Advice needed on a budget video card

[Synth]

Hey guys, I've been out of the gaming scene for a while, and I need advice. The build is for a client that will mostly use the PC for surfing and productivity, but there are kids in the equation... And they like to play "The Sims" and games of that caliber.

I need a ~$75-100 recommendation - the price might seem high, but I want a buffer in case they develop other gaming needs.

I'm not partial to brands, just bang for the buck!

Any recommendations?

[upcoast604]

250GTS is floating around $109 before $30mir and the ati 5750 is ok too when it's on a good sale.

[jcmaz]

A GT240 would be a nice card to have. It uses less power compared to the GTS250, therefore most 400W PSU's should be fine for the GT240.

[_dangtx_]

the above or a used 8800gt for even cheaper? a bit harder on the psu but not that much : http://tpucdn.com/reviews/MSI/GTX_46...power_peak.gif

although new cards are finally gonna pop up soon, so maybe wait?

[Zero82z]

A GTS 250 would be the best option for a new card around that price range, though you may be able to find a used GTX 260 for under $100 as well.

[DkRk]

If you're not averse to buying used, 50 bucks could net you this gentleman's 4830 which should be adequate:

http://www.hardwarecanucks.com/forum...830-512mb.html

Otherwise, pitching a WTB ad for a used Radeon 4870 or GTX 260 on Craigslist or here should get some bites too.

Edit: For 75 bucks, this 9800GTX+ would be a great buy too, although BFG has recently shut its doors so support is nil:

Price Drops! OCZ DDR2-1066 RAM, BFG 9800gtx+, Back to Skewl Closet Clearance!

[Perineum]

I'm a fan of anything with a double slot cooler. They seem to last longer and not have spontaneous artifacting issues

[jcmaz]

Do they actually last longer tho? I like double slot cooler due to their silent operation..,

[Perineum]

In my experience they do, as I've had 3 single slot video cards fail and so far not one double slot cooler.

[_dangtx_]

it depends on several factors, anywhere from who built it, the materials, tech, etc etc then we go to the conditions in your system, electrical, environmental(yes kitty fluffy stuff included), and then we get to the biggest factor : the one in between the keyboard and chair...:)