Can someone give me a list of importance in selecting a graphics card?

[shaselai]

I am considering getting a laptop and am a gamer so I am interested in getting a great graphics card with it. I see many specs on the graphics cards and am wondering what the most important factors are from top to bottom? Do DDR2/3+ matter, clock speeds, 256/512 etc... Thanks!

 

[rodney_ws]

You can get an HP or Gateway laptop with an Nvidia 8800 GTS w/ 512 MB DDR3 between $1300 and $1600. The 8800s have a 256 bit memory bus and 64 - 92 stream processors. Lower level Nvidia cards such as the 8600/8700 series have a 128 bit memory bus and 16-32 stream processors. Nvidia currently holds the high ground for mobile gaming.

 

[evongugg]

Graphics Card Ranking

http://www.overclock.net/graphics-cards-general/270292-graphics-card-ranking-3rd-time-s.html

 

[rodney_ws]

Graphics Card Ranking

http://www.overclock.net/graphics-cards-general/270292-graphics-card-ranking-3rd-time-s.html

The OP was looking for advice about LAPTOP gaming GPUs. You linked a chart to desktop parts.

 

[rodney_ws]

http://forum.lowyat.net/topic/587543

Here, try this... it's a little dated since it doesn't list the Nvidia 9 series, but it should give you a good idea of what to expect.

 

[rodney_ws]

http://www.notebookcheck.net/Comparison-of-Grafic-Cards.130.0.html

Here's the more up-to-date list I was originally thinking of...

 

[shaselai]

what about general importance of graphics cards like - shader, pipes(more the better?) etc.? I mean the site helped but it would be cool if i know what to look for in future cards.

 

[rodney_ws]

Well, both ATI and Nvidia go by "stream processors" now and although the more you have the better... that doesn't really hold up when comparing an ATI to an Nvidia card. If you're comparing ATI to ATI cards... or Nvidia to Nvidia... then yes, more is always better. That second link I gave you was VERY complete (it even had some future cards populating the list) If you clicked on a specific card it would break down the details for you and if possible compare it to a desktop part as well. If you're into gaming, you pretty much HAVE to buy something off that first class of cards... and preferably towards the top of the list.

 

[shaselai]

How long do you think the top of the 1st class cards will hold out until they become obsolete ? Do they have the same "lifespan" as a desktop graphics card equivalent? Sometimes I wonder if it is better to just get a desktop instead but if the performance is the same with laptop i am leaning toward the mobility and performance..