August Value Gaming PC Buyer's Guide - Page 5

Video Card: Sapphire Radeon 9800 128-MB (128-bit DDR)

Current Cost: $160
Months on list: New
Price Change: N/A

The last few months, we've had a few issues on the video card end of our value gaming system configurations. This first was that we were simply spending too much money on this component, and as mainstream cards actually increased in price over the last few months, we were really limited in terms of upgrading other components. This month we upgraded both the AMD and Intel systems quite nicely, and not only have more future-proof systems, but ones that are more upgrade-friendly as well. Of course, all this CPU and motherboard power does come with a downside, and this means waving good-bye to the expensive Radeon 9700 Pro 128-MB.

Its replacement may cause a bit of a stir in the enthusiast ranks, but this is a value gaming system, and maximizing our budget is what's most important. The Sapphire Radeon 9800 128-MB (128-bit DDR) is an interesting combination of price and performance, and while traditionalists may find fault with the 128-bit DDR (256-bit with the true Radeon 9800 Pro) this has served to lower prices quite nicely. The Sapphire Radeon 9800 128-MB (128-bit DDR) still has a full 8 pixel pipelines, and performs faster than both the Radeon 9800SE and Radeon 9600 XT. Of course, it still falls short of the Radeon 9800 Pro, but at $160, we're not going to look a gift horse in the mouth.

The problem with the Sapphire Radeon 9800 128-MB (128-bit DDR) is that many purchased it thinking this was a very low-cost Radeon 9800 Pro, and only later finding out it didn't match up in overall performance. As long as you know what you're buying, this is a great deal, and the Sapphire Radeon 9800 128-MB (128-bit DDR) offers extremely high-end performance and features at this price point.

Monitor 19": Samsung 955DF

Current Cost: $185
Months on list: 11
Price Change: $0

Our $1,000 budget presents a scenario of choosing between a higher-end 17" flat-screen monitor and a 19" standard CRT or lower-end flat-screen. It's a tough compromise, but we're trying to slide in between the two extremes, and finding a 19" flat screen model that not only fits our budget, but has the features, performance and image quality we need. This is no small task, especially when looking for that perfect combination of image quality and low price that usually exists at the 17" range. We continue to evaluate newer models, but few have the combination of price, features and quality we're looking for.

The Samsung 955DF gets the call again this month, and even after extensive searching, we continue to have a tough time locating other 19" flat screen models that can compete at this price. This Samsung 19" flat-screen monitor is perfectly positioned for our value system requirements, and it fits nicely relating to price, size and feature set. The 955DF's 18"-viewable DynaFlat tube features a .20mm dot pitch and supports up to 1600x1200 at 68 Hz. Though the monitor is best viewed at 1280x1024, where the Samsung 955DF offers higher refresh rates. The Samsung 955DF is also an extremely popular model from one of the largest monitor companies, and has a solid track record. It also includes MPR-II, TCO and Energy Star designations, and offers a full 3-year warranty on parts, labor and tube, making this a sound investment for your value gaming PC.

For those who want a Trinitron/aperture grill model at this price, you'll have to set your sights a bit lower to the 17" models, or pay a bit more for a 19" monitor. Sony has some attractive aperture grill options, while Hitachi, Viewsonic, and NEC offer some nice 17" and 19" models as well. The world is moving to LCD, but with our budgetary constraints, it may be a long time before we make the plunge.

Please keep in mind that when buying any type or brand of monitor, there is always the slight chance of receiving a defective unit or a flat-screen with convergence issues, so be certain to purchase only from a vendor that offers liberal return and replacement options.