Two ATI Radeon Hd 4890 vs ATI Radeon 5870

It would be close. Today, the 4890s might win out. Tomorrow, there could be a driver update that reverses that result. I would be willing to bet that within a few driver updates that the 5870 would win out for sure.

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DX11 would be the clincher for me, as well.

On top of that there is the upgradeable factor.

This really only makes a lot of difference if you don't already have any of the cards, but later down the line, when tow 4890's or one 5870 aren't enough for you (new dx11 crysis 2 comes out maybe). upgrading the 5870 to dual 5870's would be easier and better than three or four 4890's.

the 5870's are just newer better hardware and since the prices are close it just makes sense to get it. they will last longer in the computer world, and the 4890's will become worthless sooner.