MSI afterburners are used for gaming purposes. It is reliable and is available for free. MSI stands for Micro-Star International, a Taiwanese technology company specializing in computer hardware.
How to install MSI afterburner?
Before knowing all the features of MSI graphics card, you should know how it is installed? The method of installing MSI afterburner is simple. You have to search for the latest version of MSI afterburner on the website of MSI. You can get its older versions from the file house. You just need to search for its latest version, after doing so, it will ask you whether you want to download or install MSI afterburner or not, and start downloading. When the download is complete, instructions will be shown, which you have to follow while using the MSI graphics card. RTSS software is not important for the functionality of your MSI afterburner, but it permits you to show statistics and frame rates overlaid during games. So, it’s totally up to you whether you download this software or not. Read these instructions with great care because these instructions are important.
Purpose of MSI afterburner:
The main purpose of this graphic card is that it provides you with all the current information on your system’s performance. It helps you to have a look at all things you are doing while gaming. It also keeps an eye on the effect of your overclocking settings while gaming.
Benefits of using MSI graphics card?
There are many benefits of using MSI graphics cards, but some main uses are described below, which can help you to know each and everything about it.
- MSI Afterburner provides the following features, such as built-in bench-marking and it can also capture screenshots while gaming.
- With the help of its bench-marking feature, you can test the performance of your graphics card in different frameworks while, with the help of the screenshot capturing feature, you can capture different moments of your games. You can also share your gaming moments with your friends or team members by sharing screenshots with them. In this using MSI afterburner makes your gaming more entertaining and enjoy full.
- The users also get the facility to fine-tune the program according to their requirements. For example, you can choose what the hotkeys do, what the overlay looks like, and how often data is refreshed. With the help of this feature, you can do your work easily according to your own will. Read more about How to design the ideal poster in 4 steps?
How to use MSI afterburner?
After installing its next step is to understand how to use it. Here we have discussed in detail how to use an MSI graphics card:
Step 1:
The first step after installing it is to click on the “Settings” button, this button is present on the top of the right corner. Then check settings and make sure that the “Enable low-level hardware access” setting is enabled. Also, allow the “unlock voltage control”. this feature will provide you with complete control over the voltages of the graphics card.
Step 2:
The next step is to click on the “Monitoring” tab. Then make changes according to your needs.
Step 3:
The next step is to click on the “overclocking “button. By clicking on it you can speed up the voltage and clocking speed of your graphics cards.
MSI Afterburner vs an MSI Graphics Card
MSI Afterburner is free software. An MSI graphics card is hardware. Afterburner works with almost any graphics card, not only MSI cards. It lets you monitor temperature, fan speed, and frame rate. It also lets you overclock your card, which means running it faster than its stock speed. Overclocking can void your warranty and can damage your card if done wrong, so use it with care.
Choosing an MSI Graphics Card
| Level | Best For | Memory |
|---|---|---|
| Entry level | Esports and 1080p gaming | 6 to 8 GB |
| Mid-range | 1080p and 1440p gaming | 8 to 12 GB |
| High-end | 4K gaming and video work | 16 GB or more |
Check your power supply before you buy. High-end cards need more watts and extra power cables. Check that the card fits your case, as some cards are long and wide. Check your monitor too: a high-end card is wasted on a low-resolution monitor.
How to Install a Graphics Card
Turn off your PC and unplug it. Open the case and remove the old card if there is one. Slot the new card into the PCIe slot and screw it in place. Connect the power cables from your power supply. Close the case, plug in your monitor, and turn the PC on. Install the latest drivers from the NVIDIA or AMD website, or from the MSI website. Restart your PC after the drivers install.
Keeping Your Graphics Card Cool
Clean dust from your PC every few months. Make sure air can flow through the case. Use MSI Afterburner to watch your card’s temperature while gaming. Most cards run safely below 85 degrees Celsius under load. If your card runs hotter, check your fans and airflow. Do not block the vents on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is MSI Afterburner free?
Yes. MSI Afterburner is free software. It works with almost any graphics card, not only MSI cards.
What is the difference between MSI Afterburner and an MSI graphics card?
Afterburner is software for monitoring and overclocking. An MSI graphics card is the hardware that renders your games and videos.
How do I choose an MSI graphics card?
Match the card to your monitor and your games. Entry-level cards suit 1080p gaming. Mid-range cards suit 1440p. High-end cards suit 4K gaming and video work.
How do I install a graphics card?
Turn off your PC and unplug it. Slot the card into the PCIe slot. Connect the power cables. Install the latest drivers from the NVIDIA, AMD, or MSI website.
How hot should my graphics card run?
Most cards run safely below 85 degrees Celsius under load. Use MSI Afterburner to watch your card’s temperature while gaming.
Disclaimer: This guide gives general information only. Product details and prices can change. Overclocking can void your warranty and damage your card if done wrong, so use it with care.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026