GeForce 6800 GS or ATI X800 XL(2 versions).

[Hercules]

I'm starting to look into video/graphics cards for my next upgrade. I have discovered that there a so many of them that it's hard for a novice(such as myself) to pick through everything. Anyways, I have narrowed my choices down to 3 cards. I am concidering the GeForce 6800 GS, ATI Radeon X800 XL and ATI All-In-Wonder X800 XL...all PCI-Express. These cards fall into my budget and appear to be compatible with my computer. I am not a heavy gamer and spend more time viewing movies or videos on my computer than gaming. I do use simulators such as Real Flight G3 for RC heli practice on those days that it's raining and can't fly. My computer is a Dell Dimension 8400 with a P4 630HT, 2GB mem, and 350 watt power supply(according to the manual), using Window XP Pro. The power supply is the major factor for me choosing the above cards. It only powers the computer...dvd-rom, dvd burner, NO peripherals are connected to the computer for power. I'm replacing an ATI X300 SE card that came with the computer. So, does anyone have experience with the mentioned cards and would recommend any of them? Also, are any of the fans on these cards loud? I don't OC, so, I shouldn't be driving them hard, but, I don't know how much heat is possible on these and the resulting noise from the fans. Thanks for the help and recommendations!!!!!

[kram 2.0]

I'm going to question whether you will be able to upgrade the Dell. There is a considerable power gap in between the three cards you listed and the X300 SE - X300 is an entry level line which can comfortable run on a 350W PSU. We can go ahead and rule out the AIW X800 XL running under your current power supply unit - it is most likely to overload your PSU.

As well, if you are going to be using the system mostly for viewing DVDs, you will see very little improvement in terms of IQ with any of these three.

kram

[glc]

The X800XL will run in there, it only needs 350 watts, and Dell uses very high quality power supplies. I don't think I'd push it with an all-in-wonder though.

This one looks good and is priced VERY nicely - and even has a rebate:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16814131423

[Hercules]

Thanks for the link to newegg! I missed that while I was looking through their site.

[glc]

Oh cool - since I posted they changed the rebate to instant savings - even better!

[Hercules]

This may seem like a dumb question, but, does it matter if the x800 xl is a Powercolor or ATI? I know they share "parts", but, am wondering how different the two are from each other. I found an ATI Radeon x800 xl on sale for $6 more than the Powercolor x800 xl. I know Powercolor is concidered a top tier "partner" to ATI, but, are there any advantages in going with one brand or the other? Thanks again!

[glc]

Nope - in fact, the ATI branded card is probably made by Sapphire anyway. Compare specs, features, and warranty.

[Hercules]

Thanks again glc!!! You've been a great help!

[glc]

I do question the quality (and support) of the minor brands such as Apollo, Jetway, and HIS - but Sapphire, Powercolor, Asus, Gigabyte, MSI, etc. should all be fine.

[nicolaus corelius]

dells use i think PC power and cooling PSUs.