MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£95
  • Avg. price in US: ~$70
  • VRAM: 2 GB
  • Memory bus width: 64 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 30 W

MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among graphics cards and if it is worth buying.

4.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the graphics card's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best graphics cards on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

3.6

Technical Score

10.0%

9.3

User score

Poor
3.6

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

2.2

Performance

24.0%

1.4

Memory

12.0%

7.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.4

Platform & Features

5.0%

8.6

Design

4.0%

5.4

Connectivity & Media

Poor
9.3

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

9.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(322)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(317)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.1
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 4.1
    Video editing

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.0

    AV1 encode

    30.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    20.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    15.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 2.4
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    10.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 2.4
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    15.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 2.7
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    20.0%

    ?

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

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Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is an entry-level graphics card featuring 2GB of GDDR5 memory with a 6008 MHz speed on a 64-bit bus. Based on the Pascal architecture (GP108), it is equipped with 384 CUDA cores and operates at an overclocked boost speed of 1518 MHz and a base clock of 1265 MHz. Main pros include its highly efficient 30W low power consumption, compact low-profile design ideal for small form factor PCs, and factory overclocking for a performance edge over base models. However, its primary cons are its limited 64-bit memory bandwidth and unsuitability for modern AAA gaming at high resolutions, as it is strictly designed for light esports titles and home theater media playback.

Technical Specifications of MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the graphics card's technical performance, covering key areas such as gaming and rendering performance, ray tracing, memory configuration, power efficiency, cooling, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare graphics cards based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

44.0%

2.2

Performance

24.0%

1.4

Memory

12.0%

7.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

6.4

Platform & Features

5.0%

8.6

Design

4.0%

5.4

Connectivity & Media

3.6
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a technical score of 3.6 points, which is lower than that of 92.8% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the graphics card.

When it matters: When you want to understand how a graphics card performs in real use and how reliable it is in terms of performance, temperatures, noise, stability, and long-term ownership.

Score components:

70.0%

9.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(322)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(317)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

9.3
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a user score of 9.3 points, which is higher than that of 84.3% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you prefer a graphics card that has already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
10
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 77.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the graphics card's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a graphics card that offers a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.2

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

5.9
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.9 points, which is lower than 83.9% of products in this category.
3DMark Time Spy benchmark score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Time Spy, a synthetic DirectX 12 test often used as a quick gaming-performance reference.
When it matters: When you need a fast rough performance sort before digging into game-specific reviews and frame-rate data.

Importance: LOW

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3DMark Port Royal score
What it is: Benchmark result from 3DMark Port Royal, a synthetic test focused on ray tracing performance.
When it matters: When ray tracing matters in the games you actually play and you want one quick way to separate stronger and weaker RT cards.

Importance: LOW

N/A
PassMark (G3D) result
What it is: Overall GPU performance score in PassMark G3D benchmark
When it matters: When you need one broad score to sort cards into rough performance tiers.

Importance: LOW

?
PassMark (DirectCompute) result
What it is: PassMark score for DirectCompute performance tests
When it matters: When compute workloads matter alongside gaming performance.

Importance: LOW

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Floating-point performance
What it is: Theoretical floating-point compute performance of the GPU.
When it matters: When rendering, AI, or heavy compute work needs strong single-precision throughput.

Importance: LOW

1.17 TFLOPS
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC delivers 1.17 TFLOPS floating-point performance, which is lower than that of 98.8% of graphics cards.
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VRAM
What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

Importance: HIGH

2 GB
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has 2 GB of VRAM, which is less than 94.5% of graphics cards and equal to 3.9% of graphics cards.
Memory type
What it is: Type of graphics memory used (GDDR6, HBM2e, etc.)
When it matters: When memory technology is part of the buying decision because it affects bandwidth class, power use, and product positioning.

Importance: LOW

GDDR5
GDDR version
What it is: Generation of GDDR memory used by the graphics card.
When it matters: When you want to separate older memory generations from newer ones before comparing bandwidth, power behavior, and market tier.

Importance: LOW

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Memory bus width
What it is: Width of the memory interface bus in bits
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance at higher resolutions, heavier texture settings, or ray-traced workloads that stress memory traffic.

Importance: HIGH

64 bit
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC uses a 64 bit memory bus, which is narrower than that of 97.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.6% of graphics cards.
Maximum memory bandwidth
What it is: Maximum data transfer rate between GPU and its memory
When it matters: When 4K gaming, ray tracing, or creator work can choke a slower memory subsystem.

Importance: HIGH

48.06 GB/s
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC reaches 48.06 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 98.3% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.1% of graphics cards.
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PCI Express (PCIe) version
What it is: Version of PCI Express interface supported
When it matters: When you are pairing the card with an older motherboard and want to avoid leaving bandwidth or future compatibility on the table.

Importance: LOW

3.0
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports PCIe 3.0, which is older than on 77.6% of graphics cards and equal to 20.3% of graphics cards.
PCIe lanes
What it is: Number of PCI Express lanes used for communication
When it matters: When limited lane width could bottleneck the card in some systems.

Importance: LOW

x4
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC uses x4 PCIe lanes, which is fewer than 89.5% of graphics cards and equal to 0.9% of graphics cards.
DirectX version
What it is: Highest supported DirectX API version
When it matters: When you play newer Windows games that depend on the latest graphics features.

Importance: LOW

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Vulkan version
What it is: Highest supported Vulkan API version
When it matters: When modern games, emulators, or creative apps lean on Vulkan support.

Importance: LOW

1.4
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports Vulkan 1.4, which is more advanced than on 26.6% of graphics cards and equal to 73.4% of graphics cards.
OpenGL version
What it is: Highest supported OpenGL API version
When it matters: When older games or pro apps still depend on OpenGL compatibility.

Importance: LOW

4.5
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports OpenGL 4.5, which is older than on 95.2% of graphics cards and equal to 3.3% of graphics cards.
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Max displays supported
What it is: Total number of external displays supported simultaneously
When it matters: When you run a multi-monitor desk for sim racing, trading, or editing.

Importance: LOW

2
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports up to 2 displays, which is fewer than 98.1% of graphics cards and equal to 1.9% of graphics cards.
Max digital resolution
What it is: Maximum supported digital display resolution
When it matters: When you plan to drive 4K or 8K panels at their native resolution.

Importance: LOW

7680x4320
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports a maximum digital resolution of 7680x4320, which is higher than that of 44.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 55.6% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort outputs
What it is: Number of DisplayPort video outputs
When it matters: When your setup needs several high-refresh monitors without adapters.

Importance: LOW

1
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC offers 1 DisplayPort outputs, which is fewer than 89.5% of graphics cards and equal to 8.6% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort version
What it is: Version of DisplayPort standard supported
When it matters: When your monitor setup depends on newer DisplayPort features for higher refresh rates, higher resolution, or better cable flexibility.

Importance: LOW

1.4a
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports DisplayPort 1.4a, which is more advanced than on 22.7% of graphics cards and equal to 44.2% of graphics cards.
DisplayPort link rates
What it is: Supported data link rates for DisplayPort connections
When it matters: When you are pushing high resolution and refresh rate over DisplayPort.

Importance: LOW

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Thermal Design Power (TDP)
What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

Importance: MEDIUM

30 W
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a TDP of 30 W, which is lower than that of 98.6% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.2% of graphics cards.
Power consumption while under peak load
What it is: Peak power draw of the graphics card under maximum load.
When it matters: When transient-heavy gaming loads could stress your power supply.

Importance: LOW

30 W
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC draws 30 W under peak load, which is lower than 98.6% of graphics cards and equal to 0.2% of graphics cards.
Recommended PSU wattage
What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

Importance: LOW

300 W
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC recommends a 300 W PSU, which is lower than that of 95.3% of graphics cards and equal to that of 4.2% of graphics cards.
Board power limit
What it is: Maximum configurable power limit for the GPU board
When it matters: When you care about how far the card can be pushed through tuning or factory power settings.

Importance: LOW

30 W
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a board power limit of 30 W, which is lower than that of 98.9% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.2% of graphics cards.
PCIe power spec
What it is: PCIe power delivery specification followed
When it matters: When you are checking whether the slot and external cables match the card's intended power-delivery standard.

Importance: LOW

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Size
What it is: Physical size of the GPU card
When it matters: When you need the card to fit a compact case without blocking nearby hardware.

Importance: LOW

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Length
What it is: Physical length of the GPU card
When it matters: When front radiators or drive cages leave only limited GPU clearance.

Importance: LOW

159 mm
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is 159 mm long, which is shorter than 98.1% of graphics cards.
Height
What it is: Physical height of the GPU card
When it matters: When side panels, brackets, or tight case layouts reduce vertical clearance.

Importance: LOW

69 mm
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is 69 mm tall, which is shorter than 97.8% of graphics cards and equal in height to 1.6% of graphics cards.
Slot width
What it is: Number of PCIe slots occupied by the card
When it matters: When you need room for another PCIe card or better airflow under the GPU.

Importance: LOW

1 slot/s
MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC occupies 1 slot/s, which is slimmer than 96.6% of graphics cards and equal in width to 3.4% of graphics cards.
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the graphics card
When it matters: When sag, bracket support, or shipping stress matters in your build.

Importance: LOW

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MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC vs the average graphics card

  • 86% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (30 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
    What it is: Typical power consumption under full load (TDP)
    When it matters: When you need a realistic idea of power draw before choosing a PSU or case.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (30 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.30 W vs 215 W
  • 3.43x faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (6,008 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
    What it is: Speed at which the GPU memory operates
    When it matters: When you want more context on how quickly the card's VRAM can move data.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (6,008 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.6008 MHz vs 1750 MHz
  • 53.8% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (300 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
    What it is: Recommended wattage of the system power supply
    When it matters: When you are checking whether your current power supply is enough.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (300 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.300 W vs 650 W
  • 126.37 mm shorter card length
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is shorter than the average graphics card (159 mm vs 285.37 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285.37 mm.
    What it is: Physical length of the GPU card
    When it matters: When front radiators or drive cages leave only limited GPU clearance.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is shorter than the average graphics card (159 mm vs 285.37 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285.37 mm.159 mm vs 285.37 mm
  • 58 mm lower card height
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is shorter than the average graphics card (69 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.
    What it is: Physical height of the GPU card
    When it matters: When side panels, brackets, or tight case layouts reduce vertical clearance.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is shorter than the average graphics card (69 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.69 mm vs 127 mm
  • 86.4% lower board power limit
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (30 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.
    What it is: Maximum configurable power limit for the GPU board
    When it matters: When you care about how far the card can be pushed through tuning or factory power settings.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (30 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.30 W vs 220 W
  • 1 slot/s slimmer design
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (1 slot/s vs 2 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2 slot/s.
    What it is: Number of PCIe slots occupied by the card
    When it matters: When you need room for another PCIe card or better airflow under the GPU.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (1 slot/s vs 2 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2 slot/s.1 slot/s vs 2 slot/s
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
    What it is: Number of DVI display outputs available
    When it matters: When you still use an older monitor that depends on DVI.

    Importance: LOW

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • 3.43x faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (6,008 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • 75.7% smaller GPU die
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower GPU die size than the average graphics card (74 mm² vs 304.25 mm²). The average graphics card has a GPU die size of 304.25 mm².
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 86% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (30 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
  • 53.8% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower PSU requirement than the average graphics card (300 W vs 650 W). The average graphics card has a PSU requirement of 650 W.
  • 86.4% lower board power limit
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (30 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.
  • 86.4% lower peak power draw
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower peak power draw than the average graphics card (30 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a peak power draw of 220 W.
  • 126.37 mm shorter card length
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is shorter than the average graphics card (159 mm vs 285.37 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285.37 mm.
  • 58 mm lower card height
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is shorter than the average graphics card (69 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.
  • 1 slot/s slimmer design
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (1 slot/s vs 2 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2 slot/s.
  • 39.3% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,518 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
  • 37 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (3 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 160 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (24 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 90.3% lower texture rate
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (36.4 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
  • 34.1% lower base clock speed
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,265 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 85.3% lower pixel rate
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (24.3 GPixel/s vs 165.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 165.2 GPixel/s.
  • 48 fewer ROPs
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (16 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
  • 94.9% lower FP32 performance
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (1.2 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
  • 94.9% lower compute throughput
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower compute throughput than the average graphics card (1.2 TFLOPS vs 23.105 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has compute throughput of 23.105 TFLOPS.
  • 92.5% lower FP64 performance
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower FP64 performance than the average graphics card (0 TFLOPS vs 0.4651 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP64 performance of 0.4651 TFLOPS.
  • 3,968 fewer FP32 units
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer FP32 units than the average graphics card (384 vs 4,352). The average graphics card has 4,352 FP32 units.
  • 192 bit narrower memory bus
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (64 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.
  • 10 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (2 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 89.3% lower memory bandwidth
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (48.1 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
  • 68.4% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (6,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 98.4% smaller L2 cache
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer L2 cache than the average graphics card (0.5 MB vs 32 MB). The average graphics card has 32 MB L2 cache.
  • 62.5% smaller L1 cache
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer L1 cache than the average graphics card (48 vs 128). The average graphics card has 128 L1 cache.
  • 2.8x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a higher process node than the average graphics card (14 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
  • Fewer PCIe lanes
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer PCIe lanes than the average graphics card (x4 vs x16). The average graphics card has x16 PCIe lanes.
  • No ray tracing
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not support ray tracing, the average graphics card does.
  • Older PCIe version
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 6 older
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,017 vs 2,023).
  • No mesh shaders
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • No sampler feedback
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • Older OpenGL version
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports an older OpenGL version than the average graphics card (4.5 vs 4.6).
  • 91.8% fewer transistors
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (1,800 million vs 21,900 million). The average graphics card has 21,900 million transistors.
  • 2 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer DisplayPort outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 3). The average graphics card has 3 DisplayPort outputs.
  • No AV1 encoding
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • 2 fewer displays supported
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports fewer displays than the average graphics card (2 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 displays.
  • No AV1 decoding
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older HDMI version
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
  • 2 fewer monitors per output type
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports fewer monitors per output type than the average graphics card (2 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 monitors per output type.
  • Older HDCP version
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Not VR ready
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC is not VR ready, while the average graphics card is.
  • 2 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).
  • No fan stop
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not support fan stop, the average graphics card does.
  • 28.7 dB noisier at idle
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a higher idle noise level than the average graphics card (28.7 dB vs 0 dB). The average graphics card has an idle noise level of 0 dB.
  • 4 °C lower thermal ceiling
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower thermal ceiling than the average graphics card (97 °C vs 93 °C). The average graphics card has a thermal ceiling of 93 °C.
  • No backplate
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC does not include a backplate, the average graphics card does.
  • 39.3% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,518 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
    What it is: Maximum boost frequency the GPU can reach under load
    When it matters: When you want a rough idea of peak advertised frequency, while knowing real sustained clocks still depend on cooling and power limits.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,518 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.1518 MHz vs 2500 MHz
  • 192 bit narrower memory bus
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (64 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.
    What it is: Width of the memory interface bus in bits
    When it matters: When you care about steadier performance at higher resolutions, heavier texture settings, or ray-traced workloads that stress memory traffic.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (64 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.64 bit vs 256 bit
  • 37 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (3 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
    What it is: Total number of shader multiprocessors or compute units
    When it matters: When you want a better sense of the GPU's overall parallel hardware resources before relying on game benchmarks alone.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (3 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.3 vs 40
  • 2 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).
    What it is: Total number of cooling fans
    When it matters: When you compare cooler designs and want one more clue about thermal potential.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).1 vs 3
  • 10 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (2 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
    What it is: Total video memory available on the graphics card
    When it matters: When you play at high settings, use texture mods, or work with large creative projects.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (2 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.2 GB vs 12 GB
  • 2.8x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a higher process node than the average graphics card (14 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.
    What it is: Size of the manufacturing process in nanometers
    When it matters: When process node differences may affect power, heat, and overall efficiency.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a higher process node than the average graphics card (14 nm vs 5 nm). The average graphics card uses a process node of 5 nm.14 nm vs 5 nm
  • 160 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (24 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
    What it is: Total count of texture mapping units on the GPU
    When it matters: When texture-heavy gaming performance matters and you want extra hardware context behind texture-rate claims.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (24 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.24 vs 184
  • 90.3% lower texture rate
    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (36.4 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
    What it is: Number of textured pixels the GPU can process per second
    When it matters: When fast texture handling matters in high-refresh gaming workloads.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (36.4 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.36.43 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s

Graphic comparison of MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC?

  • Ideal for small form factor (SFF) or slimline PC builds due to low profile design
  • Very low power consumption (30W), requiring no external power connectors
  • Operates silently or very quietly, especially the passively cooled versions
  • Easy physical installation and setup process
  • Effective for office work, home theatre PCs (HTPC), and 4K video playback
  • Capable of running esports and older titles at playable frame rates (e.g., CS:GO, Fortnite, GTA V)

What customers dislike about MSI GeForce GT 1030 2G LP OC?

  • Poor performance in modern AAA games, often requiring low settings and 720p resolution
  • Significant performance drop if purchasing the DDR4/GDDR4 variant instead of GDDR5
  • High price-to-performance ratio compared to used cards like the GTX 1050 Ti or RX 570
  • Limited 2GB VRAM is insufficient for many contemporary applications
  • Lacks enough power for demanding tasks like VR or high-end video editing
  • Potential reliability issues reported by some users (e.g., 'no signal' or boot failures after some time)

Expert reviews

C
computerbase.de
23/05/2017

The ComputerBase review evaluates two sub-€100 entry-level graphics cards, the AMD Radeon RX 550 (specifically the actively cooled Sapphire Pulse) and the Nvidia GeForce GT 1030 (specifically the passively cooled Gainward SilentFX), both designed for esports gaming and high-resolution video playback. The pros of the Radeon RX 550 include its modern architecture utilizing the Polaris...Read more

P
profesionalreview.com
18/08/2017

This review evaluates the Gigabyte GeForce GT 1030 Silent 2GB GDDR5 LP, an entry-level, low-profile graphics card built on Nvidia's Pascal architecture (GP108 chip, 16 nm FinFET). Measuring just 174.91 x 68.9 x 35.91 mm and weighing 246 grams, the single-slot card features 384 CUDA cores, 24 TMUs, and 16 ROPs. It features a base clock of 1252 MHz that boosts to 1506 MHz, and runs 4...Read more

G
geektopia.es
15/06/2017

Overview and Performance The MSI GeForce GT 1030 2GH LP OC is a low-profile, entry-level graphics card based on Nvidia's GP108 Pascal architecture, designed primarily for pre-assembled e-sports systems. Featuring 384 CUDA cores and 2 GB of GDDR5 memory on a heavily restricted 64-bit bus, the card is factory overclocked to a 1265 MHz base and 1518 MHz boost clock. In real-world...Read more

Video reviews

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