and entertainment needs. 

FEATURES:

  • Blu-ray 3D Support
  • TrueHD and DTS-HD Audio
  • Shader based anti-aliasing with NVIDIA FXAA Technology
  • High-definition Video Acceleration with PureVideo Technology
  • Unlocks the power of GPU with NVIDIA Technology

PROS

  • 3D Compatibility
  • High definition audio
  • Suitable for work computers
  • Easy plug and play

CONS

  • Loud fan noise

CONCLUSION

By now, you might have got a rough idea about what graphics card you would want. If you are still confused, that's fine. Buying a best graphics card for AutoCAD can be confusing, especially since the new models are released every year. However, since your main focus is on running AutoCAD smoothly, you need not invest so much in a card with extra features. 74Remember needs to check certain things like monitor resolution compatibility, refresh rate, and MSRP power supply, and overclocking rate. Low-end cards would suit just fine if you do not want to play games. That's about it!

Author

Hello, Myself is Antonio. I’m a full-time blogger, Interested in accessories like the camera and other tech accessories. In my meantime, I enjoy writing about it. On my self-testing, I shared many reviews on the tools and gadgets I used. My blog helps you to get your ideal products or accessories at the best quality.

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