What video card do I need to run 2 montors at max resolution?

[ozzynotwoodParticipant 44]

I want to go back to a dual monitor setup. Current video card is a Gigabye nVidia G-Force 240GT w/2gb RAM. It runs a dual setup 22″ wide and 19″ wide with no problems. Video card has to go, one of the sockets is busted and gives me all sorts of problems with a second monitor.

This time I want to go with x2 24″ screens at max resolution.

Criteria
1. I want the graphics card to run these comfortably, not running flat-out.
2. I’m not a gamer, this is strictly a 2D windows environment.

Background info:
I’ve been repairing computers my whole life but not being a gamer I haven’t kept up with current video card technology so I don’t know how to find out what x2 24″ monitors would need, there is no requirement on any monitor specs. I should have no issue understanding any reply though.

What do I need to know about choosing the right video card for this setup? (I do understand MB slots too, so no prob there).

If they didn't have pussies they'd have targets on their backs,

[MonkeyMindParticipant 5340]

Dual monitors have been out for a while so most budget cards will be fine if you’re not planning on using it for gaming.

[KeymasterKeymaster]

You didn’t mention the “max resolution” on your displays.
A 24 inch screen probably has a max res of 2560px(wide) by 1440px (high) – assuming a 16×9 ratio.

Physical size of the screen (inches) is not as important as max resolution. So to drive ONE 4K display (5120 pixels wide) you’re gonna need the same kind of video card to drive TWO 2K (2560 displays). Not exact science but you get the idea. Most new laptops have the capability of driving one external 4K display.

Apple has a 5K display built into their 5K iMac.
A new MacBook pro can plug into that and drive it’s OWN built-in screen – plus a 5K display.

Get a video card that would support (and drive up) to TWO 4K displays – and that will definitely take care of it. This would also cover you going forward.

It’s safe to say… if your max resolution (width) on each monitor is 2560px, most new / high end video cards will drive two of them no problem. But definitely don’t take my word for it. Make sure you ask someone who can tell you that definitively. Even if your max res isn’t that high, a video card that supports TWO displays at 2560px will do the trick.

In terms of RAM, HD storage, and video cards, it’s a good rule to buy the best/most you can afford.

If you keep doing what you've always done... you're gonna keep getting what you always got.

[Anonymous 11]

Whatever video card you pick make double damn sure the PC power supply is rated for it. I’ve had good luck with that basic Betty card you use. 300 watt PS minimum. Since you work on PCs, you are probably aware of that. Those gamer video cards as I call them generally need higher wattage power supplies.

My main PC has dual crappy Intel video on the motherboard. Also, Windows 10 will not allow you to run both digital and VGA analog outputs simultaneously nor will it let you stream video to an analog port on an older TV. Assholes!!!!!

I’m running two 24″ Samsung LED S24D300 monitors at native 1920×1080. 4K would be sweet. I’d probably quit having my newspaper delivered. Definitely make sure you check power supply requirements if you elect to run at 4K.

Yes, I’m anal about electrical requirements.

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