More memory or better video card for HL?

[diesel23]

Hi there...
I have not played HL2 yet, but its on its way
Currently I have 512 pc3200 running in dual channel mode, 3.0Ghz P4, and an Geforce Ti4200 128mb. System should be fine in running HL2, but I probably cant take advantage of it fully. If I need to upgrade, should I get another 512 of memory to make it 1 gig, or upgrade the video card? I know all components work hand in hand, but what would increase my performance best?Budget is around $200.
What do you guys think I should do? Suggestions?

thanks again!!

 

[folken]

For a budget of $200 just get another 512MB of ram and run at low res. The game will be jumpy if you only have 512MB of ram bec it will start using swap. That video card will run it fine at low resolutions, it won't look nearly as nice as it could but it will be playable. You would have to spend over $200 (or get lucky on ebay) to get a video card that would show a noticable improvement. A Radeon 9800Pro would probably be the lowest card to get that would show major performance improvement.

<A HREF="http://www.folken.net/myrig.htm" target="_new">My precious...</A>

 

[pauldh]

My vote is for a 256-bit Radeon 9800 pro. GF6600GT/6800 if a real good price can be found.

Performance-wise, your system will be just fine as is, but the extra water quality and resolution/detail bump of the 9800 Pro would be a nice noticable benefit.

<A HREF="http://service.futuremark.com/compare?2k3=3400555" target="_new"> My</A>
<A HREF="http://service.futuremark.com/compare?2k1=8268935" target="_new">Gamer</A>
<P ID="edit"><FONT SIZE=-1><EM>Edited by Pauldh on 12/08/04 09:15 PM.</EM></FONT></P>

 

[mrface]

i second that opinion

"Never underestimate the predictability of Stupidity."
<A HREF="http://www.cameronwilliamson.com" target="_new">-={Neurotic Narcissist.}=-</A>
<A HREF="http://www.youreadopted.com/" target="_new">Guess what?</A>

 

[diesel23]

thanks guys..

I was just looking around and found a geforce 6600 gt card cheap. bout $160. BUT it uses Pci express slot. WTF? Found out what that is and I dont have it.[-peep-]. I have an GRH865 mobo. Damn. The 6600gt is better than the 9800 pro. I think the card will have to go.

 

[diesel23]

By the way..if someone needs it, that card can be found on eBay. search 4 6600 gt.

more opinions welcomed.......

 

[pauldh]

Yup, the PCI-e ones are easier to find, and much cheaper. 99% of us can't use them, so you are not alone.

<A HREF="http://shop4.outpost.com/product/3628345?site=sr:SEARCH:MAIN_RSLT_PG" target="_new">$180 BBA 9800 Pro</A> is a good deal if in stock. Otherwise the AGP 6600GT is going to be $225+, and the Plain <A HREF="http://shop4.outpost.com/product/4082672" target="_new">6800</A> is often close to that.

<A HREF="http://service.futuremark.com/compare?2k3=3400555" target="_new"> My</A>
<A HREF="http://service.futuremark.com/compare?2k1=8268935" target="_new">Gamer</A>

 

[BrandtP]

If you can squeak out an additional $50 US you may be able to get your cake and eat it too. Newegg could probably allow the purchase of both a decent video card and RAM for around $250. Of course, this impulsivity has gotten me into trouble with the wife before so take your chances.