GeForce GTS 450 SLI: a Happy Pair

@ 2010/10/14
The GeForce GTS 450 supports Nvidia SLI technology and shows high scalability in multi-GPU mode. The average frame rate of the SLI tandem was an average 70-75% higher than that of the single card depending on the resolution. In some tests we've observed a performance growth of 100% and more.


t may seem that the GeForce GTS 450 SLI is quite an appealing solution compared to the more advanced single-chip cards, but we must note a couple of disappointing facts about it. First, this SLI tandem had a lower bottom speed than its single-GPU opponents in some games. This made the gameplay uncomfortable in S.T.A.L.K.E.R.: Call of Pripyat, for example. Second, the GeForce GTS 450 SLI would generally slow down more than its opponents at the resolution of 2560x1600. And third, we had some incompatibility issues typical of multi-GPU solutions. We could not launch Lost Planet 2 at all using the latest version of the Nvidia GeForce driver, and there may be other such games.

All of this makes the GeForce GTS 450 SLI a far less appealing alternative to a single GeForce GTX 470 or Radeon HD 5870, even though it may cost somewhat less money. Such a configuration may be an option for a two-step upgrade when you add a second GeForce GTS 450 to your existing one in order to increase your computer’s graphics performance, yet we still think purchasing a GeForce GTX 470 would be a better investment as it is easier to use and free from compatibility issues.

No comments available.