Obligatory Video Card Upgrade post...

[Kartajan]

Situation: Looking for best Video Card for a 2005FPW (1680x1050 native res). (Doing a bit of everything on it, not strictly on any single task/ game/ function)
*Planning on eventually going to Vista Ultimate w/ C2D & 2G RAM, but not 100% as of yet*

Restrictions: Planning to put into a Shuttle SFF, so single slot only (No "need an extra space for the Uber- Fan" cards..)and not super hot cards work for me
Cost: Within Reason; not over $350 unless there is a distinct and easily noticeable difference in performance

Comments?

 

[Dkcode]

A 7900GT would suit that resolution nicely.

 

[Fraggable]

7900GTs are single slot and don't get too warm, some 7800GTX's are single slot but they're hot, 7600GTs are usually single slot but if you game at all at that native res you'll definitely benefit from the power of the 7900GT.

ATI hasn't made any single slot powerful cards lately, they run too hot anymore.

I'd strong suggest a 7900GT. They can be had for $232 AR and can be voltmodded if you ever decide that sounds like fun.

Don't expect to run Oblivion on that card with any significant detail though, you'll need an 1900XT or more to do that.

 

[imported_Crusader]

7900GT is your best bet

7900s have twin dual-link DVI outputs as well. Which is nice to have.

 

[Kartajan]

Since everyone seems to be feeling that the 7900GT is the best bet, That sounds like the way I will be going.

Does anybody know of any good comparisons that show the differences under the native res that I will be running across multiple games?

 

[Fraggable]

Originally posted by: Kartajan
Since everyone seems to be feeling that the 7900GT is the best bet, That sounds like the way I will be going.

Does anybody know of any good comparisons that show the differences under the native res that I will be running across multiple games?

Try tomshardware.com and of course Anandtech. If you cant' find the game you want benches for just google for it.