Exchange the graphics card in the computer - how it works

If you have jerky games or high-definition videos, it might make sense to replace your computer's graphics card. In this guide, we show you how to find the right graphics card and how to install it correctly in your computer. In our video above you can also see detailed instructions from YouTuber Marco from Gadgets Technik Reviews.

Preparation: Prepare computer for graphics card installation

Especially when you replace the graphics card, you have to pay attention to a few things. This is the only way to be sure that the new hardware works without any problems.

There are three connections for graphics cards: AGP, PCI and PCIe x16. AGP and PCI are old connections, which is why a new graphics card is generally not worthwhile. You can determine which connection your PC has with a program such as "SiSoft Sandra Lite 2014". Alternatively, open your computer and have a look.
Measure whether there is enough space in your computer. Powerful graphics cards in particular are sometimes very long and may collide with other components during installation.
Most graphics cards also require a connection to the power supply. Check your power supply to see if it can transmit enough power and if there are enough PCIe power connectors for the new graphics card.
Check to see if maybe your processor isn't the real eye of the needle. If it is too slow, even the fastest graphics card will hardly improve your performance. You can find a comparison of Dekstop processors in our leaderboard.
Uninstall the drivers from your old graphics card.

Install the graphics card in the PC

After you have gone through the points and found the right graphics card, you can install it in your computer. You can also view the individual points in the gallery below.

Ground yourself, for example by touching a radiator or similar.
Now screw on your computer. Remove the cover for the PCI ports on the outside of your PC. Remove hardware parts that disturb you when installing and removing the graphics cards. Now you can carefully remove the graphics card. Make sure that you do not come into contact with any other components.
Insert the new graphics card carefully. It should click slightly when it is fully inserted.
Now connect the power connections of the power supply to the graphics card. If you have disconnected other cables, connect them again.
Now you can close your PC again and screw on the PCI cover.
Connect your monitor and start your computer. After installing the drivers, your new system should work correctly.

In our leaderboard you will find a comparison of the current PCIe graphics cards.