128MB or 256 MB

[DizzyDean]

I did a search on this topic HERE
but didn't find the answer I was looking for. I'm looking for a Radeon 9600XT and I noticed there are two models the 128mb and the 256 mb. I assumed the 256 would be better but then again I'm an idiot so could someone tell me where I could find out the #s I need to know to find out which card is better? What #s matter when comparing video cards? I don't know if I care about HL2 or not depending on the difference. Thanks for the help in advance.

Click the link in the first post here and read a little bit.

[DizzyDean]

Thanks I've been reading that article for the past few days, but I don't know what some of the terms mean. Like chipclock, memoryclock, buswidth and pipes. How do each of these relate to video quality and where can I find definitions for them. I enjoy reading articles like Tom's Hardware and stuff from here, but I hear so many different opinions I would just like to know some facts.

[SeanC]

The only reason I would see to get the 256MB card right now would be if you're a power gamer or graphics/animation artist. For those, the more video memory you have, the better.

If not, go with the 128MB card.

Sean

[Xtreeme]

Most all 256mb versions are clocked SLOWER to make up for the more mem $. Thats why only few $ for all that extra mem. They cut corners on the quality of the mem EVERYTIME.

[Darthgary]

If your going for a card such as the 9600XT, 128 MB is all that is neccasary.

[sweeper2]

I have been told by these guys (Tech Imo) and by others, you would not notice the difference between the 256 and 128, so save alittle and go with the 128, i run a 9600 Radeon Pro 128 and it's a great card! Also check out the 9800 versions, there even better!!! Good luck....p.s. always listen to TechIMO guys, or they will come and haunt you.....(just kidding hmmmmm)

[RamonGTP]

Originally posted by Xtreeme
Most all 256mb versions are clocked SLOWER to make up for the more mem $. Thats why only few $ for all that extra mem. They cut corners on the quality of the mem EVERYTIME.

Yep, usually the mid-range cards that have 256MB are clocked slower than their 128MB counterparts... The high end cards are the only ones that give you 256MB AND speed equal to or even greater than their 128MB counterparts... But they also cost nearly $500 (9800XT)

[Omardeth]

Originally posted by sweeper2
I have been told by these guys (Tech Imo) and by others, you would not notice the difference between the 256 and 128, so save alittle and go with the 128, i run a 9600 Radeon Pro 128 and it's a great card! Also check out the 9800 versions, there even better!!! Good luck....p.s. always listen to TechIMO guys, or they will come and haunt you.....(just kidding hmmmmm)

wait till tony_j15 see this .....

[Xtreeme]

Yeah and the 9800XT uses ddrII inwhich while mhz are higher (more bandwidth) its completely countered (almost) by the HIGH latency of ddrII yet. Its just to appease the nerds in us all. Just make sure the sensible side pays the $. LOL.