The difference between a discrete graphics card and an integrated graphics card

Mondo Digital Updated on 2024-02-01

First of all, the main differences between discrete graphics cards and integrated graphics cards can be summarized as follows: discrete graphics cards are independent graphics cards that have independent video memory, do not occupy system memory, and have high technical performance; The integrated graphics card is a graphics card integrated on the motherboard, which does not have independent video memory, needs to occupy part of the system memory, and has relatively weak technical performance.

Next, we will explain and introduce the differences between the two from the following aspects.

1. Memory usage.

The independent graphics card comes with its own video memory, which does not occupy the system memory and has an independent video memory space. The integrated graphics card, on the other hand, needs to occupy part of the system memory as video memory, and if the memory capacity of the machine with the integrated graphics card is not large, the running data will be slower than that of the discrete graphics card. Therefore, when it comes to memory usage, discrete graphics cards have a distinct advantage.

2. Rendering pipeline.

The rendering pipeline is an important part of the graphics card when processing images, which is responsible for processing the data of 3D graphics into 2D images that can be displayed by the display. The rendering pipeline of the integrated graphics card is much less than that of the discrete graphics card, generally only one or two pipelines, which limits the performance of the graphics card, so the fundamental performance is much inferior to that of the discrete graphics card. Discrete graphics cards, on the other hand, have a larger number of rendering pipelines and can provide better image rendering.

3. Dependency with the main board.

A discrete graphics card is an independent board that needs to be plugged into the corresponding interface of the motherboard and is separate from the motherboard. Whereas, the integrated graphics card is attached to the motherboard and is part of the motherboard. This dependency determines that integrated graphics cards are not as convenient as discrete graphics cards, because if you want to replace them, you may need to replace them along with the motherboard.

Fourth, due to the higher technical performance of the discrete graphics card, it is usually higher than the integrated graphics card. However, with the development of technology, the ** of discrete graphics cards is gradually decreasing, and the performance is also improving, so that more and more users can enjoy the high-quality experience brought by discrete graphics cards.

5. Performance and technology.

The performance of discrete graphics cards is better than that of integrated graphics cards because they have independent video memory, which does not occupy system memory, and are technologically ahead of integrated graphics cards, which can provide better graphics and running performance. For those who like to play games and work in professional graphic design, discrete graphics cards are especially important because they can provide a smoother gaming experience and more efficient graphics processing power.

6. Convenience.

The discrete graphics card can be removed, so if you feel that your graphics card is too low, you can change it to a new one, which is very convenient. The integrated graphics card has to be replaced with the motherboard, so it is not as convenient as the discrete graphics card.

To sum up, the main differences between a discrete graphics card and an integrated graphics card are memory usage, rendering pipeline, dependency with the motherboard, performance and technology, and convenience. Discrete graphics cards have distinct advantages in all of these areas, especially in terms of performance and technology. However, integrated graphics also have their own advantages, such as lower power consumption, lower power consumption, etc. Therefore, when choosing a graphics card, users need to choose according to their actual needs and budget.

The above is a detailed explanation and introduction of the main differences between discrete graphics cards and integrated graphics cards. Hopefully, through this article, readers will be able to have a deeper understanding of these two graphics cards and be able to make a reasonable choice based on their needs.

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