Best GPU for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

In today’s gaming world, expectations are sky-high, and a top-notch experience is non-negotiable. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 rises to the occasion, delivering an immersive, visually stunning journey that sets a new standard in the simulation genre. With its breathtaking graphics, extensive range of locations, and highly realistic gameplay, it’s a feast for the senses and a true testament to the power of modern gaming technology.

The game’s visual splendor, however, demands robust hardware to truly shine. A powerful graphics card isn’t just recommended; it’s essential to unlock the full potential of this graphical masterpiece and ensure a smooth, immersive experience. Whether you’re soaring over the photorealistic cities of Montreal and Barcelona or navigating through dynamic weather conditions, the right graphics card makes all the difference.

Navigating the graphics card market can be daunting, but fear not—we’re here to guide you through it. In this article, we’ll delve into the best graphics cards for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision. We’ll also share key criteria to consider when shopping for a graphics card, ensuring you’re well-equipped to choose the perfect GPU not just for Flight Simulator, but for a wide range of gaming adventures.

So buckle up and get ready to elevate your Flight Simulator experience to new heights. With the right graphics card in your arsenal, the sky’s the limit!

Top Graphics Cards for MSFS 2020 Performance

Without further delays, the following are the best GPUs for MSFS2020 available in the market today:

1. ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 OC Edition

Best 4K Graphics Card for MSFS2020

  • Architecture: Cutting-edge design for peak gaming performance
  • Transistors: A whopping 7.6 billion for smooth and fast gameplay
  • Memory: 24 GB GDDR6X for handling the biggest games
  • Clock Speed: Base at 2,235 MHz, boosting up to 2,610 MHz for rapid response
asus rog strix geforce rtx 4090 oc edition 651811434180a

Dive into a gaming experience like no other with the ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 OC Edition. This graphics card stands out with its advanced design, ensuring that every game you play is smooth, fast, and absolutely stunning. With its massive memory, you can dive into the most extensive games without a second thought, enjoying every detail in crystal clear quality.

The speed of this card is something to behold, responding to your every move with precision and agility. Whether you’re in the heat of battle or exploring vast open worlds, the ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 OC Edition keeps up, delivering an unparalleled gaming experience.

Benchmarks

For the detailed performance benchmarks, please refer to the table provided. You’ll see how this graphics card performs across different settings and resolutions, giving you a clear picture of its capabilities.

Quality/Resolution Framerate Benchmarks1080p1440p4k
Ultra1059373
High164148120
Medium223203168
Low341313264

Pros

  • Stunning Visuals: Games come to life with breathtaking detail and clarity.
  • Reliable Performance: Consistently smooth gameplay, no matter the setting.
  • Future-Ready: Built to handle today’s top games and ready for tomorrow’s adventures.

Cons

  • High Power Consumption: Make sure your setup is ready to support its needs.
  • Premium Price Tag: It’s an investment in your gaming future.

My Takeaway

The ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 4090 OC Edition is a powerhouse, transforming your gaming world with incredible visuals and performance. While it does come with a higher price tag and significant power needs, the investment is well worth it for serious gamers looking to push their experience to the limit. This graphics card doesn’t just meet expectations; it exceeds them, setting a new standard for gaming excellence.


2. PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX

Best AMD (NVIDIA Alternate) 4K Graphics Card for MSFS2020

  • Architecture: RDNA 3.0 for top-tier performance
  • Process Size: Efficient 5 nm design
  • Shader Units/Ray Accelerators: 6,144/96 for enhanced graphics
  • Clock Speed: Up to 2,500 MHz for quick responses
  • Memory: 24 GB GDDR6X for extensive game textures
  • Power Draw: 355 W, ensure your system is ready
powercolor-red-devil-amd-radeon-rx-7900-xtx

The PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX is a gem in the AMD lineup, especially for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 enthusiasts. Delivering over 60 frames per second at 4K with ultra settings, it ensures a seamless and immersive gaming experience. Its robust cooling system keeps it cool and quiet, even during intense gaming sessions.

When compared to its NVIDIA counterparts like the RTX 3090, the RX 7900 XTX holds its ground well, especially considering the price-to-performance ratio. It’s a solid choice for AMD loyalists and those looking to get the most bang for their buck.

Benchmarks

Refer to the provided table for a detailed performance analysis across various settings and resolutions:

Quality/Resolution Frame Rate Benchmarks1080p1440p4k
Ultra948162
High149131105
Medium205182148
Low316284234

Pros

  • High Performance: Ideal for 4K gaming and Flight Simulator 2020.
  • Efficient Cooling: Ensures consistent performance.
  • Stylish Design: Adds flair to your gaming setup.

Cons

  • Premium Price: A significant investment.
  • No USB-C Output: Could be a drawback for some setups.

My Takeaway

The PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon RX 7900 XTX is a powerhouse, offering fantastic performance for Flight Simulator 2020 and other demanding games. While it comes at a premium price and lacks USB-C output, its performance, cooling efficiency, and design make it a worthwhile investment for serious gamers, particularly those in the AMD ecosystem.


3. NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 Founders Edition

Best 4K NVIDIA Graphics Card for MSFS 2020

  • Architecture: Ampere, for the latest and greatest in gaming performance
  • Process Size: 8 nm, balancing power use and performance
  • Shader Units: 10,496, delivering stunning graphics
  • Ray Cores: 82, for better lighting and reflections in games
  • Clock Speed: Starts at 1,395 MHz, can go up to 1,695 MHz for faster performance
  • Memory: 24 GB GDDR6X, lots of space for game details
  • Power Draw: 350 W, make sure your power supply can handle it
nvidia-geforce-rtx-3090-founders-edition

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 Founders Edition is a beast of a graphics card, perfect for gamers who want the best experience in games like Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. It makes games look incredible and run smoothly, ensuring you get lost in the game world.

When you compare it to AMD’s RX 6900 XT, the RTX 3090 has the upper hand in making games look better and run faster, especially in 4K. However, the AMD card offers great performance for its price. The RTX 3090 is also a fantastic choice for video editing and other heavy tasks, as many users have pointed out.

This card is big and heavy, so you’ll need to make sure your computer has enough space and your power supply is strong enough. Users love its performance and build quality, but it does come with a high price tag.

Benchmarks

Check out the performance table to see how this card performs in different games and settings.

Quality / Resolution Framerate Benchmarks1080p1440p4K
Ultra70.3 fps61.7 fps48.8 fps
High117 fps104.7 fps85.6 fps
Medium163.6 fps147.6 fps122.5 fps
Low256.9 fps233.6 fps196.2 fps

Pros

  • Incredible Gaming Performance: Perfect for Flight Simulator 2020 and other demanding games.
  • Fast for Creative Work: Great for video editing and 3D work.
  • Well-Built: Strong and durable, though a bit heavy.

Cons

  • Expensive: It’s a big investment.
  • Big and Heavy: Make sure your setup can fit and support it.
  • Needs a Lot of Power: Ensure your power supply is up to the task.

My Takeaway

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 Founders Edition is an excellent choice for gamers and creatives who need top-notch performance. It’s a bit of an investment, and you’ll need to make sure your setup can handle it, but if you want the best gaming experience, this card is worth considering. With this card, your games will look stunning and run smoothly, taking your gaming to the next level.


4. PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon™ RX 6900 XT Gaming

Best 4K AMD Graphics Card for MSFS

  • Architecture: RDNA 2.0, AMD’s latest innovation
  • Process Size: 7 nm, ensuring efficiency and performance
  • Shader Units: 5,120, for detailed and vibrant visuals
  • Clock Speed: Boosts up to 2,340 MHz, delivering top-notch performance
  • Memory: 16 GB GDDR6, ample space for high-res textures
  • Power Draw: 300 W, make sure your PSU is ready
powercolor-red-devil-amd-radeon-rx-6900-xt-gaming

The PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon™ RX 6900 XT Gaming stands out as a top-tier AMD graphics card, delivering impressive performance, especially in 4K gaming scenarios. While it may not completely outshine the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3090 FE, it holds its ground as a formidable competitor, particularly at lower resolutions.

This graphics card boasts a robust build and an advanced cooling system, ensuring that it runs quietly even under heavy loads. The dual BIOS feature is a significant plus, providing users with the flexibility to switch between OC and Silent modes based on their performance and noise preferences.

In terms of performance, the RX 6900 XT is a powerhouse, delivering smooth and immersive gaming experiences. However, it’s important to note that its ray tracing capabilities are not on par with NVIDIA’s RTX series, and it lacks support for DLSS, which could be a deal-breaker for some users.

The PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon™ RX 6900 XT Gaming also shines in terms of power efficiency, standing out as one of the most energy-efficient cards in its class. Overclocking is straightforward, allowing users to push the card’s performance even further.

Benchmarks

Here are some benchmarks showcasing the PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon™ RX 6900 XT’s  Performance Capabilities for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020.

Quality / Resolution Framerate Benchmarks1080p1440p4K
Ultra69.8 fps61.3 fps46.1 fps
High116.3 fps104.1 fps81.6 fps
Medium162.7 fps146.3 fps117 fps
Low255.6 fps232.4 fps187.9 fps

Pros

  • Top-tier AMD graphics card
  • Impressive 4K and VR performance
  • Energy-efficient design
  • Excellent overclocking capabilities
  • Competitive pricing compared to NVIDIA RTX 3090 FE

Cons

  • Lacks DLSS support
  • Ray tracing capabilities are not as advanced as NVIDIA’s offerings
  • High price point, though cheaper than some competitors

My Takeaway

The PowerColor Red Devil AMD Radeon™ RX 6900 XT Gaming is a stellar choice for gamers and professionals seeking top-notch performance, especially in 4K settings. While it has some shortcomings in ray tracing and lacks DLSS support, its energy efficiency, overclocking capabilities, and competitive pricing make it a compelling option. If you’re invested in the AMD ecosystem and looking for a graphics card that delivers, this is a choice worth considering.


5. EVGA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti XC Gaming

Best 1440p NVIDIA Graphics Card for Flight Simulator 2020

  • Architecture: Ampere, NVIDIA’s advanced gaming architecture
  • Process Size: 8 nm, for efficient, high-speed performance
  • Shader Units: 4,864, delivering detailed and smooth visuals
  • Clock Speed: Boosts up to 1,750 MHz, for quick response in complex scenes
  • Memory: 8 GB GDDR6, capable of handling modern games with ease
  • Power Draw: 220 W, offering a balance of performance and energy efficiency
evga geforce rtx 3060 ti xc gaming 6518114736159

The EVGA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti XC Gaming is a sweet spot for gamers who aim higher than 1080p but aren’t ready to leap into 4K. It’s an ideal choice for 1440p gaming, offering a perfect blend of performance and visual fidelity. While it doesn’t reach the lofty heights of the 3090 or the 6900 XT, it’s a powerhouse in its own right, especially at High settings for MSFS 2020.

At 1440p, this card consistently delivers above 60fps, ensuring a smooth and immersive flight experience. Its VR capabilities are also notable, thanks to the impressive framerates it can maintain. However, the 8GB of VRAM might be a concern for future-proofing, and overclocking can be challenging due to the card’s power limits.

Benchmarks

For a detailed look at how the EVGA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti XC Gaming performs across various settings and resolutions in Flight Simulator 2020, please refer to the table below:

Quality / Resolution Framerate Benchmarks1080p1440p4K
Ultra46.9 fps40.8 fps32.6 fps
High82.8 fps73.4 fps60.5 fps
Medium118.7 fps106.1 fps88.4 fps
Low190.4 fps171.3 fps144.2 fps

Pros

  • Outperforms the RTX 2080 Super in key areas
  • Stellar 1440p performance with energy efficiency
  • Inherits RTX 30 series features like Reflex and Broadcast

Cons

  • 8GB VRAM may not suffice for future titles
  • Overclocking potential is limited by power constraints

My Takeaway

For those building a mid-range PC, the EVGA GeForce RTX 3060 Ti XC Gaming is a compelling pick. It’s a card that will serve well for 1440p gaming today and has the features to keep pace with tomorrow’s demands. While the VRAM and overclocking limitations are points to consider, its performance at 1440p is hard to beat for the price.


6. EVGA GeForce GTX 1660 SC Ultra Gaming

Best 1080p NVIDIA Graphics Card for Flight Simulator

  • Architecture: Turing, NVIDIA’s efficient gaming architecture
  • Process Size: 12 nm, for a good balance of power and performance
  • Shader Units: 1,408, capable of delivering detailed graphics
  • Clock Speed: Boosts up to 1,830 MHz, for responsive gaming
  • Memory: 6 GB GDDR5, suitable for 1080p gaming demands
  • Power Draw: 120 W, energy-efficient for its performance tier
evga geforce gtx 1660 sc ultra gaming 6518114299dc3

The EVGA GeForce GTX 1660 SC Ultra Gaming has carved out its niche as a budget-friendly yet capable card for 1080p gaming. It’s a card that doesn’t just promise but delivers performance that can easily surpass the expectations set by its price point. Users upgrading from cards like the GeForce 1050 report a doubling in power, with significant improvements in clarity and fluidity of gameplay.

This card is not only easy to install but also runs quietly and efficiently, making it a great choice for gamers who want a fuss-free experience. It’s particularly noted for its commendable performance in Microsoft Flight Simulator, managing 60+fps at medium settings, and pushing close to 50fps at high settings on 1080p.

However, it’s worth noting that while the GTX 1660 is a solid performer, it may not be the best fit for smaller form-factor PCs due to its size. Additionally, the current market prices can be steep, and some users feel that the card’s value is diminished when prices inflate beyond its performance class.

Benchmarks

For a detailed look at how the EVGA GeForce GTX 1660 SC Ultra Gaming performs across various settings and resolutions in Flight Simulator 2020, please refer to the benchmark table below:

Quality / Resolution Framerate Benchmarks1080p1440p4K
Ultra27.9 fps23.7 fps18.7 fps
High51.4 fps45.9 fps37.3 fps
Medium75.8 fps68.0 fps55.9 fps
Low124.5 fps112.4 fps93.1 fps

Pros

  • Excellent upgrade from older cards, with a significant performance boost
  • Clear and smooth graphics, even at 1080p high settings
  • Energy-efficient and operates quietly, enhancing the gaming experience

Cons

  • May face compatibility issues with smaller PCs due to size
  • Limited future-proofing with 6 GB of VRAM
  • Market pricing can be a barrier to its value for money

My Takeaway

For gamers who prioritize 1080p gaming and are looking for a card that offers great performance without the premium price tag, the EVGA GeForce GTX 1660 SC Ultra Gaming is a strong contender. It’s a card that will comfortably handle current games and is a sensible choice for those not chasing the cutting edge. However, buyers should be mindful of inflated prices and consider the card’s long-term viability in an ever-evolving gaming landscape.


7. PowerColor AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT

Best 1080p AMD Graphics Card for Microsoft Flight Simulator

  • Architecture: RDNA 1.0, a leap forward for AMD’s gaming prowess
  • Process Size: 7 nm, balancing power and efficiency
  • Shader Units: 1,408, capable of detailed rendering
  • Clock Speed: Up to 1,845 MHz, for responsive gaming
  • Memory: 8 GB GDDR6, generous for 1080p gaming
  • Power Draw: 130 W, energy-efficient for its performance tier
powercolor-amd-radeon-rx-5500-xt

The PowerColor AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT emerges as a solid contender in the 1080p gaming landscape, offering an alternative to NVIDIA’s offerings. While it may not top the charts in raw performance, it impresses with its ample VRAM and fast memory, crucial for texture-rich environments in games like Microsoft Flight Simulator.

Its compact size is a boon for small form-factor PC builds, and the card’s black PCB is aesthetically pleasing, aligning well with similarly styled motherboards. Users transitioning from consoles will appreciate the significant FPS boost, with reports of smooth performance in games like Overwatch, hitting 70fps at a cool 55°C under load.

However, some users have noted issues with the DVI-D port and intermittent performance inconsistencies, which could be a concern for those with specific monitor setups or seeking unwavering reliability. Despite these hiccups, the card’s quiet operation has been universally praised, making it a discreet yet potent addition to any gaming setup.

Benchmarks

Following are the benchmarks of this card’s performance in MSFS 2020:

Quality / Resolution Framerate Benchmarks1080p1440p4K
Ultra20.8 fps18.3 fps14.5 fps
High40.9 fps36.6 fps29.8 fps
Medium61.1 fps54.9 fps45.2 fps
Low101.4 fps91.5 fps75.9 fps

Pros

  • Excellent thermal management, staying cool and quiet
  • 8GB of GDDR6 memory, a forward-looking feature for upcoming games
  • Compact design, perfect for small cases and clean builds

Cons

  • Some users report issues with DVI-D connectivity
  • Occasional performance dips, though not a widespread issue
  • May not handle the most demanding settings in newer games

My Takeaway

The PowerColor AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT is a commendable choice for gamers who prioritize a quiet, cool, and compact GPU. It’s particularly suited for those stepping up from console gaming or older PC setups, offering a noticeable performance improvement at 1080p. While it may not be the undisputed champion of its class, its value shines in its size, memory, and thermal efficiency, making it a smart pick for budget-conscious gamers with an eye for quality.


The Essential Buyer’s Guide for Flight Simulator 2020 GPUs

Selecting the right graphics card for Flight Simulator 2020 is crucial for an optimal gaming experience. Here’s what you need to consider:

VRAM (Video RAM)

VRAM is critical for rendering high-resolution textures and effects in games. For Flight Simulator 2020, a minimum of 4GB of VRAM is recommended to handle the game’s detailed graphics without compromising performance. If you’re considering VR, check out our guide on the best VR headsets for Microsoft Flight Simulator.

TMUs (Texture Mapping Units)

TMUs are essential for applying textures to 3D models. A higher count of TMUs enhances texture performance, which is particularly important for the realistic environments of Flight Simulator 2020.

Shaders

Shaders are responsible for a range of visual effects and help offload processing from the CPU to the GPU. A capable shader model is necessary to leverage the full range of graphical features in Flight Simulator 2020.

GPU Clock Speed

A higher GPU clock speed can indicate faster processing, but it should be considered alongside other specifications such as VRAM, TMUs, and shaders for a comprehensive assessment of a GPU’s capabilities.

Graphical Requirements for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020

SpecificationMinimum ValueRecommended ValueIdeal Value
GPUAMD Radeon RX 570 or Nvidia GTX 770AMD Radeon RX 590 or Nvidia GTX 970AMD Radeon RX 6900 XT or Nvidia RTX 3090
VRAM2GB (upgrade recommended)4GB8GB

Additional Considerations For MSFS 2020

  • Minimum Level Cards: GPUs that barely meet the game’s requirements may not provide a satisfactory experience. An upgrade is advisable for those seeking better performance.
  • Ray Tracing: Currently, Flight Simulator 2020 does not support ray tracing, but future updates may introduce this feature. Nonetheless, the game’s graphics are still impressive without it.
  • Performance Costs: High settings and VR experiences demand powerful, and often expensive, hardware. While the RTX 30 series has made 60fps on Ultra settings more attainable, a smooth experience at 30fps is still enjoyable. For more on gaming displays, see our guide on the best monitors for Microsoft Flight Simulator.

For VR, a consistent and high frame rate is crucial to avoid discomfort. High-end GPUs can deliver this performance, but they come at a premium. If you’re looking to play on a laptop or a pre-built PC, we also have guides on the best laptops and best PCs for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020.

In summary, when shopping for a GPU for Flight Simulator 2020, focus on a balanced combination of VRAM, TMUs, shaders, and clock speed. While the highest settings may require significant investment, a well-chosen GPU will greatly enhance your flight simulation experience. And for insights into the game’s realism, our article on how realistic is Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 might be of interest.

Conclusion

Microsoft’s Flight Simulator 2020 stands as a testament to the beauty that modern gaming can achieve, setting a high bar for visual fidelity and, consequently, the hardware required to run it. Our curated selection caters to a spectrum of preferences and needs, ensuring there’s a graphics card for every type of aviator enthusiast. From the unrivaled might of the 3090, delivering breathtaking performance without batting an eye, to the 6700 XT’s mastery over 1440p skies, and the 1660’s exceptional 1080p prowess within its class, your ideal Flight Sim experience awaits. The choice is yours, and we trust that our guide has illuminated your path to the perfect pick. Happy flying, and may your gaming horizons be ever-expansive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 run on 2GB of VRAM?

Technically, yes, but it’s far from ideal. With only 2GB of VRAM, you’ll face significant limitations, not just with Flight Simulator 2020 but with many current and upcoming titles. An upgrade is highly advisable for a more enjoyable and future-proof gaming experience.

Is a dedicated graphics card necessary for MSFS 2020?

Absolutely. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 requires a dedicated graphics card to run. Integrated graphics solutions won’t suffice for the demands of this visually intensive simulation.

What are the minimum graphics card requirements for Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020?

At the very least, you’ll need an AMD Radeon RX 570 or NVIDIA GTX 700 series card. However, for a more optimal experience, aim for an AMD Radeon RX 590 or NVIDIA GTX 970. For enthusiasts seeking the pinnacle of performance, the AMD Radeon RX 6900 XT or NVIDIA RTX 3090 are the ideal choices.

Does MSFS 2020 place more demand on the CPU or GPU?

Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is predominantly GPU-intensive, especially if you’re aiming for a high-quality VR experience, which requires maintaining high frame rates for smooth, immersive gameplay.