MSI has launched the GeForce RTX 5050 Inspire ITX series—two ultra-compact graphics cards measuring just 147mm in length, making them among the smallest RTX 5050 GPUs on the market. Designed for small form factor (SFF) PC builds, these dual-slot, single-fan cards deliver modern gaming performance without compromising on connectivity or features.
Table of Contents
MSI RTX 5050 Inspire ITX: Full Specifications
| Feature | Inspire ITX | Inspire ITX OC |
|---|---|---|
| GPU | NVIDIA GB207-300 | NVIDIA GB207-300 |
| CUDA Cores | 2,560 | 2,560 |
| Memory | 8GB GDDR6 (20 Gbps, 128-bit) | 8GB GDDR6 (20 Gbps, 128-bit) |
| Boost Clock | 2,587 MHz (Extreme mode) | 2,617 MHz (Extreme mode) |
| Regular Boost | 2,572 MHz | 2,602 MHz |
| TDP | 130W | 130W |
| Power Connector | Single 8-pin PCIe | Single 8-pin PCIe |
| Dimensions | 147 × 120 × 45 mm | 147 × 120 × 45 mm |
| Weight | 551 grams | 551 grams |
| Cooling | Single Torx Fan 5.0 + 1 heat pipe | Single Torx Fan 5.0 + 1 heat pipe |
| Outputs | 3× DP 2.1b, 1× HDMI 2.1b | 3× DP 2.1b, 1× HDMI 2.1b |
| Recommended PSU | 550W | 550W |
Perfect for ITX and Mini PC Builds
At just 147mm long, these cards fit seamlessly into compact ITX cases where traditional GPUs won’t. The dual-slot design (actually 2.1-2.2 slots due to cooler thickness) ensures compatibility with most mini-ITX motherboards, while the single-fan Torx Fan 5.0 cooling system keeps thermals in check despite the tight footprint.
MSI’s ZERO FROZR technology stops the fan during idle or light workloads, delivering silent operation when browsing or watching videos. The single heat pipe efficiently transfers heat from the GPU die to the aluminum fin array, maintaining stable temperatures during gaming sessions.
Modest Performance, Modern Features
The RTX 5050 targets 1080p gaming with medium-to-high settings in modern titles. With 2,560 CUDA cores and 8GB GDDR6 memory, it handles games like Cyberpunk 2077, Fortnite, and Call of Duty at playable frame rates. The 130W TDP keeps power consumption reasonable, requiring only a single 8-pin connector and a 550W PSU—ideal for compact builds with limited power budgets.
Connectivity is surprisingly robust for such a small card: three DisplayPort 2.1b and one HDMI 2.1b port support 8K displays, high refresh rate monitors, and multi-monitor setups. The PCIe 5.0 x16 interface (wired for x8 speeds) ensures compatibility with modern motherboards.
OC vs Standard: Minimal Difference
The Inspire ITX OC offers a modest 30MHz boost clock advantage (2,617 MHz vs 2,587 MHz in Extreme Performance mode), translating to roughly 2-3% performance gains—barely noticeable in real-world gaming. Both models support Gaming and Silent profiles via MSI Center, with manual overclocking available through MSI Afterburner.
MSI hasn’t announced pricing, but expect these cards to retail close to NVIDIA’s $199-$249 MSRP range, making them accessible entry-level options for budget SFF builds.
For official details, visit MSI’s graphics card page. Check out TechnoSports for more compact GPU reviews.
FAQs
Can the RTX 5050 Inspire ITX handle 1440p gaming?
Yes, but expect 30-40 FPS on high settings; it’s optimized for 1080p gaming at 60+ FPS with medium-high settings.
Will this fit in a Node 202 or similar ultra-compact cases?
Yes, at 147mm length, it fits most ITX cases with GPU clearance of 150mm+, including Node 202, DAN A4, and Velka 7.
