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A video card is the same thing as a graphics card--these cards determine how quickly graphics will be uploaded to your monitor. Obviously, we all want video cards that give us the images we ask for without delay. If you are using rich graphics and have a slow card, there will obviously be a problem.

However, you can upgrade your video card to one that gives you the graphic response you want at the resolution you desire, such as an NVIDIA graphic card or ATI Radeon card. The resolution will make a big difference to how quickly graphics load onto your screen. The higher your ideal resolution, the better video card you will need. If you are serious about graphics, it's important to have a screen that is 17 inches or larger to really take advantage of the improved visuals.

Gamers will want 3D video cards to really do justice to some of the newer games coming out. These games have characters and features that seem to leap out of the monitor, and which require serious card power. However, if you use your computer primarily for word processing and spreadsheets, a standard video card will be more than adequate.

Most educational software, games, and programs these days have incredible visuals, which are going to require video cards that are up to snuff so you don't have a slow response time. Fortunately, these cards needn't be expensive. Granted, top-of-the-line video cards from brand names like ATI can be several hundred dollars when purchased new, but you can find great desktop components like video cards for much lower prices when they are used. You can also find slightly less powerful new video cards for around $100.