duel vs single graphics?

Status
Not open for further replies.

supamanc

Solid State Member
Messages
16
what is the general consensus on graphics cards?
is it better to spend the same money on one top of the range, or two mid ranged sli/cross fired?

i am talking just from a here and now point of view, without future upgrades considered
 
It's generally better to spend a little extra to get a higher end card. Unless your budget only allows you to get a mid range card, and then add another down the road. But if you have the option to get a higher end card and you'll make use of it, go that route.
 
mmmm thats about what i thought, so 1 big card will out-perform two smaller?

plus i will be able to add another big card later when the price falls!
 
Yes, go high end. You'll have less heat output, and then later, even though you aren't considering the future, you will be able to add another when it is cheaper to increase your performance.

Edit: Yeah, it depends one how big and how small the cards are, but it is better to go high end.
 
In most cases a higher end card will out perform 2 mid range cards, and if the 2 mid range cards out perform the higher end, it's not a huge difference, and there's generally a high cost difference between the two.
 
Also, you're increasing power consumption by more then what's necessary. Price/Performance has gotten better, by far, but it's still not quite there yet.

Also, SLI/Crossfire isn't suggested unless you're running a higher resolution. 1680x1050 and under, you're just dandy with a single card solution. But if you're running 1920x1080 and higher, then running a dual card solution would be a good move, moneys permitted.
 
If this is for a new system and you get a higher end card with the idea to add another one at a later stage, don't forget to buy a properly specced PSU now so you don't have to change it later on. ;)
 
You need a screen that has a resolution higher then 1680x1050 to get optimum performancefrom sli or crossfire and then you are looking at:

sli - 60-70% fps increase
crossfire - 70-80% fps increase
For 100% increase in upfront cost + power consumption increase the maths doesn't add up usually

Just put all your eggs in one backet with the best card you can buy at the time then possibly upgrade in a year or 2 with a second one bought second hand.
 
As a general rule, buy as much video card as you can afford. The only time to go multiple is when the TOP gpu isnt enough. Also, buy a 30" monitor first :p It's a better investment.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Back
Top Bottom