For a GPU to show the boot screen on a classic Mac Pro (5,1) without being flashed, it typically needs to be an older, Mac-compatible card originally supported by Apple. Here’s a list of options that will work in macOS Monterey, showing the boot screen without flashing:
AMD Cards:
- Radeon RX 580 (8GB) — Mac Edition (RARE):
- Notes: An RX 580 “Mac Edition” exists and is known for compatibility, but it is rare and can be expensive.
- Radeon HD 7950 — Mac Edition:
- VRAM: 3GB GDDR5
- Notes: This card is officially supported by Apple and provides a boot screen.
- Radeon HD 5870 — Mac Edition:
- VRAM: 1GB GDDR5
- Notes: Slightly dated, but still works with Monterey. Provides boot screen and compatibility with Apple EFI.
Nvidia Cards:
- NVIDIA Quadro K5000 — Mac Edition:
- VRAM: 4GB GDDR5
- Notes: Officially supported in macOS. Provides a boot screen and works with native drivers in older macOS versions, but you may need additional drivers for Monterey.
- NVIDIA GTX 680 — Mac Edition:
- VRAM: 2GB GDDR5
- Notes: Shows the boot screen and works with macOS drivers. This card is officially supported and will work on Monterey without needing a flash.
These cards all provide native support in macOS and should work reliably with a boot screen on your Mac Pro 5,1. For best performance, consider the RX 580 Mac Edition if you can find it, but the GTX 680 Mac Edition is a reliable alternative.
