graphix card suggestions

[AE157]

i hav an "Nvidia GeForce FX 5200 AGP 128mb DDR" and i want 2 take a pretty big step up 4 under $200. ne help u can give will b greatly appreciated

 

[AXP]

You can get a ATI Radeon 9800 Pro for around $200 or a NVIDIA 5900XT for about the same. www.pricewatch.com is a good place to check for the lowest prices on computer stuff. These would be a big step up from what you have.

 

[Big B]

In the US, the best bets are Newegg and ZipZoomFly. While you can browse Pricewatch, also realize that the lowest bidder may not have the best service. Newegg and ZZF have awesome reputations, and I know I've spent at least $1k at Newegg over the years.
Anyway, before you jump on any uber-hot deal, cross refrence the seller with Reseller Ratings.

Going with a Radeon 9800Pro is a good shot. If you can wait a little longer, you can also pick up a GeForce 6600GT AGP card for around $200. They just hit the shelves at a few sites, but I don't know how reputable they are. If you go that route, make sure you get the AGP version, not the PCI Express---it's not compatible with AGP.

 

[Addis]

Like B said if you have to go for a card now, then go for the Radeon 9800pro. The Geforce 5900XT isn't a bad card, but its not match for the Radeon 9800pro.

 

[ProcalX]

whats the 9700Pro like? my brother has a machine i built him (FOR FREE!)
-
Duron 1800mhz @ 2100mhz @ 45C Full load
1GB DDR Kingston PC3200
20GB 7200rpm 2mb
40GB 7200rpm 2mb
400W Antec PSU
ATI 9200SE 128mb

He loves Half-Life and modifications, which is why i built it for him, anyway.. he's just had his birthday doesnt have much.. however he wants a graphics card for around £100 no more that will play HL2 smoothly.. now personally i think a 9700Pro 128mb would be a v.good choice.. (he wont be playing anything more stressful than HL2)

 

[Big B]

That's a good choice too. You should have about the same grunt as the 9800 Pro.

 

[AE157]

will the 256mb 9800pro b ne better than the 128mb? thanx guys

 

[ProcalX]

You have the advantage that when playing games that use alot of memory (which most new games do!) it is handy as it doesnt use as much system memory, however most 256mb graphics cards tend to have a slower clock frequency than their 128mb brothers.

However, for the price of a 256mb 9800Pro you would be better off getting something like a 9800XT 128mb or 9800AIW 128mb or a 6800 or 6600GT, less memory but considerably better performance, for either marginally more or the same price..

:good:

 

[Addis]

Games like UT2k4 have large outdoor environments, so the extra memory will help there.