Description: This MSI GeForce 8500 GT is a 256 MB, mainstream 3D card. Compared to other mainstream 3D display cards on the market, it is inexpensive at around $70.
Pros: Is built around a nVidia GeForce 8500 GT chipset, which is somewhat more advanced than some similarly priced display cards. By way of comparison, the average cost of a product with this advanced a chipset is $120.
Cons: None noted, given available product data.
Suitability: A mainstream 3D graphics card, suited for the casual gamer, and those who do not need the latest 3D card on the market. This card supports DirectX 10 technology, used in Microsoft's Windows Vista OS, and is the new technology for the upcoming generation of high-performance games.
Value: Given its inexpensive price, this graphics card has great features for the money.
Suggestions: (1) Since this card is DVI-capable, you might want a DVI-enabled monitor or a flat-panel display to connect with it -- this will pass the digital video signal directly without converting it to analog, making for better performance. (2) For Editor's Reviews of the latest graphics cards, visit the graphics and sound section of CNET's website.
CNET's Product Briefs are generated by a software tool that combines product specifications with knowledge of our editorial experts. They do not reflect hands-on assessment or labs testing. For more information about how we create Product Briefs, contact us.
Product Specifications:
Product Description:
MSI NX8500GT-TD256E - Graphics adapter - NVIDIA GeForce 8500 GT - 256 MB
Device Type:
Graphics adapter
Enclosure Type:
Plug-in card
Interface Type:
PCI Express x16
Graphics Processor / Vendor:
NVIDIA GeForce 8500 GT
Core Clock Speed:
460 MHz
RAMDAC Clock Speed:
400 MHz
API Supported:
DirectX 10
,
OpenGL 2.0
Video Memory Installed ( Max ):
256 MB - DDR2 SDRAM
Video Input:
None
Video Output:
2048 x 1536 / 85 Hz
TV Interface:
HDTV out
HDCP compatible:
Yes