I don't deny that, the GTX 280 is the fastest single core GPU. But even if you take one 4870 against the 280, the 4870 is around 80-90% of the performance of the 280 while its price is 46% of the 280's price. Most people want performance and value, that's why I think the halo effect of having the best card isn't as important as before.
Yes Asus is a very good brand, they offer a 3 year warranty for their video cards.
As for installing an aftermarket cooler, that's up to you. But you should know that installing one voids the warranty. If your card broke, you can remove the aftermarket cooler and reinstall the stock one. There's a chance they won't notice it if you send it back for an RMA. But if they do, they will not repair or replace it.
Hardware Canucks placed the Thermalright HR-03 GT on their 4870 with very good results.
I found this interesting comment on the Asus HD4850 on newegg:
"THE ASUS SOFTWARE THAT COMES WITH IT GIVES YOU FAN CONTROL ACCESS!! These cards are notorious for running hot, mine idled at 78C when I first installed it. HOWEVER: I installed the utilities that came on the CD and it gave me fan control access! It set the default fan speed to 60%, now the idle temp is 55 and the load is about 64! Way better than the other brands. Of course the card itself performs like a monster, esp for the price I paid. I would ABSOLUTELY recommend this card over the other brands, just b/c of the fan software and the 3 year WTY. Way to go ASUS!"
Buy a computer now so you can play games until september. When school starts it won't be a good time to be playing games. And Nehalem will be expensive when it comes out.
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