How to Guide                                                    

When shopping for a graphics card, after selecting the right one based on your budget and needs, you might find multiple models from the same manufacturer within the same tier. For example, MSI offers both the RTX 4060 Ti VENTUS and the RTX 4060 Ti GAMING X TRIO, both of which are part of the RTX 4060 Ti series, yet there is a $100 price difference. Why is this the case? It turns out that even within the same model, there are entry-level (sometimes called "base models") and flagship variants, which have some key differences.

| Differences Between Entry-Level and Flagship Graphics Cards |

 The design is usually more understated and minimalistic, typically without RGB lighting effects.

The design tends to be more stylish and is often equipped with RGB lighting that can be customized via software.

These cards use more basic materials, which results in average cooling performance, keeping the cost lower.

 Higher-quality materials are used, and additional optimizations are made for better cooling, offering stronger thermal performance but at a higher price.

Due to the simpler cooling materials, the base clock speeds are generally lower to match the cooling capabilities.

 Flagship cards are optimized for cooling, allowing higher base clock speeds even if they generate more heat, without the risk of overheating.

| Graphics Card Tier Breakdown for the Three Major Manufacturers |

| Should I Choose an Entry-Level or Flagship Graphics Card? |

If you're on a tight budget and care about performance-to-price ratio, it's a good idea to go for an entry-level card from a higher-tier series. On the other hand, if you have a more generous budget and care about the aesthetics, you can go for a flagship model that suits your budget. You'll get great performance and a visually appealing design!





When shopping for a graphics card, after selecting the right one based on your budget and needs, you might find multiple models from the same manufacturer within the same tier. For example, MSI offers both the RTX 4060 Ti VENTUS and the RTX 4060 Ti GAMING X TRIO, both of which are part of the RTX 4060 Ti series, yet there is a $100 price difference. Why is this the case? It turns out that even within the same model, there are entry-level (sometimes called "base models") and flagship variants, which have some key differences.



| Differences Between Entry-Level and Flagship Graphics Cards |

Design

Entry-Level: The design is usually more understated and minimalistic, typically without RGB lighting effects.

Flagship: The design tends to be more stylish and is often equipped with RGB lighting that can be customized via software.







Cooling

Entry-Level: These cards use more basic materials, which results in average cooling performance, keeping the cost lower.

Flagship: Higher-quality materials are used, and additional optimizations are made for better cooling, offering stronger thermal performance but at a higher price.







Clock Speeds

Entry-Level: Due to the simpler cooling materials, the base clock speeds are generally lower to match the cooling capabilities.

Flagship: Flagship cards are optimized for cooling, allowing higher base clock speeds even if they generate more heat, without the risk of overheating.






| Graphics Card Tier Breakdown for the Three Major Manufacturers |





Flagship: ASUS ROG / Gigabyte AORUS / MSI SUPRIM



Upper Mid-Tier: ASUS TUF / Gigabyte Gaming and Eagle / MSI Gaming X Trio



Entry-Level: ASUS DUAL / Gigabyte WINDFORCE / MSI VENTUS





| Should I Choose an Entry-Level or Flagship Graphics Card? |

If you're on a tight budget and care about performance-to-price ratio, it's a good idea to go for an entry-level card from a higher-tier series. On the other hand, if you have a more generous budget and care about the aesthetics, you can go for a flagship model that suits your budget. You'll get great performance and a visually appealing design!





When it comes to graphics cards, aside from performance levels, there is often a noticeable difference between entry-level and flagship models within the same tier.

How to Distinguish Between Entry-Level and Flagship Graphics Cards

A graphics card vertical stand kit is designed specifically for installing the graphics card vertically. Not only does it allow for showcasing your graphics card, but it also helps to significantly reduce the risk of deformation caused by the weight of the card. Below are key points to consider when choosing a vertical stand kit and instructions on how to install it.

| Key Points for Choosing a Graphics Card Vertical Stand Kit |

In addition to ensuring the vertical stand is compatible with your case, the included PCIe extension cable interface is also a critical factor. Choose a stand that comes with a PCIe 4.0 ribbon cable. According to 

, PCIe 4.0 data transfer speeds are twice as fast as PCIe 3.0, so even when using an extension cable, there will be minimal performance loss.

The length of the extension cable should be selected based on the size of your case. For medium-to-large cases like the DY470, it is recommended to choose an extension cable that is 

Before purchasing a vertical stand kit, it is advisable to check whether your case supports a dedicated vertical graphics card mount. If your case does not have this feature, you can opt for a universal vertical stand kit.

| How to Install a Graphics Card Vertical Stand Kit | 

(Using the DY470 Dedicated Stand Kit as an Example)

*Note: Installation methods may vary depending on the manufacturer, so always refer to the instruction manual when installing.

Remove the I/O shield from the rear of the case.

Attach components (1-1 & 1-2) and secure with 3 stand screws.

Install the 2 copper pillars using the sleeve tool.

Secure the extension cable to the vertical stand using 2 M3 screws.

Step 5 | Install the Stand Kit into the Case

Tighten the 3 screws (stand screws) at the rear of the case to secure the I/O slot.

Tighten the 3 screws in the power bay to reinforce the vertical graphics card stand.





A graphics card vertical stand kit is designed specifically for installing the graphics card vertically. Not only does it allow for showcasing your graphics card, but it also helps to significantly reduce the risk of deformation caused by the weight of the card. Below are key points to consider when choosing a vertical stand kit and instructions on how to install it.



| Key Points for Choosing a Graphics Card Vertical Stand Kit |

Extension Cable Interface

In addition to ensuring the vertical stand is compatible with your case, the included PCIe extension cable interface is also a critical factor. Choose a stand that comes with a PCIe 4.0 ribbon cable. According to Intel's official data, PCIe 4.0 data transfer speeds are twice as fast as PCIe 3.0, so even when using an extension cable, there will be minimal performance loss.







Extension Cable Length

The length of the extension cable should be selected based on the size of your case. For medium-to-large cases like the DY470, it is recommended to choose an extension cable that is 150mm or longer.







Case Compatibility

Before purchasing a vertical stand kit, it is advisable to check whether your case supports a dedicated vertical graphics card mount. If your case does not have this feature, you can opt for a universal vertical stand kit.







| How to Install a Graphics Card Vertical Stand Kit | (Using the DY470 Dedicated Stand Kit as an Example)

*Note: Installation methods may vary depending on the manufacturer, so always refer to the instruction manual when installing.



Preparation Stage | Required Components





1 x Cross copper sleeve



10 x Stand screws



2 x Copper pillars



2 x M3 screws



1 x Graphics card stand component (1-1)



1 x PCIe extension cable



1 x Graphics card stand component (1-2)







Step 1 | Remove the Rear I/O Shield

Remove the I/O shield from the rear of the case.





Step 2 | Assemble the Vertical Stand

Attach components (1-1 & 1-2) and secure with 3 stand screws.





Step 3 | Attach the Copper Pillars

Install the 2 copper pillars using the sleeve tool.





Step 4 | Attach the Extension Cable

Secure the extension cable to the vertical stand using 2 M3 screws.





Step 5 | Install the Stand Kit into the Case

Insert the stand kit into the I/O slot.





Step 6 | Secure the Rear I/O Slot

Tighten the 3 screws (stand screws) at the rear of the case to secure the I/O slot.





Step 7 | Secure the Power Bay Screws

Tighten the 3 screws in the power bay to reinforce the vertical graphics card stand.





Step 8 | Complete the Installation

The installation is now complete.



When purchasing a graphics card vertical stand kit, it is important to pay attention to factors such as the PCIe extension cable interface, cable length, and whether it is compatible with your case.

Guide to Choosing a Graphics Card Vertical Stand Kit

Since Intel debuted its new graphics card series in 2022, by the end of 2024, the company has released a fresh B-series graphics card lineup, continuing its efforts to compete with the two giants, NVIDIA and AMD, in the GPU market.

| How to Choose the Right Intel Arc Model |

Intel's Arc series is labeled using letters, with the first generation starting with "A" and the second generation beginning with "B." The products are divided into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end categories:

Therefore, the Intel Arc B580 represents a second-generation mainstream-level graphics card from Intel.

| Performance of the New Intel Arc B580 |

The Intel Arc B580 is positioned to compete with the NVIDIA RTX 4060 and AMD RX 6750 GRE. Below are the test results.

In popular shooter game CS2, the Arc B580 performed slightly worse than the RTX 4060 by around 7% in frame rate. However, in the game Elden Ring, when played at 2K high settings, the Intel Arc B580 outperformed both NVIDIA and AMD cards.

↑ Frame Rate Performance in CS2 with the Latest Intel Arc B580: 142 FPS (Image Credit: 

↑ Frame Rate Performance in Elden Ring with the Latest Intel Arc B580: 99 FPS (Image Credit: 

Using DaVinci Resolve to export a 4K60fps video, the Intel Arc B580 completed the task in just 2 minutes and 21 seconds, nearly twice as fast as the AMD RX 6750 GRE, thanks to its AV1 hardware encoding technology.

| Is the Intel Arc Graphics Card Worth Buying? |

Here are the main advantages and challenges of the Intel Arc graphics card, which can help you decide if it's the right choice for you.

Advantages of the Intel Arc Graphics Card

The Intel Arc graphics cards are competitively priced, offering better value for money compared to equivalent AMD and NVIDIA models.

The Intel Arc is one of the few graphics cards that support AV1 hardware encoding, making it especially suitable for content creators, particularly in fields that require high compression performance such as live streaming and video editing.

Intel is actively optimizing drivers, fixing compatibility issues, and enhancing performance. With each driver update, the performance in certain games even surpasses that of similar-level competitors.

Challenges Facing Intel Arc Graphics Cards

While drivers are improving, some games and software may still experience compatibility and stability issues compared to NVIDIA and AMD cards.

As a new entrant in the GPU market, Intel faces a challenge in competing with NVIDIA and AMD, which have established strong footholds. Without compelling incentives, consumers may be reluctant to switch to Intel Arc graphics cards. If market share does not grow over time, Intel may eventually phase out its Arc series products.





Since Intel debuted its new graphics card series in 2022, by the end of 2024, the company has released a fresh B-series graphics card lineup, continuing its efforts to compete with the two giants, NVIDIA and AMD, in the GPU market.



| How to Choose the Right Intel Arc Model |





Intel's Arc series is labeled using letters, with the first generation starting with "A" and the second generation beginning with "B." The products are divided into entry-level, mid-range, and high-end categories:





Entry-level GPU: Arc 3 series



Mainstream GPU: Arc 5 series



High-end GPU: Arc 7 series

Therefore, the Intel Arc B580 represents a second-generation mainstream-level graphics card from Intel.



| Performance of the New Intel Arc B580 |

The Intel Arc B580 is positioned to compete with the NVIDIA RTX 4060 and AMD RX 6750 GRE. Below are the test results.



Gaming Performance

In popular shooter game CS2, the Arc B580 performed slightly worse than the RTX 4060 by around 7% in frame rate. However, in the game Elden Ring, when played at 2K high settings, the Intel Arc B580 outperformed both NVIDIA and AMD cards.





↑ Frame Rate Performance in CS2 with the Latest Intel Arc B580: 142 FPS (Image Credit: Geek Bay)





↑ Frame Rate Performance in Elden Ring with the Latest Intel Arc B580: 99 FPS (Image Credit: Geek Bay)


Productivity Performance

Using DaVinci Resolve to export a 4K60fps video, the Intel Arc B580 completed the task in just 2 minutes and 21 seconds, nearly twice as fast as the AMD RX 6750 GRE, thanks to its AV1 hardware encoding technology.







| Is the Intel Arc Graphics Card Worth Buying? |

Here are the main advantages and challenges of the Intel Arc graphics card, which can help you decide if it's the right choice for you.



Advantages of the Intel Arc Graphics Card





Affordable Pricing

The Intel Arc graphics cards are competitively priced, offering better value for money compared to equivalent AMD and NVIDIA models.







AV1 Hardware Encoding Support

The Intel Arc is one of the few graphics cards that support AV1 hardware encoding, making it especially suitable for content creators, particularly in fields that require high compression performance such as live streaming and video editing.











Ongoing Driver Updates

Intel is actively optimizing drivers, fixing compatibility issues, and enhancing performance. With each driver update, the performance in certain games even surpasses that of similar-level competitors.







Challenges Facing Intel Arc Graphics Cards





Driver Compatibility Issues

While drivers are improving, some games and software may still experience compatibility and stability issues compared to NVIDIA and AMD cards.







Market Maturity

As a new entrant in the GPU market, Intel faces a challenge in competing with NVIDIA and AMD, which have established strong footholds. Without compelling incentives, consumers may be reluctant to switch to Intel Arc graphics cards. If market share does not grow over time, Intel may eventually phase out its Arc series products.





Intel has launched the second-generation Arc series graphics cards, offering performance comparable to the NVIDIA RTX 4060 and AMD RX 6750 GRE, while also providing better value for money.

Is the Newly Released Intel Arc Graphics Card Worth Considering?

An SSD is a storage device that uses flash memory technology to store data. It offers faster read speeds and quieter operation compared to traditional hard drives.

Currently, the most common SSD specifications are 2.5-inch SSDs and M.2 SSDs.

This SSD uses the SATA interface, with transfer speeds typically ranging from 500 to 600 MB/s. It's suitable for budget-conscious consumers or as an upgrade for older computers.

This SSD uses flash memory technology and is installed directly into an M.2 slot on the motherboard, significantly increasing transfer speeds. The latest PCIe 5.0 protocol can reach up to 10,000 MB/s.

| Choosing the Right SSD Based on Key Factors |

Both 2.5-inch SSDs and M.2 SSDs offer similar capacity options, starting at 256GB and going up to 8TB.

2.5-inch SSDs typically have transfer speeds of 500-600 MB/s. M.2 SSD speeds depend on the PCIe version: PCIe 3.0 can reach 3,500 MB/s, PCIe 4.0 can reach 7,000 MB/s, and PCIe 5.0 can go up to 10,000 MB/s or higher.

For smaller cases and motherboards (e.g., ITX or compact M-ATX), an M.2 SSD is recommended due to space constraints. For larger cases and motherboards (e.g., ATX or bigger), both 2.5-inch SSDs and M.2 SSDs can be used.

| Important Notes on SSD Installation and Usage |

M.2 SSDs come in different sizes, indicated by a four-digit number. The first two digits represent the width, and the last two digits represent the length. Common sizes include 2230, 2242, and 2280.

Since SSDs use flash memory cells, data recovery in case of damage can be costly and may not always be successful. It's advisable to install disk monitoring software like 

 to check the health of your SSD regularly and to maintain a backup habit.

↑ CrystalDiskInfo Hard Drive Status Screen

When selecting an SSD, it's crucial to consider your needs, budget, and computer specifications. The best choice is always the one that fits your requirements the most.





An SSD is a storage device that uses flash memory technology to store data. It offers faster read speeds and quieter operation compared to traditional hard drives.



| Common SSD Specifications |

Currently, the most common SSD specifications are 2.5-inch SSDs and M.2 SSDs.



2.5-inch SSD

This SSD uses the SATA interface, with transfer speeds typically ranging from 500 to 600 MB/s. It's suitable for budget-conscious consumers or as an upgrade for older computers.





Advantages: Faster and more stable transfer speeds compared to mechanical hard drives, with similar pricing.



Disadvantages: Slower transfer speeds compared to higher-end M.2 SSDs, and the physical size is larger.



M.2 SSD

This SSD uses flash memory technology and is installed directly into an M.2 slot on the motherboard, significantly increasing transfer speeds. The latest PCIe 5.0 protocol can reach up to 10,000 MB/s.





Advantages: High-speed transfer rates and no need for additional case space for installation.



Disadvantages: Because of its high transfer speed, an additional heatsink is often required for cooling.





| Choosing the Right SSD Based on Key Factors |

Storage Capacity

Both 2.5-inch SSDs and M.2 SSDs offer similar capacity options, starting at 256GB and going up to 8TB.







Read Speed

2.5-inch SSDs typically have transfer speeds of 500-600 MB/s. M.2 SSD speeds depend on the PCIe version: PCIe 3.0 can reach 3,500 MB/s, PCIe 4.0 can reach 7,000 MB/s, and PCIe 5.0 can go up to 10,000 MB/s or higher.





Case Space

For smaller cases and motherboards (e.g., ITX or compact M-ATX), an M.2 SSD is recommended due to space constraints. For larger cases and motherboards (e.g., ATX or bigger), both 2.5-inch SSDs and M.2 SSDs can be used.







| Important Notes on SSD Installation and Usage |

SSD Length

M.2 SSDs come in different sizes, indicated by a four-digit number. The first two digits represent the width, and the last two digits represent the length. Common sizes include 2230, 2242, and 2280.





M.2 SSD 2230: Suitable for expanding storage in handheld gaming devices.



M.2 SSD 2242: Suitable for expanding storage in ultra-thin laptops.



M.2 SSD 2280: Suitable for expanding storage in desktop computers and gaming consoles.





SSD Lifespan

Since SSDs use flash memory cells, data recovery in case of damage can be costly and may not always be successful. It's advisable to install disk monitoring software like CrystalDiskInfo to check the health of your SSD regularly and to maintain a backup habit.





↑ CrystalDiskInfo Hard Drive Status Screen



| Choosing the Best SSD for Your Needs |

When selecting an SSD, it's crucial to consider your needs, budget, and computer specifications. The best choice is always the one that fits your requirements the most.

When choosing an SSD (Solid-State Drive), it's essential to consider factors such as storage capacity, transfer speed, and case space.

A Complete Guide to Understanding SSD Specifications

As an enthusiast of games and computer DIY in this age, we, darkFlash, feel proud and grateful for keep thinking how to develop impressive and extraordinary products with high-end facilities by assembling and using the PC cases, CPU coolers, case fans, and even gaming chairs and tables in person.

Our goal is to create products that could extremely exert its effect by every user.