Do I need a graphics card?

External Since: Mar 14, 2004 Posts: 2

For my next PC I might build my own around a Pentium 4 system but I'm
also thinking of buying a Dell as they have some good deals on in some
of the UK papers and are reputed to be quiet (important for me). Most
though seem to use integrated graphics. The only games I play are stuff
like a demo version of Age of Empires 2 and other freebies/demos. They
dont count as 3D games do they? I do a bit of scanning sometimes too.

So, do you think I would be ok with integrated graphics or should I get
one with an AGP card?

External Since: Aug 15, 2003 Posts: 7

Hi Sally

Sally wrote:
> For my next PC I might build my own around a Pentium 4 system but I'm
> also thinking of buying a Dell as they have some good deals on in some
> of the UK papers and are reputed to be quiet (important for me).

My parents bought a Dell, and apart from the IBM hard drive, it is pretty
quiet.

> Most
> though seem to use integrated graphics. The only games I play are
> stuff like a demo version of Age of Empires 2 and other
> freebies/demos. They dont count as 3D games do they? I do a bit of
> scanning sometimes too.

Look on the box, or at the specs required for the games. If they mention
either DirectX or a range of graphics cards, then there is your answer. My
parent's Dell doesn't even have an AGP slot, so they can't even add a
graphics card later if they change their mind. I tried running a few games
on it, and about the only thing it would play was Praetorians, and it
whinged about the lack of 3d graphics hardware. Rise of Nations (similar to
Age of Empires 2) wouldn't even install with a lack of 3d graphics card.

> So, do you think I would be ok with integrated graphics or should I
> get one with an AGP card?

Personally, I would recommend getting one with a graphics card. Dell do
produce machines with graphics cards built in, and at least if there is ever
an absolutely amazing game that you must play, you won't be held back. It
will help future proof the machine slightly, although Dell machines are not
very expandable (my parents machine only has 3 PCI slots, no AGP slot, space
for only one hard drive and that's about it).

In short, I would get a machine with a proper graphics card, even if it is
only a cheap one, as it opens up possibilities in the future.

--
Regards,
Stephen
remove theobvious to reply ;o)