Buying Guide

The Best Graphics Cards Under $400

Six cards priced under $400 at the time of writing, compared on memory, power needs and size.

By The PC Journal editorial team

12 min read6 products evaluated

Up to $400 covers the current entry cards from all three GPU makers. Memory ranges from 8GB to 12GB.

Prices move often, so check current listings. We compared listed specifications from the card makers and retailer listings; we did not benchmark these cards.

Quick Picks

Our 6 recommendations at a glance. Tap a pick for the full verdict.

  1. Most Memory Under $400

    ASRock Intel Arc B580 Challenger 12GB OC

    12GB of VRAM on a 249mm card.

    Best for: 1080p and light 1440p play.

    Our take Check price for ASRock Intel Arc B580 Challenger 12GB OC (opens in a new tab)

  2. Lowest Price at Writing

    ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB OC

    The least expensive card here at the time of writing.

    Best for: Budget RDNA 4 builds.

    Our take Check price for ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB OC (opens in a new tab)

  3. Best NVIDIA Under $400

    ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 5050 Twin Edge OC

    An RTX 5050 with a single 8-pin connector.

    Best for: DLSS 4 on a budget.

    Our take Check price for ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 5050 Twin Edge OC (opens in a new tab)

  4. Best Previous-Gen Value

    XFX Speedster SWFT210 Radeon RX 7600 8GB

    An RX 7600 with three DisplayPort outputs.

    Best for: Multi-monitor desks.

    Our take Check price for XFX Speedster SWFT210 Radeon RX 7600 8GB (opens in a new tab)

  5. Best Documented RX 7600

    ASRock Radeon RX 7600 Challenger Pro 8GB OC

    A 303mm length and 550W PSU.

    Best for: Checking fit and power.

    Our take Check price for ASRock Radeon RX 7600 Challenger Pro 8GB OC (opens in a new tab)

  6. Best Styled Budget Card

    ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Steel Legend 8GB OC

    A Steel Legend RX 9060 XT finish.

    Best for: Light-themed builds.

    Our take Check price for ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Steel Legend 8GB OC (opens in a new tab)

Our Picks

ASRock Intel Arc B580 Challenger 12GB OC

Most Memory Under $4001 of 6

ASRock Intel Arc B580 Challenger 12GB OC on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Intel's Arc B580 brings 12GB of GDDR6 to the entry tier, more than the 8GB common at this price.

Best for

1080p and light 1440p play.

Skip if

Price-first buyers should look at the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, which cost less when we checked.

Why we like it

ASRock's Challenger version is 249mm long and needs one 8-pin plug and a 650W PSU. Its 12GB video memory is the largest here; the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB comes next at 8GB. It matches the Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge on cooler thickness (2-slot).

You get an arc B580 gpu here, which sets it apart from the XFX 7600 SWFT210 and its an RX 7600 gpu. It is the only pick here with a 2740MHz boost clock; the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB has a 3290MHz boost clock instead. It also comes with a 192-bit memory bus at 19Gbps and dual-fan cooling with 0dB fan stop.

Measure for 249mm and 2 slots before ordering the Arc B580 Challenger. Power for the Arc B580 Challenger comes through 1 x 8-pin, with 650W the maker's minimum PSU. When we checked, only the Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge and cheaper picks cost less, and the XFX 7600 SWFT210 cost more.

Key dimensions & specs

  • GPU: Arc B580
  • VRAM: 12GB
  • Memory: GDDR6
  • Length: 249mm
  • Thickness: 2-slot
  • Recommended PSU: 650W
  • Power connector: 1 x 8-pin
  • Boost clock: 2740MHz
  • Outputs: 3 x DisplayPort 2.1, 1 x HDMI 2.1a

Pros

  • 12GB of VRAM, more than 8GB cards
  • Short 249mm length suits compact cases
  • Dual-slot cooler leaves the next slot free
  • A single 8-pin power connector

Cons

  • Costs more than the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB at the time of writing
ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB OC

Lowest Price at Writing2 of 6

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

Budget RDNA 4 builds.

Skip if

Worth skipping when 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent game is a problem.

Why we like it

Its 8GB of memory is the compromise; the 16GB version costs more. On video memory it ties with the Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge, the XFX 7600 SWFT210, the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro and the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend at 8GB. It is the only pick here with a 3290MHz boost clock; the Arc B580 Challenger has a 2740MHz boost clock instead.

It also comes with 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. No other pick here cost less at our last price check, and the Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge was closest. If you want a confirmed card length, look to the Arc B580 Challenger instead: it comes in at 249mm, while this one gives no figure.

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
  • No published cooler thickness
ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 5050 Twin Edge OC

Best NVIDIA Under $4003 of 6

ZOTAC Gaming GeForce RTX 5050 Twin Edge OC on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

Zotac's RTX 5050 Twin Edge is a two-slot, SFF-Ready card with two 90mm fans and one 8-pin plug.

Best for

DLSS 4 on a budget.

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

It is the smallest NVIDIA option here for a compact case. It matches the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, the XFX 7600 SWFT210, the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro and the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend on video memory (8GB). On cooler thickness it ties with the Arc B580 Challenger at 2-slot.

It is the only pick here with an RTX 5050 gpu; the Arc B580 Challenger has an arc B580 gpu instead. It also comes with a pass-through airflow design and a metal backplate. The Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge occupies 2 slots, but no length is published, so check the maker's spec page against your case.

Its price falls between the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB and the Arc B580 Challenger, based on our last check. Buyers who need a confirmed card length should compare it with the Arc B580 Challenger, which comes in at 249mm.

Key dimensions & specs

  • GPU: RTX 5050
  • VRAM: 8GB
  • Memory: GDDR6
  • Thickness: 2-slot
  • Power connector: 1 x 8-pin
  • SFF-Ready: Yes
  • Outputs: 3 x DisplayPort 2.1b, 1 x HDMI 2.1b

Pros

  • Dual-slot cooler leaves the next slot free
  • A single 8-pin power connector
  • Carries NVIDIA's SFF-Ready label
  • Two 90mm BladeLink fans

Cons

  • 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games
  • Costs more than the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB at the time of writing
XFX Speedster SWFT210 Radeon RX 7600 8GB

Best Previous-Gen Value4 of 6

XFX Speedster SWFT210 Radeon RX 7600 8GB on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

XFX's SWFT210 RX 7600 offers a 2655MHz boost and three DisplayPort outputs on a dual-fan cooler.

Best for

Multi-monitor desks.

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

On video memory it ties with the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, the Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge, the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro and the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend at 8GB. It is the only pick here with a 2655MHz boost clock; the Arc B580 Challenger has a 2740MHz boost clock instead. No dimensions are published for the XFX 7600 SWFT210; get length and thickness from the maker's page first.

Its power connector and recommended PSU are not published, so confirm both for the XFX 7600 SWFT210 with the maker. When we checked, only the Arc B580 Challenger and cheaper picks cost less, and the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro cost more. If you want a confirmed card length, look to the Arc B580 Challenger instead: it comes in at 249mm, while this one gives no figure.

Key dimensions & specs

  • GPU: RX 7600
  • VRAM: 8GB
  • Memory: GDDR6
  • Boost clock: 2655MHz
  • Outputs: 1 x HDMI, 3 x DisplayPort

Pros

  • 2655MHz boost clock
  • Dual-fan SWFT210 cooler
  • Three DisplayPort outputs
  • An RX 7600 with three DisplayPort outputs

Cons

  • 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games
  • No published cooler thickness
  • Costs more than the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB at the time of writing
ASRock Radeon RX 7600 Challenger Pro 8GB OC

Best Documented RX 76005 of 6

ASRock Radeon RX 7600 Challenger Pro 8GB OC on Amazon (opens in a new tab)

The RX 7600 is a previous-generation chip, but ASRock's Challenger Pro version asks only for a 550W power supply and uses a triple-fan cooler.

Best for

Checking fit and power.

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 PCIe 4.0 x8 link is worth noting on older PCIe 3.0 boards. On video memory it ties with the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, the Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge, the XFX 7600 SWFT210 and the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend at 8GB. Its 2.5-slot cooler thickness is the thickest in this group; the Arc B580 Challenger leads at 2-slot.

It is the only pick here with a 2695MHz boost clock; the Arc B580 Challenger has a 2740MHz boost clock instead. It also offers 32MB of Infinity Cache and a metal backplate. Measure for 303mm and 2.5 slots before ordering the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro. Power for the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro comes through 1 x 8-pin, with 550W the maker's minimum PSU.

Key dimensions & specs

  • GPU: RX 7600
  • VRAM: 8GB
  • Memory: GDDR6
  • Length: 303mm
  • Thickness: 2.5-slot
  • Recommended PSU: 550W
  • Power connector: 1 x 8-pin
  • Boost clock: 2695MHz
  • Outputs: 3 x DisplayPort 1.4a, 1 x HDMI 2.1

Pros

  • A modest 550W PSU recommendation
  • A single 8-pin power connector
  • Triple-fan cooler with 0dB fan stop
  • 32MB of Infinity Cache

Cons

  • 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent games
  • Cooler thickness trails the Arc B580 Challenger (2-slot)
  • Costs more than the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB at the time of writing
ASRock Radeon RX 9060 XT Steel Legend 8GB OC

Best Styled Budget Card6 of 6

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

Light-themed builds.

Skip if

Pass on it if 8GB of VRAM may force lower texture settings in some recent game rules it out for your setup.

Why we like it

Its 3320MHz boost is the highest among these cards. On video memory it ties with the ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GB, the Zotac RTX 5050 Twin Edge, the XFX 7600 SWFT210 and the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro at 8GB. No other pick in this guide offers a 3320MHz boost clock; compare the XFX 7600 SWFT210, which has a 2655MHz boost clock.

You also get 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 power connector and recommended PSU are not published, so confirm both for the ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel Legend with the maker.

Only the ASRock RX 7600 Challenger Pro came close to it on price at the time of writing; it cost the most of the 6 picks. It gives ground on video memory, where the Arc B580 Challenger offers 12GB.

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
  • Video memory trails the Arc B580 Challenger (12GB)
  • No published cooler thickness

How We Chose

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.
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.
Power
We noted the power connector and recommended power supply where listed.

What to Look for in a GPUs Under $400

Key buying criteria so you get the right fit the first time.

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. Plan the power connector and PSU

    Cards use one or two 8-pin PCIe plugs or a single 16-pin 12V-2x6 plug. Confirm your power supply has the right cables and meets the maker's recommended wattage.

  4. 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.

  5. Count the display outputs

    Most cards offer three DisplayPort outputs and one HDMI, but some swap that balance. Check that the ports match your monitors, TV or VR headset.

  6. 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 GPUs Under $400

By priority

PriorityConsiderWhy
1080p and light 1440p playArc B580 Challenger12GB of VRAM on a 249mm card
Budget RDNA 4 buildsASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GBThe least expensive card here at the time of writing
DLSS 4 on a budgetZotac RTX 5050 Twin EdgeAn RTX 5050 with a single 8-pin connector
Multi-monitor desksXFX 7600 SWFT210An RX 7600 with three DisplayPort outputs
Checking fit and powerASRock RX 7600 Challenger ProA 303mm length and 550W PSU
Light-themed buildsASRock RX 9060 XT Steel LegendA Steel Legend RX 9060 XT finish

Scroll sideways to see every column.

Key specs side by side

Figures as each maker states them.

CardGPUVRAMMemoryLength
Arc B580 ChallengerArc B58012GBGDDR6249mm
ASRock RX 9060 XT Challenger 8GBRX 9060 XT8GBGDDR6Not listed
Zotac RTX 5050 Twin EdgeRTX 50508GBGDDR6Not listed
XFX 7600 SWFT210RX 76008GBGDDR6Not listed
ASRock RX 7600 Challenger ProRX 76008GBGDDR6303mm
ASRock RX 9060 XT Steel LegendRX 9060 XT8GBGDDR6Not listed

Scroll sideways to see every column.

Frequently Asked Questions

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 partner cards of the same GPU perform differently?

Only slightly. Factory overclocks add a few percent at most; cooling, noise, size and price differ more.

Should I choose AMD or NVIDIA?

Compare price and memory at your budget first, then features such as DLSS or FSR support in your games and hardware encoding if you stream.

Is an 8GB graphics card still enough?

For 1080p with tuned texture settings, often yes. For 1440p or high textures in new games, 12GB or 16GB is safer.

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

The Arc B580 has the most memory under $400. The 8GB RX 9060 XT was cheapest at the time of writing, and the RTX 5050 is the NVIDIA option.