9600XT or 9700 128mb (not pro)

[MPervaiz]

Hi,
Since both of these cards are pretty much close in price, which one would you recommend in terms of performance?
I've got an XP 2000+ with 384mb DDR.
Thanks alot in advance.
Regards.

[Bennyboy]

The 9700NP is the better performer, easily, so for a similar cost it's a good deal. However, the 9600XT would come with a voucher for Half-Life 2 when it's released, and will probably be quieter and/or run cooler. If these bonuses are important to you then you'll have a tough choice to make, but the 9700 is the faster card, no question.

Bennyboy.

[F_A_L_C_O_N]

9700 non-pro

and as Bennyboy said 9600XT comes with HL2 voucher
however not multiplayer,single player only,basically not much of a bonus

[Bennyboy]

I hadn't realised it was only single player! Thanks for the headsup, as I am in a similar 9600XT or 9800 quandry,the voucher was one of the main things going for the 9600XT, other than being £25 cheaper.

That said, I had never really anticipated playing it multiplayer, like the first it's a story-driven game, or possibly a graphics/marketing hype-driven game.

Bennyboy.

[drzaius2]

i had heard that they stopped giving out that voucher a while ago, like early decemeber time.. i read it at hardocp the day after i ordered a Sapphire 9600XT for a buddy expecting to get the voucher.. i was sad that it didn't come with one ..

this may have only applied to Sapphire, but it could be everyone.. i'll see if i can find a link.

[F_A_L_C_O_N]

well I guess they figured, no point giving it away if it wont come out this decade

[Martin_89]

my 9600XT came with it but its not just HL2 you get.

For our customers who purchase a qualifying RADEON™ based graphics card that includes the Half-Life® 2 offer and activate their STEAM account before Half-Life® 2 is available at retail, Valve and ATI have added the Valve Premier Pack FREE, which includes the games: Half-Life, Counter Strike, Team Fortress Classic, Deathmatch Classic, Half-Life: Opposing Force and Ricochet. This is a limited time bonus offer that expires once Half-Life® 2 is available.