$300 graphics card shootout

[aircommando13]

I am going to upgrade my computer soon, and i have factored in a $300 video card budget. What is the best possible card/combination of cards for gaming at that price?

XFX 9800 GTX-299.99 at newegg
2x EVGA 8800 GT-319.98 at newegg
2x XFX 9600 GTX-279.98 at newegg

or if i go with ATi

2 x SAPPHIRE HD 3870-299.99 at newegg
ASUS HD 3870x2-314.99 at newegg
ATI HD 4870-rumored to be sub $300

Rigt now I am leaning towards 9800 GTX (comes with COD4!), but i wonder if it's worth waiting for the HD 4870?

[Apoptosis]

If you want to get a card in the sub $300 price range I'd wait to see what the Radeon HD 4870 can do. The Radeon HD 4870 will be $299, so just wait.

[aircommando13]

maybe if i won the 9600 GT drawing that would make things easier
oh wait I don't want to jinx it

[DaddyRabbit]

I have to agree with Apoptosis on this. I have seen the 4870 (my next purchase) at a couple of places for $309.00. Everything I've read to this point indicates that AMD/ATI is back in the game in the $200 - $300 price range and that these cards (4850 and 4870 even with young drivers) are performing way ahead of what was expected. Guess it's time for me to head from NV for awhile! I just wish XfX or EVGA made them vs Powercolor or Sapphire.