Best Video Card for Me (<200$?)

[arcenite]

I am interested in making my rig HL2 Proof. I am running a 1700+ B @ 1900+ (Could overclock it if I got better memory) and i have 512mb Crucial PC2700... I was looking at the Radeon 9600 Pro, but was wondering what the best brand is. Also, is there a large performance difference between the Pro and NP, and is it worth the price difference? Thanks!

Bill

 

[Vonkhan]

Get on the FS/T forum and u might be able to bag a 9700np or even a 9700pro for $200 - I just sold my 9700Pro for $200

 

[arcenite]

Thanks

 

[dmw16]

First off...overclockable 1700+s rock. Get some better memory and go. I have mine at 2325mhz.

As for the vid card. I would say if you wanna buy new, the 9600pro is great! (dont bother w/ the non-pro). Or if you are willing to shop FS/T then you could probably grab yourself a 9700pro (I bought one for $215 a few weeks back). But really, from the benchmarks I have seen the 9600pro is the best bang for your buck.
-doug

 

[Murphq]

I would give my vote for a 9600pro, just cause I bought one right before the HL2 benchamrks were released and was amazed at how well this card performed. It looks to me like its the best bang for the buck card for HL2.

With that said, your only running a 1700+ so putting a much faster card in there isn't really going to make a big difference.

Also stay away from the 9600 pro "EZ" version and "Lite" version.

my card is also made by ATI. I think the only advantage is the warranty.

If you could get the 9700 for a good price then go for it, but I suggest the 9600pro.

 

[mrgoblin]

Id get 2 sticks of buffalo 3200 and a 9600 pro. THe gig will definately help loading times.

 

[arcenite]

Thanks... I am going to overclock my 1700+ to ~2.2Ghz as soon as I get the memory (I'm completing a deal with darkride, he has 512mb PC3200). What should I do with my old Crucial Pc2700?

Thanks for all of your input. I'll be on the lookout for a 9700P!

 

[Steven the Leech]

What should I do with my old Crucial Pc2700?


Send it to me??

 

[arcenite]

lol i meant, you think I would be able to trade it for something useful, or sell it and put it towards something else...

Thanks again!

 

[Vonkhan]

What should I do with my old Crucial Pc2700?

Once again, the For Sale/Trade Forum is your monkey

 

[fibes]

I have the 9500 Pro. It's an excellent card, but you have to flash the bios to overclock. I heard the 9600Pro is the best card for HL2, budgetwise.