Buying Guide
The Best Current-Generation Graphics Cards
From the Arc B570 Challenger to the ASUS Prime RTX 5060: five graphics cards ranked on video memory and GPU, with who should skip each one.
By The PC Journal editorial team
12 min read5 products evaluated
The current generation brings RTX 50-series, Radeon RX 9000 and Intel Arc B-series cards. Every pick is from those lines, ordered from the lowest price.
Our comparison rests on published figures for GPU, VRAM and memory; nothing here was tested in-house, and where a maker leaves out boost clock, we say so.
Quick Picks
Our 5 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.
Largest Video Memory
ASRock Intel Arc B570 Challenger 10GB OC
The largest video memory here (10GB).
Best for: Buyers who put video memory first.
Our take Check price for ASRock Intel Arc B570 Challenger 10GB OC (opens in a new tab)
Also Consider
ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB OC
32 compute units with third-generation ray tracing.
Best for: Buyers who want 32 compute units with third-generation ray tracing.
Our take Check price for ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB OC (opens in a new tab)
Strong Alternative
ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Steel Legend 8GB OC
A triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop.
Best for: Buyers who want triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop.
Our take Check price for ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Steel Legend 8GB OC (opens in a new tab)
Worth a Look
GIGABYTE Radeon RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8G
A WINDFORCE cooler with Hawk fans.
Best for: Buyers who want WINDFORCE cooler with Hawk fans.
Our take Check price for GIGABYTE Radeon RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8G (opens in a new tab)
Premium Pick
ASUS Prime GeForce RTX 5060 8GB
The top of this price range, adding a quiet/performance dual BIOS switch.
Best for: Spending more for the fullest feature set.
Our take Check price for ASUS Prime GeForce RTX 5060 8GB (opens in a new tab)
Our Picks
Largest Video Memory1 of 5
ASRock Intel Arc B570 Challenger 10GB OC on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The Arc B570 is the B580's cheaper sibling with 10GB of memory on a 160-bit bus.
Best for
- Buyers who put video memory first.
Skip if
- Look at the other picks if you need a feature not covered above.
Why we like it
It was the least expensive card here at the time of writing and still offers three DisplayPort 2.1 outputs. Its 10GB video memory is the largest here; the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB comes next at 8GB. No other pick in this guide offers an arc B570 gpu; compare the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB, which has an RX 9060 XT gpu.
You get a 2600MHz boost clock here, which sets it apart from the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend and its a 3320MHz boost clock. You also get 0dB fan stop. No dimensions are published for the Arc B570 Challenger; get length and thickness from the maker's page first.
Power for the Arc B570 Challenger comes through 1 x 8-pin. It undercut the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB and every other pick on price at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- GPU: Arc B570
- VRAM: 10GB
- Memory: GDDR6
- Power connector: 1 x 8-pin
- Boost clock: 2600MHz
- Outputs: 3 x DisplayPort 2.1, 1 x HDMI 2.1a
Pros
- 10GB of VRAM, more than 8GB cards
- A single 8-pin power connector
- 160-bit memory bus at 19Gbps
- 0dB fan stop
Also Consider2 of 5
ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB OC on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
ASRock's RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB brings AMD's RDNA 4 architecture to a budget card with 32 compute units.
Best for
- Buyers who want 32 compute units with third-generation ray tracing.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games.
Why we like it
Its 8GB of memory is the compromise; the 16GB version costs more. It matches the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend, the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB and the ASUS Prime RTX 5060 on video memory (8GB). Like the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend and Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB, it has an RX 9060 XT gpu, while the Arc B570 Challenger uses an arc B570 gpu.
You get a 3290MHz boost clock here, which sets it apart from the ASUS Prime RTX 5060 and its a 2527MHz (OC mode) boost clock. You also get a dual-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop. No dimensions are published for the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB; get length and thickness from the maker's page first. On price it sat second of 5, between the cheaper Arc B570 Challenger and the pricier ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend, at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- GPU: RX 9060 XT
- VRAM: 8GB
- Memory: GDDR6
- Boost clock: 3290MHz
- Outputs: DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1b
Pros
- 32 compute units with third-generation ray tracing
- Dual-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop
- 20Gbps memory on a 128-bit bus
- 3290MHz boost clock, the only one here
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games
- Costs more than the Arc B570 Challenger at the time of writing
Strong Alternative3 of 5
ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Steel Legend 8GB OC on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
ASRock's RX 9060 XT Steel Legend 8GB uses a triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop and a reinforced metal backplate.
Best for
- Buyers who want triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop.
Skip if
- Skip it if this is a deal-breaker for you: 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games.
Why we like it
Its 3320MHz boost is the highest among these cards. It matches the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB and the ASUS Prime RTX 5060 on video memory (8GB). Like the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB and Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB, it has an RX 9060 XT gpu, while the Arc B570 Challenger uses an arc B570 gpu.
A 3320MHz boost clock is unique to it among these picks, while the ASUS Prime RTX 5060 uses a 2527MHz (OC mode) boost clock. It also comes with 20Gbps memory on a 128-bit bus. No dimensions are published for the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend; get length and thickness from the maker's page first. Its price falls between the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB and the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB, based on our last check.
Key dimensions & specs
- GPU: RX 9060 XT
- VRAM: 8GB
- Memory: GDDR6
- Boost clock: 3320MHz
- Outputs: DisplayPort 2.1a, HDMI 2.1b
Pros
- Triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop
- Reinforced metal backplate
- 20Gbps memory on a 128-bit bus
- 3320MHz boost clock, the only one here
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games
- Costs more than the Arc B570 Challenger at the time of writing
Worth a Look4 of 5
GIGABYTE Radeon RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8G on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
Gigabyte's RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB is the entry to AMD's RDNA 4 generation, with Hawk fans and RGB lighting.
Best for
- Buyers who want WINDFORCE cooler with Hawk fans.
Skip if
- Choose another pick if you can't accept this: 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games.
Why we like it
Its 8GB of memory suits 1080p more than 1440p. It matches the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend and the ASUS Prime RTX 5060 on video memory (8GB). Like the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB and ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend, it has an RX 9060 XT gpu, while the Arc B570 Challenger uses an arc B570 gpu.
You also get server-grade thermal conductive gel. No dimensions are published for the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB; get length and thickness from the maker's page first. Its power connector and recommended PSU are not published, so confirm both for the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB with the maker. On price it sat fourth of 5, between the cheaper ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend and the pricier ASUS Prime RTX 5060, at the time of writing.
Key dimensions & specs
- GPU: RX 9060 XT
- VRAM: 8GB
- Memory: GDDR6
Pros
- WINDFORCE cooler with Hawk fans
- Server-grade thermal conductive gel
- RGB lighting
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games
- Costs more than the Arc B570 Challenger at the time of writing
Premium Pick5 of 5
ASUS Prime GeForce RTX 5060 8GB on Amazon (opens in a new tab)
The ASUS Prime RTX 5060 is a well-rounded 1080p card: GDDR7 memory, a quiet/performance BIOS switch and 0dB fan stop in a 2.5-slot, SFF-Ready design.
Best for
- Spending more for the fullest feature set.
Skip if
- Look at the others if this bothers you: 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games.
Why we like it
It matches the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend and the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB on video memory (8GB). It is the only pick here with an RTX 5060 gpu; the Arc B570 Challenger has an arc B570 gpu instead. You get GDDR7 memory here, which sets it apart from the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB and its GDDR6 memory.
A 2527MHz (OC mode) boost clock is unique to it among these picks, while the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend uses a 3320MHz boost clock. It also offers dual-ball fan bearings. It was the most expensive pick when we checked, so weigh what it adds over the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB. If video memory is your priority, the Arc B570 Challenger (10GB) is the stronger choice.
Key dimensions & specs
- GPU: RTX 5060
- VRAM: 8GB
- Memory: GDDR7
- Thickness: 2.5-slot
- Boost clock: 2527MHz (OC mode)
- SFF-Ready: Yes
Pros
- Faster GDDR7 memory
- Carries NVIDIA's SFF-Ready label
- Quiet/performance dual BIOS switch
- 0dB fan stop
Cons
- 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games
- Video memory trails the Arc B570 Challenger (10GB)
- Costs more than the Arc B570 Challenger at the time of writing
How We Chose These Current-Generation Graphics Cards
Each pick was assessed across 4 criteria weighted for real-world use.
- GPU and memory
- We compared the chip, video memory capacity and memory type stated in each listing.
- Power
- We noted the power connector and recommended power supply where listed.
- Fit
- We recorded length and slot thickness where the maker lists them, plus low-profile and SFF-Ready status.
- Price tier
- We grouped picks by price at the time of writing rather than by listed clock speed.
What to Look for in a Current-Generation Graphics Card
Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.
Match the card to your monitor
Resolution and refresh rate decide how much GPU you need. A 1080p screen at 144Hz asks far less than 1440p at 165Hz or 4K.
Buy for the monitor you use now or will buy soon, not for a resolution you may never run.
Check length and thickness
Partner cards of the same GPU can differ by several centimetres. Compare the card's length with the case's GPU clearance, allowing for front fans or a radiator, and check how many slots it covers.
Pair it with a balanced CPU
A fast card with an old CPU can stall at high frame rates, especially at 1080p. At 4K the GPU does most of the work, so the CPU matters less.
Compare upscaling and encoders
NVIDIA cards support DLSS, AMD cards FSR and Intel cards XeSS. Each game supports a different mix, so check the titles you play.
Streamers should also compare hardware video encoders.
Treat 8GB of VRAM as the floor
Some recent games already push past 8GB at high texture settings. Cards with 12GB or 16GB give more room, especially at 1440p and above.
Two versions of the same chip can differ only in memory; check the capacity in the exact model name.
Cooler size affects noise
Larger triple-fan coolers usually run quieter under load than compact dual-fan designs. A 0dB mode stops the fans at light load.
How to Choose a Current-Generation Graphics Card
By priority
| Priority | Consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Buyers who put video memory first | Arc B570 Challenger | The largest video memory here (10GB) |
| Buyers who want 32 compute units with third-generation ray tracing | ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB | 32 compute units with third-generation ray tracing |
| Buyers who want triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop | ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend | A triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop |
| Buyers who want WINDFORCE cooler with Hawk fans | Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB | A WINDFORCE cooler with Hawk fans |
| Spending more for the fullest feature set | ASUS Prime RTX 5060 | The top of this price range, adding a quiet/performance dual BIOS switch |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Key specs side by side
Figures as each maker states them.
| Card | GPU | VRAM | Memory | Boost clock |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arc B570 Challenger | Arc B570 | 10GB | GDDR6 | 2600MHz |
| ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB | RX 9060 XT | 8GB | GDDR6 | 3290MHz |
| ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend | RX 9060 XT | 8GB | GDDR6 | 3320MHz |
| Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB | RX 9060 XT | 8GB | GDDR6 | Not listed |
| ASUS Prime RTX 5060 | RTX 5060 | 8GB | GDDR7 | 2527MHz (OC mode) |
Scroll sideways to see every column.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which pick leads on video memory?
The Arc B570 Challenger leads at 10GB, ahead of the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB at 8GB; the ASUS Prime RTX 5060 sits at the other end with 8GB.
Which pick costs the least here?
The Arc B570 Challenger cost the least when we checked, and the ASUS Prime RTX 5060 sat at the top of the range. Prices move often, so check the current listing before buying.
Will my CPU hold the card back?
It depends on resolution and the games you play. At 1080p and high refresh rates the CPU matters more; at 4K the GPU sets the limit.
Do I need a GPU support bracket?
Long, heavy cards can sag and stress the slot. Some come with a support stand or bracket; otherwise one is inexpensive to add.
How big a power supply do I need?
Use the maker's recommendation for your exact card, then add headroom if you run a high-power CPU. Also check the connectors, not just the wattage.
Bottom Line
Our first pick is the Arc B570 Challenger, chosen for the largest video memory here (10GB). Look at the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB for 32 compute units with third-generation ray tracing, the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend for a triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop and the Gigabyte RX 9060 XT Gaming OC 8GB for a WINDFORCE cooler with Hawk fans if those matter more to you.
New cards may use a 12V-2x6 connector; check your power supply.