9800XT Vs 6800NU ?

[r2d2d3d4d5]

Between a 9800XT and an 6800NU 128MB which would say was a better buy? I can get either of them for the same price so cost is not an issue. In the few reviews that I have found comparing the two cards the 6800NU mostly comes out on top (except perhaps at the highest resolutions on the highest settings). The extra ram is tempting, especially with Doom 3 on the horizon. I also feel a little uncomfortable with any nVidia benchmarks.

Given that I have lowly Athlon XP 1700+ (@1.47GHz) which of these would you say was the best card for me? I might upgrade the CPU later on but given this CPU which is the best card for me?

TIA

[Ruined]

6800NU. Its about 15-30% faster than the 9800XT on average, plus it has more features.

[r2d2d3d4d5]

All that extra ram has to be good for something, right? Doom 3???

Also all of the benchmarks that I've seen have been with high end CPUs, would my CPU make any difference?

The extra features do sound good.

I guess that as the 9800XT only does well on high res/with high settings and I won't be able to run at those resolutions/settings given my CPU the 6800NU is my best bet.

[cthellis]

Definitely the 6800NU. It should also have more OC-ing headroom. (And possibly also some reasonable tricks in the future to unlock more pipes. ;) )

If the 9800 were $75-100 less, then you'd have to make a decision on your budgetary desires.

[SH64]

6800NU ... you wont be playing at very high res anyway .

if there would be a 6800NU 256MB DDR1 .. it would be a so good deal !

[ChrisRay]

6800NU definately. Average 6800NU has memory that OCS beyond 850 mhz (Nice bandwith headroom) Core is extremely Overclockable due to the stepping of the NV40 series.

[r2d2d3d4d5]

Thanks guys & gals. I've placed my order for the MSI NX6800-TD128 and with a bit of luck it will be here within a week.