PCI Express 2.0x16 dual graphics support?

[Nicklovn]

Didn't know what subcategory to put for this. My question is whether or not I should get 2 PCI Express slots?

I have two builds I'm trying to consider both between $550-600.

The first uses the AMD Phenom II X4 BE

and the ASROCK 970 MOBO http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813157280

It has 2 PCI Express slots (X16 X4)

I believe what I'm reading here is that I can go dual graphics in Crossfire or SLI (considering the 6850 or 6950 gpu atm so likely crossfire)


But my Intel build says it has 1 2.0x16 slot. http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16813128550&nm_mc=OTC-pr1c3grabb3r&cm_mmc=OTC-pr1c3grabb3r-_-Motherboards+-+Intel-_-GIGABYTE-_-13128550


For Intel build I plan to use i3-2100.


But I also see that it has one 3.0x16. So does that mean I can use dual cards on it?

And do you guys recommend a motherboard offering dual graphics capability?

 

[rolli59]

Both boards have 2 physical X16 slot but with one running on X4 speed. That limits them to Crossfire since SLI will not work on X4 speed. Neither is though recommended for dual cards, it would be better to get a board that can do X8 X8 with dual cards.
Budget builds really should be based around single cards (one powerful better than two weak) and that is what those boards are marketed for.

 

[Nicklovn]

Yes I suppose you're right. My friend was encouraging me to find one that's x8 x8 so I can use dual graphics, but I figured I could be just happy with a single card. And, of course, his build costs over $1000.

Thanks for your help.