Thinking of swapping out graphics card

[Budapest]

ok so im thinking of swapping out my graphics card as I dont feel it is performing as it should, I play world of warcraft the most but I do play COD4 and will def be playing COD4MW2 when it comes out next month, and several other games but mainly while im playing wow I cannot seem to run the game max graphics, like when im in a main city I get like 20fps, while raiding I get as low as 7fps, wow isnt a demanding game so honestly there is no reason why I should be dropping this low. also ive noticed that when ive been getting what seems like screen tearing on the upper portion of my screen recently, this happened right before my dual 8800gt's went out so im thinking that my 9800gx2 could also be going out, anyways im looking into going for a single card setup this time since not many of the game I play anymore require the sli setup. im looking for a good card that will play wow max graphics and COD4 max graphics but only looking to spend maybe 250 or so since im planning on getting this monitor http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16824236049 i was thinking of trying one of the new 5770's but to me it almost feels like big step down, going from what cost me 450 at the time to 160 dollar card. any thoughts or comments would be great here are my current comp specs

CPU:Intel(R) Core(TM)2 Extreme CPU Q6850 @ 3.00GHz
GPU:NVIDIA GeForce 9800 GX2
Ram: 8GB G.SKILL PI Black
Mainboard: EVGA 132-CK-NF78
Hard Drive: WD7500AAKS
Power Supply: COOLER MASTER Real Power Pro1000 RS-A00-EMBA 1000W
OS: Windows 7 Ultimate 64bit RC
also im running on an Acer monitor at 1680x1050

 

[TheViper]

The HD 5770 will walk all over the 9800GX2 so it's not downgrade at all.


But since you plan to spend about $250, why not get the HD 5850 at $259?

The HD 5850 will run everything you throw at on max at 1920 x 1080 (max res of the new monitor).

 

[JofaMang]

Try not to base your impressions of a card on price at release. Each Companies release prices can be based on many factors outside of the actual performance of the card being sold. The first 8800GTX was $600, and will in no way come close to even the $160 dollar 5770, nevermind the $400 5870.

That being said, for $250USD (I assume US) you can get a 5850, which will undoubtedly be a big performance increase. A 5770 will give you a performance boost over your current card, but for your budget, a 5850 will be the best bet. Using ATI's driver bundled software, you can easily OC the card to near $400 5870 performance levels.

 

[Budapest]

nice guys thanks for the info , I saw the 5850's on newegg but they are all sold out so ill look around to see who has one that i can order

 

[JofaMang]

Check shops, as a few local places around here still have supply on the 5850/70s, even though all the online retailers are empty.

 

[TheViper]

Keep in mind that most retail stores will likely charge you a bit more than Newegg will so it may be worth waiting and keeping an eye on Newegg until one comes up.

Also, pay attention to brands. Some are better than others by offering better warranties, customer service, bundled games, etc...