Which Video Card to Get?

Hello,

I am looking for some advice as to which video card I should purchase.

So far the contenders I have are:

1. XFX GeForce 9800 GTX+ (link)

2. EVGA GeForce 9500 GT (link) - considering getting 2 for SLI

Here is some background info:

1. I don't game, don't really plan on it.

2. I do use my PC for regular on demand video (netflix, hulu, other such sources). I also watch DVDs.

3. I do some video editing.

4. Price is not the issue, just what will actually meet my needs.

5. I have this (link) power supply - RaidMax 700W.

6. Additionally I am running Windows 7, AMD Athlon 64 X2 6400+ Windsor 3.2GHz, ASUS M3A79-T Deluxe, and 4GB RAM.

Which card should I get, and would I even benefit from SLI?

Thanks for any input.

-Jose

SLI is not worth it when using 2 crappy crappy cards when you want graphical power, as its often cheaper to get a more powerful card. The 9800gtx is a good card for gaming, but if all you are doing is watching videos on your computer, I go with the 9500gt. But if you plan on playing ANY of the newer games on your computer than go with the 9800gtx.

Do you have any reason to stick with Nvidia? Why not get a Radeon 4670 or 4830?

I would say 4650/4670 or 9500GT. All of those are more than adequate for:

"1. I don't game, don't really plan on it.

2. I do use my PC for regular on demand video (netflix, hulu, other such sources). I also watch DVDs.

3. I do some video editing."

Cmon, guys, don't tell him he needs a 9800GTX, when he clearly does not. OP, do not Crossfire or SLI anything, the thought of doing either for your computer use is comical (to put it lightly).

Thanks for all the replies.

Yeah it says right on the mobo box "Crossfire"...

Anyway, I appreciate the input. I have no particular reason for considering nvidia over radeon, so I'll check out the 4670.

What are you talking about badge? Even a 4350/4550 can fully decode BluRay and other 1080p video (albeit with very little post-processing). A 4650/4670 is perfect for any kind of video watching and editing. It has low power consumption, it is fairly powerful and does a ton of post-processing when decoding video. There is absolutely no reason to bring a more powerful card into the conversation.

Edit: I get what you're saying now, badge, but totally disagree with your recommendation.

HD4650 .. nice perf for the price. Not too cheap. Good card.

If nvidia i would gor for 9600gt. But i think HD4650 is cheaper.

Same to you KyleSTL. You don't have the character to know what respect is. SO STFU. I was born in St. Louis in '55.