Best video card for up to $250

[dman918]

I know a lot of people like the x800xl, so I ordered the 3dconnect from tigerdirect for $240 shipped. Well, it has been a week and hasn't shipped, so I am reconsidering the cards out there. What would be the best performing card in the $200-$250 range? I have seen a 6800gt, x800xl, and x850 pro for the price. I am also wondering if it may be worth going with the x800pro since it is so cheap from ATI right now.
It must be PCI Express, and I do play some games (Doom3, HL2, etc). I just want to get the best value out there. My 6600GT was ok in my last system, but nothing too special. I want something at least a little more than that.
Thanks,
Mike

 

[CraigRT]

I was almost going to just suggest the ATI deal X800 Pro before I read your post, but I then read the post and saw you knew about it... I suggest going that route.. the cards are only $229 Cdn, and people are saying they are getting NIB cards. That is really dang good deal.

 

[Bona Fide]

6800gt, overclock it to ultra speeds.

 

[Rip the Jacker]

Definetly a 6800 GT

 

[dman918]

I also wouldn't mind any links or brand recommendations.
Any reasoning would be a good thing too.
Thanks; I don't keep up with this stuff a whole lot anymore.
Mike

 

[selfbuilt]

The ATI X800 pro deal ($179, but 5% coupons abound) is probably the best bang for your buck (my X800XT PE AGP through the deal was brand new). The x800pro would most likely easily overclock to at least x800xl performance (hard to compare directly, since much lower clocks yet extra 4 pipes on xl vs. pro). But a 6800GT would definitely give you a little more oomph (esp if you overclock) - depends how much more you are willing to pay for it. Personally, I'd probably go for the ATI deal, if you can afford to wait a while longer for them to be in stock (note that everyone who pre-ordered XTPEs seem to be getting them now).

 

[theMan]

buy a 6800gt off the forums.

 

[dman918]

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductLi...ubCategory=48&bop=and&type=Refurbished

Here are a couple refurb cards as well. Any thoughts on any of these?

I can get the retail 3dconnect x800xl for $239 shipped as well.

Thanks!