MSI GeForce GT 1030 4GHD4 LP OC Low Profile Graphics Card: specs explained

The MSI GeForce GT 1030 4GHD4 LP OC is a compact graphics card built around NVIDIA's GT 1030 chip. "LP" stands for low profile, meaning it's made for small cases that can't take a full-height card. It suits PCs that need extra display outputs or a basic step up from built-in graphics. Here is what the specs mean.

What the chipset is

The GT 1030 uses NVIDIA's Pascal architecture. The listing describes it as suited to everyday gaming, HD video and picture editing. It's an entry-level part, so expect light games and lower settings rather than demanding modern titles. It doesn't state any power connector requirement, which is common for cards of this class that draw power from the slot, but check MSI's specification sheet.

4GB of DDR4 and a 64-bit bus

The card has 4GB of DDR4 video memory on a 64-bit interface, with a memory speed of 2100MHz. Memory type and bus width affect how much data the card can move each second. DDR4 is a different memory type from the GDDR5 used on some other GT 1030 cards, and it generally provides less bandwidth. A 64-bit bus is narrow, so this card is tuned for modest workloads. The 4GB capacity gives room for textures in light games and for video and photo software.

Boost clock and OC

The boost clock is 1430MHz. The "OC" in the name means MSI ships it with a factory overclock, a slightly higher clock than NVIDIA's reference figure. MSI lists 1430MHz as the boost figure, and in practice the card adjusts its speed with temperature and load.

Display outputs

The listing gives DisplayPort x3 (version 1.4a) and HDMI 2.1a x1. That's four outputs, which is useful for multi-monitor desks. Many low-profile cards use a smaller number of connectors, so check what is in the box: a low-profile bracket may be needed in a slim case, and MSI's own specification will confirm which brackets ship with the card and exactly which outputs it has. Also confirm that your monitors have inputs that match, or that you have the right cables or adapters.

Drivers and software

NVIDIA's GeForce Experience app notifies you of new driver releases, and per the description you can update with one click.

Who it suits

It suits owners of compact or older desktops who want more screens, smoother HD video and photo editing, or light gaming, and builders who need a card that fits in a slim case.

What to check before you buy

• Case fit: confirm that your case takes low-profile cards, and check its slot height and length.
• Bracket: check whether your case needs the low-profile bracket and whether it's included.
• Power: check your power supply and whether MSI lists any additional connector.
• Slot: make sure you have a free PCI Express x16 slot.
• Monitors: match the DisplayPort and HDMI outputs to your screens.
• Expectations: this is an entry-level card, so check that it suits the games and software you plan to run.

The short version

• A low-profile GeForce GT 1030 card with 4GB DDR4 and a 64-bit memory interface.
• A boost clock of 1430MHz and a memory speed of 2100MHz.
• DisplayPort x3 (1.4a) and HDMI 2.1a x1, as listed.
• Aimed at compact PCs, multi-monitor setups and light gaming.

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