Feature
The Right GPU for You
Before You Buy
Now you're armed with the info you need to decide which integrated graphics chipset will work best for your needs. Let's sum up in a checklist what you should consider before making your buying decision.
Monitor support: First and foremost, make sure the chipset supports the display you're using. Does the monitor or television that you're connecting use a VGA, DVI, HDMI, or component-video cable? Do you need to connect more than one monitor? Make sure the motherboard you're considering has the right connectors for your display. If it doesn't, you'll have to invest in a separate video card that does.
CPU choice: If you're using an Intel CPU, the G965 is your best option. Other, older chipsets that support Intel CPUs don't offer the performance you need to take full advantage of modern software like Windows Vista. If you're using an Athlon chip, then both the ATI and nVidia options are on the table.
PCI Express slot: If you think you might need to upgrade your graphics someday soon, make sure your motherboard has a PCI Express x16 slot. That will give you the option of adding a separate graphics card down the road.
Performance: If you might play the occasional game, you'll want to invest in the solution with the best 3D performance. Though the AMD 690 chipset edges out the GeForce 6150, the latter's support for Shader Model 3.0 special effects might give it a slight visual edge in a few games. If you want to play games on a regular basis, though, investing even $100 in a low-end graphics card will make a dramatic difference in performance and graphics resolution.
Read more:
Introduction
Who Should Care About Good 3D?
HDTV, Big Displays, and Dual Monitors
The Chips
3D Performance and Quality
2D and Video
Memory Concerns
Before You Buy