GPU Hierarchy 2019 – Graphics Cards Tier List For Gaming

Variety is both a blessing and a curse in the world of PC gaming. The number of options to choose from when it comes to hardware can be mind-boggling, especially when all of those options need to be explored so that you might find the ideal one for your needs.

Here at GamingScan, we have done all the research for you. Below, you will find all current-gen GPUs presented in tables, along with their important specifications and target performance. On top of that, we will also be updating the list with new GPUs as they are released, so be sure to check back soon!

Note that CUDA cores are NVIDIA technology and Stream processors are AMD technology, so the numbers cannot be compared directly as an indicator of potential performance. Also, make sure to check out our buying guide for graphics cards if you’re interested in buying a new one in the near future.

Tier 1 – The Absolute Best

The first tier is what is often referred to as the “enthusiast” tier, and it is comprised of the most powerful GPUs in the world. Nvidia has had indisputable dominance in this tier for a very long time, as they are the only ones currently offering GPUs of this caliber.

Tier 1 GPUs are very expensive, capable of offering a flawless 60 FPS 4K gaming experience, though they tend to be so powerful and expensive that they really blur the lines between gaming cards and professional cards.

In any case, these GPUs push the envelope when it comes to both performance and pricing, pushing the technological boundaries and paving the way for more advanced technologies to be implemented in mainstream GPUs, though they themselves are hardly mainstream products.

Tier 2 – Superb Performance

The second tier is comprised of what we commonly refer to as “high-end” graphics cards. And much like the first tier, Nvidia is the dominant force here, too, despite AMD’s attempts at offering any real competition.

Granted, AMD does have several GPUs that are on par with what Nvidia has to offer performance-wise, but the prices of these GPUs tend to be unstable, mainly due to a relatively low supply and high manufacturing costs. Of course, this could change when the new 7nm GPUs roll out later this year.

Speaking of performance, high-end GPUs are now ideal solutions for gaming in 1440p, though the newer ones can actually take on 4K as well.

Tier 3 – Good Performance at Reasonable Prices

The third tier consists of GPUs that are arguably the most popular among PC gamers in general, mainly because of the fact that they offer good performance without being too expensive.

For years, AMD had been offering GPUs that are more powerful yet cheaper than competing Nvidia models, so their Radeon cards were the definite go-to solution for gamers who wanted to get the most out of their investment. However, both AMD and Nvidia have highly attrractive products in this price range now.

When it comes to general performance, you can expect a mid-range GPU to achieve high framerates in 1080p, but they can be solid 1440p gaming solutions, too. As a matter of fact, many of the GPUs in this tier can actually be used even for 4K gaming, just don’t expect any stellar framerates at high settings.

Tier 4 – Great Value for Those on a Budget

For those who don’t have a lot of money to blow on a beastly gaming PC, there are a number of affordable yet reliable low-end budget solutions to choose from. Again, both Nvidia and AMD have some good models to offer in this price range.

Budget GPUs are intended mainly for 1080p gaming, though the performance will, naturally, vary from model to model and from game to game.