GIGABYTE GeForce GT 1030 Low Profile D4 2G (GV-N1030D4-2GL): specs and fit

The GIGABYTE GV-N1030D4-2GL is a compact graphics card built on the NVIDIA GeForce GT 1030 with 2GB of DDR4 memory. Its low profile design suits small-form-factor PCs, and it is a way to add video output and light graphics ability to a computer that lacks it. Here is what the specs mean.

The GT 1030 in context

The GT 1030 is an entry-level graphics chip. It typically handles desktop use, video playback and older or lightly demanding games at low settings. It is not intended for recent demanding titles or heavy 3D work. That makes it an upgrade for systems without a graphics card, or for a PC whose processor has no built-in graphics output.

What "D4" and 64-bit memory mean

This version carries 2GB of DDR4 memory on a 64-bit bus. Graphics memory bandwidth affects game performance, and DDR4 on a narrow 64-bit bus generally offers less bandwidth than the GDDR5 used on some other GT 1030 cards. Check the exact variant when comparing performance figures, because the memory type is stated in the model name.

Clock speeds

GIGABYTE lists two modes. In OC mode, the base clock is 1177 MHz and the boost is 1417 MHz. In gaming mode, the base is 1151 MHz and the boost is 1379 MHz. A one-click overclocking function is available through the AORUS Graphics Engine software. The listing advises avoiding unofficial software for this.

Low profile, 150 mm design

The card is about 5.9 inches (150 mm) long and weighs 0.5 lb. Low profile cards use a shorter bracket than standard ones, so they fit slim desktop cases that only allow half-height cards. Check what bracket comes in the box and what your case needs, because the listing doesn't say.

Display output

The listing gives a maximum resolution of 4096 x 2160 at 60Hz. It does not list which ports the card has, so check the full specifications to see whether they match your monitor's inputs.

Who it suits

It suits owners of small or older office PCs who want better video output or a second display, people building a compact media PC, and anyone who needs a basic graphics card where there isn't room for a large one.

What to check before you buy

• Case type: confirm that your case takes a low profile card and has the right bracket.
• Slot: the card goes in a PCIe slot, so check your motherboard has a free one.
• Power: the listing gives no external power connector, but check the manual and your power supply.
• Display ports: confirm the card's outputs match your monitor and cables.
• Expectations: this is an entry-level card, so check that your intended games and software suit it.

The short version

• Low profile GeForce GT 1030 card with 2GB of DDR4 on a 64-bit bus.
• 150 mm long, 0.5 lb.
• Boost 1417 MHz in OC mode, 1379 MHz in gaming mode.
• AORUS Graphics Engine for one-click overclocking.
• Max resolution 4096 x 2160 at 60Hz.

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