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For testing today we built a system specifically based around the Intel Core i5 760 processor which we have overclocked to 4ghz. This is easy, even with a modest cooler. We also assume KitGuru readers are a little more advanced than the average punter on the high street.
People buying these cards aren't likely to have an Intel 980X Extreme Edition processor, nor are they likely to own a 30 inch screen either. Testing will be limited to 1680×1050 and 1080p (1920×1080) resolutions in some cases which covers a broad cross section of 17-23 inch monitors – these are realistic conditions for most people contemplating a purchase.
Video cards:
eVGA GTS450
PowerColor HD5750 Low Profile
XFX HD5750 XXX
Main System:
Processor: Intel Core i5 760 @ 4.2ghz
Memory: ADATA 2GHZ DDR3 (4GB)
Motherboard: ASRock P55 Extreme4
Power Supply: Thermaltake ToughPower XT 675W
Case: Bitfenix Colossus
Cooler: Corsair H70
Monitor: iiyama ProLite E2472HDD
Technical Equipment:
Keithley Integra unit
Thermal Diodes
Raytek Laser Temp Gun 3i LSRC/MT4 Mini Temp
SkyTronic DSL 2 Digital Sound Level Meter (6-130dBa)
Software:
Windows 7 64 bit Ultimate Edition
Catalyst 10.9
Forceware 260.59
FRAPS Professional
GPU Z
CPU Z
MSI Afterburner
GPUTool
Furmark
Unigine Heaven Benchmark 2.1
3DMark Vantage
Stone Giant Benchmark
Resident Evil 5
Tom Clancy HAWX
Mafia 2
Aliens V Predator
Far Cry 2
Metro 2033
HQV Benchmark 2.1
All the latest BIOS updates and drivers are used during testing. We perform under real world conditions, meaning KitGuru tests all games across five closely matched runs and averages out the results to get an accurate median figure.
Our minimum frame rate game graphs have three main zones. These are sampled over a specific 30 interval period of time and then mapped into a chart. These are handy reference guides to detail worst case performance of the product being reviewed. When we test video cards we try to find the best combination of resolution and image quality settings while still maintaining playable frame rates.
Over 30fps is the zone most people want at all times, this means perfectly smooth frame rates with no hitching.
Between 30fps and 25fps is the KitGuru ‘Playable’ zone, although some people might notice occasional stuttering in specific scenes.
Under 25fps is classed as the KitGuru ‘Danger Zone’ which means that the game experience will be less than impressive. Settings and/or resolution would need lowered to help smooth out the frame rate.
It is really good to see lower end cards reviewed here, the high end boards are great, but I doubt many people can afford them.
That XFX board is great. looks like a bargain to me.
This market is really so friggin sweet right now. anyone with a semi decent sized monitor, this is all they need. im not a gaming fanatic so maybe people wouldnt agree.
Nah its a good point Tom. if someone has a 1920×1200 screen, a 460GTX is all they need, unless they want crazy performance. 1080p, or 1680 then the cards on test today are great. the low end is so strong right now, it has to be killing high end cards sales.
I actually might pick one of these up for my kid brother for christmas. we are all putting a system together for him. cant believe how good the performance is for the price.
XFX and Sapphire, only cards to buy IMO
450GTS is good but I dont think its a dominating product like the 460 was. its killed 5830, and even hurt 5850’s. The 450 is a good board but the overclocked ATI cards are really going punch for punch.
I like that single slot design. the powercolor card is different but the shape looks weird.
Fantastic review, loads of detail and useful info.
wonder how long it will be for other sites to copy the return to idle concept 😉
GTS450 is a good card but I agree, it isnt dominating like the 460 is. the price is good and I like evga, this would be my choice out of the three, mainly cause I dont like catalyst.
@ Tri Color – Catalyst is great now, not a problem, I wouldnt let the drivers put you off the hardware.
@ Stefan – nah, they still suck. my buddy has a 5850 and the cat alyst 10.8 broke his HDMI scaling and every time he boots up he has to fix it. same with Cat 10.9. they are still a poor driver compared to nvidia forceware.