I'm currently using:

EVGA 8800GT graphics
ABIT IP35 pro motherboard
INTEL E6750 CPU
Corsair HX620 pwr sup
SAMSUNG 19" LCD (1440 x 900)

I'm thinking about purchasing an ATI 4870 graphics card. Would the benefits be worth the cost, considering my current build? Specifically, with the 4870 being a PCI-E 2.0 and my motherboard being PCI-E 1.0. Also, with my current monitor and resolution.

Mainly play FPS's .

Thanks for any opinions and recommendations.

30% better fps, plus able to crank eye candy as high as youd like

A 16x PCI-e 1.0 slot should handle a 4870 just fine.

As far as I know, most benchmarks for the 4870 were done with PCI-e 1.0 motherboards anyway. At any rate, as far as anyone has been able to tell, the switch from PCI-e 1.0 to 2.0 makes no real difference as far as performance goes. The only really measurable difference is that PCI-e 2.0 can deliver more power through the slot itself, which could POTENTIALLY be of use to some overclockers in select situations, but of no direct use to 99.9% of us.

As far as performance-wise, the 4870 tends to take an 80-100% lead over the 8800GT in Crysis with AA enabled; a noticeable lead, but by my philosophy, not cause for *me* to upgrade; I personally don't fully recommend a video card upgrade unless you can get at least a 120-150% gain. Then again, that's me, and I'm not you; while I would stay with the 8800GT were I in your position, you might rather have the improvement.

Heya,

I wouldn't bother with the upgrade. You're going to spend a ton of money for that if you think about it. Have you considered just picking up a 2nd 8800gt and going SLI? At high resolution, this will outperform most other $200+ solutions that are single card based. Considering you can get another 8800gt for like $110 now.

Very best,

People, please wake up. He's on a 19-inch monitor, the sweet spot for a 8800GT. If it were 22" I'd say go for it, but 19" @ 1440x900, keep what you got.

just do it

Keep the 8800gt. I think that you would not be able to see the difference with hd470.

Save your money till next graphic cycle.

Unless you got a very clueless buyer lined up for your 8800 GT, I wouldn't bother. Specifically, what games are you having trouble playing on your 8800 GT?

Actually, it depends on the games, and upcoming games. Its forwards looking, if you will. The OP just needs to determine if its worth it. Certain games will benefit, most wont. Future games? Probly most will, but I dont like buying for the future, but the OP might

I have almost the exact same setup as you except for the Motherboard and power supply.
I can tell you Upgrading from the 8800GTS 640mb to did not impact any game except for Crysis; in which the difference is huge at EVERY resolution (settings maxxed).

Honestly it depends on what games you play but like others said another 8800gt might be the best bet for you in terms of bang for the buck.

I only picked up the 4870 for the 7.1 audio out through hdmi.

I don't like buying for the future simply for the fact that in the future we'll have cheaper/faster alternatives. It's not like the op is in a "must buy" situation... he's already got a very competent gaming card.

Yea, if he isnt satisfied with his current experience, then change it, if he is, stay put. The OP didnt really say one way or another. Thats really the crux of his/her decision

LOL, SLI on the aBit IP35 Pro. PLEASE post photos if you manage to do that.