Best videocard choice for Sketchup?

farbs · 25 Dec 2008, 04:33

I am looking to upgrade my machine and my graphics card is about 3-4years old. It is a Nvidia 7900 GTX. This card starts struggle on more complex geometry and larger sized projects

I have been getting into some heavy 3d projects. I was wondering if SLI or Crossfire has any advantage or if just 1 good card will suffice.

Card wise, which is better for Sketchup??

Nvidia GTX 280

or

ATI HD 4870

Thanks!

ArchieB · 26 Dec 2008, 01:29

I don't know if this will help you or not take a look at this thread on pureoverclock.com some members do a side by side comparison of the two cards.

404

(forums.pureoverclock.com)

creator 3d · 26 Dec 2008, 13:40

You say you have to work on heavy 3D projects, if this mean that you work with SU professionally than I wouldn't recommend both cards.

SU is using OpenGL and the better option then would be ATI Fire 8700 or NVIDIA Quadro 5500. These graphic card have full OpenGL support and better drivers. They do cost a bit extra but it's worth the extra money. It doesn't matter which one you choose, they are both very good for 3D modeling and rendering.

You can check here for a review:
http://www.tomshardware.com/charts/workstation-graphics-charts-2008/benchmarks,3.html

Check here for SU and OpenGL:
http://download.sketchup.com/OnlineDoc/gsu_mac/M-Technical_Reference/Tech-OpenGL.htm