Help understanding/deciding between 320MB/640MB 8800GTS

[Adam611]

I'm building a new computer for mid-ranged to high-end gaming and this card get's suggested in a lot of guides. I see the 640MB and 320MB seem to perform identically in most tests I see. Is the extra memory just for future-proofing? Is it worth the extra $90? I use a 20in screen and like to run games in 1600x1200 with most options turned on. Thanks!

 

[JPB]

At that resolution, the 320 version will be plenty. And in a lot of people's minds, future proofing is non existent. If you want to run a lot of eye candy, the 640 may make a little difference, but will be negligible.

 

[JustaGeek]

You will not be able to run some games (e.g. Quake 4 and Doom 3) at Ultra High resolution with less than 512MB of VRAM.

If you like the "eye candy", go for 640MB.

 

[Laminator]

You can run Quake 4 and Doom 3 at Ultra Quality even if you don't have 512MB of RAM. You can't get the "High" texture setting in Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter without 512MB of RAM, however.

If you can afford the 640MB and if you like eye candy and high resolutions, I say go for the 640MB model.

 

[cmdrdredd]

Originally posted by: Laminator
You can run Quake 4 and Doom 3 at Ultra Quality even if you don't have 512MB of RAM. You can't get the "High" texture setting in Ghost Recon: Advanced Warfighter without 512MB of RAM, however.

If you can afford the 640MB and if you like eye candy and high resolutions, I say go for the 640MB model.

That's pretty much true in my mind. If you can afford it and find yourself needing the extra potential power then go for the 640.