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Best GPU for Modded skyrim etc

Tags:
  • GPUs
  • Graphics
  • Games
  • Skyrim
Last response: in Graphics & Displays
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April 11, 2014 3:23:54 PM

Hi, i'm just wondering which GPU to get for these games:
Witcher 2,
Witcher 3,
Fully modded skyrim (really HD texture mods, ENBs etc etc),
AC4 (Even though I heard it was very badly optimized),
and other games around those titles such as Crysis 3..

Disclaimer: I know we aren't mind readers but on assumption which do you think will play it better/last longer.

My choices are the r9 290 MSI for around 430$ OR the MSI GTX 780 for around $480-490

The thing I am most concerned about is:
I have a 600W EVGA 80+ Bronze PSU, my cable management is total shithouse, and I only have one fan (However with the money I save I can probably get 1-2 fans in the case). I know not a lot of games use PhysX and those who do can use my CPU for that I hear.
All-in-all I want something that will last for around 2-3 years time on high-ultra quality settings on 1080p.

The specs would show the r9 290 is the better buy but I always hear conflicting results.

PS: Please no fanboys, I want unbiased opinions on which would be the better buy.. Thank you!

More about : gpu modded skyrim

April 11, 2014 3:41:46 PM

theyre both blow for blow the same. One slightly better at this game than the other, then vise versa. The 290 will run hotter and use more power. But your psu is enough for either. AMD has mantle, Nvidia has just started theyres, but direct x 12 is coming out soon so I guess both brands coding is going to be null in void.

Honestly I prefer NVidia as they run quieter and give you physics, but without any bias id say gets whichever is cheaper. Since you say the r9 is about $50 cheaper, id go with that one.

And yes, either should be able to run everything you throw at it with ultra/high specs, for the next 2-3 years? no idea, but more than likely unless something major comes along and changes everything
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April 11, 2014 3:48:26 PM

Either one.

The only advantage I can see the R9 290 Having is the extra 1GB of VRAM for having ALOT of 2K-4K Texture mods running in Skyrim. But, If your only playing at 1920x1080p, then they're both even in my opinion.

Nvidia's PhysX is nice, but unless you play these games alot..

-Link http://www.geforce.com/games-applications/technology/ph...

Then I dont see it as a selling point.

I would grab some more fans if using a R9 290 with a stock cooler as you'll have even more thermal throttling. More fans never hurt unless your a noise nut. And Just tidy your cables up a bit when installing your new card. Not that Hard XD

And lastly we cant tell you how long a Video Card will last for you. Graphic Engine Advancement could grind to a halt, or tomorrow someone can release something that Destroys everything on the market
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April 11, 2014 3:52:43 PM

Ok thanks guys, I will go for the cheaper option (r9 290) and buy some fans.. Its an MSI one so its aftermarket coolers. And if DirectX12 is going to make those cards null n void should I wait? I am still using i5 4670k integrated graphics :\ ... if its going to take longer than 2 weeks then i'll just buy it now.

This is the product I am wanting to buy: http://www.amazon.com/MSI-Computer-Corp-290-GAMING/dp/B...
(Choosing amazon cuz im prime)
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April 11, 2014 3:56:06 PM

Ive heard AMD said any GCN Card will support DX12. The R9 290 is of the GCN architecture so there ya go
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April 11, 2014 4:03:34 PM

Ok thank you guys! I will be buying the R9 290 in 30 minutes, unless someone says not to... (But it seems as if its the best bang for the buck)
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