NVIDIA GeForce N16V-GMR1: Performance in Mobile Gaming and Comparison with Other GPUs

Introduction

The NVIDIA GeForce N16V-GMR1 is a mobile GPU that is part of the GeForce 900M series designed specifically for gaming laptops. This GPU is known for its balanced performance and efficiency, making it a viable option for casual gamers and players of older or less demanding games.

Architectural Overview and Performance

The N16V-GMR1 is based on the Maxwell architecture, which offers good performance and power efficiency. However, its capabilities are somewhat limited compared to more modern GPUs. This GPU is well-suited for casual gaming and can handle older or less-demanding titles, but it may struggle with more graphically intensive games, especially at higher resolutions or settings.

VRAM and DirectX Support

The N16V-GMR1 typically comes with 2GB of VRAM, which can be a limiting factor when it comes to handling more demanding games. While it supports DirectX 12, this technology can enhance performance for games designed with it, but the overall capability of the N16V-GMR1 is still somewhat constrained.

Cooling and Thermal Management

As a mobile GPU, the performance of the N16V-GMR1 can be affected by thermal throttling. This means that if the laptop's cooling system is not adequate, the GPU may throttle its performance to prevent overheating. Effective cooling solutions, therefore, are crucial for maximizing the GPU's performance.

Entry-Level Performance

The N16V-GMR1 and its variants like the N16V-GMR1 940m are often considered entry-level mid-range GPUs. These GPUs are good for gaming in the sense that they can allow users to play AAA games at 30-40 FPS with low to medium settings, but with some tuning. However, they are not the best choice for modern gaming experiences, especially those requiring high settings or newer releases.

Comparison with Other GPUs

For users looking for a slightly better gaming experience, options like the MX150 or Mobile GT1030 are recommended. These GPUs offer 40% higher graphic performance than the 940m series, making them more suitable for enthusiasts who prioritize gaming over other uses.

Core Clock and CUDA Cores

There are some inconsistencies in the reported specifications of the N16V-GMR1. While some sources claim a core clock of 888MHz, 1027MHz, or 926MHz, the reliable reviews often suggest a 256 CUDA core count. Other sites report a 384 core count, which could be due to a die with some cores disabled to downsize the SKU. This could explain why the 920MX can provide gaming performance nearly equal to the 940MX, but may fall behind as it reaches 100% GPU usage.

Conclusion

In summary, the NVIDIA GeForce N16V-GMR1 is best suited for casual gaming and older titles. For modern gaming experiences with high settings or newer releases, a more powerful GPU would be recommended. Also, if gaming is a primary goal, consider opting for GPUs like the MX150 or Mobile GT1030, which offer better performance and are more aligned with contemporary gaming demands.