Single or Dual Graphics Cards?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the comparison between using a single graphics card versus a dual graphics card setup, specifically in the context of gaming performance and system specifications. Participants explore factors such as monitor size, resolution, and operating system limitations.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that performance benefits of dual graphics cards depend on monitor size and resolution, particularly at high resolutions with demanding settings.
  • Another participant emphasizes the importance of value for money, recommending to compare benchmarks of the GTX 260 in SLI against more expensive options.
  • A later reply notes that using a dual graphics card setup on a 32-bit Windows system could reduce the available RAM due to the operating system's limitations.
  • One participant mentions their specific monitor size, indicating that a single card may suffice for their needs.
  • Another participant shares their system specifications, which may influence their graphics card choice.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express varying opinions on the effectiveness of single versus dual graphics cards, with no consensus reached on which setup is definitively better.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependency on monitor size and resolution, as well as the implications of using a 32-bit operating system on available RAM.

renaud
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Hi,


Does anybody know if it's better to have a single graphic card or a dual graphic cards?

As an example :

Single 1.8 GB Nvidia GeForce GTX 295 or Dual 1.8 GB Nvidia GeForce GTX 260


Any input would be appreciated! Thanks
 
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The answer is dependent on what size monitor you're using and the resolutions you're wanting to run. At really high resolutions on a large monitor, a dual card setup would yield better performance (if the game supports it). It really makes a difference when you start ramping up anti-aliasing and anistropic filtering.

Do a google search for gtx 295 vs 260 sli and see what the benchmarks say. Take note of the fps vs resolution.
 
The value for money matters here, see the benchmark for graphs card which cost twice to that of GTX 260 and then compare the performance of GTX 260 in SLI.

Give ATI a shot also...they crossfire instead and better value for money here.
 
Thanks!
 
Just an aside, if you are running 32 bit windows adding a another graphic card will reduce the amount of ram available to windows. 32 bit windows has a hard cap of 4 gigs of ram it can use. GPU memory counts toward this cap.
 
My screen is a 21.5 inches alienware aw2210 optx HD so I guess it'll be alright with a single card!
 
...and my system is windows 7 ultimate 64 bit.
 

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