Best Crossfire x2 on a budget

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 12:57 AM

So I just bought a Gigabyte 790gx mobo and I have a XFX 9600gt currently. My new mobo supports 8x 8x pci-e 2.0 crossfire and I have been looking at the 48xx series for my next upgrade. I am always on a budget so I would like to use the 9600 as long as possible ( thinking of getting vga cooler and o.c. even more ) but with the prices of these cards and the reviews I am leaning heavy toward ATI. My questions are------ Which is the best X-fire 2 card setup for price/performance, and FUTURE-PROOFING? 4850, 4870, 512mb, 1gb, ? I was leaning towards a 4850 512 x2 setup because I could get both cards for 260 to 300 dollars and looking at the benches that's a heck of a deal. I am used to a Nvidia single gpu solution so I want to do this build right. I still have to upgrade my PSU for the build so I don't mind waiting but I want to obviously get as much use out of the new platform as I can. Thanks for the help.... later.

ShadowFold · Apr 27, 2009, 12:59 AM

Grab a 4850X2
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...850+X2&x=0&y=0
Then later on get a single 4850 for three way CrossfireX

I can tell you right now, since I have a 4850X2, that this card is THE best bang for the buck. Beats a GTX 285 and comes close to the 4870X2 OC'd.

Depending on your res, grab the 2gb if you have 1680x1050 or higher.

Bokteelo · Apr 27, 2009, 01:02 AM

I'm almost sure the 47xx series will have similar performance to a 4850. Wait and see!

MKmods · Apr 27, 2009, 01:04 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RazorsEdge

So I just bought a Gigabyte 790gx mobo and I have a XFX 9600gt currently. My new mobo supports 8x 8x pci-e 2.0 crossfire and I have been looking at the 48xx series for my next upgrade. I am always on a budget so I would like to use the 9600 as long as possible ( thinking of getting vga cooler and o.c. even more ) but with the prices of these cards and the reviews I am leaning heavy toward ATI. My questions are------ Which is the best X-fire 2 card setup for price/performance, and FUTURE-PROOFING? 4850, 4870, 512mb, 1gb, ? I was leaning towards a 4850 512 x2 setup because I could get both cards for 260 to 300 dollars and looking at the benches that's a heck of a deal. I am used to a Nvidia single gpu solution so I want to do this build right. I still have to upgrade my PSU for the build so I don't mind waiting but I want to obviously get as much use out of the new platform as I can. Thanks for the help.... later.

thats easy... on a budget a pair of $75 4830s....
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16814102822

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:05 AM

Well I guess I was really wondering how long my 9600gt will hold up since I don't have the 250 plus money for a Psu (Corsair is all I will buy) right now. ...... Will the 4830's outperform the 9600 gt?

MKmods · Apr 27, 2009, 01:07 AM

2 of them vs 1 9600gt? heck yes

I have used them both and both in pairs are excellent (4830 or 9600GT) With ur monitor just 1 would be fine though. I also have run both the 4830 and 9600GTs (in Crossfire, SLI on a good 400 watt PS so you wont need a monster PS)

ShadowFold · Apr 27, 2009, 01:07 AM

A single 4830 will outperform a 9600GT so two definitely will.

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:08 AM

But is it worth it or should I spend it in 2 4850'2 for the future?
THX>

ShadowFold · Apr 27, 2009, 01:09 AM

Well you already have a decent card.. Might as well make it last! What games are you having troubles running?

MKmods · Apr 27, 2009, 01:09 AM

personally if you are using a 17" monitor I wouldnt bother...

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:11 AM

Bioshock, for one.and I would like to play crysis warhead. Oh yeah, I my monitor is the next upgrade----prob a 20-24in lcd in my budget. Havn't decided before of after gpu upgrade.........suggestions?

blkhogan · Apr 27, 2009, 01:11 AM

With a 17" I would stay with what you have or, if you must get something new get the 4830.

edit: get the 4830 now, when you upgrade your monitor get another 4830 for CF

Scrizz · Apr 27, 2009, 01:12 AM

bang 4 buck definitely 4830s

ShadowFold · Apr 27, 2009, 01:13 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RazorsEdge

Bioshock, for one.and I would like to play crysis warhead. Oh yeah, I my monitor is the next upgrade----prob a 20-24in lcd in my budget. Havn't decided before of after gpu upgrade.........suggestions?

Get a 1920x1080 screen

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...82E16824009157
I got the same one, it's amazing! That + a 4850X2 would be your best bet honestly.

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:13 AM

I can wait. I don't mind getting technology that's a little "old" for waaaaaaay cheaper and the 4850 512 are getting GREAT reviews for crossfire x2. I just wanted to talk to some "real" ppl for some advice.

blkhogan · Apr 27, 2009, 01:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RazorsEdge

I can wait. I don't mind getting technology that's a little "old" for waaaaaaay cheaper and the 4850 512 are getting GREAT reviews for crossfire x2. I just wanted to talk to some "real" ppl for some advice.

4850 cf is great. If you can wait a few just save up for a new monitor and a couple 4850's.

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:15 AM

Thanks for all the really quick advice! I think I will upgrade my mon first then see what is out then for what price. Heck I might get 1gb memory or 4850x2 for super cheap then.

ShadowFold · Apr 27, 2009, 01:16 AM

I can bet you that when the HD 5000's come out mine will be up for sale if you're willing to wait that long

blkhogan · Apr 27, 2009, 01:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ShadowFold

I can bet you that when the HD 5000's come out mine will be up for sale if you're willing to wait that long

There will be alot of 4000 series cards up for grabs.

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:17 AM

I plan on this build lasting for a while so my next build will be Nvidia 3D Glasses and a 120hz monitor............That's my dream, and yes I can and will wait that long now that I know where a good forum is!

blkhogan · Apr 27, 2009, 01:18 AM

A whole lot of great stuff comes up for sale here @ TPU.

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:18 AM

I can't wait for my new board!......tommorrow! I'm on a sempron right now!

blkhogan · Apr 27, 2009, 01:20 AM

Im on a Dell Dimension 2400 that I am working on right now. Slower then 2 slugg's f%$king.

RazorsEdge · Apr 27, 2009, 01:21 AM

I stayed up all night last night learning Crossfire and I feel good about the x2 Crossfire scaling. I don't have a lot of money to spend frivolously but I NEED my game fix!

Drizzt5 · Apr 27, 2009, 01:40 AM

I was in the same boat as you, except I had a defective 8800gt.
Save your money with the 9600gt.... look for good deals on a 24" + monitor.
After your 9600gt gets really sluggish, then look for new card/cards.

If you want crossfire right now, then 4830cf for $75 each. Or even better, go and look for a used 4870 512 or 1gb (around the $125 range would be best, believe me some people sell them that low here). Then you can grab another one down the line if you want.

Another option would be to find an SLI mobo and get another 9600gt for cheap. They scale amazing in SLI.

Apr 27, 2009, 12:57 AM	#1
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	Best Crossfire x2 on a budget So I just bought a Gigabyte 790gx mobo and I have a XFX 9600gt currently. My new mobo supports 8x 8x pci-e 2.0 crossfire and I have been looking at the 48xx series for my next upgrade. I am always on a budget so I would like to use the 9600 as long as possible ( thinking of getting vga cooler and o.c. even more ) but with the prices of these cards and the reviews I am leaning heavy toward ATI. My questions are------ Which is the best X-fire 2 card setup for price/performance, and FUTURE-PROOFING? 4850, 4870, 512mb, 1gb, ? I was leaning towards a 4850 512 x2 setup because I could get both cards for 260 to 300 dollars and looking at the benches that's a heck of a deal. I am used to a Nvidia single gpu solution so I want to do this build right. I still have to upgrade my PSU for the build so I don't mind waiting but I want to obviously get as much use out of the new platform as I can. Thanks for the help.... later.

System Name:	kUMA cORE
Processor:	Athlon x2 7750 @3.2ghz
Motherboard:	Gigabyte GA-MA790GP-UD4H
Cooling:	Zalman CNPS9700LED 110mm
Memory:	OCZ 2x 2gb ddr2 @940mhz
Video Card:	XFX 9600GT @740/1750/1000
Optical Drive:	Lite-on DVD Burner
CRT/LCD Model:	Dual Crt's,17in Viewsonic Ultrabrite A9f+, Generic 15in
Case:	Sunbeam Transformer Full Tower
Sound Card:	On-board HD Audio
PSU:	Corsair 400Watt
Software:	Win Vista SP1, Ubuntu 8.10, Puppy Linux
Benchmarks:	3Dmark06 (Default) 10,118-------This was what I remember from my Foxconn 780G board. I will update a

System Name:	The ShadowFold Draconis (Ordering soon)
Processor:	AMD Phenom II X6 1055T 2.8ghz
Motherboard:	ASUS M4A87TD EVO AM3 AMD 870
Cooling:	Stock
Memory:	Kingston ValueRAM 4GB DDR3-1333
Video Card:	XFX ATi Radeon HD 5850 1gb
Hard Disk:	Western Digital 640gb
Optical Drive:	LG DVD Burner SATA
CRT/LCD Model:	Acer 21.5" 5ms Full HD 1920x1080P
Case:	Antec Nine-Hundred
Sound Card:	Onboard + Creative "Fatal1ty" Headset
PSU:	Antec Earthwatts 650w
Software:	Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit
Benchmarks:	-❶-❸-❸-❼-

System Name:	Crossflow III
Processor:	AMD 965 (4.04Ghz)
Motherboard:	Asus Crosshair III
Cooling:	Air
Memory:	4 gigs Mushkin 7-7-7-20@1T
Video Card:	single 9800GT
Hard Disk:	Raptor 150's in Raid0
Optical Drive:	Plextor
CRT/LCD Model:	LG Flatron 24"
Case:	Custom
Sound Card:	AuzenTech X-Raider W/OP637
PSU:	Custom modded Corsair 750HX
Software:	Win 7 64/Solaris Utility
Benchmarks:	3DMark06--21963 so far

System Name:	kUMA cORE
Processor:	Athlon x2 7750 @3.2ghz
Motherboard:	Gigabyte GA-MA790GP-UD4H
Cooling:	Zalman CNPS9700LED 110mm
Memory:	OCZ 2x 2gb ddr2 @940mhz
Video Card:	XFX 9600GT @740/1750/1000
Optical Drive:	Lite-on DVD Burner
CRT/LCD Model:	Dual Crt's,17in Viewsonic Ultrabrite A9f+, Generic 15in
Case:	Sunbeam Transformer Full Tower
Sound Card:	On-board HD Audio
PSU:	Corsair 400Watt
Software:	Win Vista SP1, Ubuntu 8.10, Puppy Linux
Benchmarks:	3Dmark06 (Default) 10,118-------This was what I remember from my Foxconn 780G board. I will update a

Apr 27, 2009, 12:59 AM	#2
ShadowFold Eligible for custom title Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Omaha, NE Posts: 12,855 (6.51/day) Thanks: 1,381 Thanked 1,681 Times in 1,498 Posts System Specs	Grab a 4850X2 http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...850+X2&x=0&y=0 Then later on get a single 4850 for three way CrossfireX I can tell you right now, since I have a 4850X2, that this card is THE best bang for the buck. Beats a GTX 285 and comes close to the 4870X2 OC'd. Depending on your res, grab the 2gb if you have 1680x1050 or higher.

Apr 27, 2009, 01:02 AM	#3
Bokteelo Banned Join Date: Mar 2009 Posts: 422 (0.27/day) Thanks: 45 Thanked 37 Times in 20 Posts	I'm almost sure the 47xx series will have similar performance to a 4850. Wait and see!

Apr 27, 2009, 01:05 AM	#5
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	Well I guess I was really wondering how long my 9600gt will hold up since I don't have the 250 plus money for a Psu (Corsair is all I will buy) right now. ...... Will the 4830's outperform the 9600 gt?

Apr 27, 2009, 01:07 AM	#6
MKmods Case Mod Guru Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Nevada Posts: 4,711 (2.47/day) Thanks: 2,879 Thanked 1,766 Times in 1,364 Posts System Specs	2 of them vs 1 9600gt? heck yes I have used them both and both in pairs are excellent (4830 or 9600GT) With ur monitor just 1 would be fine though. I also have run both the 4830 and 9600GTs (in Crossfire, SLI on a good 400 watt PS so you wont need a monster PS) __________________ Buy tin snips FIRST!

Apr 27, 2009, 01:08 AM	#8
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	But is it worth it or should I spend it in 2 4850'2 for the future? THX>

Apr 27, 2009, 01:09 AM	#9
ShadowFold Eligible for custom title Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Omaha, NE Posts: 12,855 (6.51/day) Thanks: 1,381 Thanked 1,681 Times in 1,498 Posts System Specs	Well you already have a decent card.. Might as well make it last! What games are you having troubles running?

Apr 27, 2009, 01:11 AM	#11
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	Bioshock, for one.and I would like to play crysis warhead. Oh yeah, I my monitor is the next upgrade----prob a 20-24in lcd in my budget. Havn't decided before of after gpu upgrade.........suggestions?

Apr 27, 2009, 01:11 AM	#12
blkhogan Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: If I told u.. I'd have to kill u Posts: 1,845 (0.88/day) Thanks: 823 Thanked 648 Times in 446 Posts System Specs	With a 17" I would stay with what you have or, if you must get something new get the 4830. edit: get the 4830 now, when you upgrade your monitor get another 4830 for CF

System Name:	Budget Gamer v2
Processor:	Phenom II X4 955BE (3.6GHz)
Motherboard:	Biostar A880G+
Cooling:	Noctua NH-U12P
Memory:	4GB Kingston HyperX 1600
Video Card:	Sapphire 6870 1GB (985/1120)
Hard Disk:	WD VelociRaptor 150GB
CRT/LCD Model:	AOC 2436Vh 24" HDMI
Case:	NZXT H2 Classic
PSU:	Coolmax 700W 80%+
Software:	Windows 7 Ultimate

Apr 27, 2009, 01:12 AM	#13
Scrizz Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Brandon, FL, US Posts: 2,129 (1.02/day) Thanks: 728 Thanked 292 Times in 267 Posts System Specs	bang 4 buck definitely 4830s __________________ ~Scrizz Protected, Mother Approved~

System Name:	ehh...
Processor:	Core i7 960@4GHz for now
Motherboard:	Gigabyte GA-X58-USB3
Cooling:	Scythe MUGEN 2 + Scythe Ultra Kaze + Silverstone FM120s
Memory:	8GB GSKILL DDR3
Video Card:	ATI RADEON HD6970
Hard Disk:	OCZ Vertex 4 + 3x 2TB Hitachi (storage)
Optical Drive:	HP DVD Burner
CRT/LCD Model:	BENQ GW2750
Case:	Lian-Li PC-A71F
Sound Card:	X-Fi Titanium HD --- Polk Audio Monitors/PSW505
PSU:	Mushkin XP-800AP
Software:	Server 2013 x64, Win8 Pro with Media Center x64

Apr 27, 2009, 01:13 AM	#15
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	I can wait. I don't mind getting technology that's a little "old" for waaaaaaay cheaper and the 4850 512 are getting GREAT reviews for crossfire x2. I just wanted to talk to some "real" ppl for some advice.

Apr 27, 2009, 01:15 AM	#17
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	Thanks for all the really quick advice! I think I will upgrade my mon first then see what is out then for what price. Heck I might get 1gb memory or 4850x2 for super cheap then.

Apr 27, 2009, 01:16 AM	#18
ShadowFold Eligible for custom title Join Date: Dec 2007 Location: Omaha, NE Posts: 12,855 (6.51/day) Thanks: 1,381 Thanked 1,681 Times in 1,498 Posts System Specs	I can bet you that when the HD 5000's come out mine will be up for sale if you're willing to wait that long

Apr 27, 2009, 01:17 AM	#20
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	I plan on this build lasting for a while so my next build will be Nvidia 3D Glasses and a 120hz monitor............That's my dream, and yes I can and will wait that long now that I know where a good forum is!

Apr 27, 2009, 01:18 AM	#21
blkhogan Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: If I told u.. I'd have to kill u Posts: 1,845 (0.88/day) Thanks: 823 Thanked 648 Times in 446 Posts System Specs	A whole lot of great stuff comes up for sale here @ TPU.

Apr 27, 2009, 01:20 AM	#23
blkhogan Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: If I told u.. I'd have to kill u Posts: 1,845 (0.88/day) Thanks: 823 Thanked 648 Times in 446 Posts System Specs	Im on a Dell Dimension 2400 that I am working on right now. Slower then 2 slugg's f%$king.

Apr 27, 2009, 01:21 AM	#24
RazorsEdge Join Date: Apr 2009 Posts: 13 (0.01/day) Thanks: 0 Thanked 0 Times in 0 Posts System Specs	I stayed up all night last night learning Crossfire and I feel good about the x2 Crossfire scaling. I don't have a lot of money to spend frivolously but I NEED my game fix!

Apr 27, 2009, 01:40 AM	#25
Drizzt5 Join Date: Jul 2008 Posts: 496 (0.28/day) Thanks: 60 Thanked 38 Times in 36 Posts System Specs	I was in the same boat as you, except I had a defective 8800gt. Save your money with the 9600gt.... look for good deals on a 24" + monitor. After your 9600gt gets really sluggish, then look for new card/cards. If you want crossfire right now, then 4830cf for $75 each. Or even better, go and look for a used 4870 512 or 1gb (around the $125 range would be best, believe me some people sell them that low here). Then you can grab another one down the line if you want. Another option would be to find an SLI mobo and get another 9600gt for cheap. They scale amazing in SLI. __________________ Me

System Name:	IcingDeath
Processor:	Q6600 @ 3.825ghz
Motherboard:	ASUS P5E X38
Cooling:	D-tek fuzion v2/mcw60 + mcr320-qp-res
Memory:	2x2gb Ocz reapers ddr2 1066
Video Card:	Asus 4850 800/1000
Hard Disk:	2x Segate 500gb 32mb cache in Raid0
CRT/LCD Model:	LG 24"
Case:	3d aurora
PSU:	xion 800W
Software:	Windows Vista Ultimate x64

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