Is the GT 1030 still relevant in 2025?
No, the GT 1030 not very relevant in 2025 except for basic uses either extremely budgets limited. The NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030, launched in 2017, is an entry-level graphics card that still appears on the market, especially in versions such as the GT 1030 2GB or the GT 1030 4GB graphics card. With models such as the ASUS GT 1030 2GB, the GT 1030 2GB Gigabyte, wave AFOX NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR5This NVIDIA GT 1030 graphics card remains a budget-friendly option for certain situations. But is it worth buying a GT 1030 2GB DDR5 or a GeForce GT 1030 2GB MSI graphics card in 2025?
In this article, we'll explore its specs, gaming and productivity performance, and whether it's still a good investment compared to modern competitors.
In my opinion, the GT 1030 is a motherboard I wouldn't recommend in 2025. It's very outdated, and while it could be used as an office computer or a child's first PC, don't expect to play modern games on it.Its age limits it, and although it can be found used at a low price, it doesn't always justify its cost compared to slightly better alternatives.
Technical specifications of the NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030
The GT 1030 comes in two main variants: the GeForce GT 1030 2GB DDR4 and the GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR5. Here are their key specifications:
| Specification | GT 1030 |
|---|---|
| Architecture | Pascal |
| CUDA Cores | 384 |
| VRAM | 2GB DDR4 (24 GB/s) or 2GB GDDR5 (48 GB/s) |
| Bandwidth | 64-bit |
| Boost frequency | ~1468 MHz (varies by model) |
| TDP | 30W |
| Video entries | HDMI 2.0b, DVI-D (some with DP 1.4) |
The NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030 graphics card in its GDDR5 version, such as the GT 1030 2GB DDR5 AFOX, offers a better performance that DDR4 thanks to its greater bandwidth. Models like the video card Colorful GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR4 wave GeForce GT 1030 2GB Gigabyte they are compact and of low consumption, but their limited VRAM and older architecture make them uncompetitive in 2025.
GT 1030 performance in gaming and creation
Gaming in 1080p and 720p: What can you expect?
The GT 1030 graphics card, whether the NVIDIA GT 1030 2GB or the GT 1030 4GB, is designed for entry-level gaming. Here are some realistic performance examples in 2025:
| Game | Resolution | Configuration | FPS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fortnite | 1080p | Low | 30-50 FPS |
| Minecraft | 1080p | Average | 50-70 FPS |
| Cyberpunk 2077 | 720p | Low | 15-20 FPS |
| Valorant | 1080p | Average | 60-80 FPS |
From my perspective, the GeForce GT 1030 2GB DDR5 can handle older or light games at 1080p with low to medium settings, like Valorant, but for modern titles like Cyberpunk 2077, you'll probably have to drop down to 720p, and even then the performance is poor.Models like the GeForce GT 1030 2GB graphics card aren't designed for higher resolutions or advanced technologies, making them of little use for modern gaming.
Productivity and creation: Is it useful?
With only 2GB of VRAM, the GT 1030 2GB graphics card or the Colorful GT 1030 4GB graphics card are not ideal for graphic design in 2025. They can handle basic tasks such as:
- Light photo editing in Photoshop.
- 1080p video playback.
- Use in offices with basic programs.
However, for 3D rendering or high-resolution video editing, it's insufficiently powerful. Personally, I think the GT 1030 is fine for an office or watching videos, but I wouldn't recommend it for design beyond the basics.
Is the GT 1030 good for mining in 2025?
The GT 1030 2GB DDR5 had a brief moment of popularity in mining due to its low power consumption (30W). However, in 2025, with more demanding algorithms and more powerful GPUs available, this NVIDIA GT 1030 card is neither profitable nor practical for cryptocurrency mining due to its low computing power.
Comparison: GT 1030 vs. competitors in 2025
| Feature | GT 1030 | RX 550 | GTX 1650 | RX 6400 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VRAM | 2GB DDR4/GDDR5 | 2GB/4GB GDDR5 | 4GB GDDR6 | 4GB GDDR6 |
| TDP | 30W | 50W | 75W | 53W |
| FPS at 1080p (Medium) | 25-40 FPS | 30-50 FPS | 70-90 FPS | 60-80 FPS |
| Price in 2025 (approx) | $60-$80 USD (used) | $50-$80 USD (used) | $150 USD | $120 USD |
The GT 1030 They are cheaper, but the RX 550 offers better performance for a similar price. Alternatives such as the GTX 1650 either RX 6400 are superior for modern gaming.
What PSU do you need for the GT 1030 in 2025?
With a TDP of just 30W, the GeForce GT 1030 2GB DDR4 or DDR5 is extremely efficientA typical setup might be:
- CPU: Intel Core i3-10100 (35W, basic).
- GPU: GT 1030 (30W, Base GPU).
- Motherboard: Basic Micro ATX (25W).
- Storage: 1 NVMe SSD (10W).
- RAM: 8GB (10W).
- Fans: 1 basic fan (10W).
- Estimated total: 35W + 30W + 25W + 10W + 10W + 10W = 120W.
- With margin of 20%: : 120W * 1.2 = 144W, rounded to 150W.
RecommendationA PSU of at least 250W is sufficient for the GT 1030 graphics card, but for stability, the Corsair CV450 (450W, 80 PLUS Bronze, ~$40) is a solid choice. If you want something more in line with the low power consumption of the GT 1030 2GB NVIDIA, a Thermaltake Smart 500W (500W, 80 PLUS Bronze, ~$45) also works well.
Best models of the GT 1030
| Model | Refrigeration | Overclocking | Build quality |
|---|---|---|---|
| ASUS GT 1030 2GB (Phoenix) | A fan | Moderate | Compact and quiet, ideal for small setups. ASUS stands out for its durability. |
| MSI GeForce GT 1030 2GB (Low Profile) | A fan or passive | Standard | Perfect for HTPCs or compact PCs due to its low profile. MSI offers reliability. |
| Gigabyte GeForce GT 1030 2GB DDR5 | A fan | Mild | Good construction and efficient cooling, ideal for offices or light gaming. |
| AFOX GT 1030 2GB GDDR5 | A fan | Standard | Budget-friendly option with GDDR5, better than DDR4 for basic gaming. AFOX is functional. |
| Colorful GeForce GT 1030 2GB GDDR4 | A fan | Standard | Basic but effective design, although GDDR4 limits performance compared to GDDR5. |
The GDDR5 version (e.g. GT 1030 2GB DDR5 AFOX) is always preferable over DDR4 due to its higher bandwidth, especially in gaming.
Conclusion: Is the NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030 worth it in 2025?
The NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030, whether the GT 1030 2GB DDR5 or the GT 1030 4GB graphics card, is a video card with a clear niche in 2025: ultra-economic setups. With a GeForce GT 1030 priced at $60-$80 USD (used), models like the ASUS GT 1030 2GB graphics card or the Gigabyte GT 1030 2GB are useful for office tasks, video playback either old games in 1080p/720p. However, in my opinion, it's not a card I would recommend at all in 2025. It's outdated, and while it may stir nostalgia for those who used it, its relevance is minimal compared to options like the RX 550 or GTX 1650.If you're on a tight budget and only need something basic, the NVIDIA GT 1030 graphics card may work; if not, saving a little more will give you much better performance. Especially since it's only available used, its price may seem cheap, but in its category, it's expensive for what it offers.
Frequently Asked Questions about the GT 1030
Yes, but only for light gaming. The GT 1030 2GB DDR5 achieves 25-40 FPS at 1080p with low to medium settings in titles like Valorant.
Most have 2GB of either DDR4 or GDDR5. Some rare models, like the Colorful GT 1030 4GB, offer 4GB of DDR4.
With a TDP of 30W, a 250W PSU is sufficient, but a Corsair CV450 (450W, ~$40) is recommended for stability.
Not much. The RX 550 offers better performance (30-50 FPS vs. 25-40 FPS at 1080p) for a similar price ($14T50-$14T80).
No, it's only suitable for light editing. Its 2GB VRAM and low power make it insufficient for professional design in 2025.
