I am hesitant to buy a Radeon HD 5850 because

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the potential upgrade from a Radeon HD 4850 to a Radeon HD 5850, with concerns about CPU bottlenecking, specifically regarding the Core 2 Quad Q9400. Participants also explore the performance of the Phenom II X4 965 in relation to the HD 5870, comparing it to Intel's i7 processors.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses hesitation about upgrading to an HD 5850 due to concerns that their Core 2 Quad Q9400 might bottleneck performance, potentially resulting in less performance than their current HD 4850.
  • Another participant argues that the CPU does not significantly impact graphics performance, suggesting that a lower-end or mid-range processor can be sufficient for gaming.
  • There is a question about whether a Phenom II X4 965 3.4 GHz would have issues running an HD 5870, with some responses indicating that it would not.
  • Some participants discuss the comparative performance of the Phenom II X4 965 and Intel i7 processors, noting that while the i7 may excel in video processing, the AMD processors can perform well in gaming scenarios.
  • Another participant mentions that even higher-end dual-core CPUs could suffice for running an HD 5870, emphasizing the importance of value for money.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the impact of CPU bottlenecking on graphics performance. While some believe it will be an issue, others argue that it is not a significant concern. The discussion regarding the Phenom II X4 965 and its performance relative to the i7 also shows varying opinions.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the specific performance metrics of the CPUs and GPUs discussed, as well as the varying definitions of "bottleneck" in different gaming contexts.

The_Absolute
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I am hesitant to buy a Radeon HD 5850 because...

Right now I am using a Radeon Hd 4850, I was hoping to upgrade to an HD 5850, but I am afriad that my C2Q Q9400 2.66 GHz @ 2.66 GHz would bottleneck the new GPU so severely, that I may actually get less performance than I am with my current graphics card.

I've been told that with or without a bottleneck, I should still get a huge performance boost by upgrading from my HD 4850 to an HD 5850.

My system specs include the following.

Core 2 Quad Q9400 2.66 GHz @ 2.66 GHz.
6GB of DDR2 800MHz RAM.
Radeon HD 4850 (512 MB)
Foxconn G33 motherboard (I have a GIGABYTE GA-EP45-UD3P but I haven't installed it yet)
Corsair TX750 750W PSU.
DVD drive.
m-ATX case (I have a coolermaster HAF 932 full tower case, but it hasn't been installed)
Stock air coolers.
 
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When it comes to graphs, the CPU does not contribute that much, thus when making gaming PC, you have the option to opt for either a lower end or mid range processor.

So it won't be a problem with your CPU.
 


dE_logics said:
When it comes to graphs, the CPU does not contribute that much, thus when making gaming PC, you have the option to opt for either a lower end or mid range processor.

So it won't be a problem with your CPU.

Will a Phenom II X4 965 3.4 GHz have any problems running an HD 5870?
 


The_Absolute said:
Will a Phenom II X4 965 3.4 GHz have any problems running an HD 5870?


NOT at all...

VERY nice alternative to those overpriced i7s.
 


Rocket254 said:
NOT at all...

VERY nice alternative to those overpriced i7s.

Though they cost more (would hardly say overpriced), when overclocked, they run circles around the Phenom 965's. Overall, stock for stock, they're almost on par. The i7 is still faster at video processing/encoding. The AMDs only strong point is with gaming. Even then, superior performance over an Intel is still hit and miss. Depends on the game.
 


The_Absolute said:
Will a Phenom II X4 965 3.4 GHz have any problems running an HD 5870?

No no, absolutely not. Even an higher end double cored will suffice.

Check the value for money though...as other are stating here.
 

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