Out of those three choices, I agree.  Definitely steer clear of the integrated graphics.  The X300 isn't the best card, it ranks somewhere between an ATI 9200 and 9500 series.  The 6600 is definitely the best card, but the price is way out of line.  With the PCI Express slot, you could slap in an X850...if you have an extra 800 or so to spend.  :smileytongue:

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@coach3play4 wrote:

About to pull the trigger on a 4700. The 3 video card options offered are

inboard Intel 900 included

@ati x300 @$60

@geforce 6600 @$270

 

1) I know nothing about the inboard Intel - will it run games like Rome:total war?, or just

    full business etc graphics

2) I think I know an ATI x300 (I use radeon cards now). I think its underpowered for

    games. But my theory and question is:

 

  A) I thought I'd go with the x300, since I think I can replace it easy. if I buy just the in-board Intel - I assume i'll have trouble disabling it, and putting in a new card.

      In other words, doesnt buying the ATI x300 "guareentee" that I'll alway be able to replace it with a better ATI card down the road (the road defined as PCI express)

 

      Does that seem smart please any help or comments!

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Integrated graphics- worthless.  Will not run any games well.  Is slow even for 2D graphics work.

Radeon x300 SE - almost worthless.  Will run really old/stinky games well, that's it.  But at least the 2D graphics performance will be acceptable, 3D stinks though.

Geforce 6600 - good card, but WAY overpriced for $270.  Like $100+ overpriced.  A 6600 GT is a sub-$200 card in PCI-Express form.

The 4700 will have a PCI-Express slot no matter what, so you can save the $60 and uprade just about as easily as you would from the x300 SE.   Basically, just go into the BIOS and disable the onboard video, then install the new video card normally.

http://www.newegg.com/app/ViewProductDesc.asp?description=14-122-201&depa=0

i bought a 4700 over christmas and agonized about the video  card.  I ended up with the X300se and I am very happy with it, for now.  I will probably upgrade my video card sometime during this year when the prices of the expensive cards start to drop.

i just read too many stories of people with "my new video card is all scr*wed up".  For now, I can play my games and I have had absolutely no problems.  It's not the best video card, but it does the job and my system is stable.

Easy choice, get the integrated graphics, then go buy youself whatever card fits within  your budget from an online retailer or a good computer store. The 6600 retails for 170$ Canadian so 270$ USD is way out of line.