Video card question from a 'noob'

[mech1]

Looking for a little advice about a new video card. I'm currently running:

Radeon 9800 Pro 128Mb (AGP)
P4 3.0G 800FSB
ASUS P4P-800
Win XP Pro Sp2...

I'm trying to choose between a C$299.99 Radeon X800XL 256Mb or a $C229 6600GT 128Mb. Or a $60 cooler for the 9800 Pro and have a buddy of mine help in overclocking it?

I remeber my shift from the 9600 to 9800 being quite noticble and was wondering if upgrading to the X800XL is worth it, will I see a major improvement? Or could I get similar performance with an OC'd 9800 Pro or 6600GT.

Cheers,
Mech.

 

[Dishdog]

with a x800XL you will notice a huge jump in performence. the 6600gt is still a good card but soon it won't be able to run many things on high. i wouldn't bother buying a cooler and then o/c.

 

[Kage]

No, I wouldn't bother buying a cooler. For one thing, I have a 9800PRO 128mb too, and I know for sure, it won't hardly overclock at all, and if you do, you won't get that far.

I think the statement about the 6600GT is true, and so it might be best going for that x800XL

 

[jac006]

Same. 16 pipelines v.s. 12 is not question...

 

[mech1]

I guess I'll go for the x800xl then, should be a sweet upgrade Unfortunately the store is out of stock right now