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So I'm looking to start a new build, using some of the parts from my old PC. One thing I wanted to do was try out Intel (current is AMD) and to have two GPUs. This build has Oculus Rift in mind.

The question I have is in regards to the GPUs. Obviously, having two of the same would make the most sense, but the primary reason I want two is ultimately to have as many video outputs as possible (I only have two right now, and would like 3 or 4, I do a lot of multitasking). If I were to go with two different video cards, does it matter how good the second one is? I would probably get one very powerful one, capable of running all the games I'd want to play on it's own if necessary, and the second one I really just need for outputs. Would this effect the performance of the two as a unit?

Perhaps this is the completely wrong way to go about this, I'm not sure. This is only my second ever build, I'm still very much a novice. Hopefully if there is a better solution, someone can let me know!

tl;dr: I need 3 to 4 video outputs, but only need 1 good video card. If I need a second (to achieve the number of outputs I want), does it have to be a good one?

NOTE: After some googling, it appears I am not fully aware of the difference between a GPU/Graphics card. Maybe someone could shed light on this in the context of my situation. Thanks!

Eric David Sartor
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If you want a second video card purely for desktop outputs (i.e. not gaming across multiple monitors) then any card will be fine. Windows 7 and above is quite capable of using outputs on different cards with an order of magnitude difference in speed for normal desktop use.

Using different cards "as a unit" to spread the graphical load is impossible with some setups and generally discouraged even when it is possible when using cards of different capabilities.

In your case a good card to power the rift and other games on 1-2 monitors plus a second card for "dumb" outputs would work fine.

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