Have you been wondering what the difference is between a video card and a graphics card? To help you understand both terms better, we will be providing you with the answer that you need. Additionally, we will give you other information that will help you understand both terms better. All you have to do is read on to learn more about what you need to know.
There’s actually no difference between a video card and a graphics card. However, there is a difference between a video card and integrated graphics. Basic knowledge of computer hardware can help you in understanding the benefits of a video card. Let’s start by analyzing each of these terms separately for a better understanding.
Computer Hardware
Every home computer’s main component is the motherboard. All other major hardware connects to the motherboard. This includes the CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory) as well as a graphics or video card, where it is present.
Integrated Graphics
The term ‘integrated graphics’, means that the computer has the ability to process visual data. Like in movies and video games, the data is handled by the motherboard. An integrated graphics is less expensive than purchasing a standalone video card, but at the cost of decreased video performance. If the most complex visual processing you need your computer to do is watching a movie, you can be sure that integrated graphics can effectively handle that aspect.
Video/Graphics Cards
The difference between video cards and graphics cards is that:
- Video games have a much higher processing demand for visual data.
- Integrated graphics on the other hand usually have a lackluster performance in computer video games. This is because it uses the resources from the CPU and RAM, which slows down the entire system.
Graphics cards resolve this problem by providing separate hardware which can plug into a motherboard that is solely dedicated to video processing. Video cards on the other hand, have their own processing (CPU) and memory (RAM) in conserving valuable resources, and generally, even a low-end one will outperform almost any integrated graphics.
As earlier stated, there’s not much difference between the two. It’s something that basic knowledge in computers can help you sort out if you are confused.