Buzz
Using two graphics cards in your system can occasionally provide a significant boost to graphical performance. However, there are several crucial differences between how NVIDIA and AMD approach dual graphics setups. Linus from Techquickie provides an in-depth explanation.
If you're considering running two graphics cards, the choice between NVIDIA and AMD becomes more complex, as they manage the setup in different ways. I strongly suggest watching the video for a comprehensive breakdown, but here's the essence:
To use NVIDIA cards in SLI, both GPUs need to be identical, whereas AMD's Crossfire can work with cards from the same family or with different RAM configurations.
Crossfire is compatible with a wider range of motherboards, including more budget-friendly options.
Recent AMD cards don’t require a physical connector, which may not seem like much, but it simplifies the setup and reduces the risk of failure due to an extra link in the chain.
AMD’s Crossfire can also pair a dedicated GPU with an onboard APU for added flexibility.
Ultimately, while NVIDIA's SLI setup is more restrictive, it offers a stable and predictable experience. In contrast, AMD provides greater flexibility, albeit with a more varied performance output.
That being said, we still believe single-GPU setups generally outperform dual-GPU configurations, except in specific cases (like multi-monitor gaming, for instance). Ultimately, the choice is yours, and if you opt for two GPUs, this video provides a solid introduction to the differences between NVIDIA and AMD's approaches.
