When you buy a new GPU, you may notice a metallic plate on the back of the card.
Those are called GPU backplates.
Are you wondering why your graphics card has a backplate, and what is the benefit of having it?
In this article, I will discuss the backplates of the graphics card and cover everything related to it.
So, without ado, lets begin.
What is a GPU Backplate for?
Generally, a GPU backplate is a flat plate placed on the back of a graphics processing unit.
Its mainly used for aesthetic purposes to improve the GPUs appearance.
Plus, It adds extra structural and protective support to the card so that it doesnt physically get damaged.
Mostly, it is made of stainedsteelorplastic.
But you may also findaluminumandacrylicbackplates on the market.
Most users use the backplate on the GPU to improve the cards overall aesthetics.
It really gives the card a more streamlined and polished look.
With the RGB lighting, you might customize the designs on the backplate.
I use the Star Wars Villains RGB Backplate on my graphics card.
It looks really cool.
Moreover, you get an extra protective measure when you use a backplate on the graphics card.
It shields the GPU from any accidental damage during installation or maintenance.
Some backplates have a uniform airflow, which improves the GPUs cooling performance.
are some examples of GPU backplate.
Same as GPU, your CPU has a backplate.
Mostly they are attached to the motherboard.
Does a Backplate Help the GPU?
In short, yes.
Backplate does help a graphics card.
But the usefulness of the tool is pretty limited.
As you know, the hardware components of the computer are pretty sensitive.
A small amount of dust is enough to damage the graphics card.
A backplate can offer additional defense to the card from dust.
Not only dust, but also from any physical damage such asbending or flexingdue to pressure from other components.
Backplates help the GPU maintain integrity since most heavier and larger graphics cards areprone to sagging.
It is possible tofix the GPU sagissue.
I have spent a large amount of money on a custom GPU backplate.
Furthermore, the backplate can help dispel the heat from the GPU.
But, itseffect on cooling is minimal, depending on the design and material used to make it.
However, occasionally it can act as a heatsink by providing a larger surface area for airflow.
Are you worried about whether the backplates of the graphics card are safe?
For your assurance, they are.
And they do a pretty good job of protecting the GPU from any physical damage.
Though they do a pretty good job of protecting the GPU, some dust can still go in.
And you shouldclean the dust from your graphics cardonce in a while.
Custom Vs.
Regular GPU Backplates: Which One is Better?
Both the custom and regular graphics card backplates are safe and better.
Basically, its up to you which one you prefer.
If you are tight on budget and dont care much about aesthetics, a regular backplate will be ok.
If you want to add personal touch and design, go for a custom one.
Are you confused about which one you should go for?
Hopefully, a quick definition and their advantages and disadvantages will help you decide.
Its mainly designed to fit the specific model of your GPU.
Though the regular backplates are good at providing good protection, they seem plain and unattractive.
You wont find any additional features or aesthetic appeal with a regular backplate.
Since it comes with a GPU, you wont have to spend any money on this.
With this throw in of backplate, it’s possible for you to make the modification as you like.
you might even have it made of different materials, such as aluminum or acrylic.
But, the main disadvantage is that they can beexpensivesince you are custom-building the backplate.
I have discussed both sides.
Now you make the decision about which one is better and which you want to go for.
Is a GPU Backplate Worth It?
Based on some factors, a backplate will be worth it for your graphics card.
The backplates primary benefit is providing an extra layer of protection to the back of the GPU.
Moreover,backplates improve the airflow around the card.
Nonetheless, you have to spend some money to get a custom backplate.
Besides GPU, other hardware components also can have a backplate.
Read to find outwhether a CPU Cooler needs a backplate.
FAQs
Do GPU Backplates get hot?
But that kind of heat wont give you an instant burn.
What material is best for the GPU backplate?
The best material for the GPU backplate is acrylic.
Do GPU backplates affect temps?
Yes, the backplates of the graphics card affect the temps, but not by much.
The temperature can go up and down around 1 to 2 degrees Celsius.
Most of the time, you may not feel or notice the difference.
Final Thought
The backplates provide an excellent service to the graphics card.
But that doesnt mean you shouldnt use it.
You probably heard the saying that something is better than nothing.
So, keep using one.
I hope you have got all the answers related to GPU backplates in this article.
Comment below if you have any queries.
