Processor, or gpu?

Dfran · Posted: Fri, 05 Jan 2007 11:59:14 Post Subject: Processor, or gpu?

My choices now are basically, the 7950GT, 512mb, with an Opti 175, or going all out on graphics with an 8800GTS and keeping my processor for a while longer. The processors are pretty cheap now so it shouldn't be too long before I can get one anyway. But, for now, is the 8800 going to completely bottleneck with my current processor, or will it totally rock and I should by it right now, over the 7950GT/Opti 175?
thanks

Hellfire · Rated XXX Joined: 05 Aug 2003 Posts: 3473

I would see if you can find a 7900GTO. The 7900GTO is an underclocked 7900GTX, which is SLIGHTLY better than the 7950GT.

If you can get the GTO, get the Op 195. Then in a few months when cheaper/better 8000 series cards come out, and you actually have a use for DX10 cards, then get one.

Talked to nVidia, and they have some new 8000 series GPU's coming out soon. My rep there is a corporate rep, and does not follow the consumer line up so he did not have full details. But I expect we'll see some at CES...

Edit:
Checked Newegg, and did not find the 7900GTO for sale there any more. They were a limited production. So the 7950GT would be a good option Smile

acruxksa · Posted: Fri, 05 Jan 2007 14:56:06 Post Subject:

I'd definitely hold off on the 8800gts. They are fast, but a new processor and the 7950gt should set you up for awhile. As Hellfire says, DX10 cards are still pretty new and will be much cheaper in a couple months.

To be completely honest, I'd give some serious thought to just getting the processor now and waiting until ATI releases their DX10 cards (should happen within the next month or 2). This should bring prices down a bit on the 8800gts as well. Also, make sure your psu is up to the task of powering an 8800gts. I would bet it will work fine, but you never know.