I got a xfx geforce 7300LE and am planing to switch to either of the 2 mentioned , so here are a few questions

1) Which one is better and in which way?
2) Which one will complement my current system most
3) Pros & Cons of both of them
4) Expected performance difference
5) Expected gaming experience

Any advice would be greatly appreciated =)

KW

Hello Knight_Wolf,

Well, even though the model numbers are specific, you can still have different specs depending on which brand you get. But generally speaking, the GTS model has faster core clock and memory speeds, so essentially you're going to get better performance out of the GTS.

GT models are priced around 130 dollars at Newegg and GTS models are priced around 160 dollars. The only common difference is the core clock and memory speeds, which on the GTS models are fairly significantly higher. So I would say, the extra 30 bucks or so will be well worth it.

However, right now there is a GT model with supposedly a 2000 mhz memory speed for 99 bucks which if it is true, that is a pretty great deal. I would bet money it is a misprint though.

You'll just have to do some research and pick the best bang per buck you're willing to pay

Well, from what i have read, imo, you would be better off trying to get a 7900gs(only $105 after rebate from newegg), from every almost every review i have read, they will beat a 8600gt, and draw even or just slightly behind a 8600gts, and with overclocking it will almost always beat it

if you are planning to get a 8600 to try and future proof for dx10, just let me say that i doubt that these cards will be able to give you dx10 goodness at a resonable res anyway

imho if you want to overclock you couldnt go wrong with a 7900gs, they oc like crazy

but if you really want a dx10 card, then definately save a little more and get an 8800gts, or you could wait for the next generation of dx10 cards, now enough with my opinions, i'll now try to answer your questions that havnt been answered

Pros(of both): DX10
Future proofed(in a way)
Cons: a bit underpowered for a "next gen" card

you should expect a fairly large performace difference

same goes with gaming

i had to face this exact same choice about a month ago when my mobo blew up, you can see what i chose

btw, when ocing a 7900gs i can get to over 30% performance increase

bottom line: if you need one now, i would recommend a 7900gs, if you want dx10 then the 8600gts

but if you can wait then just wait for the secon gen of dx10 cards, save some money and byy that time you can get an upper range card

Hope i didnt just make your choice more confusing, good luck

thanks a lot guys , i will see the price difference and come to a decision , in my country the prices are different and the availability is not good either , infact am surprised a 8 series card made it thru! a xfx 8600gt is costing $166 here , i dont know the price of xfx 8600 gts yet!

as for overclocking , i havent tried it , and am kinda reluctant to do it!

this topic can now be marked solved. =)

KW