GTX 580 3GB - which?

megabit wrote on 10/28/2011, 9:06 AM

OK, so I couldn't resist the actually working (at last) CUDA acceleration in VP11, and - in addition to my Quadro 4000m laptop - am going to breath a new life to my somewhat outdated, QX6700 based desktop...

Since I need CUDA for other apps as well, nVidia is my only option (no ATI !). Since none of these apps can use more than a single GPU, I'm going for the GTX 580 with 3GB VRAM (I need it for Moldflow CAE app).

And here my dilemma is: for similar price, I can get this card from Palit, Gainward, Zotac or Gigabyte... Anyone came across some comparison? which is the best of them?

Piotr

Comments

jabloomf1230 wrote on 10/28/2011, 11:06 AM

It's really not much of a dilemma, as all the GTX 580 3GB cards are roughly the same. Here's a list of what NewEgg stocks:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=40000048%20600085533%20600138078&IsNodeId=1&Description=gtx%20580&bop=And&Order=RATING&PageSize=20

So what are the differences?

1. Some of the cards are clocked a bit higher, but you'll never notice that in practical terms in terms of performance.
2. A few are set up for water cooling, which I doubt that you will do.
3. Some have better warranties, customer service policies and ease of RMAing. That's what I would look for.
4. Some have quieter fans, which might matter if you used your PC for watching movies.
5. Some brands are ~10% cheaper, but if you are going to spend $550+ US, you better think about what that 10% discount means.

Generally, EVGA has the best customer service. You may never need that, but in the odd chance that your card is a dud or fails, it is the most important factor.

Red Prince wrote on 10/29/2011, 12:56 PM

Actually, water cooling is a good idea.