GPU advice

[cinohpa]

So I'm trying to consider possibilities for an i7 build this Christmas. I saw that Nvidia is going to make SLI native on X58. I'm guessing that will mean there won't be the same SLI kinks nvidia had this generation. Does that mean something new should be out from nvdia to go with i7? It just might be generally convenient to get something newer if I can afford it.

I want to spend as close to $300 on the GPU as possible. Do you think I will be better off just getting something older ? I don't plan on using SLI right away, I just want to build this machine so that I can leave the mobo/processor for as long as possible and only do minor upgrades/additions such as adding another video card.

Or will I just want to go with ATI? Have they shown any promising signs of keeping up momentum?

 

[PC_User]

I would say that as of late, ATI has not only been keeping up with NVIDIA, but has actually surpassed them. This is especially evident with the HD48XX series, which have produced the highest performing cards and the best price/performance ratio. If you're looking to spend close to $300, I would highly recommend taking a look at the Radeon HD4870. The VisionTek 4870 (512mb) can be purchased for around $240 and should be more than enough for running the latest games. There are also several companies that offer a 1GB version of the 4870 for around $300. In that category, I wouldn't look beyond the Sapphire. If you're looking to spend even more money, you can get the highest-performing card (4870 X2) in the $500 price range.

 

[ImperfectLink]

You're waiting for Xmas for the rest. Might as well wait til NV brings out the next 200b series.