Intel Arc graphics cards are desktop GPUs for gaming and video work, aimed at buyers who want smooth 1080p or 1440p play and hardware video encoding without paying for a top-tier card. Intel is the only brand here, with the Alchemist (A-series) and Battlemage (B-series) generations as the main lines.
How to choose an Intel Arc graphics card
Generation. Alchemist cards use model names such as A380, A580, A750 and A770, while Battlemage cards use names such as B570 and B580. Newer Battlemage models generally have better efficiency and more video memory at a similar tier, so check the model name before comparing anything else.
Video memory. 8 GB is enough for many 1080p games, but recent titles with high-resolution textures run more comfortably with 10 GB, 12 GB or 16 GB. If you plan to play at 1440p or use the card for editing and 3D work, choose the larger memory option.
Motherboard and Resizable BAR. Arc cards depend on Resizable BAR (also called Smart Access Memory) for good performance. Most PCs from the last several years support it, but older systems may not, so check your motherboard and processor before buying. A card installed in a system without it can fall well short of its potential.
Power and size. Check the power connectors the card needs and compare them with your power supply, and confirm that your case has room for the card's length and thickness. Some Arc cards draw their power from the slot alone, while others need one or two extra cables.
Use case. Arc cards include hardware AV1 encoding, which is useful for streaming and for recording gameplay at smaller file sizes. If your main job is video editing or streaming, this can matter as much as gaming speed.
Brands in this category
- Intel: Intel designs the Arc GPU and its drivers, and is known in this category for including AV1 hardware encoding and ray tracing support on cards aimed at the mid-range.
Cards from other manufacturers may be added to this range as they become available.
Intel Arc graphics cards: frequently asked questions
Are Intel Arc graphics cards good for gaming?
Yes, Intel Arc cards handle modern games well at 1080p, and the newer Battlemage models are suited to 1440p as well. Performance depends on the game and the driver version, and older DirectX 9 titles can run less smoothly than on some rival cards. Keep the graphics driver up to date for the best results.
Do Intel Arc cards need Resizable BAR?
Intel recommends Resizable BAR for Arc cards, and performance can drop noticeably without it. Most motherboards from the last several years support it through a BIOS setting. Check your motherboard and processor specifications before you buy.
Does Intel Arc support AV1 encoding?
Yes, Intel Arc cards include hardware AV1 encoding. This lets streaming and recording software produce high-quality video at lower bitrates than older formats. Check that your streaming or editing software supports AV1 before relying on it.
What power supply do I need for an Intel Arc card?
The requirement depends on the model, so check the manufacturer's recommended minimum wattage for the specific card. Entry-level Arc cards can draw all their power from the slot, while mid-range cards need one or two extra connectors. Choose a power supply with the right connectors and some spare capacity beyond the card and processor combined.
