Depending on how you use it, a graphics card should last at least 3-5 years. However, if you play the same type of game & do minor work on it, then it may extend its lifespan to seven years.
But that is not the case for modern gamers as new games are coming to the market with greater graphics specifications. So this will put pressure on your graphics card & deteriorate faster.
How Long Do Graphics Cards Last
The graphics card is the single most powerful tool available to gamers worldwide. Everyone desires a more powerful graphics processing unit in their computer. Not just gaming, but also video editing and other activities require strong GPUs in order to run properly.
Graphics cards, like everything else, have a shelf life too. There are several factors that may weigh in on how long they can last. Let’s take a look at some of these factors.
How Long Do GPUs Last for Gaming
Nowadays there is no shortage of high graphics games. Gamers are constantly playing several games. Sometimes even high-spec games are not recommended for their GPU specification. As we learned earlier, this leads to overclocking.
Now if you are an average gamer that only plays a few games that you like, then your GPU will last around 6 to 7 years. This assumption is made provided you have a decent PSU & cooling fans.
But if you are a serious gamer who plays at a constant level, then the lifespan decreases. High graphics games at a constant level mean constant pressure on your GPU to perform. The same goes for professional graphics work. These GPUs will last around 4 years provided that you take good care of the cooling system.
How Long Do Graphics Cards Last When Mining
For those of you who don’t know, cryptocurrency miners require to run their GPU 24/7 at full load. Just imagine yourself running 24/7, how much load can you take? As a result, overclocking & overheating are constant.
If you are a cryptocurrency miner, then your GPU might last 2 to 3 years. If you are thinking of buying a 2nd hand GPU from a miner then be aware. Although he might say that it’s been used for 2 years, its (GPU) lifespan is almost over due to the mining effect.
What Makes Graphics Cards Die Faster
Overheating
Overheating is one of the major issues that degrade the lifespan of your GPU. There are several electronic components at work inside your GPU. While active, they generate a lot of heat that gets trapped inside.
Sometimes proper cooling system or cooling fans are not enough. The graphics card turns into a constantly running stove. At first, there might not be any problems. But as you are constantly gaming & putting pressure on the GPU, it is degrading bit by bit.
Overclocking
Overclocking is a term that describes a situation where the graphics card is operating beyond its capabilities. Whenever you are trying to play a high-specification game that your GPU can’t handle on paper, overclocking happens.
You still try to play the game, it forces the graphics hardware to strive to match the game’s quality requirements. This puts a lot of strain on the graphics unit. The longer you are, the more damage you are inflicting on your GPU.
Inadequate Power Supply
If your computer is not getting enough power to do its required tasks, then that can lead to catastrophic effects on your unit. Your PSU needs to be perfect according to your CPU specification & GPU parts. Otherwise, the GPU will be operating at lower power to perform the necessary tasks.
This could lead to drastic wear & tear. In such scenarios, both the GPU & CPU unit loses a lot of their value very fast. You need to make sure that your PSU can supply the necessary amount of power to your CPU & GPU unit.
Dust & Filth
As you will have several vents open for the intake & outtake of air in your cooling system, the dust gets into your unit. They settle inside the small electrical components & holes. At first, they will do no harm, but after 2 or 3 years of dust settling without any cleaning from you can lead to the collapse of the whole unit.
They interfere with the wiring & cause corrade inside the small delicate parts of the GPU & CPU. Cleaning your whole from time to time is important to remove these dust particles.
How to Make My GPU Last Longer?
Whether you are an average gamer a serious gamer or a graphics professional, taking good care of your GPU will surely increase its lifespan. Investing in a good cooling system will handle the overheating issue. Make sure you are taking breaks in playing high-performance games for your GPU to rest.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should I replace my graphics card?
There are a few cases when you should replace or upgrade your graphics card. Those are – you want to play high-end games with higher frame rates, you are up to using a higher resolution monitor, or trying to process graphics-intensive tasks. Otherwise, you can simply replace it after 5 years if you want as it is the least lifespan.
How can I know if my graphics card is healthy?
It’s a pretty simple task. Just simply right-click on the Start menu and select Device Manager. Then extend Display adapters, right-click on your graphics driver, and select Properties. If you see This device is working properly message under Device status, it indicates your graphics card is fine.
Do graphics cards wear out?
No matter if your graphics card is under warranty or not, if your graphics card fans’ bearings somehow wear out, there are many manufacturers who will offer fan replacements at no cost.
Conclusion
Although we previously said that graphics cards have a life expectancy of 3 to 5 years, you may extend this by ensuring that there is no overclocking or overheating. A proper cooling system may make a huge difference in the performance of your equipment. It’s also a good idea to clean the unit on a regular basis.
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