MSI Introduces GeForce RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX and OC Cards Measuring Just 147mm
MSI has officially introduced two compact GeForce RTX 5050 graphics cards in its INSPIRE series, designed for small form factor enthusiasts seeking high efficiency in limited space. The GeForce RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX and GeForce RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX OC are among the smallest RTX 5050 models available, each measuring just 147mm in length and featuring a sleek dual-slot design with a single-fan cooling solution, perfect for ultra-compact ITX cases.
According to MSI’s product listings for the RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX and RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX OC, both cards deliver impressive performance within their size category. The standard version offers a boost clock of up to 2587 MHz in Extreme Performance mode, while the OC variant increases that slightly to 2617 MHz. Both GPUs carry MSI’s distinctive INSPIRE design language, focusing on clean, minimalist aesthetics suitable for premium small-form builds.
Although MSI labels these as dual-slot cards, the cooler extends slightly beyond that limit, occupying roughly 2.1 to 2.2 slots on a motherboard. Each model includes three DisplayPort 2.1b outputs and one HDMI port, supporting high resolutions and refresh rates. However, as the GeForce RTX 5050 represents the entry-level model of NVIDIA’s Blackwell architecture, it is best suited for 1080p gaming and may struggle to reach triple-digit frame rates in demanding modern titles.
The cards have a TDP of 130W and draw power from a single 8-pin PCIe connector, ensuring compatibility with most small power supplies. Cooling is handled by MSI’s ZERO FROZR thermal design, featuring dual heat pipes and the company’s TORX Fan 5.0 for improved airflow and quieter performance under load. While this configuration differs slightly from the Stormforce Fans used on MSI’s larger RTX 5060 INSPIRE 2X OC, the overall build maintains the same design philosophy, balancing performance with compact efficiency.
With these models, MSI joins PNY in offering ultra-compact RTX 5050 GPUs, both measuring 147mm, making them ideal for users building mini-ITX systems without sacrificing access to the latest NVIDIA Blackwell features such as DLSS 3.5 and full ray tracing support.
What do you think of MSI’s ultra-compact RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX cards? Would you consider one for your next small-form-factor build?
