MSI is catering to the growing demand for small form factor (SFF) PC builds with the release of its new GeForce RTX 5050 Inspire ITX and RTX 5050 Inspire ITX OC graphics cards. These ultra-compact GPUs are designed to fit into the tightest PC cases without compromising on essential features, offering a compelling option for builders prioritizing space efficiency.
Key Takeaways
- Ultra-Compact Design: Measuring just 147mm x 120mm x 45mm, these cards are ideal for ITX and SFF cases.
- Single-Fan Cooling: A dual-slot, single-fan (Torx Fan 5.0) cooling solution is employed, suitable for the GPU’s 130W TDP.
- Two Variants: Available in standard and factory-overclocked (OC) versions, offering slight performance differences.
- Modern Connectivity: Features three DisplayPort 2.1b and one HDMI 2.1b output.
- Modest Power Needs: Requires a single 8-pin PCIe power connector and is recommended for a 550W PSU.
Designed for Small Form Factor Builds
MSI’s Inspire series has historically focused on aesthetic appeal and compact dimensions, and the new RTX 5050 Inspire models continue this trend. These graphics cards are specifically engineered to address the challenges of building powerful PCs within limited space. Their dual-slot thickness and short length make them compatible with a wide range of SFF cases, including popular models like the Fractal Design Terra and Era 2.
Cooling and Performance
Despite their small size, the RTX 5050 Inspire GPUs feature a capable cooling system. A single Torx Fan 5.0 sits atop an extruded aluminum heatsink with a single heatpipe, which is sufficient for the card’s 130W Thermal Design Power (TDP). The cards are based on Nvidia’s GB207-300 GPU, featuring 2,560 CUDA cores and 8GB of GDDR6 memory running at 20 Gbps over a 128-bit interface.
MSI offers two versions: the standard RTX 5050 Inspire ITX, which boosts up to 2,587 MHz (or 2,572 MHz in regular boost clocks), and the RTX 5050 Inspire ITX OC, which reaches 2,617 MHz in Extreme Performance mode (2,602 MHz regular boost). Both versions allow users to switch between Gaming and Silent profiles via MSI Center, with further customization available through MSI Afterburner.
Connectivity and Power
Connectivity is robust, with each card equipped with three DisplayPort 2.1b outputs and a single HDMI 2.1b port, supporting modern display standards. Power delivery is handled by a single 8-pin PCIe connector, and MSI recommends a 550W power supply unit for a stable system. It’s worth noting that while the card utilizes a PCIe 5.0 x16 interface, it is wired for x8 speed, which may impact performance on older PCIe 3.0 systems.
MSI has yet to announce pricing and availability for the RTX 5050 Inspire ITX and its OC variant. However, given their positioning within the Inspire line and the entry-level nature of the RTX 5050, these cards are expected to be a reasonably priced option for SFF PC enthusiasts seeking a compact yet capable graphics solution.
Via MSI
