What To Know
- At the time of writing, the Radeon R7 240 can be found for around $50, while the 1050 Ti retails for around $150.
- If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability above all else, the Radeon R7 240 is a decent option.
- In the battle of the budget graphics cards, the 1050 Ti emerges as the undisputed champion.
In the realm of budget graphics cards, the Radeon R7 240 and 1050 Ti stand as two formidable contenders. Both offer impressive performance at an affordable price, but which one is the better choice? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll delve into the specifications, performance, and features of these two cards to help you make an informed decision.
Specifications
| Feature | Radeon R7 240 | 1050 Ti |
| — | — | — |
| GPU Architecture | GCN 1.0 | Pascal |
| Core Count | 320 | 768 |
| Clock Speed | 730 MHz | 1290 MHz |
| Memory Type | GDDR3 | GDDR5 |
| Memory Capacity | 2GB | 4GB |
| Memory Bus Width | 128-bit | 128-bit |
| Power Consumption | 50W | 75W |
Performance
Benchmark results reveal a clear advantage for the 1050 Ti in both synthetic and real-world gaming tests. In 3DMark Fire Strike, the 1050 Ti scores around 40% higher than the R7 240. In games like Fortnite and Apex Legends, the 1050 Ti delivers significantly higher frame rates at 1080p resolution, allowing for smoother and more immersive gameplay.
Features
The 1050 Ti boasts a few additional features that the R7 240 lacks. These include:
- NVIDIA GameWorks: This suite of technologies enhances game performance and visual quality.
- Ansel: Allows users to capture high-resolution screenshots and 360-degree panoramas.
- ShadowPlay: Enables instant gameplay recording and streaming.
Power Consumption and Heat Dissipation
In terms of power consumption, the 1050 Ti draws slightly more power than the R7 240. However, both cards are relatively efficient and will not require a high-wattage power supply.
The R7 240 uses a passive cooling solution, which means it does not have any fans. This results in silent operation but can lead to higher temperatures under load. The 1050 Ti, on the other hand, uses an active cooling solution with a single fan. This helps keep the card cool and quiet, even during extended gaming sessions.
Price
At the time of writing, the Radeon R7 240 can be found for around $50, while the 1050 Ti retails for around $150. The price difference is significant, but the 1050 Ti offers a much better performance-per-dollar ratio.
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re on a tight budget and prioritize affordability above all else, the Radeon R7 240 is a decent option. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more, the 1050 Ti is the clear winner. It offers significantly better performance, additional features, and a more robust cooling solution.
The Verdict: 1050 Ti Reigns Supreme
In the battle of the budget graphics cards, the 1050 Ti emerges as the undisputed champion. Its superior performance, feature set, and value for money make it the best choice for budget-conscious gamers who demand a smooth and immersive gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the Radeon R7 240 still a good graphics card?
A: For very low-end gaming or basic video playback, the R7 240 can be adequate. However, it’s not recommended for modern games or demanding applications.
Q: How much VRAM does the 1050 Ti have?
A: The 1050 Ti has 4GB of GDDR5 VRAM.
Q: Can the 1050 Ti run Fortnite at 60 FPS?
A: Yes, the 1050 Ti can run Fortnite at 60 FPS or higher at 1080p resolution with medium to high graphics settings.
