Hey, I am new here and basically joined to ask this question. I already used the search but turned up with meager results. I am building my first desktop and have no idea what graphics card to buy. I am using an ASUS Maximus Formula motherboard with an Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 precessor, so my motherboard will have PCI Express 2.0 capabilities. Also I am using an 850-watt PSU so power is not an issue. I don't do much gaming but I want to be able to do 3D rendering using AutoCAD, Inventor, 3D Studio Max, etc. Also I am planning to use two LCD HDTV monitors as my monitor. One is a 32" and the other is a 19". Both are 720p. I am hoping to use them separately (i.e. use one and have the other off). My budget is around $150. I hope you guys can give me a few suggestions. Thanks for the help in advance.
Picking a graphics card?
- Thread starter ZouLou
- Start date
Burgerbob
Active Member
This card-
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130082
is a good card, and is $160 after rebate. Otherwise, not too many good cards are to be found in that price range.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130082
is a good card, and is $160 after rebate. Otherwise, not too many good cards are to be found in that price range.
JohnJSal
Active Member
I think the two best right now are nVidia 8800GT and 8800GTS (G92). They are close in price. The two higher-end models (GTX/Ultra) are too expensive.
Since your budget is around $150, I'd suggest the 8800GT and just pay the extra. It's still $199 after rebate on Newegg.
mrjack
VIP Member
For AutoCAD and 3D rendering an AMD FireGL or nVidia Quadro FX card would be best, but they cost a lot and if you decide to play games then they are gonna probably let you down in the department. The advantage of the FireGL and Quadro FX cards is that a lot of renderers can utilize them instead of only using the processor. For example Mental Ray has a hardware mode in which it also uses the GPU and not just the CPU.
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