NVIDIA 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

NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 review. Compare 118 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among graphics cards and if it is worth buying.

3.9

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%

6.7

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%

2.0

Performance

24.0%

1.4

Memory

12.0%

7.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

7.3

Platform & Features

5.0%

8.9

Design

4.0%

5.4

Connectivity & Media

Poor
6.7

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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

2.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(10)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(12)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

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

Verdict

The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is an entry-level graphics card based on the 14 nm Pascal architecture (GP107), typically featuring 640 CUDA cores, a base clock of 1354 MHz, and a boost clock of 1455 MHz. It most commonly utilizes 2GB of GDDR5 memory on a 128-bit bus with a 7 Gbps effective speed, though a later 3GB variant exists with a narrower 96-bit bus. Main pros include its highly efficient 75W TDP that eliminates the need for external power connectors in most models, a compact dual-slot design ideal for small-form-factor builds, and solid performance for eSports titles at 1080p. However, it faces significant cons such as the limited 2GB VRAM buffer which struggles with modern AAA textures, lack of support for advanced features like ray tracing or DLSS, and generally being outperformed by the 1050 Ti variant.

Technical Specifications of NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050

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%

2.0

Performance

24.0%

1.4

Memory

12.0%

7.7

Power & Cooling

11.0%

7.3

Platform & Features

5.0%

8.9

Design

4.0%

5.4

Connectivity & Media

3.6
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a technical score of 3.61 points, which is lower than that of 92.5% 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%

8.6

User reviews

30.0%

2.4

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(10)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.3
(12)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

6.7
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a user score of 6.74 points, which is lower than that of 94.6% 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.
2.4
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a popularity of 2.4 points, which is higher than 50.4% 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%

3.9

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

5.7
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.7 points, which is lower than 87.7% 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

?
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

?
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

1.862 TFLOPS
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 delivers 1.862 TFLOPS floating-point performance, which is lower than that of 97% of graphics cards and equal to that of 0.2% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 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

GDDR5
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 uses GDDR5 memory, which is older than on 85% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 uses a 128 bit memory bus, which is narrower than that of 69.8% of graphics cards and equal to that of 26.1% 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
NVIDIA 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 1.1% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 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

x16
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 uses x16 PCIe lanes, which is more than 31.5% of graphics cards and equal to 68.6% 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

?
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

1.3
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports Vulkan 1.3, which is older than on 73.5% of graphics cards and equal to 22.5% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports OpenGL 4.6, which is more advanced than on 4.8% of graphics cards and equal to 95.2% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports up to 3 displays, which is fewer than 92.3% of graphics cards and equal to 5.8% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 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

8.1 Gbps
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports DisplayPort link rates up to 8.1 Gbps, which is slower than on 50.4% of graphics cards and equal to 40.5% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a TDP of 75 W, which is lower than that of 90.9% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 draws 75 W under peak load, which is lower than 91.1% of graphics cards and equal to 2.5% 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
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 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

75 W
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a board power limit of 75 W, which is lower than that of 91.4% of graphics cards and equal to that of 2.7% 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

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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

145 mm
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is 145 mm long, which is shorter than 98.9% of graphics cards and equal in length to 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

111 mm
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is 111 mm tall, which is shorter than 89.6% of graphics cards and equal in height to 5.6% 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

2 slot/s
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 occupies 2 slot/s, which is slimmer than 49.2% of graphics cards and equal in width to 47.3% 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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NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 vs the average graphics card

  • 65.1% lower TDP
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA 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
  • 140.37 mm shorter card length
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (145 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

    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (145 mm vs 285.37 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285.37 mm.145 mm vs 285.37 mm
  • 16 mm lower card height
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (111 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

    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (111 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.111 mm vs 127 mm
  • 65.9% lower board power limit
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (75 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

    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (75 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.75 W vs 220 W
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA 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
  • 4.82x cheaper
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£110 vs £530).
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is cheaper than the average graphics card (£110 vs £530).£110 vs £530
  • 65.9% lower peak power draw
    NVIDIA 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.
    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

    NVIDIA 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.75 W vs 220 W
  • 0.1% faster VRAM clock
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a higher VRAM clock than the average graphics card (1,752 MHz vs 1,750 MHz). The average graphics card runs its VRAM at 1,750 MHz.
  • 56.6% smaller GPU die
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower GPU die size than the average graphics card (132 mm² vs 304.25 mm²). The average graphics card has a GPU die size of 304.25 mm².
  • 1 more DVI outputs
    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA 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.
  • 65.9% lower board power limit
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower board power limit than the average graphics card (75 W vs 220 W). The average graphics card has a board power limit of 220 W.
  • 65.9% lower peak power draw
    NVIDIA 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.
  • 54.5% lower idle power draw
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower idle power draw than the average graphics card (5 W vs 11 W). The average graphics card has an idle power draw of 11 W.
  • 140.37 mm shorter card length
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (145 mm vs 285.37 mm). The average graphics card has a length of 285.37 mm.
  • 16 mm lower card height
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is shorter than the average graphics card (111 mm vs 127 mm). The average graphics card has a height of 127 mm.
  • 41.8% lower boost clock speed
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,455 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.
  • 35 fewer compute units
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer compute units than the average graphics card (5 vs 40). The average graphics card has 40 compute units.
  • 144 fewer TMUs
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (40 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.
  • 80.7% lower texture rate
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (72.9 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.
  • 29.5% lower base clock speed
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower base GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,354 MHz vs 1,920 MHz). The average graphics card has a base GPU clock of 1,920 MHz.
  • 192 fewer AI cores
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer AI cores than the average graphics card (0 vs 192). The average graphics card has 192 AI cores.
  • 32 fewer ROPs
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer ROPs than the average graphics card (32 vs 64). The average graphics card has 64 ROPs.
  • 91.9% lower FP32 performance
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower FP32 performance than the average graphics card (1.9 TFLOPS vs 22.86 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP32 performance of 22.86 TFLOPS.
  • 99.9% lower FP16 performance
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower FP16 performance than the average graphics card (0 TFLOPS vs 29.5 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has FP16 performance of 29.5 TFLOPS.
  • 91.9% lower compute throughput
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower compute throughput than the average graphics card (1.9 TFLOPS vs 23.105 TFLOPS). The average graphics card has compute throughput of 23.105 TFLOPS.
  • 3,712 fewer FP32 units
    NVIDIA 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.
  • 128 bit narrower memory bus
    NVIDIA 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.
  • 10 GB less VRAM
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer VRAM than the average graphics card (2 GB vs 12 GB). The average graphics card has 12 GB VRAM.
  • 100% slower memory speed
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower effective memory speed than the average graphics card (7 MHz vs 19,000 MHz). The average graphics card reaches an effective memory speed of 19,000 MHz.
  • 75% lower memory bandwidth
    NVIDIA 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.
  • 62.5% smaller L1 cache
    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support DLSS, the average graphics card does.
  • No ray tracing
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support ray tracing, the average graphics card does.
  • Older PCIe version
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older PCIe version than the average graphics card (3 vs 4.0).
  • 7 older
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 was released earlier than the average graphics card (2,016 vs 2,023).
  • No AI upscalers
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support AI upscalers, the average graphics card does.
  • No mesh shaders
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support mesh shaders, the average graphics card does.
  • No DirectStorage support
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support DirectStorage, the average graphics card does.
  • Older Vulkan version
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older Vulkan version than the average graphics card (1.3 vs 1.4).
  • Older encoder generation
    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support sampler feedback, the average graphics card does.
  • 84.9% fewer transistors
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer transistors than the average graphics card (3,300 million vs 21,900 million). The average graphics card has 21,900 million transistors.
  • 2 fewer DisplayPort outputs
    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support AV1 encoding, the average graphics card does.
  • 1 fewer displays supported
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports fewer displays than the average graphics card (3 vs 4). The average graphics card supports 4 displays.
  • No AV1 decoding
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support AV1 decoding, the average graphics card does.
  • No DSC support
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support DSC, the average graphics card does.
  • Older HDMI version
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older HDMI version than the average graphics card (2.0b vs 2.1).
  • Older HDCP version
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 supports an older HDCP version than the average graphics card (2.2 vs 2.3).
  • Not VR ready
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 is not VR ready, while the average graphics card is.
  • 2 fewer fans
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).
  • No fan stop
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not support fan stop, the average graphics card does.
  • 4 °C lower thermal ceiling
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 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
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not include a backplate, the average graphics card does.
  • No RGB lighting
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 does not include RGB lighting, the average graphics card does.
  • 41.8% lower boost clock speed
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,455 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

    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower boost GPU clock than the average graphics card (1,455 MHz vs 2,500 MHz). The average graphics card has a boost GPU clock of 2,500 MHz.1455 MHz vs 2500 MHz
  • 128 bit narrower memory bus
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA 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
  • 2 fewer fans
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer fans than the average graphics card (1 vs 3).1 vs 3
  • 10 GB less VRAM
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA 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
  • 2.8x larger process node
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA 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
    NVIDIA 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

    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has fewer TMUs than the average graphics card (40 vs 184). The average graphics card has 184 TMUs.40 vs 184
  • 80.7% lower texture rate
    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (72.9 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

    NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 has a lower texture rate than the average graphics card (72.9 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s). The average graphics card has a texture rate of 376.8 GTexel/s.72.86 GTexel/s vs 376.8 GTexel/s

Graphic comparison of NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 and

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Third-party reviews

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(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050?

  • Low power consumption (75W TDP), often requiring no external 6-pin power connector
  • Excellent for eSports titles like CS:GO, League of Legends, and Overwatch at 1080p
  • Compact form factor makes it ideal for Small Form Factor (SFF) or office PC upgrades
  • Whisper-quiet operation and low heat output due to high efficiency
  • Very affordable entry point into dedicated PC gaming

What customers dislike about NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050?

  • Limited VRAM (standard 2GB) is insufficient for high-quality textures in modern AAA games
  • Performance struggles significantly at resolutions higher than 1080p
  • Lack of support for modern features like Ray Tracing and DLSS
  • The 3GB variant suffers from reduced memory bandwidth due to a narrowed 96-bit bus
  • Inferior value compared to the slightly more expensive but much more capable GTX 1050 Ti

Expert reviews

G
greenfoldingathome.com
03/11/2019

Summary The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 2GB is a budget-friendly, 75-watt graphics card based on the older Pascal architecture that offers a compact solution for small form-factor PCs running Folding@Home. Tested on a Windows 10 system, the card drew 140 watts at the wall for the entire system, allowing the reviewer to lower their home's thermal output and overall air conditioning load...Read more

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trustedreviews.com
05/12/2018

The Trusted Reviews assessment of the Nvidia GTX 1050 highlights the graphics card as a standout, power-efficient component for budget-conscious, entry-level gaming builds. Pros include its 75W TDP, which removes the need for extra power connectors, alongside quiet operation and strong performance against its direct competitors. Conversely, the main cons involve its limited 2GB...Read more

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pcmag.com
20/01/2017

The Zotac GeForce GTX 1050 Mini is lauded by PCMag as an Editors' Choice budget graphics card, offering excellent performance for small-form-factor builds and casual gaming at a $109.99 MSRP. Its primary pros include an extremely compact design and a 75-watt power requirement that draws directly from the motherboard, eliminating the need for external PCIe connectors. However, the...Read more

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phoronix.com
28/10/2016

The Phoronix review of the Zotac GeForce GTX 1050 Mini highlights a power-efficient Pascal-based card for Linux, featuring 640 CUDA cores and 2GB of GDDR5 memory that operates under 75 Watts without external power. Pros include high performance-per-dollar and exceptional power efficiency compared to older Maxwell cards, making it ideal for small form factor gaming. Conversely, the...Read more

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pcmag.com
25/10/2016

The MSI GeForce GTX 1050 2G OC is a compact, $109.99, entry-level graphics card designed for budget-conscious, 1080p gaming in small-form-factor PCs, drawing all required power directly from the PCIe slot. It features a moderate factory overclock and 2GB of GDDR5, offering strong 60fps performance in many titles while remaining cool and quiet. Pros include excellent value for money...Read more

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pcworld.com
25/10/2016

The PCWorld review labels the Pascal-based Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 and 1050 Ti as top-tier budget gaming cards, ideal for affordable 1080p e-sports, due to their excellent power efficiency (max 75W) and ability to run solely off PCIe slot power. Key pros include superior performance compared to the RX 460 and silent, cool operation, making them excellent, easy upgrades for older...Read more

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hardwarecanucks.com
25/10/2016

The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 and GTX 1050 Ti launch introduces two entry-level, budget-friendly graphics cards powered by the highly efficient 16nm FinFET GP107 architecture. Designed primarily as an affordable upgrade path for gamers using older cards like the GTX 750 or 650, these GPUs deliver a strong performance-per-dollar value proposition at their baseline MSRPs of $109 and...Read more

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techspot.com
25/10/2016

The TechSpot review identifies the $109 Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 (2GB) as a power-efficient, entry-level 14nm Pascal card capable of 1080p gaming without external power connectors. It outperforms the AMD RX 460 in multiple benchmarks, running quiet and cool with minimal power consumption. However, the card is significantly limited by its 2GB VRAM, which causes performance issues in...Read more

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tomshardware.com
25/10/2016

GeForce GTX 1050 & 1050 Ti Review Summary Despite their value, the cards present distinct trade-offs for budget builders. On the positive side, they deliver stronger, more cost-effective 1080p performance than older 90 W cards like the GTX 950, all while operating completely within PCIe slot power limits. However, their ultra-low 75 W power target inherently limits factory clock...Read more

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guru3d.com
25/10/2016

The MSI GeForce GTX 1050 and 1050 Ti Gaming X cards are highly efficient, budget-friendly GPUs designed for 1080p gaming, featuring the silent Twin Frozr VI cooling system. The 1050 Ti (4GB) handles modern titles well, while the 1050 (2GB) is best for eSports, with both boasting high build quality, factory overclocks, and low power consumption. Key pros include exceptional thermal...Read more

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gamersnexus.net
25/10/2016

This review examines the MSI GTX 1050 Ti Gaming X and GTX 1050 OC, two low-power graphics cards based on NVIDIA's 14nm Pascal architecture designed for budget-conscious 1080p gamers. In terms of pros, both cards are highly power-efficient, requiring only 75W of cooling power and running cool enough to keep system-level power draws low and fan noise virtually imperceptible....Read more

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techpowerup.com
25/10/2016

The TechPowerUp review of the MSI GTX 1050 Gaming X highlights a highly customized, factory-overclocked card featuring efficient Pascal architecture and the silent, effective TwinFrozr VI cooler. Key pros include excellent power efficiency, low idle temperatures, and modern display outputs, making it a capable 1080p card. Conversely, cons include a $130 price point that brings it...Read more

C
computerbase.de
25/10/2016

The ComputerBase review concludes that the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 Ti is an outstanding entry-level graphics card, offering an excellent balance of performance, features, and power efficiency for around €150. Built on the Samsung 14-nm GP107 Pascal architecture, it runs efficiently without requiring an external PCIe power connector while delivering performance comparable to an...Read more

C
comptoir-hardware.com
07/08/2017

summary of the entry-level graphics card duel: Review Summary This review from Le Comptoir du Hardware evaluates the entry-level graphics card market by pit-fighting the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 against AMD's refreshed Radeon RX 560 across a comprehensive benchmark suite of 14 distinct video games. Originally launched in mid-2016, NVIDIA's Pascal-based GTX 1050 and 1050 Ti initially...Read more

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hardware.fr
01/02/2017

The Hardware.fr entry-level graphics card roundup provides an in-depth review of the AMD Radeon RX 460 against Nvidia's GeForce GTX 1050 and GTX 1050 Ti, analyzing custom models from Asus, Gigabyte, MSI, Sapphire, and Zotac. The review details a fierce budget matchup centered around a 75W thermal envelope and a ~110€ price target, leveraging efficient 14nm FinFET processes from both...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
23/06/2017

The review from Profesional Review analyzes the entry-level graphics card market by comparing the AMD Radeon RX 560 4 GB against the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 2 GB. The pros of the AMD Radeon RX 560 center on its hardware capabilities, featuring a 14 nm Baffin silicon architecture, 1024 Stream Processors, and a larger 4 GB GDDR5 frame buffer. This extra VRAM gives it a substantial...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
08/02/2017

summary of the GeForce GTX 1050 vs. Radeon RX 460 comparison: The review compares two entry-level, budget-friendly graphics cards designed for casual gamers looking for solid Full HD (1080p) performance at a medium graphical detail level. The AMD Radeon RX 460 utilizes a 14nm Polaris 11 architecture with 896 Stream Processors and 16 ROPs, while the Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 relies on...Read more

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hwready.it
21/11/2016

The Asus GeForce GTX 1050 Expedition is an entry-level graphics card designed for durability, featuring a 75W TDP that requires no external power, making it ideal for budget systems. Engineered with a 100% automated Auto-Extreme process and 144-hour stress testing, it offers dual-ball bearing fans for longevity and 0dB silent operation under low loads. YouTube · Key pros include...Read more

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tomshw.it
24/10/2016

The Nvidia GeForce GTX 1050 and 1050 Ti introduce the new GP107 GPU, a chip built on a 14nm FinFET process that packs 3.3 billion transistors to efficiently target Full HD gaming. The higher-tier GTX 1050 Ti features a fully enabled core with 768 CUDA cores, 48 texture units, and 4 GB of GDDR5 memory. In contrast, the standard GTX 1050 scales down to 640 CUDA cores and 2 GB of GDDR5...Read more

Video reviews

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