Future video card choice: To Crossfire? Or Not?

[JrRacinFan]

OK normally I wouldn't ask this but: Would 2 512MB 2600XT's be equivalent to a 512MB HD3850?

If you must know I am comparing these:

2600XT
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814161178

HD3850
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102715

Just was wondering about your ideas or thoughts .....

Thanks for looking.

[trog100]

one faster card is always better than two slower ones..

what u gain or dont gain from multiple cards is very game/driver related..

what u gain from one faster card is always there..

trog

[JrRacinFan]

;) Thanks

Answer I expected. Cheaper for 2 2600XT's, better performing though is the question.

[bruins004]

one faster card is always better than two slower ones..

what u gain or dont gain from multiple cards is very game/driver related..

what u gain from one faster card is always there..

trog

That is the correct answer.

Crossfire / SLI is really only meant for the hard-core enthusiast.
For example, lets say that the best card out there is an 8800 Ultra.
Well nothing can beat 2x 8800 Ultras and that is what SLI / Crossfire is meant for.

1 better card will always beat out 2x less cards.

[[I.R.A]_FBi]

3850

[Xaser04]

To answer your question 2 x 2600XT will not perform anywhere near as well as a single HD3850.

As others have stated CF or SLI is only really usefull at the high end for running at high resolutions.

[das müffin mann]

go for the single 3870, or if you feel like spend a little more a 2900 or an 8800, go for the single its teh better choice

[moto666]

Hi!
I don't know what's at your store, but here by us (Hungary) is the price between 3850 and 3870 is about +55(USD)(10000HUF) so maybe a 3870 is the answer for your needs'

[JrRacinFan]

So, if I do any kind of dual card setup it may as well be another 7600GS paired with this one. If you can't tell already I'm a light gamer that needs a little more punch.

[Jizzler]

Yes, except that I noticed you're on an AW9D-Max (Intel 975X).

[JrRacinFan]

About the motherboard, will be getting it soon Jizzler. Hacked SLi Intel drivers. :D

It's an x8+x8 board.