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A motherboard with integrated graphics (IGP) eliminates the need for a dedicated GPU, relying on the CPU's built-in graphics processing unit to handle visual tasks. This design is popular in budget systems, compact PCs, and laptops, where space, cost, or power efficiency are priorities. Intel's UHD/Iris Xe and AMD's Radeon Vega/RDNA 3 IGPs offer varying levels of performance, catering to different use cases from basic productivity to light gaming. AMD's Ryzen APUs (Accelerated Processing Units) paired with compatible motherboards (e.g., ASUS ROG Strix B650-I for AM5) deliver the strongest integrated graphics, with RDNA 3-based IGPs in the Ryzen 7 7840U offering performance comparable to entry-level dedicated GPUs. These can handle 1080p gaming at low/medium settings in titles like Valorant, Minecraft, or Stardew Valley, making them ideal for casual gamers or users who plan to add a dedicated GPU later. Intel's Iris Xe Graphics, found in Core i5-12500T, provide smooth 4K video playback and basic graphic design capabilities, suitable for media consumption and office work. Key features of these motherboards include support for dual-channel RAM (to maximize IGP performance, as IGPs share system memory), HDMI 2.0/2.1 or DisplayPort outputs for multiple monitors, and PCIe slots for future GPU upgrades. Budget models (ASRock A520M-HDV) focus on essential connectivity, while premium mini-ITX boards (Gigabyte B650I Aorus Ultra) add features like Wi-Fi 6, Thunderbolt 4, and M.2 slots for NVMe storage, balancing compact design with modern features. Use cases for motherboards with integrated graphics include: - Budget Builds: Ideal for users on a tight budget, providing enough performance for web browsing, document editing, and light media tasks without a dedicated GPU. - Small Form Factor PCs: Mini-ITX or micro-ATX builds where space is limited, such as HTPCs or office desktops. - Gaming On a Budget: AMD APUs offer a cost-effective entry into gaming, allowing users to start with integrated graphics and upgrade to a dedicated GPU later. - Legacy Systems: Support for older CPUs and operating systems, useful for industrial or specialized applications. Limitations include shared memory bandwidth (dual-channel RAM is essential to avoid bottlenecks), limited graphics processing power (unsuitable for 4K gaming or heavy 3D work), and reliance on CPU performance for graphics tasks. However, for the right use cases, motherboards with integrated graphics offer a practical, affordable solution that balances performance and cost, proving that a dedicated GPU isn't always necessary for a functional and efficient PC.
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