Should I Step-Up?

[alterleaf]

Basically going to use the next 9 hours or so to debate over this based on the following but need input based on performance and costs and what not.

1. Currently have a stock GTX 480 with one day left to step-up
2. Running a GTX 670 SC + Accelero Twin Turbo II on my rig
3. Want to pick up a BitFenix Prodigy + Mini-ITX board and use that sometime during September/October.

What'll happen is I'm thinking of going GTX 480 to 670 or 680.
- IF 670, will just replace the 480 in brother's computer.
- IF 680, will put the 670 SC + Accelero TT II in brother's computer and use stock 680 with BitFenix Prodigy build.

480 to 680 cost: $314.xx
480 to 670 cost: ~$214.xx

OR last but not least, none of the above, the 480 is fine, just buy an Icy Vision 2 cooler for it and overclock that sucker. I know it's a very capable card but also it's the end of the line for the step-up so it's now or never.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Graphite946]

The 670 is good right now, the drivers and overclocking ability make it ruin the 680 in value.

BUT, the day will set on the 680, nvidia is working steadily on drivers to increase the efficiency of the 680, and make it quicker.

Your best bet is to get away from the 480, the power needed to run it is immense, and won't compare to the new cards out right now.

 

[alterleaf]

I'm actually quite tempted to go with the reference 680 because I could overclock that higher. My SC 670 holds 1246 boost stable all the time if the game uses that power to begin with.

The reference 670 on the other hand I'm not as interested in but it IS $100 less in cost. If it is the 670, It'd be going in my brother's computer and it'd definitely stay at stock values for the most part. The 680 will be plucked by me to play with for sure.

 

[geofelt]

By stepping up, evga is giving you about $200 for your used gtx480. That is a good deal, since they go used on e-bay for $150-$170, forgetting hassle and comissions.

As to GTX670 or GTX680, you can decide better if the $100 difference is worth it.
You already have experience with a GTX670.

For a single monitor, I think probably not.

I would have no issue with a stock reference of either card.
The reference direct exhaust coolers are probably the best type for a small ITX build.

I don't think it is a great idea to pour good money into a GTX480 that is ageing.

 

[alterleaf]

$209.99 actually.

Found out the Accelero TT II doesn't fit the prodigy, so I might have to put the reference blower back on mine.

If I'm not mistaken, the reference 680s are built much better than reference 670s right? I might just go that route if it can be confirmed, since I really don't like how the 670 sticks out a bit more from where the power gets plugged in.

Edit: I went with a 680. From seeing one taken apart, it already looks much better off than the 670, although I don't really care for either of the heatsinks to be honest. "Aging technology" is what convinced me but I know people that would argue against that especially for the 480.

 

[alterleaf]

Best answer selected by alterleaf.