Sapphire HD4870x2 Atomic Review

Testing:

Featuring all-new game tests, this benchmark is for use with Vista based systems. "There are two all-new CPU tests that have been designed around a new 'Physics and Artificial Intelligence-related computation.' CPU test two offers support for physics related hardware." There are four preset levels that correspond to specific resolutions. 'Entry' is 1024x768 progressing to 'Extreme' at 1920x1200. Of course, each preset can be modified to arrange any number of user designed testing. For our testing, I will use the four presets at all default settings.

 Settings:

•  All default settings in each preset level
• Entry 1024x768
• Performance 1280x1024
• High 1680x1050
• Extreme 1920x1200

The Atomic HD4870X2 from Sapphire is clearly the top card when only the GPU is being tested. There is a 2300 point differential between the GTX260-216 core Black Edition at the top. That's huge.