The AMD Squeeze: Nvidia Intros GeForce 8800 for $300

Final Thoughts

We are pleased to see new cards like this one hit the market, which means people can save money by buying older hardware. In the case of GeForce 8800GTS 320 MB, it means there is a whole new price point for those interested in owning the latest DX10 based cards. The BFG 8800GTS OC 320 MB delivers some outstanding performance for around $300.

The card could not handle the hardest resolutions and is weak at resolutions above 1600x1200 with the image quality settings turned up. That being said, we would not expect those with massive CRTs or 30" displays purchasing this card. This is an enthusiast mainstream card with a tempting price.

Many people cannot afford the peak of performance with GeForce 8800GTX selling for $600. Even the GeForce 8800GTS 640 MB card is a bit pricy at $400.The BFG 8800GTS OC thus sets a new standard to beat, measured by price-per-performance. In a previous article, we showed that the GTS represented a good deal for its price, but this new 320 MB version makes that deal even sweeter at $300.

While a new card in the market is good for consumers, the lack of serious competition in the market is bad. Until there is pressure from AMD with RV600, the market will be lopsided towards Nvidia. The DX 10 part from the other major player in the market is needed to drive graphics processor prices down. A one-player arena means monopolistic pricing, a slowing of innovation and less choice.

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