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Step 1
Choose between AGP and PCIe. Choose a card depending upon the slots your motherboard has. An AGP slot offers options up to 8x, while a PCIe slot is available in 1x, 4x, 8x, 16x and 32x. A PCIe motherboard supports more than one PCIe slot while only one AGP slot is supported on an AGP motherboard. Having multiple PCIe slots enables you to load two graphic cards. A PCIe card is good for advanced graphics operations.
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Step 2
Decide on the level of graphics card you want to buy. If your graphics operations are generally basic, your requirements can be fulfilled by a mid-level card. If you want a higher level of detail, you may consider a high-level graphics card.
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Step 3
Understand processor speed. Processor speed is one of the measures of its power. In a mid-level card, it's generally between 300 MHz and 500 MHz. For a high-level graphics card, it's between 500 MHz and 1 GHz.
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Step 4
Consider the memory size of your graphics card. That refers to the extent to which the card can support graphics operations without using the PC memory. The memory size of a mid-level card is generally between 128 MB and 256 MB while a high-level card holds between 256 MB and 1 GB.
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Step 5
Compare the prices of graphics cards online as well as in computer stores. Look at various buyers’ guides to understand features, pricing and versions of different graphics cards. Some buyers’ guides include "MySimon," "Bizrate" and "Nextag" (see resources below). They'll also give you a list of stores selling graphics cards.
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Step 6
Buy a graphics card for graphics after comparing prices online and in local stores. Buyers' guides will provide an elaborate listing of online dealers for all types of graphics cards. Alternatively, you can check out online stores such as Best Buy, CompUSA and Circuit City (see resources below).
