Best GPU for transcoding
No need to worry about transcoding at a snail's pace with these GPUs
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Popular streaming software Plex automatically transcodes video. A dedicated graphics processing unit (GPU) might be a welcome addition to any Plex server, as this procedure can be taxing on a CPU.
Best GPU for transcoding
Due to their higher bitrate, high-end graphics cards like the RTX 3090, RTX 3080, RTX 2080, and Quadros are typically best for transcoding. Additionally, workstation graphics cards like those in the Nvidia Quadro Series perform better while transcoding video.
ASUS TUF Gaming Nvidia GeForce RTX 3090 OC
Clock Speed
1770MHz Boost Clock (OC)
VRAM
24GB GDDR6X
Thermal Design
Axial-tech Triple Fan
ASUS TUF Gaming Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080 OC
Clock Speed
1815MHz Boost Clock (OC)
VRAM
10GB GDDRX
Thermal Design
Axial-tech Triple Fan
ASUS ROG Strix GeForce RTX 2080 8GB OC Edition
Clock Speeds
1515Mhz – 1890 MHz (OC Mode)
VRAM
8GB GDDR6
Memory Bus Width
256-bit
Best workstation GPU for transcoding
The Nvidia Quadro P2200 is your best bet if you’re searching for a Plex Server GPU that can handle 1080p and even 4K feeds with ease. With its ample resources, the Nvidia Quadro P2200 can tackle demanding transcoding workloads. This processor has 1280 CUDA cores, a boost clock speed of 1493 MHz, and 5GB of GDDR5X memory for effective processing.
NVIDIA Quadro P2200
Brand
PNY
Graphics RAM Size
5 GB
Video Output Interface
HDMI
Chipset Brand
NVIDIA
Additionally, this moderate-range GPU is suitable for 3D modelling and HD video editing.
A powerful graphics card for handling demanding transcoding workloads is the Nvidia Quadro RTX 4000 or 5000. These cards, like all other top-tier GPUs, are based on Nvidia’s Turing architecture and supports H.265 (HEVC) 4:4:4 encoding and decoding. For converting numerous 4K streams to 1080p (10MBits) streams on a single Plex server.
Although it is a bit pricey, getting this GPU will ensure that your plex transcoding experience is future-proof.
NVIDIA Quadro RTX 4000
Core Clock Speed
1005 MHz base, 1545 MHz boost
CUDA cores
2,304
Memory Size
8 GB GDDR6
Dimensions
267mm x 112mm x 40 mm
PSU Required
450 W
TBP
160 W
Best budget GPU for transcoding
The majority of market buyers can afford the GTX 1660. Moreover, the GTX 1660 can be found in the list if you’re seeking a graphics card designed for Plex servers. This GPU works well for simulating the transcoding of twenty 1080p feeds to 720p streams. The Ti version (GTX 1660 Ti) of this graphics card is available for a little bit more money; naturally, this will give your transcoding performance a little bit more boost.
Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1660 GAMING OC 6G
Clock Speed
1758 MHz
VRAM
6 GB GDDR5
Memory Bus Width
192 bit
Gigabyte GeForce GTX 1660 Ti GAMING OC 6G
Clock Speed
1860 MHz
VRAM
6 GB GDDR6
Memory Bus Width
192 bit
The GTX 1660 has a 192-bit interface and 6GB of GDDR5 memory as part of its specifications. A base clock speed of around 1530 MHz and a memory clock speed of 14 Gbps are provided right out of the box.
Other GPU guides
FAQs
What does transcoding mean?
Transcoding is converting encoded files from one type to another, this may be video or audio, or both. It’s particularly common in streaming, where the platform you use or stream to requires smaller file sizes. So a good transcoding GPU will keep down the performance hit for you and improve speeds for transcoding.
