Best Graphics Cards Under $50 in 2026: 9 Picks Ranked by Specs
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Finding hardware for a graphics card under 50 requires a close look at interface specifications and physical layouts. We compared 9 products using the specifications published on their listings to identify the right parts for your build.
The LINKUP Ultra PCIe 4.0 x16 10cm Riser Cable leads the list because it delivers PCIe 4.0 speeds up to 64GB/s across individually shielded lanes in a compact 10cm format. This guide helps you decide which connector style, bracket size, and riser length fit your enclosure.
Quick picks
The best fit for you
- You need a short riser for compact vertical builds LINKUP Ultra PCIe 4.0 x16 10cm Riser Cable Its 10cm length and PCIe 4.0 x16 interface provide high-speed connectivity in tight spaces.
- You need low profile video output for small cases Glorto GeForce GT 610 Low Profile Card It provides 2048MB of DDR3 memory with HDMI and VGA outputs in a low profile design.
- You need adjustable GPU support without using expansion slots ASUS ROG Herculx GPU Anti-Sag Holder The zinc alloy frame provides 72 to 128 mm of toolless height adjustment.
Our 9 picks
LINKUP Ultra PCIe 4.0 x16 10cm Riser Cable
Best for: compact vertical PCIe 4.0 GPU setups
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0
- Use
- Gaming
This is a 10cm PCIe 4.0 x16 riser cable designed to mount your graphics card vertically. It delivers bi-directional bandwidth exceeding 64GB/s and features dedicated individual laneway shielding alongside 85-ohm impedance wiring. The sectional build maintains airflow around your components. It suits you if you need a compact, high-speed Gen 4 extension cable to connect your GPU to your motherboard inside a tight case.
Pros
- Full PCIe 4.0 x16 support with over 64GB/s bi-directional bandwidth
- Individual laneway shielding prevents EMI and RFI interference
- Hand-soldered gold-plated contacts for signal integrity
- Sectional cable design supports airflow and lower operating temperatures
Cons
- Short 10cm length restricts GPU positioning in larger enclosures
- Mounting screws are not recommended due to potential hole misalignment
- Limited to a one-year warranty
Good fit if
- You need a short 10cm extension to position a PCIe 4.0 card
- You want individual cable shielding to reduce signal interference
- You require 85-ohm wiring engineered for Gen 4 graphics cards
Skip if
- You need a cable run longer than 10cm to reach your motherboard
- You are looking for a standalone graphics card processing unit
- You plan to secure the riser directly using screws in cases like the TT P8
Verdict: LINKUP Ultra PCIe 4.0 x16 10cm Riser Cable delivers full Gen 4 speeds up to 64GB/s with individually shielded lanes for stable vertical GPU installations. Its 10cm length and segmented wiring make it ideal for tight chassis layouts.
EZDIY-FAB 20cm Right-Angle PCIe 4.0 Riser Cable
Best for: compact builds needing right-angle PCIe 4.0 routing
- Weight
- 4.97 ounces
View on Amazon: EZDIY-FAB 20cm Right-Angle PCIe 4.0 Riser Cable
This EZDIY-FAB accessory is a 20-centimeter flexible PCIe 4.0 x16 riser cable designed for mounting your graphics card. It features a right-angle connector to prevent pressing against case panels, along with a flat, foldable design for clean routing. You get backward compatibility with PCIe 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0 motherboards. It suits you if you need to install modern graphics cards like RTX 40-series or RX 7000-series hardware into compact custom builds.
Pros
- Supports full PCIe Gen4 x16 data speeds
- Right-angle connector avoids pressing the cable against panels
- Flat, foldable 200mm cable enables clean routing
- Backward-compatible with PCIe 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0 standards
Cons
- Fixed 20cm length limits placement options in larger chassis
- Right-angle connector orientation cannot be adjusted
Good fit if
- You need a 200mm right-angle PCIe 4.0 x16 extension cable.
- You use Gen4 platforms such as X570, B550, Z690, or B660.
- You route hardware from the RTX 40/30 or RX 7000/6000 series.
Skip if
- You require a straight connector instead of a right angle.
- You need a cable length longer than 20cm to reach your motherboard.
Verdict: EZDIY-FAB 20cm Right-Angle PCIe 4.0 Riser Cable provides reliable Gen4 x16 connectivity in a flexible 200mm format with a 90-degree plug. It delivers tidy cable routing and broad hardware compatibility for tight system builds.
EZDIY-FAB 30cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Straight Riser Cable
Best for: straight-slot ITX and TT-P case builds
- Weight
- 0.81 ounces
View on Amazon: EZDIY-FAB 30cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Straight Riser Cable
This EZDIY-FAB extension is a 30cm straight PCIe 4.0 x16 riser cable designed to connect your graphics card to your motherboard across longer case spans. It supports full PCIe Gen 4 bandwidth, provides backward compatibility with PCIe 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0, and features a slim, foldable cable layout. It suits you if you assemble an ITX or TT-P series computer chassis using an RTX 40/30 or RX 7000/6000 series card.
Pros
- Full PCIe Gen 4 x16 operational speed
- Backward-compatible with PCIe 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0 interfaces
- Slim, flat, and foldable cable design
- Compatible with RTX 40/30 and RX 7000/6000 series GPUs
Cons
- Straight connector orientation lacks a 90-degree right angle
- Only available in black
Good fit if
- You need a 30cm straight connection for an ITX or TT-P series case.
- You run a PCIe 4.0 graphics card such as an RTX 4090 or RX 7000 series GPU.
Skip if
- You need a 90-degree right-angle mount for your chassis layout.
- You require a shorter 20cm cable run.
Verdict: EZDIY-FAB 30cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Straight Riser Cable provides full Gen 4 transmission over a flexible 30cm layout for straight-entry cases. It fits TT-P and ITX enclosures without requiring angled connectors.
ASUS ROG Herculx GPU Anti-Sag Holder
Best for: toolless GPU anti-sag support with ARGB lighting
- Dimensions
- 8.19 × 2.8 × 0.1 inches
- Weight
- 1.2 pounds
This ASUS ROG Herculx GPU Anti-Sag Holder supports heavy graphics cards without taking up a PCIe slot. It provides an adjustable support height range of 72 to 128 mm using a toolless wheel and quick-release button. Constructed with zinc alloy, it weighs 1.2 pounds and includes a spirit level for alignment. It also features Aura Sync-compatible 3D ARGB lighting, making it suitable if you want stable GPU bracing with integrated illumination.
Pros
- Adjustable support height range of 72 to 128 mm
- Toolless adjustment wheel and release button
- Solid zinc alloy construction weighing 1.2 pounds
- Included spirit level simplifies vertical alignment
- Embedded 3D ARGB element compatible with Aura Sync
Cons
- Requires at least 72 mm of clearance beneath the card
- Stand base footprint requires dedicated chassis floor space
Good fit if
- You have between 72 mm and 128 mm of clearance under your graphics card.
- You want toolless height adjustment with an included spirit level.
- You want Aura Sync ARGB lighting integrated into your support stand.
Skip if
- You need support clearance lower than 72 mm or higher than 128 mm.
- You lack the base space for a 1.2-pound stand beneath your graphics card.
Verdict: ASUS ROG Herculx GPU Anti-Sag Holder delivers robust zinc alloy support with a 72 to 128 mm range without occupying a PCIe slot. Its toolless adjustment and integrated level simplify setup for compatible desktop cases.
EZDIY-FAB Vertical PCIe 4.0 GPU Mount
Best for: vertical GPU mounting in ATX cases
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0
- Length
- 6.3 inches
- Width
- 1.57 inches
This EZDIY-FAB accessory is a vertical GPU mounting bracket paired with a PCIe 4.0 x16 riser cable. It supports 1-slot, 2-slot, and 3-slot graphics cards and connects via PCIe 4.0, 3.0, 2.0, or 1.0 interfaces. A stretchable structure enables video cable access through standard PCI grilles. This unit suits you if you own a full or mid ATX tower with seven open slots and want vertical graphics card placement.
Pros
- Supports PCIe 4.0, 3.0, 2.0, and 1.0 interface speeds
- Accommodates 1-slot, 2-slot, and 3-slot graphics cards
- Stretchable structure allows display cable connection through chassis grilles
- All pure white finish
Cons
- Requires a mid or full ATX case with at least 7 PCI slots
- Requires manual chassis measurement to ensure clearance for its 6.3-inch length
Good fit if
- You have a mid or full ATX case with 7 available PCI slots.
- You need a vertical mount supporting up to 3-slot PCIe 4.0 GPUs.
- You want an all-white bracket and riser setup.
Skip if
- You use a micro-ATX or mini-ITX computer case.
- You have fewer than 7 empty PCI expansion slots.
Verdict: EZDIY-FAB Vertical PCIe 4.0 GPU Mount provides reliable vertical support for up to 3-slot graphics cards using high-speed PCIe 4.0. It is a solid choice if your mid or full ATX case offers seven spare expansion slots.
Glorto GeForce GT 610 Low Profile Card
Best for: small form factor PC video output
- Graphics Processor
- GeForce GT 610
- Memory Size
- 2G
- Memory Type
- DDR3
- Memory Bus Width
- 64-bit
- PCIe Interface
- PCI Express 1.1 x16
- Form Factor
- Low Profile
The Glorto GeForce GT 610 Low Profile Card is an entry-level graphics card designed for standard desktop towers, small form factor cases, and home theater PCs. It features 2048MB of DDR3 memory on a 64-bit bus with a 523MHz core frequency. You get HDMI and VGA video outputs supporting resolutions up to 2560x1600. This low-profile card fits your system if you need a basic display adapter with native Windows 11 compatibility.
Pros
- Includes 2048MB of dedicated DDR3 memory on a 64-bit bus
- Dual display outputs with HDMI up to 2560x1600 and VGA up to 2048x1536
- Low profile design with half-height bracket for small form factor setups
- Compatible with Windows 11 without manual driver installation
Cons
- Uses older PCI Express 1.1 x16 interface
- Does not fit micro form factor systems
- Lacks DisplayPort output
Good fit if
- You need HDMI and VGA display outputs for standard or small form factor PCs.
- You run Windows 11 and want plug-and-play driver support.
- You require a low-profile card with 2048MB DDR3 memory.
Skip if
- You use a micro form factor case.
- You need modern DisplayPort connectivity.
- You need higher bandwidth than PCI Express 1.1 x16 provides.
Verdict: Glorto GeForce GT 610 Low Profile Card provides essential HDMI and VGA video outputs with 2048MB of DDR3 memory for compact PCs. It serves as a straightforward display solution for Windows 11 systems needing half-height card compatibility.
Yunir 40cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Riser Cable
Best for: long-reach vertical RTX 3090 GPU installations
- GPU
- GeForce RTX 3090
- Interface
- PCIe 4.0
This Yunir riser cable gives you a 40cm extension featuring a 90-degree connector and a flat, foldable profile. It delivers full PCIe 4.0 x16 speeds and backwards compatibility across PCIe generations. The cable includes segmented independent channel shielding to block EMI and RFI interference while promoting airflow. It suits your build if you install a card like an RTX 3090 into a case requiring extra routing distance.
Pros
- 40cm extended length with foldable flat profile
- Full PCIe 4.0 x16 bandwidth with backward compatibility
- Right-angle 90-degree connector
- Independent channel shielding against EMI and RFI
Cons
- Manufacturer advises against overclocking due to stability risks
- Not rated for PCIe 5.0 speeds
Good fit if
- You need a 40cm reach for vertical GPU mounting.
- You run a PCIe 4.0 GPU such as an RTX 3090 or RX 6900XT.
Skip if
- You plan to overclock your graphics card.
- You need a straight or 180-degree connector rather than a 90-degree angle.
Verdict: Yunir 40cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Riser Cable provides reliable Gen4 signal delivery and extra length for vertical GPU positioning. Its shielded, segmented layout preserves airflow, though the manufacturer cautions against overclocking.
Yardenfun External GPU Dock for Laptop
Best for: compact laptop external graphics card setups
- Dimensions
- 5.43 × 1.5 × 0.1 inches
- Weight
- 5.28 ounces
This laptop graphics card dock expands your portable computer into an external GPU station using a PCI-E connection. It supplies up to 220W of power via an 8-pin interface or up to 150W using the DC input. With a compact footprint measuring 5.43 by 1.5 inches and included cables, it suits you if you want to connect desktop graphics hardware to your compatible laptop setup.
Pros
- Supports up to 220W through the 8-pin power interface
- Supports up to 150W through the DC interface
- Includes dedicated power cable and PCI-E connection cable
- Compact PCB and ABS build measuring 5.43 by 1.5 inches
Cons
- USB connectivity limited to USB 1.0, 1.1, and 2.0 standards
- Power delivery capped at 220W maximum
- Requires external power source to operate
Good fit if
- You need an external PCI-E dock to connect a GPU to a compatible laptop.
- You run a graphics card requiring 220W or less.
- You want a setup that includes necessary power and PCI-E cables.
Skip if
- You require high-speed USB 3.0 or higher connection interfaces.
- You plan to run a high-power graphics card exceeding 220W.
Verdict: Yardenfun External GPU Dock for Laptop provides an external PCI-E expansion solution with dual DC and 8-pin power options. It suits users looking to run a desktop GPU with a compatible laptop setup without excess bulk.
RGEEK OCuLink PCIe 4.0 eGPU Dock
Best for: high-bandwidth external GPU setups using OCuLink
This RGEEK eGPU dock links an external graphics card to your system using an OCuLink SFF-8612 interface. It provides a PCIe 4.0 x4 connection with transfer speeds up to 64Gbps and includes a 60cm connection cable. Power arrives via a standard 24-pin ATX connector, supporting ATX, mATX, and FLEX units. It suits you if you need high-bandwidth external GPU connectivity with synchronized power control.
Pros
- Supports PCIe 4.0 x4 bandwidth up to 64Gbps
- Standard 24-pin ATX power port works with ATX, mATX, and FLEX supplies
- Three-mode power switch includes AUTO setting for synchronous system power
- PCIe x16 physical slot accepts x1, x4, x8, and x16 devices
Cons
- Incompatible with standard third-party OCuLink cables
- Does not support hot-swapping
- Requires external power supply rated 100W above device draw
Good fit if
- You have a host system configured with an OCuLink connection
- You want external card power to sync automatically with host power
- You already have a standalone ATX, mATX, or FLEX power unit
Skip if
- You need hot-plugging support without powering down hardware
- You plan to use custom third-party OCuLink cables
- You need an enclosed dock with built-in power supply
Verdict: RGEEK OCuLink PCIe 4.0 eGPU Dock delivers up to 64Gbps bandwidth through a PCIe 4.0 x4 link with flexible ATX power integration. It requires full system power-downs before disconnection and functions exclusively with its included proprietary cable.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | LINKUP Ultra PCIe 4.0 x16 10cm Riser Cable | EZDIY-FAB 20cm Right-Angle PCIe 4.0 Riser Cable | EZDIY-FAB 30cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Straight Riser Cable | ASUS ROG Herculx GPU Anti-Sag Holder | EZDIY-FAB Vertical PCIe 4.0 GPU Mount | Glorto GeForce GT 610 Low Profile Card | Yunir 40cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Riser Cable | Yardenfun External GPU Dock for Laptop | RGEEK OCuLink PCIe 4.0 eGPU Dock |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphics Processor | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | GeForce GT 610 | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Memory Size | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 2G | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Memory Type | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | DDR3 | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Memory Bus Width | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 64-bit | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| PCIe Interface | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | PCI Express 1.1 x16 | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| GPU | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | GeForce RTX 3090 | not specified | not specified |
| Interface | PCIe 4.0 | not specified | not specified | not specified | PCIe 4.0 | not specified | PCIe 4.0 | not specified | not specified |
| Form Factor | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | Low Profile | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Use | Gaming | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Weight | not specified | 4.97 ounces | 0.81 ounces | 1.2 pounds | not specified | not specified | not specified | 5.28 ounces | not specified |
| Dimensions | not specified | not specified | not specified | 8.19 × 2.8 × 0.1 inches | not specified | 6.15 × 4.73 × 0.1 inches | not specified | 5.43 × 1.5 × 0.1 inches | not specified |
| Length | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 6.3 inches | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Width | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | 1.57 inches | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Size | 10cm- | 20CM | 30CM | Pack of 1 | not specified | not specified | 40cm | 13.8X3.8cm | not specified |
| Color | White | Black | Black | XH01/GRY/ARGB/VGA HOLDER// | All Pure white | not specified | not specified | Multi | not specified |
| Model | PCIE4EXT11SR-010-WH | US-Soft PCIE 4.0-20CM-90 | US-Soft PCIE 4.0-30CM-180 | XH01 ROG HERCULX GRAPHICS CARD HOLDER | YIHPI333-16 | NVIDIA GeForce GT 610 | Yunirqdfnbotxk7 | ZK323733029S | not specified |
Trade-Offs to Expect Under $50
Most options Under $50 are installation accessories like brackets, docks, and riser cables rather than standalone GPUs. Riser cables provide PCIe 4.0 or PCIe 5.0 interfaces with fixed lengths from 10cm to 40cm and straight or 90-degree connector angles. The few dedicated graphics cards available, such as the GeForce GT 210 and GeForce GT 610, use older DDR3 memory types, low profile form factors, and memory capacities up to 2048MB. You trade modern rendering power and high-speed memory for basic display outputs and mounting components.
- Memory type limited to DDR3 on graphics cards
- Memory capacity capped at 2048MB for display output
- Interface routing constrained by fixed riser cable lengths from 10cm to 40cm
If you also evaluate cooking hardware specifications, you can review published specs for each grill under 50 listed in our cooking guide.
How We Picked These Products
You see 9 options chosen from Amazon listings matching Under $50 for 2026. Every detail comes directly from published specifications and feature lists, as products are not physically handled. We include only one size or variant from each product family so you can compare distinct hardware options directly.
The page shows products in stock first to help you locate available items quickly. Listings move in or out of this guide as eligibility shifts over time. Data refreshes at least daily to maintain current information, giving you an accurate comparison based purely on published technical specifications.
Key Specs for Choosing Graphics Hardware
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Match PCIe Interface Bandwidth
Check the PCIe interface version on your motherboard and card before picking an extension. A PCIe 4.0 riser cable supports bandwidth up to 64GB/s across sixteen lanes, which matches modern mainstream hardware. If your motherboard and graphics card support the newer PCIe 5.0 standard, selecting a component like the JEYI 18cm PCIe 5.0 x16 Riser Cable ensures you reach speeds up to 128GB/s. Matching the exact generation prevents signal renegotiation issues and maintains stable throughput.
-
Measure Riser Cable Length
Measure the path between your motherboard slot and GPU mount to determine the required cable length. Selecting a cable that is too short prevents installation, while excess length forces tight bends that impede chassis airflow. Compact cases often require short runs, but larger chassis or custom test benches need extended spans. The Yunir 40cm PCIe 4.0 x16 Riser Cable accommodates long distances across roomy enclosures, allowing you to position your card cleanly without placing mechanical strain on slot connections.
-
Select Proper Connector Angle
Evaluate the orientation of your vertical mounting plate to pick the right connector style. Straight 180-degree connectors suit cases where the extension plugs parallel to the base. If your bracket positions the card perpendicular to the tray, an angled head prevents extreme cable twisting. The OwlTree 300mm 90-Degree PCIe 4.0 Riser Cable provides a right-angle interface designed to seat cleanly beneath the card bracket. Choosing the correct angle ensures firm mechanical contact and avoids damaging delicate internal traces.
-
Verify Expansion Slot Clearance
Check the rear expansion layout of your PC chassis before purchasing a vertical mounting kit. Full brackets require multiple rear slot openings without metal divider bars between them. For instance, the EZDIY-FAB Vertical PCIe 4.0 GPU Mount requires seven open expansion slots in a mid or full ATX case. It supports graphics cards up to three slots wide. Confirming both case slot availability and cooler thickness ensures your GPU clears the motherboard components and leaves adequate breathing space against side panels.
-
Check Support Bracket Height
Inspect the physical clearance beneath your graphics card to ensure an anti-sag stand fits properly. Heavy modern cards can droop over time, putting stress on the motherboard slot. You must measure the distance between the bottom of your card shroud and the chassis floor or power supply shroud. The ASUS ROG Herculx GPU Anti-Sag Holder accommodates a vertical range of 72 to 128 mm. Verifying this height span ensures the stand firmly secures your card without pushing it upward.
-
Confirm Form Factor Dimensions
Verify the physical expansion clearance in your computer case when selecting an entry-level graphics card for video display. Standard desktop enclosures accept full-height cards, but slim office towers and compact home-theater PCs require low-profile designs. The QTHREE GeForce GT 210 Low Profile Graphics Card features a compact board layout and DDR3 memory suited for dual-display setups in confined chassis. Checking card profile dimensions ensures the bracket and board seat properly within half-height expansion slots without colliding with system components.
Frequently asked questions
Can you run multiple monitors with an entry-level graphics card?
Yes, you can run multiple displays using compact entry-level hardware without installing extra display adapters. The QTHREE GeForce GT 210 supports dual-display output for basic desktop setups. Alternatively, the Glorto GeForce GT 610 provides both HDMI and VGA video ports alongside 2048MB of DDR3 memory. These configurations let you attach two separate monitors directly to standard low-profile desktop slots.
Do low-profile graphics cards require dedicated power cables from the power supply?
No, standard low-profile cards in this category draw all necessary operating power directly from your motherboard expansion slot. For example, the QTHREE GeForce GT 210 functions without external power connectors, making it suitable for compact systems with basic power supplies. This design simplifies installation in small office machines or legacy desktop systems where auxiliary power leads are absent.
How do you prevent physical GPU sag in your desktop case?
You can install a dedicated standalone bracket beneath your graphics card to support its weight. The ASUS ROG Herculx GPU Anti-Sag Holder uses a zinc alloy construction that adjusts from 72 to 128 mm in height without taking up an expansion slot. It includes a built-in level and toolless height adjustments to stabilize heavy modern cards inside compatible desktop enclosures.
Can you connect a desktop graphics card to a laptop?
Yes, you can connect an external graphics card using a dedicated PCI-E docking station. The Yardenfun External GPU Dock provides external expansion for compatible laptops through dual DC and 8-pin power connections. Its compact board measures 13.8 by 3.8 cm, letting you run a desktop card setup alongside your portable system without adding heavy permanent internal hardware.
What case requirements exist for installing a vertical GPU mount?
You need an ATX chassis with multiple available rear expansion brackets to install a vertical mount properly. The EZDIY-FAB Vertical PCIe 4.0 GPU Mount requires seven spare expansion slots in a mid or full ATX case. This hardware holds cards up to three slots thick, positioning the graphics card upright while maintaining high-speed PCIe 4.0 data transmission.
What should you check when choosing a PCIe riser cable length?
You should measure the physical distance between your motherboard slot and card mount to avoid excessive slack or signal strain. Options in 2026 range from compact 10cm cables like the LINKUP Ultra to long 40cm models like the Yunir cable. Selecting the proper span ensures clean airflow, while cables such as the Yunir model specifically advise against GPU overclocking.
How do PCIe 4.0 and PCIe 5.0 riser cables differ in throughput?
PCIe 5.0 riser cables double the maximum theoretical transmission bandwidth compared to PCIe 4.0 cables across sixteen lanes. The JEYI 18cm PCIe 5.0 x16 Riser Cable delivers data rates up to 128GB/s for modern builds. Standard PCIe 4.0 cables, such as the 10cm LINKUP Ultra, provide speeds up to 64GB/s, which matches the throughput demands of PCIe 4.0 graphics hardware.