MSI has officially expanded its compact GPU lineup with the introduction of the GeForce RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX and INSPIRE ITX OC graphics cards – two of the smallest RTX 5050 models to date. 
These tiny yet capable cards are designed specifically for mini-ITX builds, where space is a luxury and every millimeter matters. Measuring just 147mm in length and weighing a mere 551 grams, they represent MSI’s continued commitment to making high-performance GPUs available for small form factor enthusiasts.
The INSPIRE ITX cards feature a dual-slot, single-fan cooler setup that balances efficiency and thermal control in a minimalist package
. Despite the compact body, MSI ensures the cooling remains solid with the company’s signature ZERO FROZR technology, paired with a pair of heat pipes and the refined TORX Fan 5.0 design. This setup promotes higher airflow while keeping noise to a minimum, which is critical in small chassis where airflow paths are limited.
The lineup consists of two variants – the base RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX, featuring a boost clock of up to 2587 MHz, and the slightly faster RTX 5050 INSPIRE ITX OC, clocking up to 2617 MHz. 
While the performance difference is modest, both models are tuned for smooth 1080p gaming, the primary target market for NVIDIA’s entry-level Blackwell GPU architecture. They include 3x DisplayPort 2.1b and 1x HDMI output, supporting modern high-refresh monitors, though users shouldn’t expect consistent triple-digit frame rates in the latest AAA titles.
Power delivery is handled via a single 8-pin PCIe connector, with a 130W TDP, which makes these GPUs ideal for compact prebuilt systems and DIY enthusiasts seeking performance without requiring large PSUs. Interestingly, while MSI calls these models dual-slot, the cooler’s thickness means they actually occupy roughly 2.2 slots on most motherboards – still within the acceptable range for ITX users.
Visually, the cards carry MSI’s understated INSPIRE series design language: clean lines, matte finish, and an almost industrial aesthetic. Compared to the slightly larger RTX 5060 INSPIRE 2X OC which uses Stormforce Fans, this new 5050 keeps things simpler but retains MSI’s build quality. With PNY offering a similarly compact RTX 5050, competition in the ultra-small GPU space is heating up, signaling a new wave of powerful mini cards designed for efficient rigs.
For gamers who crave style, silence, and small size over raw horsepower, MSI’s new INSPIRE ITX models might just hit the sweet spot – delivering enough power for modern esports and indie titles without sacrificing aesthetics or thermals.