Graphics card help

[Lieutenant Dan]

Hey guys, I've recently built a new computer from newegg.

Here are the specs:

CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo @ 2.66ghz
RAM: 2gb of Crucial DDR2 1066mhz
HDD: 160gb Western Digital SATA HD

That's about it. I haven't picked out a graphics card due to lack of money and I'm unsure of what to get.

I really only can spend up to $150 on a graphics card. This kind of limits me on the card I can choose.

I was thinking about getting a 256mb 8600 from XFX or EVGA.

Think that's a good idea, or could I get something more powerful for my money?

[shadd_]

ati 3850

[creep]

No personal exp with ATI cards, but from what I understand you'll want to be sure your PSU and cooling is adequate. I believe they draw more power and run hotter than nvidia. But yes, you'll squeeze a little more bang out of the dollar.

I'd still recommend an 8600 from evga if you can't find another $100 to get a real card.

[Foo]

If you're sticking with XP rather than Vista it may be worth considering one of the high-end cards in the nvidia 7 series.

[shadd_]

the 3850 crushes the 8600.
probably the most bang for buck card on the market.

no it doesn't run hot or use much power. the oc's on this card are exceptional.

[shadd_]

power consumption of 3850.

http://www.anandtech.com/video/showdoc.aspx?i=3151&p=11

[Lieutenant Dan]

Well, I'm running a 500w PSU.

Heat won't be a problem either, my computer room is in the basement, and it's always 60 degrees down there.

[Captain]

probably the most bang for buck card on the market.

Nah, that would be the 8800GT. Good luck finding one though

[shadd_]

http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage.jsp ... 4053242019

3850 $144 us at bestbuy.

[Captain]

I stand corrected.

But it's still ATi