If you are an avid gamer, you know the importance of choosing the right GPU for your existing PC or the other way around. Pairing the wrong CPU with the wrong GPU leads to bottleneck (the gamer’s term for mismatched CPU and GPU).
While several CPUs are in the market, one mid-range yet powerful CPU is Ryzen 5 2600. While not costing much, this CPU can seamlessly work with most modern GPUs. You can take your gaming experience to another level by getting the following best GPUs for Ryzen 5 2600.
- Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1660 Ti OC
- MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 2060
- AMD Radeon RX 580
- EVGA GeForce RTX 2070
- MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660
- Gigabyte Radeon RX 5500 XT
Our Picks for Best GPU for Ryzen 5 2600
After reviewing several different GPUs for Ryzen 5 2600, we came up with the following six. So let’s see why these graphic cards are suitable for your PC.
1. Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1660 Ti OC
EDITOR’S PICK
Reasons to Consider
If you don’t have much to spend on a premium graphic card for Ryzen 5 2600 yet want a high-performing graphic card, look no further than Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1660 Ti OC. You can get smooth gameplay with 6GB ram and an 1860 MHz boost clock. Moreover, you can also achieve higher frame rates to get lag-free gameplay.
Specifications
- Ram: 6GB GDDR6
- Video Output: 3x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI
- CUDA: 1536 Cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1860 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1770 MHz
- Bandwidth: 228 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 192-bit
The Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1660 Ti OC is undoubtedly the best graphics card for Ryzen 5 2600 for a number of reasons. First, it has an amazing WindForce cooling system, which never let your PC run hot.
Next, the frame rates of this graphic card are much better, with 60 FPS or more at 1080P resolution. So regardless of the title you play, your in-game experience will be amazing. Moreover, you can also enhance the frame rates by tweaking and altering the in-game settings.
Moreover, this 6 GB graphic card comes with a reasonable price tag that will not make you break the bank for a high-end GPU. All in all, this graphic card goes toe to toe with your Ryzen 5 2600 and delivers the best performance for your games.
2. MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 2060
intermediate-level gamers
Reasons to Consider
MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 2060 is another excellent option for Ryzen 5 2600. With a whopping 1080p and 1440p, you get a crisp and vibrant gameplay experience. Moreover, it also hit 1710 MHz under intense scenarios, so don’t worry. It will run even high-end titles without a lag. And lastly, it comes fitted with a good VRAM and Ray-tracing to make your 3D experience better!
Specifications
- Ram: 6GB GDDR6
- Video Output: 3x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI
- CUDA: 1920 Cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1710 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1365 MHz
- Bandwidth: 336 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 192-bit
The MSI Gaming GeForce RTX 2060 would be the best complement to your Ryzen 5 2600. If you wanted a reasonably priced GPU that delivers smooth performance even for high-graphic titles, then it is the one to choose.
You will have incredible results owing to 1080p and 1440p resolution. In addition, its frame rates are much better than other rivaling GPUs. With a bit of tweaking around your game’s graphic settings, you can enjoy even higher frame rates than 240 fps. For intermediate-level gamers, this GPU provides lag-free performance. Moreover, this GPU works quietly owing to its amazing cooling fans. While this GPU outperforms in many aspects, its lack of VirtualLink port might raise eyebrows if you are more into VR-ready GPU. However, this GPU is one of the cheap GPU for Ryzen 5 2600, making it perfect for budget-conscious buyers.
3. AMD Radeon RX 580
high-end GPU
Reasons to Consider
Suppose you want a high-end graphics card to play AAA titles at crisp 1080p/1440p with a whopping 60 fps, then go for AMD Radeon RX 580. While offering exceptional performance considering its price tag, this graphic card goes hand in hand with your Ryzen 5 2600. And plus, the point is that this GPU offers a minimum bottleneck of 8% for Ryzen 5 2600 and RX 580. So without any lag, you will have an excellent in-game experience.
Specifications
- Ram: 8GB GDDR5
- Video Output: 3x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI
- CUDA: 2304 Cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1366 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1291 MHz
- Bandwidth: 256 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 256-bit
The Radeon RX 580 card has a lot to offer avid gamers. First, it comes with 1080p resolution for 60 FPS; however, you can also achieve 40 FPS for high-end games.
You can run all modern game titles efficiently with a Polaris 20 XTX graphic processor, 8 GB ram, and DirectX 12 compatibility. Moreover, this GPU works at 1257 MHz under normal circumstances and 1340 MHz in intense scenarios. Note that its memory operates at 2000 MHz.
And the best part is that it works seamlessly in multi-GPU environments, making it perfect for rendering works. And yes, its fan noise is almost 0dB, making it ideal for quiet operations even in an intense environment.
4. EVGA GeForce RTX 2070
graphical power GPU
Reasons to Consider
EVGA GeForce RTX 2070 comes with ray-tracing capacities to maximize your gameplay graphics. Moreover, it also offers a high-resolution display coupled with higher FPS. And yes, you also get 8GB VRAM and two powerful fans to run games on your Ryzen 5 2600 smoothly.
Specifications
- Ram: 8GB GDDR5
- Video Output: DisplayPort 1.4, HDMI 2.0b
- CUDA: 2304 Cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1620 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1410 MHz
- Bandwidth: 448 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 256-bit
The RTX 2070 SUPER is one of the best GPUs for the Ryzen 5 2600 and several reasons. First, it features an 8 GB VRAM that provides enough graphical power for modern titles.
Moreover, this graphics card can achieve an astounding 60FPS at 1440 resolution, which is surprising considering its price tag. Furthermore, this GPU is best for overclocking as well. You can even make FPS higher by overclocking GPU and Ryzzen 2 2600 processor simultaneously.
However, you will need more cooling for such circumstances. Although this GPU is a little pricey considering its features, it is well worth the price. And one thing more, this GPU offers a minimum bottleneck of 8% for Ryzen 5 2600.
5. MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660
limited budget– gpu
Reasons to Consider
Our next GPU for Ryzen 5 2600 is MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660. It will get the best out of your Ryzen 5 2600 yet stay within your limited budget. A 1408 Cuda core and 6GB DDR5 will meet your system requirement to outperform during gameplay.
Specifications
- Ram: 6GB GDDR5
- Video Output: 3x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI
- CUDA: 1408 Cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1860 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1530 MHz
- Bandwidth: 192 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 128-bit
The MSI Gaming GeForce GTX 1660 has stirred the gaming market for its excellent price-to-performance ratio. This graphics card for Ryzen 5 2600 is perfect owing to its Nvidia Turing architecture. This architecture makes it potent while also maintaining the coolness of your system.
Moreover, it also comes up with a fast pace memory of 12GB and a max clock speed of 1770MHz. So don’t worry; if you compete in highly demanding games, your system will not lag.
Although this graphic card offers amazing graphics for most modern titles, you must play with in-game settings for a little demanding game.
However, if you want to unleash the best of your Ryzen 5 2600, this is the best GPU. You will get higher frame rates without overheating problems or noise thanks to the twin Frozr thermal design. Overall, this GPU is a good choice for your Ryzen 5 2600.
6. Gigabyte Radeon RX 5500 XT
mid-range gpu
Reasons to Consider
GIGABYTE Radeon RX 5500 XT is one of the best graphics cards for Ryzen five 2600x that comes in a mid-range price. The GPU works well with Ryzen 5 2600 due to its 1845 MHz boost clock speed and 8GB Ram. Moreover, it works quietly and without a lag to enhance your gameplay experience.
Specifications
- Ram: 8GB GDDR5
- Video Output: 3x DisplayPort, 1x HDMI
- CUDA: 2304 Cores
- Boost Clock Speed: 1647 MHz
- Base Clock Speed: 1845 MHz
- Bandwidth: 224 GB/Sec
- Memory Interface: 128-bit
Consider this one if you are looking for a star-level graphic card for your Ryzen 5 2600. One of the best things about this graphic card is its -quiet operation. Since this GPU entails a WINDFORCE 2X Cooling System that couples up with alternate spinning fans, you will have an incredible performance like no other.
Moreover, its 8GB GDDR6 and 128-bit memory interface make for efficient processing. Although it will not perform as any other high-end graphic card, its reasonable price tag and good features make it on our list.
And if you want to hit the maximum FPS for your favorite titles, this graphic card will serve well. Although you have to give in-game graphics quality, you will achieve your desired FPS.
All in all, this graphic card has several features that make it suitable for the Ryzen 5 2600.
How to Pick The Best GPU For Ryzen 5 2600?
Since you will be making a handsome investment when buying a GPU, it is crucial to make a good one. Moreover, it has become more critical for Ryzen 5 2600 because it lacks an in-built graphic card unit. So when you opt to buy a GPU for your Ryzen 5 2600, there are a few things to keep in mind that we are listing below!
Clock Speeds & Memory Speeds
You might know that you can pair your Ryzen 5 2600 CPU with any low-, mid-, or high-end GPUs; however, you will hinder the power of your system to play high graphic titles. In other words, you might not experience the Zen+ CPU’s control, limiting your in-game immersive experience.
The faster memory speed guarantee that your graphics will be processed instantly, making for a fantastic performance. Moreover, your GPU’s clock speeds play a vital role in performance. So it is better to get 1100MHz or more clock speed GPU. The excellent news is that all the GPUs we listed above have more than 1100MHz.
Intended Use
Another factor for deciding on GOU is your intended use or, in other words, the titles you play.
If you are more inclined to play AAA titles, you will wish to hit a max of 60FPS with top-notch graphics. Moreover, you will also need a potent graphic card like MSI RTX 2060 to couple up with your Ryzen processor. You can take your single-player gaming experience to another level.
However, if you are more into team play, you will not need a highly-priced, powerful graphic card. GTX 1660 Ti can work perfectly for such titles. However, check your GPU’s clock speed and RAM to achieve a complete graphical display.
Video Memory
Video memory plays an essential part in determining GPU performance. If your GPU features good video memory, you might get to play titles at their best. Note that video memory, or VRAM for GPU, is RAM for CPU.
Now, what is the minimum VRAM for Ryzen 5 2600? So if you want to hit 1080p gaming, you should have a 6 GB VRAM graphic card.
While NVIDIA outperforms VRAM with a minimum of 6GB VRAM, their graphic card runs out of stock very soon. In contrast, AMD also offers impressive performance with its 8GB VRAM on most graphics cards. However, it lacks features like V-ray tracing.
If you want to indulge in VR games, you should go out for a greater VRAM since it will make for a uniquely immersive experience. While getting 6GB VRAM is suitable for starters, you should consider getting 8GB VRAM or more to be future-proof.
Cooling System
The cooling system of a GPU consists of two central parts: a heatsink and fans. The heat sink functions to move away the warm air from the fan. The GPU needs to have a potent heat sink or cooling system to keep the GPU in good working condition despite heavy processing. In addition, you should also go for a higher number of fan blades.
Noise Factor
When you throw heavy processing on the GPU, its fans will make annoying noise that will bother you. Nowadays, most modern GPUs come with almost zero dB, which makes for noiseless operation.
Price
While many of you may not be concerned about the price unless the GPU offers good performance, this is a factor for some. Note that you have to compromise on some of the features if you go for a low-priced GPU, but still, many units provide bang for the buck.
FAQs
Do you need a GPU for Ryzen 5 2600?
Since Ryzen 5 2600 does not come with its GPU, if you want to play high-end games, you have to get one. However, you can play some essential titles without a problem on this PC for graphic intense AAA games and other VR games.
Can I Play Games on a Ryzen 5 2600?
Yes, you can play games on Ryzen 5 2600 since it is one of the best. Since this CPU came with a more significant number of cores and extended RAM, you can get to play most of the game titles. But there is a catch. As this CPU does not have a GPU installed, you will need a dedicated graphics card to play high-end games.
Which Monitor Is Most Suitable for the Ryzen 5 2600?
Although you must recognize the importance of a good GPU for the Ryzen 5 2600, you also need a good monitor display. For most GPUs getting a 1080p 144Hz display is good.
Can I use Ryzen 2600 without GPU?
Yes, the Ryzen 2600 can work without a GPU. However, get a potent GPU if you want to take your gaming experience to the next level. Why? Because the processor does not have a GPU installed on Ryzen 2600 motherboard.
Is Ryzen 5 2600 good with RTX 2060?
The RTX 2060 graphic card goes hand in hand with your Ryzen processor. You can perfectly play most of your games that demand a high graphical display. However, the GPU does not compromise on resolution and FPS, as you can get from 1080p to 1440p with 50-60 frames per second.
Conclusion
So that was all from our guide on the best GPU for Ryzen 5 2600. You will undoubtedly need a graphic card installed to play your favorite titles. After reviewing GPUs from different brands and models, we found the six best picks. Now you can buy it for your PC. However, note that before purchasing a GPU, ensure it is compatible with your PC.
