Intel NIC vs. Realtek NIC for a Router

[ispano]

Does anyone know if there would be any real world difference between using dual Realtek NICs vs using Dual Intel NICs for a linux based router? I play games, browse, torrent and occasionally serve video/audio to a remote client. I've always had better throughput on Intel NICs, but afaik routing isn't just about throughput. I was planning on using a Mini-ITX Atom/VIA Nano Board, and thbe only one with Dual Intel NICs is over double the price of the others.

Any advice would be helpful.

 

[audiovoodoo]

If the realteks are on-board then you will see better performance form two intel nics. If they are add-on cards then less so. Given that plenty of the Linux based routers are built on Nano boards and Realtek chipsets I'd not worry to much.