The Ultimate Guide to Graphics Card Buying in October 2023

Are you ready to dive into the world of graphics cards and discover the best and worst options to buy in October 2023? Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or a content creator, finding the right GPU is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable computing experience. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the graphics card landscape, highlighting the top picks and cautioning against the duds. Plus, we’ll share some insights into the elusive world of Black Friday deals and whether it’s the best time to snag a GPU bargain. So, let’s get started!

The Do-Not-Buy List

Before we delve into the gems of the GPU market, let’s address the underwhelming options you should steer clear of in October 2023. These graphics cards might have their merits, but they come with limitations that make them less appealing for the discerning buyer.

1. AMD’s 7700 XT

AMD’s 7700 XT may sound enticing, but it falls short in the value department. Priced at $450 on launch, it faces stiff competition from its sibling, the 7800 XT, which is only $50 more expensive. The 7800 XT offers superior hardware and overall performance, making the 7700 XT a questionable choice. Moreover, finding the 7800 XT at its MSRP of $500 is a challenge, so the 7700 XT doesn’t make the cut.

2. Nvidia’s RTX 4060 Ti

Here’s a GPU that deserves a resounding “No!” The RTX 4060 Ti should be avoided at all costs. It suffers from hardware limitations, particularly in its memory department. Despite its $400 price tag, it offers only 8 GB of VRAM with a meager 128-bit memory bus. This puts it on par with lower-tier GPUs like the RX 7600 and RTX 3050, which makes it an unwise investment. Don’t even consider it, not even in a pre-built system.

3. The Poorly Priced Trio

The next three graphics cards on our list aren’t terrible, but they certainly don’t offer good value for their price. While they might have their merits, there are better alternatives available at more reasonable price points.

a. The 4070 Ti

Nvidia’s 4070 Ti is a decent graphics card, but it’s overpriced at $800 for what it offers. With only 12 GB of VRAM, it pales in comparison to the 7800 XT, which boasts more VRAM and a lower price tag. Spending $800 on a GPU with 12 GB of VRAM seems extravagant when the 7900 XT, sometimes available for the same price or even less, provides a more sensible option for gaming.

b. The 4090 and 4080

While the 4090 and 4080 are not inherently bad GPUs, they suffer from being overpriced in a market where better options exist. For gamers seeking high-performance graphics, the 7900 XT offers a more cost-effective solution. The savings of around $600 by choosing the 7900 XT over the 490 or 4080 can be invested in a 4K gaming monitor, enhancing the overall gaming experience. Unless you’re a serious content creator or have specific requirements like CUDA-based applications, the 7900 XT is a wiser choice.

Intel ARC Deals

Intel’s entry into the GPU market with the A750 and A770 brings a new player to the scene. While these GPUs show promise, they haven’t yet received the price discounts expected. Keep an eye out for potential price drops, as they could become more attractive options in the coming weeks.

The RTX 4060 – A Mid-Tier Contender

Nvidia’s RTX 4060, priced at $300, occupies a middle ground. While not a standout deal, it’s worth considering, especially if you can find it for around $260. This GPU serves as the most affordable entry point to the RTX 4000 series, making it an option worth exploring.

The Only RTX 4000 GPU Worth Buying

Among the RTX 4000 series, the RTX 4070 stands out as a reasonably priced option. Priced at $550, it offers a decent value proposition, thanks to its 12 GB of VRAM. The 4070 benefits from the competition brought by AMD’s 7800 XT, which has influenced a reduction in its price. While not the ultimate choice, the RTX 4070 provides good bang for your buck and supports DLSS 3.0 and improved ray tracing.

The Best GPUs to Buy Currently

Let’s dive into the real gems of the GPU market in October 2023. These graphics cards offer outstanding value, performance, and features that make them the top choices for different types of users.

The RX 7800 XT – Unbeatable Value

The RX 7800 XT from AMD is the talk of the town and is currently facing stock and pricing issues across major retailers. AMD has priced this GPU quite competitively, making it an enticing option. With moderate power consumption, excellent ray tracing performance, and a generous 16 GB of VRAM, the 7800 XT ticks all the boxes. Its price of around $540 (or potentially $500) makes it an exceptional deal. If you’re looking for a versatile graphics card that offers a great gaming experience without breaking the bank, the 7800 XT is a must-have.

The Radeon RX 5700 XT – A Hidden Gem

Don’t overlook the Radeon RX 5700 XT, especially if you’re on a budget. This GPU, available for under $150 on the used market or around $160 brand new on AliExpress, is a compelling choice. It delivers solid 1080p gaming performance and even holds its own in 1440p gaming. This affordable option proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy quality gaming. If you find yourself balking at the high prices of other GPUs, the 5700 XT is your ticket to enjoyable gaming.

The Radeon RX 6700 XT – A Strong Contender

The Radeon RX 6700 XT is still in production and offers great value at around $300. With potential discounts on the horizon due to the impending release of the RX 7600 XT, this GPU is worth keeping an eye on. It excels in 1440p gaming and is a wise choice for gamers who want a balance between performance and price. If you spot a 6700 XT for $300 or less, consider it a solid investment.

The Radeon RX 7600 – A Budget-Friendly Option

The RX 7600 is gaining traction as a cost-effective GPU. While it may not be the best deal in town, its sub-$250 price tag makes it appealing. With the inclusion of the AV1 codec and competitive ray tracing capabilities, it outperforms older RX 6000 series GPUs in its price range. While there are better options available, the RX 7600 offers reasonable performance for budget-conscious buyers.

The Radeon RX 7000 Series

Finally, let’s explore the latest offerings from AMD in the Radeon RX 7000 series. While the 7800 XT and 5700 XT steal the spotlight, these GPUs have their own niches and cater to different price ranges.

The RX 7900 XTX and 7900 XT – 4K Gaming Champions

For gamers seeking unparalleled 4K gaming experiences, the RX 7900 XTX and 7900 XT are the top choices. These GPUs come equipped with over 20 GB of VRAM, offering a significant advantage over the 4070 Ti, which offers only 12 GB. When it comes to raw gaming performance at 4K, these GPUs shine. If you’re aiming for the ultimate gaming setup, these graphics cards are your ticket to glory.

The RX 7600 – A Budget-Friendly Option

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option within the RX 7000 series, the RX 7600 steps up. Priced at $250, it strikes a balance between performance and affordability. While it may not compete with the higher-end offerings in this series, it’s a capable GPU for gamers who want solid 1440p gaming without breaking the bank.

Black Friday Insights

Many buyers eagerly await Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals in the hopes of snagging the best GPU bargains. However, it’s essential to set realistic expectations. Contrary to popular belief, the best GPU deals often occur in the month leading up to Black Friday, particularly in October.

Why October Might Be Better Than November:

• Retailers and manufacturers may offer discounts and promotions in anticipation of the holiday shopping season.
• Stock levels tend to be more stable in October, reducing the risk of missing out on deals due to limited availability.
• Competition among retailers to attract early shoppers can lead to better prices.
• Avoiding the Black Friday rush allows for a more relaxed shopping experience.

The Black Friday Caveat: While October is a prime time for GPU deals, Black Friday can still offer worthwhile discounts. However, the advantage of shopping early in October is that you’re not subject to the uncertainty of whether specific models will be in stock or on sale during the Black Friday frenzy. It’s all about balancing your priorities and timing your purchase to align with your needs and budget.

Conclusion

In the ever-evolving world of graphics cards, October 2023 presents a diverse array of options for buyers. From budget-friendly choices like the RX 5700 XT to high-end gaming champions like the RX 7900 XTX, there’s a GPU for every preference and budget. Keep an eye on October for potential deals, as the best bargains may surface before Black Friday arrives. Remember that the best GPU for you depends on your specific needs, whether it’s gaming, content creation, or both. With careful consideration, you can make an informed decision and enjoy a seamless computing experience with your new graphics card.

Disclaimer: Prices and availability mentioned in this article are based on information available as of October 2023 and may vary over time. Always check with retailers for the most up-to-date pricing and stock status.