[C-zom]

Hey guys, I've been deciding for a while how to upgrade my rig. I have $260 or so on hand now, not a dollar more, and want to throw that into a GPU budget. My 8800GT isn't cutting it anymore, even with the latest voltmod OC that put it up to 735 core. I see 20-25FPS in games like Arma 2, Empire, Clear Sky, and so on. In fact, most of the gaming I do that isn't Unreal or Source seems to lag.

So basically I want a new GPU. I've been eyeballing the GTX 260 (216), the 4980, the GTX 275 and the 5770. Apparently the 4890 is the best "bang for your buck" card now and the 275 is worth it if you game above 1680*1050. But, what would you recommend?

 

[tNok85]

I'd go for a 768MB or 1GB card first of all. Even at 1680x1050 it makes a difference. Granted, my CPU makes up for it most likely, but the rig listed below @ 1680x1050 has no problems with *anything*. (An 8800 Ultra is *roughly* equated to a 4850)

Also, you won't have an issue later if you go 1920x1080/1200.

The P35-DS3L is a card board, so I'd say get something powerful to make it last. 4890 1GB right now would be good. If you can wait for Fermi, you might see some competition bringing the 5xxx series down to reasonable prices, and you could easily get a 5850 for under $300.

 

[C-zom]

Yeah I'm looking to future proof in general, besides for DX11. I want more memory in case I decide to game on a LCD HDTV or getting a 24'' monitor. More memory is welcome for me. And yeah, you can't really compare an e2180 to an i5. My processor sucks--But I've been told I don't need to upgrade it, and getting a new GPU would be more logical for gaming. That true?

Yeah, the DS3L is a good board but I've never really given it the card or processor it deserves. So the 4890 is the best buy out of those cards listed? I've never owned an ATi card before, nervous to make the jump.

 

[mmx+]

You should be able to get a 5850 for $300, that would be the best card for that price IMO. Although if you can't find one, a 4890/GTX275 would also be good.

 

[muels7]

Roughly the 4890 and GTX 275 get about the same performance, 275 is slightly better depending on the game. 4890 is around $20 cheaper or more depending on the manufacturer. I think the 4890 would be a good choice unless u really want nVidia.

 

[wierdo124]

GTX275 and fold on it

 

[pcnoob1]

it might be a little more
but go with the 5850

 

[C-zom]

I really don't have money for the 5850 unless you can find it for 260, actually in stock, and so on. I'd love to buy one but simply don't have the cash. I'm strapped at 250, and can front a little more if worth it ("Little" being ten/twenty bucks)

 

[tNok85]

5850's are popping up at a bit over $300 now, sadly.

Shouldn't stay that way. If you *need* to upgrade now, I'd say 5770 if you *need* DX11. 4890 if you don't.

 

[C-zom]

I don't need DX11 right now. I'm happy with my Vista format right now, lots of stuff on here I want to keep. Next year I will be building an i7 and DX11 build, so lets put that off for now.

Judging from most benchmarks the 4890 performs a *little* bit worse than a 275, but the 4890 has a sweet Vapor cooler. Also, $30 cheaper. I think this might be the right choice.

 

[Anth0789]

The 4890 is perfect for someone with a budget and performs actually well and near the GTX 285.

 

[Contagion]

5850 if you can find one under 300.
They should go back down to around 260 after the new year.

 

[LuckySe7ens]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Anth0789 The 4890 is perfect for someone with a budget and performs actually well and near the GTX 285.

This is my vote. Seems to fit your needs perfectly.

 

[C-zom]

The GTX 275 went on auto notify tonight, seems like a sign! 4890 it is. Thanks for the help guys.