What is TDP — GPU and CPU Power Draw Explained for PC Builders
TDP stands for Thermal Design Power and represents the maximum heat a component generates that your cooling system must be able to dissipate. A RTX 4060 Ti 16GB has a 165W TDP — extremely manageable in almost any build. A RX 9070 XT has a 304W TDP — requiring a high-airflow case and adequate PSU headroom. TDP directly determines which PSU you need, which case is appropriate, and whether room cooling matters. Read the full guide.