This GPU guide is a translated version of the sticky I have in Norway’s largest hardware forum
I have noticed that numerous people have questions about performance of today’s high-end graphic cards. Therefore am I making this thread to explain the performance of various cards and which positive and negative sides they have.
Useful link(s)
The Introduction Guide - Advices, Technologies, Drivers & Utilities
Technical vocabulary
Content Overview
• Bang for buck cards
• Performance ranking by brand and generation
- NV4X
- G7X
- G8X
- G9X
- GT200
- R4X0
- R5X0
- R6X0
- R7X0
• Technologies by brand and generation
- NV4X
- G7X
- G8X
- G9X
- GT200
- R4X0
- R5X0
- R6X0
- R7X0
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Update: 13 September 08
__________________________________________________
Disclaimer
This guide is meant as a quick overview of performance and technology. I have tried to be as objective as possible. The performance ranking is a general idea of average performance in games and are collected from more than one review (most used are: AnandTech, The Tech Report, X-bit Labs, FiringSquad and Beyond3D). If you disagree about something or find factual errors please reply to this thread or preferable send a PM, although I will ignore anything which are not backed up by facts (sod off fanboys).
Important information
Today it’s in my opinion a bit obsolete to talk about “pixel pipelines” when talking about the latest generation of video cards (R5XX and G7X). This is why I have decided to include: pixel processors, TMUs, ROPs (z compare units are a part of a ROP) and vertex processors.
”A pixel processor calculates different effects for a displayed pixel to create realistic materials and surfaces. In general one could say that the more pixel processors exist the better the performance would be. Not all games uses the same amount of shaders, therefore the performance will fluctuate between them”
”The most basic explanation of the function of a Texture Mapping Unit (TMU) is that it uses a 2D-image to “clothe” a 3D figure.
”A Render Output Unit or Raster Operations Pipeline (ROP) is one of the final steps in producing the final result. The ROP takes care of the transformation of information stored in the GPUs memory into pixels which are displayed on a monitor. The basic task for a ROP is: AA, blending and z-buffer de-/compression.”
”The basic task for a vertex processor is to control the behaviour and appearance of the corners to the triangles which 3D-objects are build upon”
”Unified processor can do pixel, vertex and with time geometry (a DX10 feature) shading. ATI and nVidia have different types of processors!”
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Bang for buck cards (13 September) <$150 = 9600 GT 512MB ($95)
Pretty high IQ requirements. Typical: 1680x1050 high settings 16xAF.
<$200 = HD4850 512MB ($170)
High IQ requirements. Typical: 1680x1050 high settings 2xMSAA 16xAF.
<$600 = GTX 260 896MB ($245)
Very high IQ requirements. Typical: 1680x1050 high settings 4xMSAA 16xAF.
__________________________________________________
The video cards are ranked by their performance
nVidia
6800 LE 128/256MB (320/700) (2.56/22.4) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs - 8 ROPs - 4 vertex processors
It can often be softmodded into a 6800. If one is especially lucky 16 pixel processors can be within reach. The 6800 LE has GDDR memory. Out of box performance is a bit faster than a 9800 Pro, but if the softmod is a success a major performance boost is to be expected.
6800 XT 128/256/512MB (325/700) (2.6/22.4) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 4 vertex processors
This card is performance wise pretty identical to a 6800 LE. The AGP version can be unlocked to 12x1 and 6 vertex processors. It’s advised to choose models with GDDR3 memory rather than GDDR if overclocking is important to you.
6600 GT 128/256MB (500/900 (1000 PCIe)) (2.0/16.0) (AGP/PCIe) 128-bit
- 8 pixel processors - 8 TMUs - 4 ROPs - 3 vertex processors
The high core and memory (GDDR3) frequency mostly eliminates architectonical deficiencies (4 ROPs, 3 vertex shader units and 128-bit memory). It’s about 20% faster than a 9800. The performance difference between the AGP- and PCIe version is negligible. It can’t be softmodded. The 6600 GT is a better deal than a 6800 LE if you don’t like to mod a card.
6800 128/256MB (325/700) (3.9/22.4) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
16 pixel processors and 6 vertex processors can be achieved though a softmod if you’re successful. Slow GDDR memory prevents high frequencies therefore crippling performance when compared to a 6800 GT. It’s about 15 % faster than a 6600 GT, but struggles to keep up with faster cards like: X800 XL and 6800 GT.
6800 GS 256/512MB (350 (425 PCIe)/1000) (5.1/32.0) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
The PCIe version is marginally slower than a 6800 GT and the performance hit is a bit larger if AA and AF are used. The AGP version is even slower due to the lower core frequency. The performance is quite an achievement when you look at the apparent weak architecture when compared to a 6800 GT. 16x1 and 6 vertex processors can be achieved for the AGP version through a softmod.
6800 GT 256MB (350/1000) (5.6/32.0) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The card is substantially faster than a 6800. GDDR3 memory can achieve higher frequencies than the slower GDDR which cards like LE and NU are equipped with. An unmodded X800 Pro is a bit slower.
6800 Ultra 256MB (400/1100) (6.4/35.2) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The only difference between an Ultra and a GT is the higher frequencies and marginally higher voltage (0.1 V).
These cards are a bit special
- Asus V9999 6800 GT 128MB (350/700) (5.6/22.4) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The core is based upon the one used in a 6800 GT. Therefore has it 16 pixel processors, but the performance is crippled by the slow GDDR memory. It’s substantially faster (~15 %) than a 6800 because of obvious reasons.
- MSI NX6800-TD 128MB (350/700) (5.6/22.4) (AGP) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The core is based upon the one used in a 6800 GT. It’s very important to note that this card must be softmodded before having 16x1 and 6x1. The performance is crippled by the slow GDDR memory. It’s softmodded substantially faster (~15 %) than a 6800 because of obvious reasons. It runs cooler due to a good copper cooler and has therefore often a better overclocking ability.
- Asus V9999 6800 256MB Gamer Edition (350/1000) (2.8/32.0) 256-bit
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs – 5 vertex processors
The GE has identical frequencies as a 6800 GT, but is crippled by having only 12 pixel processors. You can achieve 16 pixel processors through a softmod. It’s a bit slower than an X800 Pro.
G7X
7300 GT 256MB (350/667) (1.4/10.7) (PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs – 4 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
It’s marginally slower than a X1600 Pro, thus it being a bit slower than a 6600 GT. Slow GDDR2 memory cripples performance.
7600 GS 256/512MB (400/800) (3.2/12.8) (AGP/PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
Performance wise is the card pretty identical to a 6800. This means ~15 % faster than a 6600 GT.
7600 GT 256MB (560/1400) (4.48/22.4) (AGP*/PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
It’s a bit faster than a 6800 Ultra and therefore is it natural to compare it to a 7800 GS. The X1800 GTO has a similar performance. Good overclocker.
* Leadtek WinFast A7600 GT TDH and XFX 7600 GT
7800 GS 256MB (375/1200) (3.0/38.4) (AGP) 256-bit DLDVI
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
This video card is a bit faster than a 6800 Ultra and the performance is equal an X800 XT PE. Games using HDR with FP blending (like Far Cry) can increase the performance gap to 50 % when compared to a 6800 Ultra. The card can’t be softmodded.
7800 GT 256MB (400/1000) (6.4/32.0) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 20 pixel processors – 20 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 7 vertex processors
The card can’t be softmodded to a GTX. The performance can vary from -10% to plus 40 % (1600x1200) higher than a 6800 Ultra. It’s natural to see this card as a replacement for the 6800 Ultra on the PCIe marked.
7800 GTX 256MB (430/1200) (6.88/38.4) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
Performance wise is it a bit weaker than 6800 Ultra SLI. If any pixel shader intensive games are used it truly shines and is then marginally faster. X1800 XT 256MB is a bit faster.
7900 GS 256MB (450/1320) (7.2/42.2) (PCIe) 256-bit D-DLDVI
- 20 pixel processors – 20 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 7 vertex processors
The performance is pretty equal a 7800 GTX.
7900 GT 256MB (450/1320) (7.2/41.6) (PCIe) 256-bit D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
It’s a bit faster than a 7800 GTX. An X1800 XT 256MB is marginally faster. Good overclocker.
7950 GT 256/512MB (550/1400) (8.8/48.8) (AGP*/PCIe) 256-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
The card is about 20% faster than a 7900 GT and a bit weaker than the X1900 XT 256MB.
* XFX
7900 GTO 512MB (650/1320) (10.4/42.2) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
It’s a bit weaker than an X1900 XT 256MB in performance.
7800 GTX 512MB (550/1700) (8.8/54.4) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
A 7900 GTX is a bit faster. It’s marginally slower than an X1900 XT 512MB.
7900 GTX 512MB (650/1600) (10.4/51.2) (PCIe) 256-bit D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
Performance wise is it substantially (~30 %) faster than a 7900 GT. ATI matches it with the X1900 XTX which is marginally faster.
7950 GX2 512MB (500/1200) (8.0/38.4) (PCIe) 256-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors (per GPU)
It’s important to emphasize that this “card” uses SLI technology with its ups and downs (e.g. 512MB, not 1024MB). 7900 GT SLI is a bit weaker and the gap usually widens even further at extreme resolutions and/or settings. Motherboard and bios compatibility.
These cards are a bit special
Galaxy 7300 GT 256MB (500/1400) (2.0/22.4) (PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs – 4 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
The performance is similar to 7600 GS / X1600 XT. GDDR3 memory and a good core make it possible to achieve such high frequencies.
- Gainward BLISS 7800 GS SILENT 512MB (425/1200) (6.8/38.4) (AGP) 256-bit DLDVI
- 20 pixel processors – 20 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 7 vertex processors
This is essentially a 7800 GT disguised as a 7800 GS. A 7800 GTX (reference frequencies) is about 15 % faster.
- Gainward BLISS 7800 GS+ SILENT 512MB (450/1250) (7.2/40.0) (AGP) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
This is essentially a 7900 GT disguised as a 7800 GS. Because of the slower memory frequency it's marginally slower.
G8X
8500 GT 256/512MB (450/900/800) (1.8/12.8) (PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 16 unified processors – 8 TMUs – 4 ROPs
It’s about as fast as an X1600 Pro thus a bit slower than the 6600 GT.
8600 GT 256MB (540/1180/1400) (4.32/22.4) (PCIe) 128-bit D-DLDVI
- 32 unified processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs
The performance is about the same as a 7800 GT which in turn puts it ~15% above a 7600 GT. An 8600 GTS is about 15% faster.
8600 GTS 256MB (675/1450/2000) (5.4/32.0) (PCIe) 128-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 32 unified processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs
The performance is similar to a 7900 GS.
8800 GTS 320MB (500/1200/1600) (10.0/64.0) (PCIe) 320-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 24 TMUs – 20 ROPs
The only thing separating it from a regular GTS is the lower amount of memory. The memory bottleneck is most apparent at 1680x1050 or higher resolutions in 2007+ games, ranging from no difference at all to large. Overall it isn’t currently a major bottleneck (1680x1050 or less with a bit of AA), while more complex titles later on are bound to increase the memory bottleneck.
8800 GTS 640MB (500/1200/1600) (10.0/64.0) (PCIe) 320-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 24 TMUs – 20 ROPs
It’s 35% faster than the X1950 XTX. Good overclocker. Great potential (read the ”Unified Shader Architecture” section).
8800 GTS SSC 640MB (500/1200/1600) (10.0/64.0) (PCIe) 320-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 112 unified processors – 24 TMUs – 20 ROPs
It’s marginally faster than an 8800 GT.
8800 GTX 768MB (575/1350/1800) (13.8/86.4) (PCIe) 384-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 32 TMUs – 24 ROPs
The performance is about 75% better than an X1950 XTX. Great potential (read the ”Unified Shader Architecture” section).
8800 Ultra 768MB (612/1500/2160) (14.7/103.7) (PCIe) 384-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 32 TMUs – 24 ROPs
It’s about 10% faster than the GTX.
G9X
9500 GT 512MB (550/1400/1600) (4.4/25.6) (PCIe 2.0) 128-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 32 unified processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs
It’s about 5% slower than an 8600 GTS.
8800 GS 384MB (550/1650/1600) (9.6/38.4) (PCIe 2.0) 192-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 48 TMUs – 12 ROPs
Performance is similar to an 8800 GT 256MB, therefore position it between HD 3850 and HD 3870.
9600 GSO 384MB (550/1650/1600) (9.6/38.4) (PCIe 2.0) 192-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 48 TMUs – 12 ROPs
It’s a rebadged 8800 GS.
9600 GT 512MB (650/1625/1800) (10.4/57.6) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 64 unified processors – 32 TMUs – 16 ROPs
Performance is similar to a HD 3870.
8800 GT 256/512MB (600/1500/1800) (9.6/57.6) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 112 unified processors – 56 TMUs – 16 ROPs
8800 GTX is roughly 15% faster or put in another way - 15% faster than the 8800 GTS. The 256MB version (600/1500/1400) is about 10% faster than HD 3850 256MB, or 10% slower than HD 3870 512MB.
9800 GT 512MB (600/1500/1800) (9.6/57.6) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 112 unified processors – 56 TMUs – 16 ROPs
It’s an 8800 GT featuring die shrink and Hybrid Power.
8800 GTS 512MB (650/1625/1940) (10.4/62.1) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 16 ROPs
It’s about 5% slower than an 8800 GTX.
9800 GTX 512MB (675/1688/2200) (10.8/70.4) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 16 ROPs
Performance is equal an 8800 GTX.
9800 GTX+ 512MB (738/1836/2200) (11.8/70.4) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 16 ROPs
It performs similar to a HD 4850 or 5% faster than the 9800 GTX.
9800 GX2 512MB (600/1500/2000) (9.6/64.0) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI HDMI
- 128 unified processors – 56 TMUs – 16 ROPs (per GPU)
It’s about 45% faster than an 8800 Ultra.
GT200
GTX 260 896MB (576/1242/1998) (16.1/111.9) (PCIe 2.0) 448-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 192 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 28 ROPs
Performance is about 30% faster than a 9800 GTX.
GTX 280 1GB (602/1296/2214) (19.3/141.7) (PCIe 2.0) 512-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 240 unified processors – 80 TMUs – 32 ROPs
It’s 5% slower than a 9800 GX2 or put in another way, 50% faster than the 9800 GTX.
I have noticed that numerous people have questions about performance of today’s high-end graphic cards. Therefore am I making this thread to explain the performance of various cards and which positive and negative sides they have.
Useful link(s)
The Introduction Guide - Advices, Technologies, Drivers & Utilities
Technical vocabulary
Content Overview
• Bang for buck cards
• Performance ranking by brand and generation
- NV4X
- G7X
- G8X
- G9X
- GT200
- R4X0
- R5X0
- R6X0
- R7X0
• Technologies by brand and generation
- NV4X
- G7X
- G8X
- G9X
- GT200
- R4X0
- R5X0
- R6X0
- R7X0
__________________________________________________
Update: 13 September 08
__________________________________________________
Disclaimer
This guide is meant as a quick overview of performance and technology. I have tried to be as objective as possible. The performance ranking is a general idea of average performance in games and are collected from more than one review (most used are: AnandTech, The Tech Report, X-bit Labs, FiringSquad and Beyond3D). If you disagree about something or find factual errors please reply to this thread or preferable send a PM, although I will ignore anything which are not backed up by facts (sod off fanboys).
Important information
Today it’s in my opinion a bit obsolete to talk about “pixel pipelines” when talking about the latest generation of video cards (R5XX and G7X). This is why I have decided to include: pixel processors, TMUs, ROPs (z compare units are a part of a ROP) and vertex processors.
”A pixel processor calculates different effects for a displayed pixel to create realistic materials and surfaces. In general one could say that the more pixel processors exist the better the performance would be. Not all games uses the same amount of shaders, therefore the performance will fluctuate between them”
”The most basic explanation of the function of a Texture Mapping Unit (TMU) is that it uses a 2D-image to “clothe” a 3D figure.
”A Render Output Unit or Raster Operations Pipeline (ROP) is one of the final steps in producing the final result. The ROP takes care of the transformation of information stored in the GPUs memory into pixels which are displayed on a monitor. The basic task for a ROP is: AA, blending and z-buffer de-/compression.”
”The basic task for a vertex processor is to control the behaviour and appearance of the corners to the triangles which 3D-objects are build upon”
”Unified processor can do pixel, vertex and with time geometry (a DX10 feature) shading. ATI and nVidia have different types of processors!”
__________________________________________________
Bang for buck cards (13 September) <$150 = 9600 GT 512MB ($95)
Pretty high IQ requirements. Typical: 1680x1050 high settings 16xAF.
<$200 = HD4850 512MB ($170)
High IQ requirements. Typical: 1680x1050 high settings 2xMSAA 16xAF.
<$600 = GTX 260 896MB ($245)
Very high IQ requirements. Typical: 1680x1050 high settings 4xMSAA 16xAF.
__________________________________________________
The video cards are ranked by their performance
X1800 XT memory configurations (core frequency MHz / memory frequency MHz) (Fill rate (pixel output) Gpixel/s / Memory bandwidth GB/s) (Interface available)
nVidia
6800 LE 128/256MB (320/700) (2.56/22.4) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs - 8 ROPs - 4 vertex processors
It can often be softmodded into a 6800. If one is especially lucky 16 pixel processors can be within reach. The 6800 LE has GDDR memory. Out of box performance is a bit faster than a 9800 Pro, but if the softmod is a success a major performance boost is to be expected.
6800 XT 128/256/512MB (325/700) (2.6/22.4) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 4 vertex processors
This card is performance wise pretty identical to a 6800 LE. The AGP version can be unlocked to 12x1 and 6 vertex processors. It’s advised to choose models with GDDR3 memory rather than GDDR if overclocking is important to you.
6600 GT 128/256MB (500/900 (1000 PCIe)) (2.0/16.0) (AGP/PCIe) 128-bit
- 8 pixel processors - 8 TMUs - 4 ROPs - 3 vertex processors
The high core and memory (GDDR3) frequency mostly eliminates architectonical deficiencies (4 ROPs, 3 vertex shader units and 128-bit memory). It’s about 20% faster than a 9800. The performance difference between the AGP- and PCIe version is negligible. It can’t be softmodded. The 6600 GT is a better deal than a 6800 LE if you don’t like to mod a card.
6800 128/256MB (325/700) (3.9/22.4) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
16 pixel processors and 6 vertex processors can be achieved though a softmod if you’re successful. Slow GDDR memory prevents high frequencies therefore crippling performance when compared to a 6800 GT. It’s about 15 % faster than a 6600 GT, but struggles to keep up with faster cards like: X800 XL and 6800 GT.
6800 GS 256/512MB (350 (425 PCIe)/1000) (5.1/32.0) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
The PCIe version is marginally slower than a 6800 GT and the performance hit is a bit larger if AA and AF are used. The AGP version is even slower due to the lower core frequency. The performance is quite an achievement when you look at the apparent weak architecture when compared to a 6800 GT. 16x1 and 6 vertex processors can be achieved for the AGP version through a softmod.
6800 GT 256MB (350/1000) (5.6/32.0) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The card is substantially faster than a 6800. GDDR3 memory can achieve higher frequencies than the slower GDDR which cards like LE and NU are equipped with. An unmodded X800 Pro is a bit slower.
6800 Ultra 256MB (400/1100) (6.4/35.2) (AGP/PCIe) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The only difference between an Ultra and a GT is the higher frequencies and marginally higher voltage (0.1 V).
These cards are a bit special
- Asus V9999 6800 GT 128MB (350/700) (5.6/22.4) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The core is based upon the one used in a 6800 GT. Therefore has it 16 pixel processors, but the performance is crippled by the slow GDDR memory. It’s substantially faster (~15 %) than a 6800 because of obvious reasons.
- MSI NX6800-TD 128MB (350/700) (5.6/22.4) (AGP) 256-bit
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
The core is based upon the one used in a 6800 GT. It’s very important to note that this card must be softmodded before having 16x1 and 6x1. The performance is crippled by the slow GDDR memory. It’s softmodded substantially faster (~15 %) than a 6800 because of obvious reasons. It runs cooler due to a good copper cooler and has therefore often a better overclocking ability.
- Asus V9999 6800 256MB Gamer Edition (350/1000) (2.8/32.0) 256-bit
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs – 5 vertex processors
The GE has identical frequencies as a 6800 GT, but is crippled by having only 12 pixel processors. You can achieve 16 pixel processors through a softmod. It’s a bit slower than an X800 Pro.
G7X
7300 GT 256MB (350/667) (1.4/10.7) (PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs – 4 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
It’s marginally slower than a X1600 Pro, thus it being a bit slower than a 6600 GT. Slow GDDR2 memory cripples performance.
7600 GS 256/512MB (400/800) (3.2/12.8) (AGP/PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
Performance wise is the card pretty identical to a 6800. This means ~15 % faster than a 6600 GT.
7600 GT 256MB (560/1400) (4.48/22.4) (AGP*/PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 12 pixel processors – 12 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
It’s a bit faster than a 6800 Ultra and therefore is it natural to compare it to a 7800 GS. The X1800 GTO has a similar performance. Good overclocker.
* Leadtek WinFast A7600 GT TDH and XFX 7600 GT
7800 GS 256MB (375/1200) (3.0/38.4) (AGP) 256-bit DLDVI
- 16 pixel processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs - 6 vertex processors
This video card is a bit faster than a 6800 Ultra and the performance is equal an X800 XT PE. Games using HDR with FP blending (like Far Cry) can increase the performance gap to 50 % when compared to a 6800 Ultra. The card can’t be softmodded.
7800 GT 256MB (400/1000) (6.4/32.0) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 20 pixel processors – 20 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 7 vertex processors
The card can’t be softmodded to a GTX. The performance can vary from -10% to plus 40 % (1600x1200) higher than a 6800 Ultra. It’s natural to see this card as a replacement for the 6800 Ultra on the PCIe marked.
7800 GTX 256MB (430/1200) (6.88/38.4) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
Performance wise is it a bit weaker than 6800 Ultra SLI. If any pixel shader intensive games are used it truly shines and is then marginally faster. X1800 XT 256MB is a bit faster.
7900 GS 256MB (450/1320) (7.2/42.2) (PCIe) 256-bit D-DLDVI
- 20 pixel processors – 20 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 7 vertex processors
The performance is pretty equal a 7800 GTX.
7900 GT 256MB (450/1320) (7.2/41.6) (PCIe) 256-bit D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
It’s a bit faster than a 7800 GTX. An X1800 XT 256MB is marginally faster. Good overclocker.
7950 GT 256/512MB (550/1400) (8.8/48.8) (AGP*/PCIe) 256-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
The card is about 20% faster than a 7900 GT and a bit weaker than the X1900 XT 256MB.
* XFX
7900 GTO 512MB (650/1320) (10.4/42.2) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
It’s a bit weaker than an X1900 XT 256MB in performance.
7800 GTX 512MB (550/1700) (8.8/54.4) (PCIe) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
A 7900 GTX is a bit faster. It’s marginally slower than an X1900 XT 512MB.
7900 GTX 512MB (650/1600) (10.4/51.2) (PCIe) 256-bit D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
Performance wise is it substantially (~30 %) faster than a 7900 GT. ATI matches it with the X1900 XTX which is marginally faster.
7950 GX2 512MB (500/1200) (8.0/38.4) (PCIe) 256-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors (per GPU)
It’s important to emphasize that this “card” uses SLI technology with its ups and downs (e.g. 512MB, not 1024MB). 7900 GT SLI is a bit weaker and the gap usually widens even further at extreme resolutions and/or settings. Motherboard and bios compatibility.
These cards are a bit special
Galaxy 7300 GT 256MB (500/1400) (2.0/22.4) (PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 8 pixel processors – 8 TMUs – 4 ROPs - 5 vertex processors
The performance is similar to 7600 GS / X1600 XT. GDDR3 memory and a good core make it possible to achieve such high frequencies.
- Gainward BLISS 7800 GS SILENT 512MB (425/1200) (6.8/38.4) (AGP) 256-bit DLDVI
- 20 pixel processors – 20 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 7 vertex processors
This is essentially a 7800 GT disguised as a 7800 GS. A 7800 GTX (reference frequencies) is about 15 % faster.
- Gainward BLISS 7800 GS+ SILENT 512MB (450/1250) (7.2/40.0) (AGP) 256-bit DLDVI
- 24 pixel processors – 24 TMUs – 16 ROPs - 8 vertex processors
This is essentially a 7900 GT disguised as a 7800 GS. Because of the slower memory frequency it's marginally slower.
G8X
8500 GT 256/512MB (450/900/800) (1.8/12.8) (PCIe) 128-bit DLDVI
- 16 unified processors – 8 TMUs – 4 ROPs
It’s about as fast as an X1600 Pro thus a bit slower than the 6600 GT.
8600 GT 256MB (540/1180/1400) (4.32/22.4) (PCIe) 128-bit D-DLDVI
- 32 unified processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs
The performance is about the same as a 7800 GT which in turn puts it ~15% above a 7600 GT. An 8600 GTS is about 15% faster.
8600 GTS 256MB (675/1450/2000) (5.4/32.0) (PCIe) 128-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 32 unified processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs
The performance is similar to a 7900 GS.
8800 GTS 320MB (500/1200/1600) (10.0/64.0) (PCIe) 320-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 24 TMUs – 20 ROPs
The only thing separating it from a regular GTS is the lower amount of memory. The memory bottleneck is most apparent at 1680x1050 or higher resolutions in 2007+ games, ranging from no difference at all to large. Overall it isn’t currently a major bottleneck (1680x1050 or less with a bit of AA), while more complex titles later on are bound to increase the memory bottleneck.
8800 GTS 640MB (500/1200/1600) (10.0/64.0) (PCIe) 320-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 24 TMUs – 20 ROPs
It’s 35% faster than the X1950 XTX. Good overclocker. Great potential (read the ”Unified Shader Architecture” section).
8800 GTS SSC 640MB (500/1200/1600) (10.0/64.0) (PCIe) 320-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 112 unified processors – 24 TMUs – 20 ROPs
It’s marginally faster than an 8800 GT.
8800 GTX 768MB (575/1350/1800) (13.8/86.4) (PCIe) 384-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 32 TMUs – 24 ROPs
The performance is about 75% better than an X1950 XTX. Great potential (read the ”Unified Shader Architecture” section).
8800 Ultra 768MB (612/1500/2160) (14.7/103.7) (PCIe) 384-bit HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 32 TMUs – 24 ROPs
It’s about 10% faster than the GTX.
G9X
9500 GT 512MB (550/1400/1600) (4.4/25.6) (PCIe 2.0) 128-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 32 unified processors – 16 TMUs – 8 ROPs
It’s about 5% slower than an 8600 GTS.
8800 GS 384MB (550/1650/1600) (9.6/38.4) (PCIe 2.0) 192-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 48 TMUs – 12 ROPs
Performance is similar to an 8800 GT 256MB, therefore position it between HD 3850 and HD 3870.
9600 GSO 384MB (550/1650/1600) (9.6/38.4) (PCIe 2.0) 192-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 96 unified processors – 48 TMUs – 12 ROPs
It’s a rebadged 8800 GS.
9600 GT 512MB (650/1625/1800) (10.4/57.6) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 64 unified processors – 32 TMUs – 16 ROPs
Performance is similar to a HD 3870.
8800 GT 256/512MB (600/1500/1800) (9.6/57.6) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 112 unified processors – 56 TMUs – 16 ROPs
8800 GTX is roughly 15% faster or put in another way - 15% faster than the 8800 GTS. The 256MB version (600/1500/1400) is about 10% faster than HD 3850 256MB, or 10% slower than HD 3870 512MB.
9800 GT 512MB (600/1500/1800) (9.6/57.6) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 112 unified processors – 56 TMUs – 16 ROPs
It’s an 8800 GT featuring die shrink and Hybrid Power.
8800 GTS 512MB (650/1625/1940) (10.4/62.1) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 16 ROPs
It’s about 5% slower than an 8800 GTX.
9800 GTX 512MB (675/1688/2200) (10.8/70.4) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 16 ROPs
Performance is equal an 8800 GTX.
9800 GTX+ 512MB (738/1836/2200) (11.8/70.4) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 128 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 16 ROPs
It performs similar to a HD 4850 or 5% faster than the 9800 GTX.
9800 GX2 512MB (600/1500/2000) (9.6/64.0) (PCIe 2.0) 256-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI HDMI
- 128 unified processors – 56 TMUs – 16 ROPs (per GPU)
It’s about 45% faster than an 8800 Ultra.
GT200
GTX 260 896MB (576/1242/1998) (16.1/111.9) (PCIe 2.0) 448-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 192 unified processors – 64 TMUs – 28 ROPs
Performance is about 30% faster than a 9800 GTX.
GTX 280 1GB (602/1296/2214) (19.3/141.7) (PCIe 2.0) 512-bit DL-HDCP D-DLDVI
- 240 unified processors – 80 TMUs – 32 ROPs
It’s 5% slower than a 9800 GX2 or put in another way, 50% faster than the 9800 GTX.