Hi guys,
I'm going to be ordering a new computer next week and need a little perspective on the video card (or lack there of) choice. I'm not going to build my own this time around, so please don't suggest it ;-).
The CPU is an i2500, 4GB RAM. The monitor is an Ultrasharp U2311H 1920X1089. The PSU is 350W (Dell always claims there PSUs are under-rated. My options for the GPU are:
Obviously none, going with the integrated Intel 2000 on the Sandybridge processor.
The next step up is a Radeon 1 GB 6450 for $60.00
Next step up is the NVIDIA 1GB Geforce GT420 for $145 over Integrated
Top rung in what's offered is the 1GB Radeon 6670, for $195.00 over Integrated
My uses for the computer are basic internet, photo editing ala Photoshop Elements, CorelDraw or other vector graphics program, DVD movie watching during lunch, maybe a little video editing and website development. I don't do any gaming, and one of my top priorities is clear fonts, lines and so forth. I do drawings and want as sharpest detail possible (I read a while back that some of the 3D or gaming oriented GPUs were not real great at 2D graphics and clean lines). Good quality/speed for website-imbedded video or Netflix streaming would be nice too.
I know little about video cards, or the real capabilities of the Integrated video on the new Sandybridge processors. Some people say it's fine for what I need and if I change my mind, I can always add one later (especially given that I know Dell tends to overcharge for their upgrades). But these cards are OEM and don't seem to be available for purchase after I get the computer. I'm just a little apprehensive about adding a different aftermarket card being compatible with the PSU. Would like to get this right from the beginning if possible.
Thanks!
I'm going to be ordering a new computer next week and need a little perspective on the video card (or lack there of) choice. I'm not going to build my own this time around, so please don't suggest it ;-).
The CPU is an i2500, 4GB RAM. The monitor is an Ultrasharp U2311H 1920X1089. The PSU is 350W (Dell always claims there PSUs are under-rated. My options for the GPU are:
Obviously none, going with the integrated Intel 2000 on the Sandybridge processor.
The next step up is a Radeon 1 GB 6450 for $60.00
Next step up is the NVIDIA 1GB Geforce GT420 for $145 over Integrated
Top rung in what's offered is the 1GB Radeon 6670, for $195.00 over Integrated
My uses for the computer are basic internet, photo editing ala Photoshop Elements, CorelDraw or other vector graphics program, DVD movie watching during lunch, maybe a little video editing and website development. I don't do any gaming, and one of my top priorities is clear fonts, lines and so forth. I do drawings and want as sharpest detail possible (I read a while back that some of the 3D or gaming oriented GPUs were not real great at 2D graphics and clean lines). Good quality/speed for website-imbedded video or Netflix streaming would be nice too.
I know little about video cards, or the real capabilities of the Integrated video on the new Sandybridge processors. Some people say it's fine for what I need and if I change my mind, I can always add one later (especially given that I know Dell tends to overcharge for their upgrades). But these cards are OEM and don't seem to be available for purchase after I get the computer. I'm just a little apprehensive about adding a different aftermarket card being compatible with the PSU. Would like to get this right from the beginning if possible.
Thanks!