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How to compare graphics cards?

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jrgcaz   04-01-2009 at 07:03:40 PM

What is the main factor in comparing graphics cards? Is it memory bandwidth or texture fill rate? For example, a 9800 GTX + has a higher texture fill rate but lower memory bandwidth than a GTX 260. If the true deciding factor is total memory bandwidth, than would two 9800 gtx + (each card has 70GB bandwidth for a total of 140GB) in SLI be equivalent to just one GTX 280 that has approximately 140GB bandwidth by itself?

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Zenthar   04-01-2009 at 07:14:39 PM
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From my experience, memory bandwidth is a big factor in overall performance. However, because so many variables can influence the end results, the best way to compare cards is simply by benchmarking them.

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pinaplex   04-01-2009 at 07:29:14 PM
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the technical specs on a card can be misleading. core clock, memory clock, and memory bandwidth aren't straight forward ratings. much of it depends on which graphics core you are actually using.

as zenthar said, the best way to tell the difference in performance is to look up the benchmarks on the cards online.

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jaydeejohn   04-01-2009 at 07:35:29 PM
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Agreed, but Ill add that its not only the card and its makeup that determines whats important, as each game has its own demands as well. Some are fast paced, alot of overall movement is required, thus the card has to render the entire nearby enviroment, textures may be elaborate etc. So each game has its own needs, and why we see certain games show better on certain cards than others and vice versa

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