512 vs 1 gb

The amount of memory usually has a direct correlation to how well the card handles different resolutions. Back when 8800GTS's were in demand, I remember buying just the 320MB version because I ran a low res. From what I understand 512MB is usually enough for the ATI cards. I think the Nvidia cards need more memory because of their architecture. What specific card are you looking at?

a 4870

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168...

TBH if I only played at 1024x768 I'd get the card with the most memory. The higher you can make the games settings makes them nicer to look at and you don't have the fear of choppiness or stutter. Not to mention how much it will help with explosions and shadows and such.
Not sure I like a card where more than 10% of the reviewers pan it. Look for another.

I will be using 1920x1080

And yes, Im looking at a few different ones. TBH I wont be buying for a few months (after 5000 series hopefully prices go down)

Yeah I actually just bought a 4870. I went with this one:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168...

It's a little more expensive than some others, but 4870s are known to run pretty hot. That's why I wanted to make sure I got one with a good cooling system. I considered the Dark Knight one a lot too, but for some reason I just didn't like it as much.

I think, for higher resolution(above 1680) gaming, above 512MB GPU memory is required.

For 19X10 1GB memory will be useful.
Get it for sure.

get the 1GB model, especially if you are going to play GTA IV, it will help at that res

I gotta laugh. I looked at your original thought and while I was at newegg today all the "old' reviews were gone and now only good ones appear. Those guys are real scumbags. We're not going to be able to get honest opinions by ALL the users any more.

I suggest if playing higher than 1440x900 go with 1gb just to be safe. I play low res 720p so i use 512 and its perfect for me. But i also use a 4850 however.

Look for 2 Gigs... than you are safe -FUTURE

How 2Gig make safe? he..he... You mean HD4870X2(1GBx2)... Even it won't be future safe(may be good for a year)... coz. newer cards with new technology coming..

ONE year is a future.... some people can not change cards every 3 months !!!

I doubt my card will change for the next 5 years lol