Can't decide on either the GTX 280 or the 2GB Sapphire HD 4870X2 or my Ram

[kinkladze10]

As the above says I just can't decide on which to go for?

Currently have an 8800 GTX but getting a new build and I just don't know what to pick.

I've always, always gone Nvidia but the HD card I notice has 2gig on board and just seems faster.

I'd like a fairly quiet card but I want the best out there.

I just don't know which to pick.

I'm also struggling with the Ram question, I want 4 gig minimum on a 64 bit platform, but should I go for 6 Gig?

It's going to be for gaming pretty much and will probably be on Vista, will the 6 gig get used or is it just sugar coated?

Hoping someone can give me some advice on the matter.

[staffsMike]

4GB is more than enough for a gaming Rig. If you don't have a reason for more RAM then chances are there isn't one.

I would get the 280GTX (although I would probably get the 260GTX really). The HD4870X2 is just a power suck, and better than a furnace for heating your room.

Unless you are gaming above 1920 x 1200 there isn't any point having anything more than the 280GTX.

[kinkladze10]

Ok cheers, yeah thought 6gig could be over the top.

I'm on a 26" and I'm at that resolution so that is good to know.

My current rig kicks out so much heat in the summer it is almost unbearable so any more heat output and I'll probably melt the desk off.

So thanks for that, at least I know where I'm headed now

[BeastComputers]

I would agree with Mike, the GTX280 is probably the best way to go for a single card setup. If you are looking to upgrade to a dual card setup later on, I would stay away from the nVidia SLi option, well, at least until Intel gets SLi support on their platforms.

[vinnyT]

I have a evga gtx280 in my pc, which is on my desk and I can't hear it. This is a graet relief after my last card, which you could hear halfway down the stairs.

they are at a reasonable price now, so get one.

[McstylisT]

I will chuck a spanner in the works then .. ... lol !!

I would choose the 4870x2 as its just a better card. Unless the 280GTX you are looking at is much cheaper then everyone wants the best. I agree it does suck power , , but think of what you get. 2GB GDDR5 ..... This is a whole lot of card.

PS - I agree 4GB is fine , but recommend 8GB on a 64bit system as it gives you that extra FPS on gaming I believe.

Good luck ,


McT

[vinnyT]

I agree with you McstylisT, the ati/amd card is excelent, and maybe if it was around when my gfx card died on me, I might have got it.

But it does have one big disadvantage for me, anyway, and that's the heat this card throws out, and if you have a small or not well vented case it's not the ideal choice.