MSI GeForce GTX 1050 Review | 118 Data compared
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SPECS
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MSI GeForce GTX 1050 Review | 118 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£110
  • Avg. price in US: ~$110
  • VRAM: 2 GB
  • Memory bus width: 128 bit
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): 75 W

MSI GeForce GTX 1050 review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Graphics cards category and whether it is worth buying.

3.7

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%

3.7

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
3.7

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Graphics cards category across these key areas: Performance, Memory, Platform & Features, Connectivity & Media, Power & Cooling, Design.

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

Score components:

44.0%

2.1

Performance

24.0%

1.6

Memory

12.0%

7.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

7.5

Platform & Features

5.0%

8.9

Design

4.0%

5.4

Connectivity & Media

Poor
?

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%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 1.7
    Gaming

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    20.0%

    1.0

    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

  • 1.7
    1080p

    Score components:

    55.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    25.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    10.0%

    1.0

    Ray tracing cores / units

    10.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 1.3
    1440p

    Score components:

    50.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    30.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    15.0%

    1.0

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • 1.3
    4K

    Score components:

    40.0%

    1.0

    Floating-point performance

    35.0%

    1.0

    VRAM

    20.0%

    1.0

    Ray tracing cores / units

    5.0%

    7.6

    PCI Express (PCIe) version

  • No image
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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £110

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is a compact, entry-level graphics card based on NVIDIA’s 14nm Pascal architecture, featuring 640 CUDA cores and 2GB of GDDR5 memory on a 128-bit bus. It operates with a base clock of approximately 1354 MHz and a boost clock of 1455 MHz, though MSI’s factory-overclocked variants like the Gaming X can reach up to 1556 MHz. Its primary strengths include exceptional power efficiency with a low 75W TDP—often requiring no external 6-pin power connector—and quiet, cool operation suitable for 1080p gaming on medium settings. However, it is hindered by its limited 2GB VRAM buffer which struggles with modern texture-heavy titles, lacks support for advanced features like ray tracing or DLSS, and is generally considered outdated for high-end or future-proof gaming rigs.

Technical Specifications of graphics card MSI GeForce GTX 1050

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of technical performance for products in the Graphics cards category across these key areas: Performance, Memory, Platform & Features, Connectivity & Media, Power & Cooling, Design.

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

Score components:

44.0%

?

Performance

24.0%

?

Memory

12.0%

?

Power & Cooling

11.0%

?

Platform & Features

5.0%

?

Design

4.0%

?

Connectivity & Media

3.7
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a technical score of 3.74 points, which is lower than that of 94.2% 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%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
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.
1.0
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a popularity of 1 points, which is lower than 57.7% 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%

3.7

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

5.6
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.6 points, which is lower than 93.4% 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

1,850 points
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 scores 1,850 points in 3DMark Time Spy, which is lower than 95.9% of graphics cards and equal to 0.1% of graphics cards.
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

0 points
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 scores 0 points in 3DMark Port Royal, which is lower than 83.2% of graphics cards and equal to 16.8% of graphics cards.
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

5,037 points
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 scores 5,037 points in PassMark G3D, which is lower than 93.7% of graphics cards and equal to 0.1% of graphics cards.
PassMark (DirectCompute) result
What it is: PassMark score for DirectCompute performance tests
When it matters: When compute workloads matter alongside gaming performance.

Importance: LOW

2099 points
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 scores 2099 points in PassMark DirectCompute, which is lower than 94.9% of graphics cards and equal to 0.1% of graphics cards.
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

1.91 TFLOPS
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 delivers 1.91 TFLOPS floating-point performance, which is lower than that of 95.8% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.1% 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 GTX 1050 has 2 GB of VRAM, which is less than 94.5% of graphics cards and equal to 3.8% 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

GDDR5
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 uses GDDR5 memory, which is older than on 85.9% of graphics cards and equal to 13.2% of graphics cards.
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

128 bit
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 uses a 128 bit memory bus, which is narrower than that of 69.6% of graphics cards and equal to that of 26% 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

112.1 GB/s
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 reaches 112.1 GB/s memory bandwidth, which is lower than that of 93.9% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.8% 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 GTX 1050 supports PCIe 3.0, which is older than on 77.7% 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

x16
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 uses x16 PCIe lanes, which is more than 23.4% of graphics cards and equal to 76.6% 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

12
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports DirectX 12, which is older than on 81.8% of graphics cards and equal to 16.9% of graphics cards.
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 GTX 1050 supports Vulkan 1.4, which is more advanced than on 20.7% of graphics cards and equal to 79.3% 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

4.6
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports OpenGL 4.6, which is more advanced than on 1.9% of graphics cards and equal to 98.1% 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

3
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports up to 3 displays, which is fewer than 91.8% of graphics cards and equal to 5.9% 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 GTX 1050 supports a maximum digital resolution of 7680x4320, which is higher than that of 9% of graphics cards and equal to that of 91% 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 GTX 1050 offers 1 DisplayPort outputs, which is fewer than 88.7% 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

1.4
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports DisplayPort 1.4, which is older than on 80.6% of graphics cards and equal to 13.3% 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

8.1 Gbps
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports DisplayPort link rates up to 8.1 Gbps, which is slower than on 65% of graphics cards and equal to 22.7% of graphics cards.
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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

75 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a TDP of 75 W, which is lower than that of 90.8% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.7% 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

75 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 draws 75 W under peak load, which is lower than 91.9% of graphics cards and equal to 2.3% 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 GTX 1050 recommends a 300 W PSU, which is lower than that of 94.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 4.5% 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

75 W
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a board power limit of 75 W, which is lower than that of 91.9% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.2% 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

75 W
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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

177 x 118 x 34 mm
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

177 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is 177 mm long, which is shorter than 93.6% of graphics cards and equal in length to 0.2% 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

112 mm
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is 112 mm tall, which is shorter than 76.5% of graphics cards and equal in height to 3.1% 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

2 slot/s
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 occupies 2 slot/s, which is slimmer than 53.4% of graphics cards and equal in width to 42.5% 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

330 g
MSI GeForce GTX 1050 weighs 330 g, which is lighter than 96.6% of graphics cards and equal in weight to 0.2% of graphics cards.
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MSI GeForce GTX 1050 vs the average graphics card

  • 65.1% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (75 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 GTX 1050 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (75 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.75 W vs 215 W
  • 53.8% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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 GTX 1050 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
  • 4x faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (7,008 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 GTX 1050 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (7,008 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.7008 MHz vs 1750 MHz
  • 108 mm shorter card length
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (177 mm vs 285 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285 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 GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (177 mm vs 285 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285 mm.177 mm vs 285 mm
  • 66.7% lower board power limit
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (75 W vs 225 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 225 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 GTX 1050 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (75 W vs 225 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 225 W.75 W vs 225 W
  • 0.5 slot/s slimmer design
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 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 GTX 1050 occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 slot/s.2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s
  • 13 mm lower card height
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (112 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 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 GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (112 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 mm.112 mm vs 125 mm
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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 GTX 1050 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.1 vs 0
  • 4x faster VRAM clock
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (7,008 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • 55.3% smaller GPU die
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower GPU die size than the average graphics card (132 mm² vs 295 mm²). The average graphics card has a GPU die size of 295 mm².
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has more DVI outputs than the average graphics card (1 vs 0). The average graphics card has 0 DVI outputs.
  • 65.1% lower TDP
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower TDP than the average graphics card (75 W vs 215 W). The average graphics card has a TDP of 215 W.
  • 53.8% lower PSU requirement
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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.
  • 66.7% lower board power limit
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (75 W vs 225 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 225 W.
  • 75% lower idle power draw
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower idle power draw than the average graphics card (3 W vs 12 W). The average graphics card has an idle power draw of 12 W.
  • 12 °C lower idle temperature
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower idle temperature than the average graphics card (25 °C vs 37 °C). The average graphics card has an idle temperature of 37 °C.
  • 65.9% lower peak power draw
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower peak power draw than the average graphics card (75 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a peak power draw of 220 W.
  • 7 °C lower load temperature
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower load temperature than the average graphics card (60 °C vs 67 °C). The average graphics card has a load temperature of 67 °C.
  • 108 mm shorter card length
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (177 mm vs 285 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285 mm.
  • 0.5 slot/s slimmer design
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 occupies fewer slots than the average graphics card (2 slot/s vs 2.5 slot/s). The average graphics card occupies 2.5 slot/s.
  • 13 mm lower card height
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (112 mm vs 125 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 125 mm.
  • 67.7% lighter card weight
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is lighter than the average graphics card (330 g vs 1,021 g). The average graphics card weighs 1,021 g.

Total
Overall
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
Design
  • 41.9% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,455 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 MHz.
  • 35 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (5 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 40 fewer ray tracing cores
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.
  • 144 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (40 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 85.8% lower texture rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (54.2 GTexel/s vs 381.2 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 381.2 GTexel/s.
  • 29.5% lower base clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,354 MHz vs 1920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1920 MHz.
  • 71.5% lower pixel rate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower pixel rate than the average graphics card (46.6 GPixel/s vs 163.2 GPixel/s). The average graphics card has a pixel rate of 163.2 GPixel/s.
  • 144 fewer AI cores
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer AI cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 144). The average graphics card has 144 AI cores.
  • 32 fewer ROPs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (32 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
  • 91.8% lower FP32 performance
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (1.9 TFLOPS vs 22.57 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.57 TFLOPS.
  • 77.8% lower PassMark score
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower PassMark score than the average graphics card (5,037 points vs 22,653 points). The average graphics card has a PassMark score of 22,653 points.
  • 87.4% lower gaming score
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower gaming score than the average graphics card (1,850 points vs 14,678.5 points). The average graphics card has a gaming score of 14,678.5 points.
  • 82.6% lower compute score
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower compute score than the average graphics card (2099 points vs 12,074 points). The average graphics card has a compute score of 12,074 points.
  • 91.7% lower compute throughput
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower compute throughput than the average graphics card (1.9 TFLOPS vs 22.98 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has compute throughput of 22.98 TFLOPS.
  • 87.5% lower FP64 performance
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower FP64 performance than the average graphics card (0.1 TFLOPS vs 0.48 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP64 performance of 0.48 TFLOPS.
  • 3,712 fewer FP32 units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer FP32 units than the average graphics card (640 vs 4,352). The average graphics card has 4,352 FP32 units.
  • 10 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (2 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 128 bit narrower memory bus
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (128 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.
  • 75% lower memory bandwidth
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average graphics card (112.1 GB/s vs 448 GB/s). The average graphics card has a memory bandwidth of 448 GB/s.
  • 63.1% slower memory speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7,008 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 62.5% smaller L1 cache
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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 GTX 1050 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.
  • No DLSS support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.
  • No ray tracing
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support ray tracing, the average graphics card does.
  • Older PCIe version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 7 older
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 was released earlier than the average graphics card (2016 vs 2023).
    October 2016
  • No AI upscalers
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support AI upscalers, the average graphics card does.
  • No mesh shaders
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • Worse SAM support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 offers worse SAM support than the average graphics card (no vs yes).
  • Older DirectX version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older DirectX version than the average graphics card (12 vs 12 Ultimate).
  • Older encoder generation
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 uses an older encoder generation than the average graphics card (6 vs 8). The average graphics card uses encoder generation 8.
  • No sampler feedback
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • 85.6% fewer transistors
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (3,300 million vs 22,900 million). The average graphics card has 22,900 million transistors.
  • Older shader model
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older shader model than the average graphics card (6.6 vs 6.8).
  • Older FSR version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older FSR version than the average graphics card (3 vs 3.1).
  • 2 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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 GTX 1050 does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • 1 fewer displays supported
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports fewer displays than the average graphics card (3 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 displays.
  • No AV1 decoding
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older HDMI version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0 vs 2.1).
  • Older DisplayPort version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older DisplayPort version than the average graphics card (1.4 vs 1.4a).
  • Narrower decode codec support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports narrower hardware decode codec support than the average graphics card (H.264/H.265/VP9/MPEG-2/VC-1 vs H.264/H.265/AV1/VP9/MPEG-2/VC-1).
  • Narrower encode codec support
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports narrower hardware encode codec support than the average graphics card (H.264/H.265/VP9 vs H.264/H.265/AV1/VP9).
  • Older HDCP version
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Not VR ready
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 is not VR ready, while the average graphics card is.
  • 2 fewer monitors per output type
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 supports fewer monitors per output type than the average graphics card (1 vs 3). The average graphics card supports 3 monitors per output type.
  • Older NVDEC generation
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower NVDEC generation than the average graphics card (3 vs 6). The average graphics card offers NVDEC generation 6.
  • 2 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).
  • No dual BIOS
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not include dual BIOS, the average graphics card does.
  • No fan stop
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not support fan stop, the average graphics card does.
  • No backplate
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not include a backplate, the average graphics card does.
  • No RGB lighting
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 does not include RGB lighting, the average graphics card does.
  • 41.9% lower boost clock speed
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,455 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 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 GTX 1050 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,455 MHz vs 2,505 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,505 MHz.1455 MHz vs 2505 MHz
  • 10 GB less VRAM
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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 GTX 1050 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
  • 128 bit narrower memory bus
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (128 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 GTX 1050 has a narrower memory bus than the average graphics card (128 bit vs 256 bit). The average graphics card has a memory bus width of 256 bit.128 bit vs 256 bit
  • 35 fewer compute units
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (5 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 GTX 1050 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (5 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.5 vs 40
  • 40 fewer ray tracing cores
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.
    What it is: Number of dedicated ray tracing processing cores or units
    When it matters: When you care about ray-traced lighting, reflections, and shadows in newer games.

    Importance: HIGH

    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer ray tracing cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 ray tracing cores.0 vs 40
  • 2 fewer fans
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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 GTX 1050 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).1 vs 3
  • 2.8x larger process node
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 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 GTX 1050 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
  • 144 fewer TMUs
    MSI GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (40 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 GTX 1050 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (40 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.40 vs 184
Total
Overall
Performance
Memory
Platform & Features
Connectivity & Media
Power & Cooling
Design

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about MSI GeForce GTX 1050?

  • Excellent value for budget-conscious builders and 1080p entry-level gaming
  • Highly power-efficient with some models requiring no external PCI Express power connector
  • Extremely quiet operation and effective cooling performance under load
  • Compact form factor (low profile options available) suitable for space-strapped or slim PCs
  • Easy installation with automatic driver recognition reported by many users

What customers dislike about MSI GeForce GTX 1050?

  • Limited 2GB VRAM can be a significant bottleneck for demanding modern AAA titles
  • Performance struggles at 1080p with high graphical settings in newer games
  • Lacks future-proofing as it does not support modern features like Ray Tracing or DLSS
  • Slightly overpriced compared to some second-hand market or newer budget alternatives
  • Occasional reports of minor fan ticking sounds during speed transitions

Expert reviews

L
lanoc.org
25/10/2016
Summary of the review
MSI GTX 1050 and GTX 1050 TiGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. - LanOC Reviews
T
techpowerup.com
25/10/2016
Summary of the review
MSI GTX 1050 Gaming X 2 GBGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Review - TechPowerUp
C
computerbase.de
25/10/2016
Summary of the review
GeForce GTX 1050 (Ti) im Test - ComputerBase
(Translated)Show original
H
hardware.fr
01/02/2017
Summary of the review
Radeon RX 460Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. vs GeForce GTX 1050 / GTX 1050 Ti If you need any performance metrics, overclocking results,...
(Translated)Show original
H
hardware.fr
01/02/2017
Summary of the review
Les GeForce GTX 1050 et 1050 Ti : MSI et Zotac - HardWare.fr
(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
04/11/2016
Summary of the review
Test Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050Go to product viewer dialogue for this item. : un bon compromis pour le...
(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
25/10/2016
Summary of the review
Nvidia Geforce GTX 1050 (Ti) Review - Gamen voor weinig
(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

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