So what video card do I want to buy?

[samduhman]

I need a video card for my new gaming rig. I gave my 7900GT ko to my son. I was going to get a 8800GTS 640mb but do I need all that?

My needs/concerns in this decision.

- Using a Samsung 226bw (22") lcd.
- want to run current/upcoming (fall/winter) games if not maxed out near maxed out in the eye candy options
- concerned after multiple rumors/articles that the current gen cards are just not good enough for directx 10 games.

So do I spend a bunch of money on a near the top lvl card or will a 8800 GTS 320mb or less be good enough

 

[Hauk]

Some will say you'd be fine with your resolution, but I'd go for the 640mb.

Sure it's more, but you'll be glad you did. Rebates will bring the 640mb to the $359.00 range...

 

[samduhman]

Ok I just had a dumb thought....

I noticed in forums threads a lot people recommend you get the 640mb version over the 320mb. This is where my confusion comes in. I've been running my 7900GT with 256mbs of ram and been very pleased. So how come 320mb is an issue with the 8800GTS?

Can someone clear this up for me.

 

[bluefoam]

its july and all prices should drop soon... the gtx should be in the midrange soon.... and the 640 would be even cheaper. GO WITH THE 640 MINIMUM if you stick with Nvidia.

For the current midrange though... that 2900xt looks pretty sweet! AND with HDCP which the gts doesnt support!

thing is Im stuck on the gtx between the msi or pny oc (better price) and the evga, bfg, or xfx (better reliability)

 

[bluefoam]

both 640 and 320 employ a 320mb memory interface. Same 96 streams. But if youre looking at high AA and anisotropic filtering on the DX10 levels... you WILL notice a difference with the 640. 320 is FINE today... but the 640 is currently at a good price anyways which will carry you further. BUT... it depends on your resolution too.... 22" = 1680x1050???

Im still @ 19" 1280x1024...

 

[superbooga]

Forget about high AA and anisotropic filtering with a GTS for DX10 games at 1680x1050. 640 or 320, makes no difference. 640 is only useful is you wanna play 1-2 year old games with high levels of AA. Get an EVGA 8800GTS 320 and step-up to a GTX if it isn't enough.

 

[samduhman]

Originally posted by: bluefoam
both 640 and 320 employ a 320mb memory interface. Same 96 streams. But if youre looking at high AA and anisotropic filtering on the DX10 levels... you WILL notice a difference with the 640. 320 is FINE today... but the 640 is currently at a good price anyways which will carry you further. BUT... it depends on your resolution too.... 22" = 1680x1050???

Im still @ 19" 1280x1024...

1680x1050 is correct. Ya usually I would jump on the better version but Im really torn this time because of the directx 10 capabilities of the current 8800 series. Thats why Im thinking get the $100 (approx) cheaper 320mb and run with it till some of these questions are answered.

I need to find a hot deal on the 640 version to make it an easier decision .

 

[GEOrifle]

Sanduhman better wait to end of thise month and you will get nice deal for 8800gts 640 version, maybe better.

PS: check your message box. Thanks.