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Whether an avid gamer or a beginner-level video editor, you need a good GPU for your graphical endeavors. Moreover, regardless of the GPU’s model and brand, they entail a hefty price tag.
Some high-end GPUs, such as NVIDIA’s 3000 series, can cost thousands, while beginner-level GPUs cost hundreds. So with the whopping prices of the GPU, anybody can question how long do GPUs last.
The answer depends on how durable the product is, its cooling system’s effectiveness, and whether you maintain your system hygiene. In other words, overheating, dust, and debris can minimize the lifespan of a GPU.
Eager to learn more about how long does a graphics card last? Read this guide till the end!
How Long Will My GPU Last?
You can stretch as much as 5–8 years, depending on how well you take care of it. In fact, some users say that they run GPU for 10 years or more.
Now speaking of a tier of the GPU, low-end GPUs might not run on modern machinery, but on old computers, they run smoothly. Moreover, mid-to-high range GPU can survive for three years, more or less, depending on how you handle it.
Now picture this, if you run games at max settings and full load, all your GPU fans will be the first thing to expire, that is, after two or more years. And the GPU might last 5-7 years. However, if you play games at low settings and don’t put your GPU under stress much, it will last a decade.
Furthermore, High-end GPUs like GTX 1070 Ti or above can juice out as much as 4-5 years, but you have to play games at less FPS for the best game settings.
And if you get a mid-range GPU like GTX 1060 and GTX 1070, you can play games for 4-5 years, but after two years, you might lose your cool in games. So if you play games on extremely low settings at 1080p, you can get as much as six years out of your mid-tier GPU.
For low-end GPUs, the life expectancy of the GPU is much low both performance wise and physically. You can juice out as much as 4 years not more than that on low end GPUs. Performance wise, the low end GPUs can’t play new titles even at the lowest frame settings. Moreover, physically these GPUs are also not strong, and with a bit of overheating, they can get damaged.
So, in the end, it all boils down to your preferences. If you want to play games at ultra settings at 4k resolution, you will need a high-end GPU which might last eight years or more if you put a light hand on it. For the mid-range, expect to upgrade it after five years, depending on how you use it. And for low-end GPU, consider upgrading after two years.
What Factors Affect the Lifespan of the GPU?
• Excessive heat
GPU overheating is the primary culprit behind its failure. Since a GPU produces heat when you max out games, it omits heat. Such heat can damage the component of the GPU. The ideal templater for the GOU is around 50-60 Celsius. Although you can go as high as 80-85 degrees, anything above will destroy GPU.
• Malfunctioning PSU/Power Supply
A bad PSU can also put your GPU to disaster. How? Since all the PC components take power from the PSU and GPU is the most power-consuming component, it will fry if it gets excessive or inadequate current. However, most PC comes with pre-built safety mechanisms, but sometimes bad luck comes over, and you get into trouble. So the solution is to not compromise on PSU quality for the safety of your GPU.
• Overclocking
Overclocking put your GPU under stress. In other words, you stretch your GPU to its limits and take more current to increase its clock rates. If you want to overclock your GPU, ensure it has an adequate cooling system and is within its limits.
• Physical damage
Buying GPU from a reputable brand is always a safe bet because they don’t compromise the quality. You can stretch out as high as 8-9 years of GPU from a good brand. On the other hand, a cheap one might not last one overclocking session.
How To Know You Need A GPU Upgrade?
Remember, your GPU does not die in a day; it dies gradually. Here are a few things to look out for in a GPU to know if it’s dying:
- If you see your GPU overheat during the games, even on standard settings.
- If your monitor screen flickers a lot and activating occurs during the gameplay.
- Your GPU makes loud noise during the gameplay.
- Your games start to crash unconditionally.
- Any visible wear and tear sign on GPU.
If you see these signs, you must change GPU soon.
How To Make Your GPU Last Longer?
We all know that nothing last forever, and so does your GPU, but you can extend your GPU lifespan if you do the following:
- Clean your GPU regularly to prevent dust buildup, as it will lead to overheating.
- Ensure proper ventilation and cooling. Ensure you have a water cooling system if you often overclock your GPU.
- Avoid overclocking. However, you can overclock your GPU but don’t do it frequently and beyond its limits
- Get a high-quality PSU to ensure PC safety.
- Update drivers and software regularly
How long do overclocked graphics cards last?
If you mishandle or overclock your GPU a lot, you will merely get 3-4 years out of your GPU. However, if you take good care of your GPU clean regularly, don’t overclock much, and update drivers regularly, you can stretch out a few more years.
How Long Does A GPU Last For Gaming?
So how long does a GPU last for gaming, then? As we have already stated, a GPU typically lasts 5 years for gaming more or less. However, its lifespan will be shortened if you put it under stress by playing games in high settings. But, by taking proper care of the GPU and avoiding things that can shorten its longevity, its service life can be increased.
Conclusion
Graphics cards are the ground reality of any gaming or professional 3D artist. However, like any other PC component, they have a limited lifespan. If you take good care of your GPU and don’t put it under stress, you can max out its life. However, on average, GPU’s last five years depend on you. This article explored factors affecting a GPU’s life expectancy and provided tips on prolonging its lifespan.
