RAM vs Video Card RAM

Published on November 22, 2006 By KeithMacDonald In PC Hardware

I'm not too sure what I would like to have for xmas: upgrading my video card (128mb) to 512mb video card, or if I should get another gig of DDR RAM (I only have 512mb). I want to get the best with only one upgrade.

(note: only programs that use more then others will be listed)
I use:
Photoshop CS2;
3Ds Max 8;
Dreamweaver 8;
Windowblinds 5.00 (I use all the advantage's, like alpha-trans, glow, blur, etc.)

I play (on my PC, anyways):
Halo PC/CE;
Warcraft III (customed maps, of course);
Age of Empires III;
Would like to get Oblivion.

So what should I get? Video upgrade or RAM upgrade?

Comments

on Nov 23, 2006

Graphic Card

bakerstreet

on Nov 23, 2006

For photoshop, if you work with files of any size, you need more RAM. For 3d max and your game, you need a better card. As for which to do first I'd decide which annoyed me the worst, slowdowns when you are working with programs that use a lot of ram, or slowdowns when you are viewing your 3d work or playing games.

I'll tell you right now that you'll need more RAM to comfortably play oblivion. You can scale it down to run on 512, but you'll enjoy it more with a gig. Then again, you're in the same boat with your card, probably. Tough choice.

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