GPU Hierarchy 2018 – 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 any 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” level, and it is comprised of the most powerful GPUs in the world. Nvidia has indisputable dominance in this tier, as they are the only ones currently offering GPUs of this caliber.

Tier 1 GPUs are extremely expensive and aim to deliver a flawless 60 FPS 4K gaming experience or otherwise high framerates in lower resolutions. They are the ones pushing technological boundaries and paving the way for more advanced mainstream graphics, but they themselves are hardly mainstream components.

Tier 2 – Superb Performance

The second tier GPUs are referred to as “high-end” products. Nvidia is the dominant force in this tier as well, and AMD’s high-end offerings consist of the less popular Vega GPUs. That lack of popularity comes mainly from the inflated prices due to the expensive HBM2 memory incorporated into their design.

All of the Tier 2 GPUs aim at delivering 30-60 FPS performance in 4K resolutions and a mostly consistent 60+ FPS experience in 1440p.

Tier 3 – Good Performance at Reasonable Prices

The third tier GPUs are arguably the most popular among PC gamers, mainly due to the fact that they offer solid framerates without being too expensive. Nvidia and AMD are quite competitive in this tier, and both of them offer viable solutions.

All in all, mid-range GPUs can achieve 30-60 FPS when running games in 1440p, and their 1080p performance is nothing short of excellent.

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 but still want decent in-game performance, there are always budget options. Once again, both Nvidia and AMD offer viable solutions in this range.

Today, budget GPUs are capable of offering a solid 60 FPS 1080p performance in most games, with the exception of the more demanding AAA titles.

Tier 5 – Affordable Solutions for the Less Demanding Gamer

And finally, the fifth tier consists of the very cheapest GPUs that are best suited for eSports games and other less demanding titles. They can hardly hold a candle to the more expensive GPUs, but considering how big of a step up from integrated graphics they are, it’s not difficult to see why they are still very viable for entry-level builds.

Ultimately, these entry-level cards will offer a more or less stable 60FPS 1080p gaming experience in the less demanding games but might struggle with managing 30 FPS with AAA releases.