Which graphics card to choose for virtual reality

Choosing a graphics card for virtual reality

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Not all graphics cards on the market are used for virtual reality, if we choose the wrong model we will have an inadequate experience or it will even be impossible to enjoy our HTC Vive or Oculus Rift correctly. With the models that we recommend below you will have the security of having made a good purchase.

Previous generation GTX 970, 980 and GTX 980 Ti

They are an old range but they really continue to perform well in most virtual reality games. The latest titles are falling a bit short, but if you have an Nvidia GTX 970, GTX 980 or 980 Ti don't replace it, start playing with them and then upgrade to a new generation. You can always lower filters and minimums to go "pulling".

If you rethink your second-hand purchase, be careful with the mining and the time it has been in use. Try to buy it from a trusted or known person who treats your hardware well.

AMD Radeon RX 570 and AMD Radeon RX 580

Both the AMD Radeon RX 570 and the AMD Radeon RX 580 are “cheap” proposals (if they were at their starting price) to start in virtual reality. Both models offer a level of performance very similar to that of the RX 480, the top of the range of the previous generation. In addition, its power consumption is quite tight with about 150W, so you will not need a very powerful power supply. Its 4 GB and 8 GB of memory are more than enough to handle games with ease with today's virtual reality glasses and even desktops.

Its big problem is the increasing price and the lack of stock due to the rage for cryptocurrency mining. Although we like more the performance offered by Nvidia graphics cards in general?

Nvidia's TOP sales: GTX 1060

The Nvidia GTX 1060 has become the most popular graphics card on the market, and there's no reason for it. Its graphics core offers exceptional performance with lower power consumption even than AMD's RX 570. It is one of the most recommended cards for those looking for an excellent VR experience without leaving a kidney on the way. As we have always said, for us, it is the card to choose in a medium / high-end configuration.

The 3 or 6 GB version? Everything will depend on your budget and especially on the availability of both. The most basic version usually has stock since in the cryptocurrency mining it is not as interesting… and we can assure you that it is more than enough to play most games, but if your pocket gives to acquire a 6 GB… No you hesitate!

Peering into the high-end: GeForce GTX 1080

The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 is the most affordable high-end graphics card from Nvidia, as its performance is only one step below what has been the top of the range for many months, the GTX 1080Ti. This card offers you enough performance margin to guarantee good behavior for many years, by obtaining a GTX 1080, you will ensure a first-class virtual reality experience for at least a few years (it all depends on the development of this technology).

Best of the Best: GeForce GTX 1080 Ti

GeForce GTX 1080 Ti is simply the best gaming card that we can find on the market, its only sin is a sale price that is too high for most mortals. With this model you will have the best possible VR experience for many years. Outside of virtual reality it is the only card that can handle all modern games in 4K resolution and maximum levels of detail.

We recommend it for those users who need to play to the fullest on their desktop and virtual glasses. There are games like DOOM VFR or Fallout that demand a lot of graphic power and need to have the best of the best. Both the GTX 1080/1080 Ti or the AMD RX VEGA 56/64 are the best options today.

Recommended Graphics Card Table

Model	Optimal for virtual reality
Nvidia GTX 970, GTX 980 or GTX 980 Ti	Yes.
Nvidia GTX 1060 3GB or 6 GB	Yes.
Nvidia GTX 1070 or GTX 1070 Ti	Yes.
Nvidia GTX 1080 or GTX 1080 Ti	Yes.
AMD RX 470 or RX 480	Yes.
AMD RX 570 or RX 580	Yes.
AMD RX VEGA 56 or 64	Yes.

* Previous models not recommended. If you have questions, can you ask us?

What do you think about our choice of graphics cards for virtual reality? Do you think they are up to it? Or which one are you currently playing the HTC Vive or Oculus games with?

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