SLI or GTX 690 for single monitor setup

[Humblegrumble830]

Hello,

This is my first time building a gaming computer and I'm looking for input/information on a prospective graphics card setup. I have more or less narrowed my focus down to the choice between 2x GTX 670 SLI and a single GTX 690. There are, obviously, plentiful discussions on this topic but I'm wondering specifically about performance on a single 2560x1440P 27" display. Additionally, I'm aiming for a setup that will play the most demanding games (Far Cry 3 maybe?) currently on the market set to the maximum video settings on this monitor (I'm looking at the Overlord Tempest X270OC).

Other components:

CPU: i5 3570k
MB: AsRock Extreme 9
RAM: 8GB G.Skill Ripjaws X series DDR31600
PSU: Corsair 750W ATX 12V v2.3 single +12v rail @60amps

I like the reduced heat and power consumption of the 690 and the consolidation of a single card with dual GPUs.
However, my understanding is that VRAM may be a limiting factor for higher resolution displays (or multiple displays, which is not an issue in my case). Does anyone have experience with this or have anything to add?

I've read complaints about so-called micro stuttering when using SLI. Is this a problem for anyone running a high resolution display on max settings?

I really appreciate all advice and information offered. If there are any additional concerns/considerations that come to mind please mention them.

 

[Michael31]

GTX 670 is more powerfull in SLI, so if you want the best graphics then go GTX 670

The GTX 690 is also an amazing card. probably about as good as the SLI 670's
but is realy pricey

Both are good for 1 monitor or multi monitor setup

here is also a review of the 2 cards
http://hexus.net/tech/reviews/graphics/39605-nvidia-geforce-gtx-670-sli-vs-the-beasttm/

Good Luck!

 

[jonjonjon]

the performance is about the same at 2560x1440. i would say i comes down to how much cheaper are the 2 670's vs the 690.

http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/NVIDIA/GeForce_GTX_670_SLI/24.html

 

[Michael31]

the performance is about the same at 2560x1440. i would say i comes down to how much cheaper are the 2 670's vs the 690.

http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/NVIDIA/GeForce_GTX_670_SLI/24.html

I think 670 is about 300$ cheaper so go 670's

 

[DarkSable]

Here's what I can say... I have a single 670, and it can max out almost any game at 120Hz/fps, 1080p. I would imagine you'd be happy with similar results - so I'd buy a 670, and then get a second if you aren't.

 

[Michael31]

+1 to that

 

[toyftw]

Here's what I can say... I have a single 670, and it can max out almost any game at 120Hz/fps, 1080p. I would imagine you'd be happy with similar results - so I'd buy a 670, and then get a second if you aren't.

^ +2

 

[Guest]

2560 x 1440 display = poor mans 30" 2560 x 1600 display. GTX 690 I'd say.