The compact and powerful GeForce RTX 5050 series has just become even more enticing with the introduction of the INSPIRE ITX lineup from MSI. These cards are designed for gamers who demand high performance in a small package. With their single-fan design and lightweight construction, they promise to deliver exceptional gaming experiences without occupying much space, making them ideal for ITX cases.
Introducing MSI’s Miniature Marvels
MSI has unveiled two new additions to the GeForce RTX 5050 family: the RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX and the RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX OC. Standing out as possibly the smallest RTX 5050 cards available, these models feature a compact dual-slot and single-fan design that fits snugly into tight builds. Both measure a mere 147mm in length, comparable to PNY’s similarly sized offering.
Performance and Features
The RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX boasts a boost clock of up to 2587 MHz in Extreme Performance mode, while its OC counterpart pushes slightly higher to 2617 MHz. Both cards sport a sleek design with minimalistic shrouds, reflecting the classic INSPIRE aesthetic. Despite their slim dual-slot profile, the slightly thicker coolers might extend to 2.1 or 2.2 slots on your motherboard.
An array of output options includes 3x DisplayPort v2.1b and 1x HDMI port, supporting high resolutions and refresh rates. However, gamers should note that the RTX 5050 is the weakest among the Blackwell GPUs and is best suited for 1080p gaming, where it may struggle to consistently hit triple-digit frame rates. The card consumes 130W of power, requiring a single PCIe 8-pin connector.
Cooling is managed through the ZERO FROZR system, comprising heat pipes and TORX Fan 5.0 for enhanced airflow. This setup differs slightly from the Stormforce Fans used in MSI’s GeForce RTX 5060 INSPIRE 2X OC card, yet maintains a similar design language.