NVIDIA Quadro K4100M
NVIDIA graphics card specifications and benchmark scores
NVIDIA Quadro K4100M Specifications
Quadro K4100M GPU Core
Shader units and compute resources
The NVIDIA Quadro K4100M GPU core specifications define its raw processing power for graphics and compute workloads. Shading units (also called CUDA cores, stream processors, or execution units depending on manufacturer) handle the parallel calculations required for rendering. TMUs (Texture Mapping Units) process texture data, while ROPs (Render Output Units) handle final pixel output. Higher shader counts generally translate to better GPU benchmark performance, especially in demanding games and 3D applications.
Quadro K4100M Clock Speeds
GPU and memory frequencies
Clock speeds directly impact the Quadro K4100M's performance in GPU benchmarks and real-world gaming. The base clock represents the minimum guaranteed frequency, while the boost clock indicates peak performance under optimal thermal conditions. Memory clock speed affects texture loading and frame buffer operations. The Quadro K4100M by NVIDIA dynamically adjusts frequencies based on workload, temperature, and power limits to maximize performance while maintaining stability.
NVIDIA's Quadro K4100M Memory
VRAM capacity and bandwidth
VRAM (Video RAM) is dedicated memory for storing textures, frame buffers, and shader data. The Quadro K4100M's memory capacity determines how well it handles high-resolution textures and multiple displays. Memory bandwidth, measured in GB/s, affects how quickly data moves between the GPU and VRAM. Higher bandwidth improves performance in memory-intensive scenarios like 4K gaming. The memory bus width and type (GDDR6, GDDR6X, HBM) significantly influence overall GPU benchmark scores.
Quadro K4100M by NVIDIA Cache
On-chip cache hierarchy
On-chip cache provides ultra-fast data access for the Quadro K4100M, reducing the need to fetch data from slower VRAM. L1 and L2 caches store frequently accessed data close to the compute units. AMD's Infinity Cache (L3) dramatically increases effective bandwidth, improving GPU benchmark performance without requiring wider memory buses. Larger cache sizes help maintain high frame rates in memory-bound scenarios and reduce power consumption by minimizing VRAM accesses.
Quadro K4100M Theoretical Performance
Compute and fill rates
Theoretical performance metrics provide a baseline for comparing the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M against other graphics cards. FP32 (single-precision) performance, measured in TFLOPS, indicates compute capability for gaming and general GPU workloads. FP64 (double-precision) matters for scientific computing. Pixel and texture fill rates determine how quickly the GPU can render complex scenes. While real-world GPU benchmark results depend on many factors, these specifications help predict relative performance levels.
Kepler Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The NVIDIA Quadro K4100M is built on NVIDIA's Kepler architecture, which defines how the GPU processes graphics and compute workloads. The manufacturing process node affects power efficiency, thermal characteristics, and maximum clock speeds. Smaller process nodes pack more transistors into the same die area, enabling higher performance per watt. Understanding the architecture helps predict how the Quadro K4100M will perform in GPU benchmarks compared to previous generations.
NVIDIA's Quadro K4100M Power & Thermal
TDP and power requirements
Power specifications for the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M determine PSU requirements and thermal management needs. TDP (Thermal Design Power) indicates the heat output under typical loads, guiding cooler selection. Power connector requirements ensure adequate power delivery for stable operation during demanding GPU benchmarks. The suggested PSU wattage accounts for the entire system, not just the graphics card. Efficient power delivery enables the Quadro K4100M to maintain boost clocks without throttling.
Quadro K4100M by NVIDIA Physical & Connectivity
Dimensions and outputs
Physical dimensions of the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M are critical for case compatibility. Card length, height, and slot width determine whether it fits in your chassis. The PCIe interface version affects bandwidth for communication with the CPU. Display outputs define monitor connectivity options, with modern cards supporting multiple high-resolution displays simultaneously. Verify these specifications against your case and motherboard before purchasing to ensure a proper fit.
NVIDIA API Support
Graphics and compute APIs
API support determines which games and applications can fully utilize the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M. DirectX 12 Ultimate enables advanced features like ray tracing and variable rate shading. Vulkan provides cross-platform graphics capabilities with low-level hardware access. OpenGL remains important for professional applications and older games. CUDA (NVIDIA) and OpenCL enable GPU compute for video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific applications. Higher API versions unlock newer graphical features in GPU benchmarks and games.
Quadro K4100M Product Information
Release and pricing details
The NVIDIA Quadro K4100M is manufactured by NVIDIA as part of their graphics card lineup. Release date and launch pricing provide context for comparing GPU benchmark results with competing products from the same era. Understanding the product lifecycle helps evaluate whether the Quadro K4100M by NVIDIA represents good value at current market prices. Predecessor and successor information aids in tracking generational improvements and planning future upgrades.
Quadro K4100M Benchmark Scores
geekbench_metalSource
Geekbench Metal tests GPU compute using Apple's Metal API. This shows how NVIDIA Quadro K4100M performs in macOS and iOS applications that leverage GPU acceleration. Metal provides low-overhead access to Apple silicon GPUs. Creative applications on Mac heavily utilize Metal for rendering and video processing.
geekbench_openclSource
Geekbench OpenCL tests GPU compute performance using the cross-platform OpenCL API. This shows how NVIDIA Quadro K4100M handles parallel computing tasks like video encoding and scientific simulations. OpenCL is widely supported across different GPU vendors and platforms.
About NVIDIA Quadro K4100M
The NVIDIA Quadro K4100M, released in 2013 with 4 GB GDDR5 VRAM, targets mobile workstation users but holds limited appeal for modern gamers. Priced at $1,499 at launch, its Kepler architecture on a 28 nm process struggles with today’s AAA titles, even at medium settings. Benchmarks like 8,873 in Geekbench OpenCL and 6,380 in Metal highlight its age-relative performance, better suited for CAD or rendering than high-fidelity gaming. With a TDP of 100 W and an MXM-B interface, it’s designed for specialized laptops, not consumer-focused rigs. Gamers prioritizing cost-effectiveness should consider its used-market value against newer budget GPUs like the GTX 1650 or RTX 3050. The NVIDIA Quadro K4100M’s lack of gaming-optimized drivers and outdated architecture make it a niche choice, even at discounted prices. For those stuck with this GPU, optimizing settings and resolution remains key to playable frame rates.
Positioned as a mobile workstation solution, the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M prioritizes stability in professional apps over raw gaming performance. Its 706 MHz base and boost clocks, paired with GDDR5 memory, deliver reliability for OpenGL/Vulkan-based workflows but lag behind contemporaries like the GeForce GTX 880M. Gamers eyeing this card should note its focus on certified drivers and precision over high clock speeds or CUDA core counts. While the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M excels in tasks like 3D modeling, its gaming viability hinges on older titles or indie games. Market alternatives from AMD’s FirePro or consumer-tier NVIDIA lines offer better entertainment ROI for most buyers. The Kepler architecture’s power efficiency and 4 GB VRAM, once competitive, now feel restrictive for 1080p gaming. Potential buyers should weigh its professional-grade features against gaming-specific needs before committing.
- Pair the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M with a 4th-gen Intel i7 or AMD FX-series CPU for balanced performance in legacy systems.
- Opt for 16 GB DDR3 RAM and a 512 GB SSD to mitigate bottlenecks in multitasking and game loading times.
- Use a 1080p IPS display with a 60 Hz refresh rate to align with the GPU’s aging rendering capabilities.
As an investment, the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M offers diminishing returns for gamers upgrading aging mobile workstations. Its VRAM and memory bandwidth, once sufficient for 2013’s workloads, now struggle with modern titles’ demands. Buyers should consider the card’s depreciation curve used units often trade below $200 against the cost of entry-level modern GPUs. The NVIDIA Quadro K4100M’s longevity lies in professional certifications, not gaming, making it a questionable buy unless bundled with a broader workstation upgrade. Savvy investors would prioritize future-proofing with at least Turing or RDNA 2 architectures over this decade-old silicon. For those stuck with the K4100M, maximizing performance through driver tweaks and game-specific optimizations is essential. The GPU’s niche role underscores the importance of aligning hardware choices with primary use cases.
When evaluating the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M’s value, buyers must acknowledge its workstation-centric design over gaming pedigree. Its 4 GB GDDR5 VRAM, while ample in 2013, falters under modern texture packs and 4K upscaling. Compatibility with older APIs like DirectX 11 extends its lifespan slightly, but ray tracing or DLSS support is nonexistent. Gamers on a budget should explore used GeForce laptops from the same era for better frame rates, as the NVIDIA Quadro K4100M’s drivers lack gaming-centric optimizations. The card’s MXM-B form factor also limits upgrade paths, locking users into its fixed performance tier. For those needing mobile workstation capabilities *and* casual gaming, the K4100M is a compromise, not a solution. Ultimately, NVIDIA’s Quadro K4100M serves a vanishing segment, overtaken by hybrid GPUs and cloud gaming’s rise.
The AMD Equivalent of Quadro K4100M
Looking for a similar graphics card from AMD? The AMD Radeon RX 480 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
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