How to Buy the Correct Graphics Card

Most new computers today allow you to upgrade the stock components that come with either the desktop or notebook computer you have purchased. One of the components than can be upgraded and replaced is the graphics card.

What is a Graphics Card

The graphics card or video card is responsible for creating the images and video that your monitor displays. It translates what your hard drive creates into the rich media that you find on sites like YouTube or the photographs that you download to your personal computer.

Types and Considerations

You should ask yourself before purchasing a graphics card whether the desired graphics card is compatible with your monitor and whether the graphics display properties are compatible with the graphics card. Depending on the year your computer was made, your graphics card options might be limited. Also, an advanced graphics card displayed on a substandard monitor won't work properly. Your computer manufacture's website and the graphics card website are the best places to go to retrieve compatibility information.

Cost

You can purchase graphics cards at major retailers or specialty shops. As of October 2010, graphic cards range in price from $50 to $500, depending on the quality of the card.

References

• Media College: What is a Video Card
• PC World: How to Buy a Graphics Board