PC gaming Tech → 9600PRO 128MB vs 256MB: Whats the difference?

Ok, so I have to get a new video card (my GeForce3 Ti200 64MB does not cut it anymore) and I am leaning towards this card in particular. However, I keep seeing the 256MB cheaper than the 128MB version. What gives?

Also looking for an AIW, how much will that jack up my price?

Last question. Shall I wait until next month when cards will go down in price supposedly?

Just curious, are the cards the same brand? Also, are you sure that they're both pro?

I have a 9600(Non-pro) w/ 256MB ram, made by Sapphire, and I can say that it's quite nice for gaming. Now, it's no screaming-fast 9800XT with twenty-bazillion frames-per-second, but it's a good level between price and quality. Also, I'd recommend getting the DNA-Drivers when you get the card, because they can really boost performance.

On the note about prices, I wouldn't count on it. Everyone's always saying that the prices will go down =P

In that class of cards I would recommend the 9600 XT but either will perform fine. It seems the cards with the higher memory and processor speeds are whoopin up good on the large memory cards, ie; 256 mb.. I wold take a 500mhz 128 over a 325mhz 256 anyday if you know what I mean. Just my .02

Egads, the 256 cheaper? Are you sure it's not the 9800 SE?

IMHO the 256MB won't be useful. The 128MB version works great.

There are alternatives for getting an AIW card. What are your needs?

If you want to do video capture, the best way is to use a firewire jack if your camcorder has one. If not, then buy a separate soultion like dazzle (you have to check reviews on which brand is best). If you want to watch TV, then get a 4 inch LCD TV. I have one next to my PC, and don't have to upgrade it every year.

said by droga:

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However, I keep seeing the 256MB cheaper than the 128MB version. What gives?

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Perhaps retail package versus bulk? What's more likely is the speed of the memory. The 9600 Pro should run at 400/600. The 256 MB card likely runs at a slower speed.

dupe

ATI AIW RADEON 9600XT Video Card, 128MB DDR, 128-bit, FM/TV/AV In/AV Out, 8X AGP, Model "ALL-IN-WONDER 9600XT" w/ REMOTE -RETAIL

Specifications:
Chipset/Core Speed: ATI RADEON 9600XT/525MHz
Memory/Effective Speed: 128MB DDR/650MHz
BUS: AGP 1X/2X/4X/8X
Ports: FM In+CATV In+A/V In+ A/V Out
Support 3D API: DirectX®9, OpenGL®2.0
Cable/Accessories: Remote Control, USB Remote Receiver, ATI Output Adapter, Scart Adapter, 1 Cable, 3 CD, Manual
Max Resolution@32bit Color: 2048X1536@60Hz

copied from newegg, Price = $262.00

Hey thanks for all the replies.
Actually I did a little more research and did find out that that the 256MB version has slower speed (400/200x 2) vs the 128MB version (400/600). I've decided to get 9600PRO 128MB.

Now, in regards to AIW functions, I want to use my PC as a DVR and this seems like the best integrated solution.

And my budget is $175 max.

said by droga:

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And my budget is $175 max.

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Sorry to break it to you, but with that budget, an AIW is pretty much out of the question.

Yeah I know... Im hoping to sell my old card to get to the $200 mark, which will hopefully score me one of these.