Help on upgrading my video card

[Nyarlathotep]

I am thinking of upgrading my video card (thinking of a radeon) and I have a question.

I have one slot for the card to go in. The one I am using with my current card (a radeon x800 pro) So IÂ’ll have to take it out to put the other in. But will the other work before I run the install disk? It would be hard to run the installation software if I have no video. I have upgraded video cards before but I donÂ’t remember if the software needed to be fully installed before you could use them.

That was the important question but I might as well ask another. Anyone know if Radeon or Nvidia is better for gaming. I always heard Radeon was the best, and its what i use, but every time I get a game it has the Nvidia logo on there.

I decided to upgrade when I got rainbow 6 Vegas and noticed it need a card that is shader 3.0 enabled. I have seen some for around $200 which is acceptable. I might get a whole new computer at the end of this year so I donÂ’t need something too big. Just something that will get me till Christmas.

 

[Sora]

You can get picture W/O any drivers installed so it doesn't matter.

The old ATI vs Nvidia debate eh? Really it just depends on your budget. Are you saying the best card under 200 bucks?

 

[Nyarlathotep]

Im just saying i dont want to spend more than $200. I have blown a lot of money lately, and i plan on getting a whole new rig at the end of this year, so i dont want to put a whole lot down on a video card. This one (radeon x800 pro) was $300 i think when i first got it.

$200 is about my limit. If I can get one for cheaper thats still moderatly better then mine, I will take it.

 

[Sora]

Here is a card that is powerful but not too much.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814130056

I own it and it is very powerful...and overclocks very well.

 

[dario03]

Is your video card slot agp or pci-e?

 

[Sora]

O **** thats right...800pro had AGP >.< if he has AGP then his best bet would be a 7600GT.