PNY GeForce GTX 580 XLR8 OC Liquid Cooled 1536MB for £199.99 Think this is worth getting? It's the cheapest 580 I could find and it's semi-watercooled. As far as I am aware, there isn't a better alternative for that price? Anyone had any experience using this particular card? The bit-tech review mentioned high heat and noise due to the waterblock restricting airflow as well as a possible reduced lifespan. Thanks.
why a gtx580 ? A radeon HD7870 is between GTX 570 and GTX 580 for a similar price. It will be more efficient.
I'm not a specialist, but regarding to the reviews a 200£ hd7870 has similar perf for 10 less celcius and 140 less watts.
Hmm.. Well 7870s can be had for ~£180. Performance is slightly lower than a 580 in most stuff, but significantly lower in a few things (e.g. BF3). 7870 is cooler, but noise levels are pretty much the same. (To be honest, I don't mind higher temps since it will keep my room warm in winter ^^) Alternatively, 7950s can be had for £220 and offer a decent bump in performance over a 580... I am not completely against an ATI card (I use one now)... but I do prefer nvidia. If ATI is better, then I will happily go ATI.
what's the issue with BF3 ? you have 55 fps (vs 62) with fsaa 4x. Plus, the HD7870 is a damn overclocker, which is not the case with the 580. The Nvidia is better than Amf really is irritating. I've had many nvidia card since the 'Riva' series in the 90's .... and had as many, if not more, driver issue than with amd. At least amd to do not software lock opengl perf of gaming card to sell more pro grade cards ..... did you hear me nvidia ?