8600gts 256 or 512

[exorcist01]

Hello guys the 8600gts runs in 128 bit memory interface. I heard that 128bit maximum handle 256mb. So is there any reason that i should get 512MB? But in some games more than 256 mb is required even in lower resolution.What do you suggest? 256 or 512?

 

[jay2tall]

That is incorrect otherwise.. well a 512MB just wouldn't turn on. 512 if you want higher resolutions. Just remember the 8600GTS is not a gaming card, if that is what you are intending it to be. It's more of a HTPC or for graphical apps... or just to make Vista look pretty.

What are you looking to do with it?

 

[exorcist01]

thanks jaytall but i run games in 1024 res.So i just dont want to put out much more for a graphics card.So what version should i get?How much can i overclock it with a pure safety?

 

[jay2tall]

Ok here are questions and suggestions:
1)why gaming at such a low res? 15" crt?
2)if you get a 8600gts you may as well get the 256MB, the 512Mb is around the price of a way better card and at low res it won't make a difference.
3)This card would be WAY better http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102714
4)This card after rebate is $150 and is even better http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130334

 

[exorcist01]

Yes 15inch crt . Oh well i wish i could grab a 3850 but i dont have much money. I am getting the 8600gts in a special consideration and 512mb would cost me only $100

 

[jay2tall]

Oh man you need to get to at least a 17" LCD or something.

If you can get a 512MB for $100 you might be able to get a 256MB 3850 for the same. They hover around the same price. I don't think you need the 512MB unless you are at higher resolutions. 256mb would be fine. Sell some blood plasma and get the 3850, haha it's worth the little extra. Heck I just sold my old x1900xtx for $100 on eBay that thing would have made your 15" dizzy. So what can you get the 8600gts 256Mb for then?

Maybe you can consider an open box item from Newegg or something.

 

[exorcist01]

But anyway if i grab that 3850 will i not be limited by the video ram? What do you say? 1024 res but in somecase may need good video ram? Will it run better than the 8600gts 512mb in 1024? if so then i will make some bucks and try to go for it.i need ur suggestion

 

[jay2tall]

with 256MB you can really play are any resolution, but the higher resolutions you go to the more advantage a 512MB card will have. I'd say anything over 1280x1024 you will be better off with 512. Here check out this chart from tom that compares those two cards.
http://www23.tomshardware.com/graphics_2007.html?modelx=33&model1=854&model2=1061&chart=318

What are the rest of your system specs, by the way. You are PCI-E not AGP right? what PSU do you have?

With this card you can next save to get a better monitor and you won't be disapointed. It's better to wait and save a little more to get something that you will be happier with. The 8600GTS really just isn't a gaming card.

 

[exorcist01]

core2duo 6320 1.86, 2gb ram, 400watt psu.Anyway thanks.So what u say?

 

[jay2tall]

Hmm what kind of PSU do you have, just curious. That's a little iffy for, well either card depending who makes the powersupply.

Core2 and 2 Gigs, you are set. That 3850 is on par with my old x1900xtx and I just replaced it like a month ago. It pretty much played anything I threw at it on high, and that's on a 22" monitor. It's a better call for the 3850.

 

[dev1se]

For the price of the 8600GTS there's much better solutions out there.

£129 ive seen one model selling for. You can have an 8800GT for that.

 

[dragonsprayer]

512 there is large gain over 256
1gb actually gives you a pefrormance hit with 32bit os


512mb for all cards is the best

 

[exorcist01]

Ok so i will better save my money now. Thanks for reply. so 3850 it is

 

[exorcist01]

512 is too expensive for me. Will the price of 3850 drops as i save money? And i dont need a 512mb because i am not going for more than 15inch because i like 15inch monitor.If i go lcd then i will go 15inch lcd monitor. Because my eye problem if i go more like 19inch

 

[jay2tall]

512 there is large gain over 256
1gb actually gives you a pefrormance hit with 32bit os

512mb for all cards is the best

When you consider the OP's cost limitations and the fact he plays at lower resolution a 256MB card with a superior GPU is FAR better than a 512MB card with a GPU that doesn't come close to the performance of the other. If he has a 22" LCD I would still suggest the same thing, but would actually suggest he save more for a 9600Gt or above.

OP stick with your 3850. It seems to be just within your reach if you say you need to save a few bucks. You will be happier with it than a 8600.

 

[exorcist01]

Thank you jaytall for ur good suggestion

 

[jay2tall]

Thank you jaytall for ur good suggestion

no problem. Some people don't understand not everyone is looking for a Ferrari to drive to work. They just want something to get them there and still look good.