2 graphics cards, $250? each

[grumpysage]

I am buying two graphics cards, one to upgrade my current computer (upgrading from a 8800 GT) and another for a newly purchased one.

I was planning to put the cards in SLI/Crossfire the next time I upgrade one of the PC's. However, after reading an article about microstuttering (This one?), I am not certain anymore. Any insight would be appreciated.

The template:

APPROXIMATE PURCHASE DATE:
This week.
BUDGET RANGE:
Around $250 per card before rebates.

USAGE FROM MOST TO LEAST IMPORTANT:
PC's are only for gaming, playing Skyrim atm.

CURRENT GPU AND POWER SUPPLY:
Upgrade PC has an 8800 GT, Antec 750W PSU.
New PC has OCZ 850W PSU.

OTHER RELEVANT SYSTEM SPECS:
Upgrade:
Intel i7-930
Mobo: Gigabyte LGA1366 GA-X58A-UD3R
Ram: Mushkin Enhanced Blackline Frostbyte 6 GB

New PC:
Intel 2500k
Mobo: GIGABYTE GA-Z68XP-UD3P LGA 1155 Z68
Ram: G.SKILL Ripjaws X Series 8GB F3-12800CL9D-8GBXL

PREFERRED WEBSITE(S) FOR PARTS:
None.
COUNTRY OF ORIGIN:
US.

PARTS PREFERENCES:
No preference, but it seemed like nvidia does SLI somewhat better compared to ATI's Crossfire?

OVERCLOCKING:
CPU, Yes. GPU, No.

SLI OR CROSSFIRE:
Eventually(?).

MONITOR RESOLUTION:
1920x1200 (both)

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS:
N/A.

Thanks for all the help!

 

[GreenDutchAlien]

Hello.
Sure you can't wait a few months for the new series ? ( expected 1st quarter 2012, if i'm right )

 

[vitornob]

If you have 2*250 = 500 dollars for a GPU. Stick with the most powerful single core card. Micro-stuttering is less pronouncied in higher powered cards. (when you go for SLI in future)

This one should be a nice option:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814130587

EDIT: Just saw you need 2 cards, sry.

robjordy is good advice

 

[grumpysage]

Thanks for the replies. I've mulled it over, but I have to get at least one GPU. I can wait with upgrading the 8800 GT till next year.
Any suggestions for which card I should get now? Only buying a single card will also make my budget a little more flexible.

What cards are in the new series, and are there any information about them yet?

 

[GreenDutchAlien]

Yeah, a lot. But the more i hear the more i am doubting.

http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/forum/331651-15-7xxx-series-rumors-technical-data