Overview

The ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 6GB OC Edition Graphics Card offers solid performance for gamers who want reliable 1080p gameplay without breaking the bank. This graphics card is built around NVIDIA's Ampere architecture, which provides notable improvements in power efficiency and processing power. With 6GB of GDDR6 memory, it strikes a balance between budget-friendly pricing and modern graphical demands. The dual-fan design ensures efficient cooling, while the compact 2-slot form factor allows it to fit in smaller builds without compromising airflow.

Features & Benefits

Packed with powerful features, this GPU is equipped with 2nd Gen RT Cores for superior ray-tracing effects, enhancing the gaming experience with more realistic lighting and shadows. It also boasts 3rd Gen Tensor Cores that enable AI-driven features like DLSS, providing smoother gameplay at higher frame rates. The dual-fan setup incorporates Axial-tech fan technology for efficient cooling, keeping temperatures low during intensive gaming sessions. Additionally, Zero dB technology makes it virtually silent under light loads, offering a quieter gaming environment.

Best For

This graphics card is ideal for gamers seeking a smooth 1080p gaming experience on medium to high settings. It fits perfectly in compact PC builds due to its slim 2-slot design, making it great for users with limited space. The ASUS RTX 3050 is also a solid choice for those who want to enjoy advanced features like ray-tracing and AI-enhanced graphics without spending on high-end GPUs. Additionally, content creators and hobbyists who require dependable performance for everyday tasks will find this GPU offers great value.

User Feedback

Users praise this graphics card for its solid performance in modern games at 1080p resolution, noting that it delivers smooth frame rates without noticeable stutter. Many appreciate the efficient cooling system, which helps keep noise levels down. However, some have reported minor driver-related issues, though these seem to be occasional rather than persistent. Overall, the ASUS RTX 3050 receives positive feedback for offering excellent value for money, especially for budget-conscious gamers looking for a balance between performance and cost.

Pros

  • Offers solid 1080p gaming performance, ideal for gamers on a budget.
  • The dual-fan design ensures effective cooling, even during extended use.
  • Compact 2-slot form factor makes it perfect for builds with limited space.
  • Ray tracing support through 2nd Gen RT Cores enhances visual fidelity in supported games.
  • Efficient power management thanks to the NVIDIA Ampere architecture.
  • Quiet operation during low loads, with Zero dB Technology preventing fan noise.
  • 6GB of GDDR6 memory is sufficient for most modern games at medium to high settings.
  • DLSS support improves performance in supported titles while maintaining image quality.
  • Great value for money, delivering mid-tier performance at a budget price.

Cons

  • Limited VRAM (6GB) may hinder performance in more demanding future titles.
  • Not the best choice for gamers seeking high-performance 1440p or 4K gaming.
  • Occasional driver-related issues have been reported, though stability is generally good.
  • May struggle with ray tracing in graphically intensive games on higher settings.
  • Users with very small cases may experience difficulty with installation and airflow.
  • Not ideal for users looking for top-tier performance or heavy-duty workloads.
  • Some users report that performance drops slightly when running heavy workloads with ray tracing enabled.
  • Lacks the sheer power needed for AAA games at ultra settings, especially at higher resolutions.
  • Can run hot under extended heavy usage despite cooling technology.

Ratings

The ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 6GB OC Edition Graphics Card has garnered positive feedback from users worldwide, with reviews filtered for authenticity across multiple languages and platforms. The scores reflect a mix of strengths and areas for improvement, based on real user experiences. Both its gaming performance and efficient cooling system have been widely appreciated, though some users have noted minor driver-related issues. These ratings are drawn from verified, high-quality feedback, ensuring a balanced view of this GPU’s real-world performance.

Gaming Performance at 1080p
89%
Many users are impressed with the smooth 1080p gaming experience, especially in modern titles like Call of Duty and Cyberpunk. This graphics card delivers a balanced mix of solid frame rates and high-quality visuals, making it ideal for mid-range gaming setups.
However, some users report that while 1080p performance is strong, it may struggle with more demanding titles at ultra settings. A few have noted occasional dips in performance with very high-demand games, particularly with ray tracing enabled.
Cooling Efficiency
91%
The dual-fan design and Axial-tech fans work effectively to maintain low temperatures under load, even during extended gaming sessions. Many users mention that the zero dB technology makes the GPU virtually silent during lighter tasks, which adds to the overall experience.
While the cooling system is generally praised, a few buyers have pointed out that the fans can get a bit noisy when the GPU is pushed to its limits. In some cases, users in smaller cases have also noticed slightly higher temperatures due to limited airflow.
Value for Money
92%
This graphics card offers great value for those on a budget but still looking for solid gaming performance. Its combination of ray tracing support, solid cooling, and efficient power usage makes it a standout choice for budget-conscious gamers seeking a well-rounded experience.
However, a few users believe that its price could still be a bit high given the increasing competition in the budget GPU market. While it provides excellent performance for the price, some expect more features for the cost, such as increased VRAM.
Ray Tracing Capabilities
85%
Many reviewers were impressed by the 2nd Gen RT Cores, which provide noticeable improvements to ray-tracing compared to older GPUs. Gamers appreciate that they can enable ray-tracing in many modern titles without significant performance drops.
Despite these improvements, some users noted that enabling ray tracing still leads to lower frame rates in graphically intensive games. A few feel that the RTX 3050, while capable, falls short of higher-end models when it comes to handling more complex ray-tracing effects.
Noise Level Under Load
88%
The GPU's dual-fan design and zero dB technology provide an impressive level of quietness during normal operations and light tasks. Even under load, most users report that the noise levels remain within acceptable limits, offering a quiet and pleasant experience.
A small percentage of users did mention that the fans can become noticeably louder during intense gaming or heavy workloads, though this isn't a widespread issue. Some users in compact cases with poor airflow found the noise more pronounced.
Power Efficiency
90%
The Ampere architecture, with its improved power efficiency, ensures that the GPU consumes less power than previous models while still offering impressive performance. Users have appreciated how the 6GB GDDR6 memory and power management contribute to efficient operation without pushing the limits of their power supplies.
While the power efficiency is generally well-received, a few users noted that the GPU can still cause noticeable power spikes under heavy use, which may cause issues for those with weaker power supplies. This issue isn't widespread but has been noted by a few users with older systems.
Ease of Installation
87%
Many users found the installation process straightforward and quick, especially due to the 2-slot form factor that ensures compatibility with most mid-tower cases. The card is easy to set up with minimal effort and works seamlessly with most modern systems.
On the other hand, some users with smaller or more compact cases found that the card's size was still a tight fit. In a few cases, users had to remove or adjust cables for better airflow or to ensure compatibility with other components.
Driver Stability
78%
22%
Most users have not encountered serious driver issues, and when problems arise, they’re often resolved with regular driver updates from NVIDIA. The stability of drivers has generally been adequate for most users, allowing for a smooth experience in most games.
A number of users did experience occasional driver-related glitches, including crashes and performance inconsistencies. While these issues are not universal, they have been reported by some, especially in older games or after certain updates.
Design & Build Quality
85%
The design of this card is solid, with an attractive dual-fan layout that offers both functionality and aesthetics. The build quality feels premium for its price, and the compact design allows it to fit into a wide variety of cases without taking up too much space.
However, some users felt that the overall design could have been a bit more robust in terms of premium materials. A few users also pointed out that the fans could have been designed to be a bit more durable, as they noticed slight wear after extended use.
Temperature Control
90%
The cooling solution of this GPU is one of its standout features, with Axial-tech fans keeping the temperatures within a safe range even during prolonged gaming sessions. Many users praised the effective temperature control under heavy loads, contributing to its overall reliability.
However, in smaller or cramped cases, some users did note that airflow could be a limiting factor, leading to slightly higher temperatures. While not common, users in smaller form factor builds reported slightly warmer conditions under heavy stress.
Compatibility with Smaller Cases
91%
One of the main selling points for this GPU is its compact design, which is ideal for users building PCs in smaller cases. Many buyers highlighted how the 2-slot form factor allowed them to use this GPU in tight builds without compromising on performance or cooling efficiency.
Despite its compact design, some users found that in very small cases, the space constraints could still lead to issues with airflow or installation. A few users had to perform additional tweaks to ensure proper airflow and fit.
Long-Term Value
87%
Many users appreciate the long-term value this GPU provides, with reliable performance that should hold up for a few years, even as games become more demanding. The balance of performance, efficiency, and price makes it a worthwhile investment for budget-conscious gamers.
A few users felt that while the card offers solid performance now, it might struggle to keep up with future games that demand more power. Some worry that the 6GB memory could become a limiting factor in the years to come.
Software & Firmware
80%
20%
The software experience is generally solid, with the ability to easily update drivers and tweak settings through the NVIDIA control panel. Many users found that the software integrated well with their system, providing an intuitive way to manage the card’s settings.
However, some users reported occasional issues with the software, such as the need to reinstall drivers after certain updates or conflicting settings with third-party software. These issues are infrequent but have caused frustration for a small number of buyers.

Suitable for:

The ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 6GB OC Edition Graphics Card is an excellent choice for gamers on a budget looking to enjoy solid 1080p gaming performance without breaking the bank. Its ability to handle medium to high settings in modern games makes it ideal for casual and mid-range gamers. PC builders with smaller cases will appreciate its compact 2-slot design, ensuring it fits well even in more confined spaces. Additionally, users seeking solid ray-tracing capabilities and AI-powered features like DLSS will find it offers a great balance between performance and cost, making it a strong option for those looking to maximize value in their builds. Content creators or hobbyists requiring moderate graphics power also benefit from its reliable performance across various tasks.

Not suitable for:

However, the ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 6GB OC Edition Graphics Card may not be the best choice for users who want to push beyond 1080p gaming or require higher VRAM for demanding applications. Enthusiasts seeking top-tier ray-tracing performance or high settings in graphically intensive games may be disappointed, as it struggles in more demanding titles, especially when ray tracing is enabled. This GPU also may not meet the needs of users looking to future-proof their systems for the next generation of games, as some feel its 6GB of VRAM could be limiting in the coming years. Additionally, those with very small cases or limited airflow may encounter temperature or installation issues that could affect performance.

Specifications

  • GPU Model: Powered by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 with 6GB of GDDR6 memory.
  • Architecture: Built on NVIDIA's Ampere architecture for improved performance and power efficiency.
  • Memory: 6GB GDDR6 memory for smooth gaming and content creation performance.
  • Cooling System: Features a dual-fan design with Axial-tech fans for enhanced cooling and airflow.
  • Ray Tracing: Equipped with 2nd Gen RT Cores for real-time ray tracing in supported games.
  • AI Features: Supports 3rd Gen Tensor Cores with AI features like DLSS for improved gaming performance.
  • Fan Technology: Zero dB Technology ensures the fans operate silently during low load scenarios.
  • Form Factor: Compact 2-slot design that fits in smaller PC builds and ensures compatibility.
  • PCIe Interface: Supports PCIe 4.0 for fast data transfer between the GPU and the motherboard.
  • Max Resolution: Supports a maximum display resolution of up to 7680 x 4320 pixels.
  • Connectivity: Equipped with HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a for flexible connectivity options.
  • Power Consumption: Typical power consumption is around 130 watts, with a recommended PSU of 550W.
  • Game Performance: Delivers smooth 1080p gaming performance with medium to high settings in modern titles.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with most modern PC cases, including compact builds due to its 2-slot form factor.
  • Driver Support: Supports regular driver updates from NVIDIA for improved stability and performance.
  • Display Outputs: Includes HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4a for versatile display connections.
  • Display Features: Supports NVIDIA G-Sync technology for tear-free gaming experiences.
  • Maximum Power Limit: Has a 75W maximum power limit via the PCIe slot, with additional power from the 6-pin connector.
  • Build Quality: Built with durable materials and a robust cooling system to ensure long-lasting performance.

FAQ

The ASUS Dual NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 6GB OC Edition features 6GB of GDDR6 memory, NVIDIA's Ampere architecture, 2nd Gen RT Cores for ray tracing, and 3rd Gen Tensor Cores for AI capabilities like DLSS. It also includes a dual-fan cooling design and a compact 2-slot form factor, making it suitable for small PC builds.

The ASUS RTX 3050 uses a dual-fan setup with Axial-tech fans for efficient heat dissipation. This design provides improved airflow, ensuring the GPU stays cool even during extended gaming sessions. Additionally, the Zero dB Technology ensures that the fans remain silent under low loads, contributing to a quieter operation.

Yes, the compact 2-slot design of this graphics card makes it highly compatible with smaller cases. This form factor ensures that the GPU can fit into most mid-range or compact builds without blocking other components or affecting airflow significantly.

While the ASUS RTX 3050 excels in 1080p gaming at medium to high settings, it may struggle with more demanding 1440p or 4K gaming. For those resolutions, you might experience performance drops, especially in graphically intensive games with ray tracing enabled.

The ASUS RTX 3050 is relatively power-efficient due to NVIDIA's Ampere architecture. It consumes less power than higher-end GPUs, making it a great choice for budget-conscious gamers or systems with limited power supply. Expect a typical power draw of around 130 watts, with a recommended PSU of 550W or higher.

Yes, the ASUS RTX 3050 supports ray tracing through its 2nd Gen RT Cores and AI-powered features like DLSS (Deep Learning Super Sampling) through the 3rd Gen Tensor Cores. This allows for enhanced visual fidelity and improved performance in supported games, making it a great choice for gamers on a budget who want ray-tracing features.

Installing this graphics card is straightforward for users with basic PC-building experience. Simply insert it into a compatible PCIe x16 slot, connect your power cables, and ensure the drivers are up-to-date. The compact 2-slot design makes it easy to fit in most systems without much hassle.

Some users have reported occasional driver-related issues, but these are typically resolved with software updates. NVIDIA frequently releases driver updates that improve compatibility and stability, so keeping your drivers up-to-date is important to ensure optimal performance.

Yes, the ASUS RTX 3050 is a great choice for content creators working with 1080p video editing, light 3D rendering, or streaming. Its AI capabilities, like DLSS, can accelerate workflows in compatible software, and the card's power efficiency ensures that it won't put unnecessary strain on your system.

The ASUS RTX 3050 offers excellent value for money, delivering solid 1080p gaming performance and ray-tracing features at a budget-friendly price. While not the most powerful GPU on the market, it provides great performance for gamers and content creators on a budget, especially those with smaller cases or power limits.