What Graphics Card do I need

[hrm2001]

I have just build a new computer. I want it to be powerful and fast so I need help with the graphics card. The computer has: Core2 Quad Q6600, 2 GB RAM, P35 Motherboard, 320 GB HDD, Geforce 8500 GT. I want to upgrade the graphics card. I am not a gamer, I may play the occasional game here and there. What I am wondering is will a better card improve overall performance? Also, a better card would help with 3D applications like Google earth and any other 3D applications in the future, Right? I just need to know if I would be wasting $200 - $300 for a new card. I am trying to future proof my PC for a while. By the way I am running Vista also. What I am considering is:

8800 GT 512 MB
8800 GT 256 MB (when it comes out)

3870 512 MB
3850 256 MB
3850 512 MB (when it comes out)

 

[geofelt]

For anything but fast action games, I think your 8500GT will be fine. Your best improvement would be to go to 4gb.

 

[Dahak]

The 8800GT 512 version is your best bet.It offers great performance for your money,and when SLI'd,it actually outperforms the GTX in SLI.8800GT GPU is made from the latest architecture being the G92 as opposed to the 8500 G86 core.Trust me on this friend,you need the 8800GT.

Dahak

M2N32-SLI DELUXE WE
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[mactronix]

As you are not a gamer i would recommend you get whichever is the cheapest it will be a considerable improvement over your currant card whichever one of those you get.
Mactronix

 

[aevm]

If your monitor runs at 1920x1200 or more get the 8800GT, you'll need all the power you can get.

For 1680x1050 or less I think the 3870 is plenty, and it's cheaper and quieter than the GT.