It is a dilemma jpph, and only one you can really decide. Remember there is nothing stopping you from taking your graphics card with you to your next PC. Then if you have the option (such as Dell), you can specify what hardware you have on your PC. The graphics card could be low spec, and then just slap your 8500 into your new PC.

I'm not so sure about the Radeon x1950. The x1950 is equivelent in performance to the 7900gs. Not so good, and there's no way this card could handle Crysis in full detail. It will probably keep you going if you decide to buy a new graphics card again with your new PC.

sounds like your leaning towards the 8500gt. like i said im not a hardcore gamer and it should keep me going. il go with it. thanks for all the advice, sorry its gone on so long! cheers dude!

Any time jpph. Marked as Answered.

dammit! im back, sorry. there has been an increase in budget. ill try and keep this simple.
1)is the x1950 pro the best in its price range? better than 2600?
2)excellent value for money?

i dont want to hae to upgrade for a good while(until the card will be as bad as my 7300le is now)