Menu

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Computer

Best Graphics Cards for Dell OptiPlex 790 (2026)

Marcus Bell Marcus Bell Jul 28, 2026 8 min read 5 views

This guide contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases — at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability shown are accurate as of the time of publishing and may change.

Table of Contents

7 sections 8 min read
Try Amazon Prime free for 30 days Fast delivery, Prime Video and Prime Music Start free trial

The Dell OptiPlex 790 was built for spreadsheets and email, not for gaming or heavy graphics work. Its stock Intel video output struggles the moment you plug in a second monitor or try to edit video. Picking the best graphics cards for dell optiplex 790 setups means working around a small case and a modest power supply. The motherboard was never meant to feed a modern GPU. This guide walks you through what actually fits and what to skip. You’ll find the cards that make sense for your use case, whether that’s a sharper multi-monitor desktop, smoother video playback, or light gaming.

Quick answer: For most people in 2026, the best graphics cards for dell optiplex 790 is the PNY NVIDIA T600 — our #1 rated choice. See the full ranked comparison, alternatives and buying advice below.

Check Price on Amazon →

1
Best Seller

PNY NVIDIA T600 Professional Graphics Card

PNY
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.6 (56)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Turing GPU architecture delivers 2x performance over previous Maxwell generation
  • Supports up to 4x 5K displays or 2x 8K displays per card—perfect for multi-monitor setups
  • CUDA acceleration certified in 100+ professional applications (Autodesk, Adobe, Blender)
  • Independent decode and encode engines for H.264 and HEVC video workflows

Cons

  • Older Turing architecture lags newer Ada/Hopper in raw performance and AI workloads
  • Limited to 2GB VRAM—constrains very large 3D models and machine learning datasets
  • PCIe 3.0 support (older boards lack PCIe 4.0 compatibility)
Display & Specification Details

The T600 features Turing GPU architecture with hardware-accelerated video decode/encode engines supporting H.264 and HEVC. DisplayPort 1.4 connectivity enables daisy-chaining up to four 5K displays (5120 × 2880 @ 60 Hz) or two 8K displays (7680 × 4320 @ 30 Hz) for immersive visualizations and productivity workstations.

CUDA Compute Capability 7.5 enables fast parallel computing for 3D rendering, finite element analysis (FEA), and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). Independent video encode/decode engines handle multiple simultaneous streams without stalling graphics performance.

Software Compatibility & Setup

Install in any PCIe 3.0 x16 slot (PCIe 4.0 backward compatible). No external power required. Drivers auto-install from NVIDIA or your Linux distribution's package manager. ISV certifications include Autodesk (3ds Max, AutoCAD, Revit), Dassault (SolidWorks, CATIA), Adobe Premiere Pro, Blender, and DaVinci Resolve.

Plug-and-play on Windows 10+, macOS Big Sur+, and Linux (RHEL, Ubuntu). CUDA toolkit compatibility: CUDA 11.x and newer. OpenGL 4.6, DirectX 12, Vulkan support ensures compatibility with modern engines and rendering pipelines.

Who It Suits Best

Professionals in product design, architecture, and visualization who need reliable multi-monitor support and proven software certifications. Video editors and colorists benefit from dedicated encode/decode engines, speeding up H.264/H.265 transcoding and playback scrubbing. CAD engineers and architects appreciate stability over cutting-edge performance.

Not ideal for modern machine learning, real-time ray tracing workflows, or 4K+ video production at high frame rates. Best matched with legacy professional software and established creative pipelines where certified compatibility trumps architectural innovation.

2
Editor's Pick

PNY Nvidia RTX A400 4GB GDDR6 Professional Graphics

PNY
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.6 (7)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Designed with Designed for professional workflows the unit Nvidia RTX A400 is for reliable daily operation
  • Designed with Powered by Nvidia Ampere architecture and featuring 768 CUDA cores for reliable daily operation
  • Designed with Equipped with 4GB GDDR6 memory for high-speed data transfer and for reliable daily operation

Cons

  • Requires checking PCIe slot clearance and case depth for PNY Nvidia RTX A40
  • Demands adequate chassis airflow and appropriate power supply connections
Overview and Technical Specifications

As a technical assessment inspecting desktop hardware, the PNY Nvidia RTX A400 4GB GDDR6 Professional Graphics provides solid engineering tailored for demanding daily compute and graphical workloads. Primary specifications feature Designed for professional workflows the unit Nvidia RTX A400 is along with Powered by Nvidia Ampere architecture and featuring 768 CUDA cores. This model incorporates durable materials designed to withstand regular operational activity.

  • Engineered with Designed for professional workflows the unit Nvidia RTX A400 is to support efficient daily operation.
  • Incorporates Powered by Nvidia Ampere architecture and featuring 768 CUDA cores for enhanced structural reliability during routine use.
  • Features Equipped with 4GB GDDR6 memory for high-speed data transfer and to ensure practical usability across varied workspace setups.
  • Built to maintain consistent operational stability within standard hardware layout conditions.
  • Designed with manageable physical proportions for convenient installation and maintenance.

When building or upgrading your system, confirm that your power supply wattage and motherboard expansion slots accommodate this hardware without thermal throttling or clearance constraints.

3
Prime Limited Time

GIGABYTE 2GB RAM DDR3 SDRAM Video Graphics Cards

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.5 (0)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Core Clock 954 MHz
  • Low profile design
  • Features Dual-link DVI-D D-Sub HDMI
  • Form Factor Low Profile.Avoid using unofficial software

Cons

  • Requires checking internal cabinet clearance before installation
  • Requires proper cable routing to maintain optimal interior airflow
  • Requires periodic dust cleaning from internal cooling vents
Overview and Practical Utility

The GIGABYTE 2GB RAM DDR3 SDRAM Video Graphics Cards provides essential hardware performance for custom PC builds and workstation upgrades. Engineered to manage demanding electrical or thermal workloads, this model incorporates Core Clock 954 MHz together with Low profile design. PC builders and system integrators will benefit from the efficient internal layout, which simplifies system assembly while supporting high operational stability. The design helps maintain consistent hardware responsiveness across intensive computing tasks, gaming sessions, and daily multitasking workloads. Maintaining adequate interior case airflow and clean ventilation ports preserves peak hardware efficiency during heavy processing workloads.

Build Quality and Specs

Constructed with premium internal circuit components and a heavy-duty outer enclosure, this unit delivers electrical stability and thermal control. The internal architecture utilizes precision voltage regulation to shield hardware against power fluctuations. Features Dual-link DVI-D D-Sub HDMI supports consistent throughput performance under continuous workload demands. Structural integrity remains firm throughout regular usage, giving owners peace of mind. Maintaining adequate interior case airflow and clean ventilation ports preserves peak hardware efficiency during heavy processing workloads. Integrating this reliable component into your computer system ensures stable power delivery and long-term electrical protection.

Setup and Maintenance Advice

Installing this hardware component requires turning off main AC power and discharging static electricity before handling. Mount the unit securely inside your computer chassis using appropriate case screws, ensuring proper alignment with rear ventilation ports. Route power cables neatly along interior chassis channels to prevent obstruction of cooling fan airflow. Periodically inspect intake grilles and clear accumulated dust using compressed air. Maintaining adequate interior case airflow and clean ventilation ports preserves peak hardware efficiency during heavy processing workloads. Integrating this reliable component into your computer system ensures stable power delivery and long-term electrical protection.

4
Top Rated

MSI GeForce GT 1030 4GB DDR4 Low Profile OC

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.5 (435)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • HDMI 2.0b and DisplayPort 1.4a drive two 4K screens from one short board
  • A 1430 MHz boost clock with a factory overclock already applied
  • Single-fan cooler on a low-profile board that clears slim desktop chassis
  • Powered entirely through the PCIe slot, so no supplementary lead is needed
  • HDCP support means protected streaming content plays without workarounds

Cons

  • DDR4 memory instead of GDDR5 roughly halves the memory bandwidth against the GDDR5 version
  • A 64-bit bus and this GPU tier make it a display and media card, not a gaming card
  • Two outputs only, so a triple-monitor desk needs a second card fitted
Outputs and memory type

This is the DDR4 variant of the GT 1030, model GT 1030 4GD4 LP OC, with a factory overclock applied.

  • Outputs are one HDMI 2.0b and one DisplayPort 1.4a, both current enough to drive 4K displays.
  • Memory is 4GB of DDR4 on a 64-bit interface, and the memory type is the key detail: DDR4 is markedly slower than the GDDR5 used on the other GT 1030 version.
  • Boost clock is 1430 MHz on NVIDIA's Pascal architecture.
  • HDCP support is present, so protected streaming services play without issue.

The 4GB pool is generous for the class, but bandwidth rather than capacity is what constrains this card. Treat the memory figure as headroom for desktop and media work, not as a gaming specification.

Slim case compatibility

The low-profile design is the reason most people choose this card, and it opens up machines that cannot take a full-height board.

  • The board is short and shipped for low-profile installation, which fits small-form-factor and slim office desktops.
  • A single fan sits over the heatsink, keeping the cooler within the height a slim chassis allows.
  • No supplementary power connector is required; the PCIe slot supplies everything, so no spare lead from the supply is needed.
  • Any PCIe x16 slot will host it, with no chipset requirement to check.

Confirm which bracket your case needs before installing. Slim desktops use the low-profile bracket, and swapping it is a two-screw job that is far easier to do on a bench than inside the machine.

Tasks it handles well

The GT 1030 DDR4 is a display and media card, and inside that remit it does a clean job.

  • Dual-monitor office work, spreadsheets and browser-heavy workflows run without strain.
  • 4K video playback is handled by the Pascal decode engine rather than the CPU, which matters in low-power office machines.
  • Light photo editing and older or 2D games are within reach.
  • It is a straightforward upgrade for a slim desktop whose integrated graphics cannot drive a second 4K display.

Do not buy it for modern gaming. The 64-bit bus and DDR4 memory limit throughput well below what current titles need, and the two outputs mean a third monitor requires additional hardware. Judged as a quiet, slot-powered display card, it fits the job precisely.

5
Prime

ASUS GeForce GT 730 2GB GDDR5 Low Profile Graphics Card

★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.4 (564)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Passive heatsink means a true 0 dB with no fan to whine in a lounge media PC
  • Low-profile board supplied with both bracket heights for slim and standard cases
  • 2 GB of GDDR5 rather than the slower DDR3 fitted to many cards sharing this chip name
  • Outputs cover DVI-D, D-Sub and HDMI 1.4a with HDCP 2.2 for protected playback
  • Backed by a 3 year warranty and slot-only power, so no PCIe cable is needed

Cons

  • HDMI 1.4a caps 4K output at 30 Hz, so a 4K desktop at 60 Hz is out of reach
  • No DisplayPort at all, which rules out many modern high-refresh panels
  • Fanless cooling depends on case airflow, so a sealed slim chassis will let it heat-soak
Fanless Card Specs

This is a passively cooled GeForce GT 730 with 2 GB of GDDR5, a faster memory type than the DDR3 fitted to many cards carrying the same chip name.

  • 0 dB in use: there is no fan, only a heatsink, so nothing can whine or fail mechanically
  • Low-profile board with both standard and low-profile I/O brackets supplied
  • Outputs are DVI-D, D-Sub for VGA, and HDMI 1.4a with HDCP 2.2 support
  • Auto-Extreme automated manufacture, backed by a 3 year warranty

HDCP 2.2 is the detail that matters in a media PC, since without it some protected streaming sources refuse to play at full resolution. GPU Tweak II covers monitoring and thermal readouts. Power comes from the slot alone, so no cable is needed from the supply.

HTPC and Case Fit

The design target is a silent home theatre PC under a television, where a fan would be the only thing audible during quiet passages.

  • Both bracket heights are in the box, so it fits a slim media case or a standard tower
  • Slot power only, which suits the small supplies used in compact chassis
  • Three outputs cover a television over HDMI plus older monitors on DVI or VGA

The catch with passive cooling is that heat still has to leave the case. In a sealed slim chassis with no through-flow, the heatsink soaks and the chip throttles back. A single slow intake fan, or a case with vents above the slot area, solves it and stays quiet. Leave the adjacent slot empty where the layout allows.

What It Can Drive

Set expectations by task rather than by badge.

  • Comfortable with desktop work, multi-monitor spreadsheets, 1080p video playback, streaming apps, digital signage and older games
  • Not intended for current titles at high settings, GPU rendering or serious compute

The output limits matter most. HDMI 1.4a caps 4K at 30 Hz, which is fine for a photo slideshow or signage but visibly stuttery as a desktop, and there is no DisplayPort at all, so modern high-refresh panels and daisy-chained monitors sit outside its range. If the machine needs a 4K 60 Hz desktop or newer hardware video decoding, a current low-profile card is the right part. If it needs a silent picture on a television, this is exactly the brief.

6
Prime

GeForce GT 610 2G DDR3 Low Profile Graphics Card PCI

GLORTO
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.4 (0)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Powered by NVIDIA GeForce GT 610, 40nm chipset process with 523MHz core
  • Compatible with windows 11 system, no need to download driver manually
  • HDMI VGA 2 ports output available. HDMI Max Resolution-2560x1600, VGA
  • Support DirectX 11, OpenCL, CUDA, DirectCompute 5.0
  • Original half height bracket matches with the low profile brackets make

Cons

  • Requires checking internal cabinet clearance before installation
  • Requires proper cable routing to maintain optimal interior airflow
  • Requires periodic dust cleaning from internal cooling vents
Overview and Practical Utility

The GeForce GT 610 2G DDR3 Low Profile Graphics Card PCI provides essential hardware performance for custom PC builds and workstation upgrades. Engineered to manage demanding electrical or thermal workloads, this model incorporates Powered by NVIDIA GeForce GT 610, 40nm chipset process with 523MHz core together with Compatible with windows 11 system, no need to download driver manually. PC builders and system integrators will benefit from the efficient internal layout, which simplifies system assembly while supporting high operational stability. The design helps maintain consistent hardware responsiveness across intensive computing tasks, gaming sessions, and daily multitasking workloads.

Build Quality and Specs

Constructed with premium internal circuit components and a heavy-duty outer enclosure, this unit delivers electrical stability and thermal control. The internal architecture utilizes precision voltage regulation to shield hardware against power fluctuations. HDMI VGA 2 ports output available. HDMI Max Resolution-2560x1600, VGA supports consistent throughput performance under continuous workload demands. Structural integrity remains firm throughout regular usage, giving owners peace of mind. Maintaining adequate interior case airflow and clean ventilation ports preserves peak hardware efficiency during heavy processing workloads. Integrating this reliable component into your computer system ensures stable power delivery and long-term electrical protection.

Setup and Maintenance Advice

Installing this hardware component requires turning off main AC power and discharging static electricity before handling. Mount the unit securely inside your computer chassis using appropriate case screws, ensuring proper alignment with rear ventilation ports. Route power cables neatly along interior chassis channels to prevent obstruction of cooling fan airflow. Periodically inspect intake grilles and clear accumulated dust using compressed air. Maintaining adequate interior case airflow and clean ventilation ports preserves peak hardware efficiency during heavy processing workloads. Integrating this reliable component into your computer system ensures stable power delivery and long-term electrical protection.

7

SOYO GeForce GT 740 4GB DDR3 Low Profile Graphics Card

SOYOOffcial
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.4 (92)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 4GB DDR3 memory on a 128-bit bus, double the capacity of standard 2GB GT 740 variants
  • Triple output via HDMI, DVI-D and VGA connects modern monitors and legacy projectors without extra adapters
  • Draws all power from the PCIe slot, so no supplemental 6-pin connector or supply upgrade is needed
  • Half-height bracket included for slim desktop and small form factor cases
  • Supports DirectX 12 (feature level 11_0) and runs on Windows 11, 10, 8 and 7

Cons

  • 384 CUDA cores and DDR3 memory place this well below current mid-range cards for modern gaming workloads
  • Single-fan cooler with no listed backplate, so it is a functional rather than showcase component
  • No supplemental PCIe power connector support means output is capped by slot power alone, ruling out high-draw workloads
Detailed Specs and Outputs

This GT 740 carries 4GB of DDR3 memory on a 128-bit bus, powered by 384 CUDA cores. That is double the memory of standard 2GB GT 740 cards, which helps with smoother 1080p video playback and lighter multitasking rather than modern gaming.

Display connectivity covers three simultaneous outputs: HDMI, DVI-D and VGA, so it can drive a current monitor over HDMI while also connecting an older VGA-only projector or second display without buying adapters. The card supports DirectX 12 at feature level 11_0.

  • 4GB DDR3, 128-bit bus, 384 CUDA cores
  • HDMI + DVI-D + VGA triple output
  • Half-height bracket for slim cases
Case and OS Compatibility

The card includes a half-height bracket, so it fits slim desktop and small form factor PC cases as well as standard full-height towers with the regular bracket. It draws all of its power directly from the PCIe x16 slot, with no 6-pin or 8-pin supplemental connector required, which keeps installation simple and avoids a PSU cable check.

Driver and OS support covers Windows 11, 10, 8 and 7, making it a straightforward way to add a dedicated GPU to an older desktop that currently relies on integrated graphics. Because it needs no extra power connector, it is compatible with most standard power supplies already installed in older systems.

Who Should Choose This Card

This is a legacy-tier upgrade card best suited to reviving an older desktop for office multitasking, 1080p video playback and light productivity rather than modern gaming. Anyone running integrated graphics on an aging system and wanting dual or triple monitor output without a full rebuild is the core audience here.

  • Good fit for office and home-theater PCs needing basic display output
  • Not intended for current AAA gaming titles
  • Useful where VGA or legacy projector support is still needed

Buyers building a new gaming system, or needing support for demanding creative software, will outgrow this card's 384 CUDA cores and DDR3 memory quickly and should look toward a current-generation GPU instead.

8

Glorto GT 730 4GB Low Profile DDR3

GLORTO
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.3 (194)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 4GB DDR3 memory ideal for office work, light streaming, and dual-display office setups
  • Low-profile bracket fits small form factor and HTPC builds
  • Supports 4 simultaneous displays via HDMI, VGA, and DisplayPort
  • Windows 11 compatible with automatic driver installation
  • 28nm GK208 chipset consumes minimal power

Cons

  • Architecture outdated since 2014; slower than modern entry-level cards
  • 64-bit memory bus and DDR3 cause overheating in fanless designs
Specifications & Architecture

The GT 730 uses ancient 28nm GK208 chipset with 902 MHz core frequency and 64-bit memory interface, technology significantly behind contemporary graphics processors. 4096MB DDR3 memory rated at 1253 MHz effective speed provides minimal bandwidth compared to modern GDDR6 variants. Supports DirectX 12, OpenGL 4.6, CUDA, OpenCL, DirectCompute, and DirectML providing compatibility with legacy software and scientific computing applications. Maximum resolution capabilities: 2560x1600 via HDMI, 2048x1536 via VGA, 2560x1600 via DisplayPort outputs. HDMI/VGA/DP connector combination enables 4-screen configurations via NVIDIA Surround technology for productivity workstations. Power consumption minimal due to outdated architecture, making unit suitable for low-wattage systems and passive cooling configurations in fanless office PCs.

Multi-Display & Output

Dual HDMI and single VGA plus DisplayPort connector enables up to 4 independent displays for productivity workstations and professional trading environments. NVIDIA Surround technology intelligently manages span across multiple monitors without requiring complex driver configuration or manual spanning setup. Ideal for financial traders requiring simultaneous market data across multiple information streams. Control room and security applications benefit from distributed display support for monitoring multiple camera feeds simultaneously. Does not support high-resolution gaming across multiple displays due to severely limited VRAM and insufficient memory bandwidth. Legacy VGA connector provides backward compatibility with aging office infrastructure and projector systems commonly deployed in corporate environments predating modern digital display standards.

Use Cases & Limitations

Best suited for office applications, video playback, and general business computing without gaming requirements. Handles 1080p YouTube streaming and web browsing reliably, supporting typical internet video consumption on multiple tabs. Works perfectly with existing monitors via legacy VGA connectors common in business settings. Original half-height bracket matches low-profile bracket for compatibility with all full-height cases and small form factor SFF chassis for space-constrained installations. Windows 11 support ensures current operating system compatibility with automatic NVIDIA driver updates. Not recommended for gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, or machine learning workloads due to primitive compute architecture and severe VRAM limitations. Excellent upgrade for legacy office PCs requiring basic display output or dual-monitor productivity support.

9
Prime

Glorto Radeon HD 5450 1GB DDR3 Low Profile Graphics Card

GLORTO
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.3 (0)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Powered by AMD Radeon HD 5450, 40nm chipset process with 625MHz core
  • Integrated with 1024MB DDR3 memory and 64-bit bus width
  • HDMI VGA DVI 3 ports output available. HDMI Max Resolution-2560x1600,
  • Support DirectX 11, OpenGL 4.5, ATI Eyefinity and ATI Stream
  • Original half height bracket matches with the low profile brackets make

Cons

  • Requires checking internal cabinet clearance before installation
  • Requires proper cable routing to maintain optimal interior airflow
  • Requires periodic dust cleaning from internal cooling vents
Overview and Practical Utility

The Glorto Radeon HD 5450 1GB DDR3 Low Profile Graphics Card provides essential hardware performance for custom PC builds and workstation upgrades. Engineered to manage demanding electrical or thermal workloads, this model incorporates Powered by AMD Radeon HD 5450, 40nm chipset process with 625MHz core together with Integrated with 1024MB DDR3 memory and 64-bit bus width. PC builders and system integrators will benefit from the efficient internal layout, which simplifies system assembly while supporting high operational stability. The design helps maintain consistent hardware responsiveness across intensive computing tasks, gaming sessions, and daily multitasking workloads.

Build Quality and Specs

Constructed with premium internal circuit components and a heavy-duty outer enclosure, this unit delivers electrical stability and thermal control. The internal architecture utilizes precision voltage regulation to shield hardware against power fluctuations. HDMI VGA DVI 3 ports output available. HDMI Max Resolution-2560x1600, supports consistent throughput performance under continuous workload demands. Structural integrity remains firm throughout regular usage, giving owners peace of mind. Maintaining adequate interior case airflow and clean ventilation ports preserves peak hardware efficiency during heavy processing workloads. Integrating this reliable component into your computer system ensures stable power delivery and long-term electrical protection.

Setup and Maintenance Advice

Installing this hardware component requires turning off main AC power and discharging static electricity before handling. Mount the unit securely inside your computer chassis using appropriate case screws, ensuring proper alignment with rear ventilation ports. Route power cables neatly along interior chassis channels to prevent obstruction of cooling fan airflow. Periodically inspect intake grilles and clear accumulated dust using compressed air. Maintaining adequate interior case airflow and clean ventilation ports preserves peak hardware efficiency during heavy processing workloads. Integrating this reliable component into your computer system ensures stable power delivery and long-term electrical protection.

10

Kelinx AISURIX RX 580 8GB GDDR5 Graphics Card

Kelinx
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
4.2 (466)
Updated: Jul 26, 2026
Last update on Jul 26, 2026 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Creators API.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • 8 GB GDDR5 running at 1750 MHz across a 256-bit bus, with DirectX 12 support
  • Freeze fan stop keeps both 8 cm fans still at low load, so desktop work stays silent
  • Double ball bearing fans, quoted at roughly twice the service life of sleeve bearings
  • Two DisplayPort outputs plus HDMI, with resolution support quoted up to 5120 x 2880
  • Polaris 20 XTX core on a 14 nm process with a composite heat pipe under the shroud

Cons

  • The 2048SP variant sits below the full 2304SP card in shader count
  • Requires an 8-pin PCIe power connector, so slot power alone will not run it
  • Listings quote different output combinations for the same card, so confirm the bracket layout before planning a triple-screen desk
Architecture And Memory

Built on the Polaris 20 XTX core using a 14 nm process, this card carries 2048 stream processors and 8 GB of GDDR5 running at 1750 MHz across a 256-bit bus. DirectX 12 is supported, so modern titles launch rather than refusing on a feature-level check.

  • The 2048SP designation is the cut-down member of the family, below the full 2304-shader card
  • 8 GB of memory means texture settings rarely need dropping at 1080p, even where the shader count does show
  • The PCI Express 3.0 x16 interface works in any modern slot and falls back gracefully in older boards

Position this as a 1080p card for esports titles and older AAA releases rather than a 1440p or ray-traced setup.

Cooling And Noise Levels

Two 8 cm fans sit over a composite heat pipe that pulls heat off the core. The maker specifies double ball bearings, quoted at around twice the service life of the sleeve bearings used on simpler coolers, and bearing wear is usually what fails first on an old card.

  • Freeze fan stop holds both fans still at low temperature and low load, so desktop work and video playback are silent
  • Fans spool up only when the core sensor calls for it, a semi-passive behaviour usually found on higher-tier cards
  • A composite heat pipe moves heat away from the core faster than a plain aluminium block

In a case with poor front intake the fans will run more often, and this generation responds well to a single extra intake fan at the front.

Outputs And Power Needs

The card takes an 8-pin PCIe power connector, so the slot alone will not run it and a supply with a spare lead is required before you order.

  • Output listings quote two DisplayPort and one HDMI in one place and mention DVI in another, so confirm the exact bracket layout before planning a triple-screen desk
  • Maximum supported resolution is quoted at 5120 x 2880 over DisplayPort, beyond what the card will render in games but useful for a high-resolution desktop
  • The host system needs a PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot with physical clearance for a dual-slot cooler

If you are upgrading an office prebuilt, check both the power connector and the slot clearance, since those two points block more upgrades of this kind than anything else.

Why the OptiPlex 790 Needs a Careful GPU Choice

The OptiPlex 790 shipped as a business desktop, so Dell prioritized quiet operation and low cost over expansion room. Depending on your exact chassis — Mini Tower, Small Form Factor, or Desktop — you’re working with a compact case. The power supply is often in the 250–290W range. Most versions also skip a dedicated PCIe power connector for add-in cards.

That single detail rules out a lot of current graphics cards before you even compare performance. Any card that needs a 6-pin or 8-pin power plug either won’t power on or will run unstable in a stock configuration. You generally want a card that draws its full power from the PCIe slot alone, unless you’ve already upgraded the internal PSU.

Slot Height and Case Size Matter

If you have the Small Form Factor version, you’re locked into low-profile cards with a shorter bracket. The Mini Tower gives you a bit more room, but it’s still a tight fit compared to a modern gaming case. Always check the bracket height listed for a card against your specific chassis before you buy.

What to Check Before You Buy a Graphics Card

A few practical checks save you a return shipment and a lot of frustration. Run through this list before you add anything to your cart:

  • Power draw: Look for cards rated at 75W or less if you haven’t upgraded the PSU.
  • Bracket size: Confirm low-profile compatibility if you own the SFF or USFF chassis.
  • Connector count: Match the outputs (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA) to your actual monitors.
  • Driver support: Verify the card still receives current drivers for your operating system.
  • Real-world use: Decide whether you need office multitasking, video playback, or light gaming.

Skipping this checklist is the single biggest reason people end up returning a graphics card that “should have worked” on paper.

Best Graphics Cards for Dell OptiPlex 790 by Use Case

Below are the 10 cards we’d point a friend toward. We organized them by what you’re actually trying to accomplish, not raw benchmark numbers. None of these need extra case modifications to run in a stock OptiPlex 790.

Best Overall: PNY NVIDIA T600

The PNY NVIDIA T600 is our top pick because it checks every box a stock OptiPlex 790 needs. It’s a low-profile, single-slot card that pulls power entirely from the PCIe bus, so there’s no internal PSU upgrade required. With four mini DisplayPort outputs, it’s built for business use. You can drive several monitors from one card, which is exactly the upgrade this machine benefits from most. Reviewers consistently mention smooth multitasking and reliable driver support, backed by a 4.6 rating across 56 reviews.

The trade-off is that this isn’t a gaming card. If your goal is frame rates rather than screen real estate, look further down this list instead.

Best for Multi-Monitor Office Setups: PNY RTX A400

The PNY RTX A400 is a close sibling to the T600. It’s worth comparing specs and availability if you want an even more compact single-slot design. It’s aimed at professional workloads like CAD viewing and design software rather than gaming, so treat it as a productivity upgrade first. If you’re deciding between the two, the A400 tends to run slightly newer software drivers. That matters if your workflow depends on the latest creative tools.

Best Budget Pick: ASUS GeForce GT 730

If price is your main concern, the ASUS GeForce GT 730 is a sensible, low-profile option. It still handles everyday desktop use, dual monitors, and basic video editing without issue. It won’t compete with newer cards on raw power. For a machine this age, though, it’s a reasonable match for the rest of the hardware. Just don’t expect it to run anything demanding — this is strictly an office and media card.

Best for Light Gaming: MSI GeForce GT 1030

Once you’ve confirmed your OptiPlex 790 has enough power headroom, the MSI GeForce GT 1030 is the closest thing to a gaming card here. It handles older titles and esports games at modest settings. It’s still a low-profile design with a single fan that stays reasonably quiet. Just be realistic about expectations: this is entry-level gaming performance, not a modern GPU replacement.

Most Affordable Entry-Level: Glorto Radeon HD 5450

Think fixing choppy 4K video playback or adding a second display. The Glorto Radeon HD 5450 gets that done at a very approachable price. It’s not going to impress anyone on specs. For basic desktop duties on an older business PC, though, it matches what the rest of the system can offer.

Highest Performance Option: Kelinx RX 580

The Kelinx RX 580 is the outlier on this list, and we’re including it with a clear caveat. It needs supplemental PCIe power — considerably more than the OptiPlex 790’s stock power supply typically provides. Unless you’re prepared to upgrade the PSU and confirm case clearance in the Mini Tower version, skip this one. If you have already modified your build, it delivers real 1080p gaming performance that nothing else on this list touches.

Common Mistakes When Upgrading an Older OptiPlex

The most frequent mistake is buying a card based on benchmarks alone, without checking the power connector requirements first. A card can have great reviews and still be the wrong choice if your OptiPlex 790 can’t feed it.

The second mistake is assuming every OptiPlex 790 variant is identical. The Small Form Factor version has real bracket height restrictions that the Mini Tower doesn’t. A card that fits one may not fit the other.

Finally, people sometimes forget to check driver support before buying. An older card at a rock-bottom price isn’t a good deal if it stopped receiving driver updates years ago. It will struggle under your current operating system.

Matching a Graphics Card to Your Actual Needs

If your workday revolves around spreadsheets, browser tabs, and a couple of extra monitors, prioritize connector count and driver stability over raw power. The PNY NVIDIA T600 (our top pick above) fits that brief well. If you’re chasing smoother 4K playback on a tight budget, the Radeon HD 5450 is proportionate to the task. For anyone tempted by light gaming, only consider the RX 580 route once you’ve confirmed your power supply can actually support it.

It’s also worth comparing this machine against newer options. If you’re weighing whether to upgrade the GPU at all versus switching systems entirely, take a look at our guide to the best graphics cards for the Dell OptiPlex 7010. It covers a closely related Dell model with slightly more headroom. For a broader, brand-agnostic comparison across current GPUs, see our roundup of the best graphics cards for PC.

NVIDIA vs. AMD for an Older Business Desktop

Most of the low-profile options that fit the OptiPlex 790 well are NVIDIA-based. NVIDIA has kept building compact, low-power professional cards, while AMD shifted its low-profile lineup toward older releases. If you specifically want to compare NVIDIA options head-to-head, our guide to the best NVIDIA graphics cards goes deeper into that lineup. AMD still has a place here through cards like the Radeon HD 5450 and the RX 580. Our best AMD graphics cards guide is worth a look if you’re building around AMD drivers elsewhere in your setup.

Neither brand is a universally correct choice for this machine. It comes down to your case, your power supply, and what you actually plan to do with the extra graphics horsepower.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I install a graphics card in a Dell OptiPlex 790 SFF?

Yes, but only a low-profile card with a short bracket will physically fit. Standard full-height cards won’t clear the Small Form Factor case without an adapter bracket.

Do I need a new power supply for a GPU in an OptiPlex 790?

Only if you choose a card that requires a 6-pin or 8-pin power connector. Cards under roughly 75W typically run fine on the stock supply.

What is the best low-profile graphics card for the OptiPlex 790?

The PNY NVIDIA T600 is our top recommendation, since it combines low-profile compatibility, no external power requirement, and strong multi-monitor support.

Will a graphics card fix slow video playback on the OptiPlex 790?

In most cases, yes. Even an entry-level card like the Radeon HD 5450 offloads video decoding from the CPU and noticeably smooths out playback.

Can the OptiPlex 790 handle light gaming with a GPU upgrade?

Only with a PSU upgrade and a card like the GT 1030 or RX 580. Expect entry-level performance rather than modern gaming benchmarks. Always check the current price on Amazon before committing to a specific model.

Try Amazon Prime free for 30 days Fast delivery, Prime Video and Prime Music Start free trial

More reviews across the web

7