Video cards: how much difference in performance is there between 512mb and 1gb?

Let's assume that all the other specifications are similar (GPU, memory speed, etc...)



e.g. how big would the difference be in performance between a 9800GT 1gb compared to a 9800GT 512mb|||You'll really only notice it if you have a 30" monitor running at 2560. That's the only time larger than 512MB really matters. At 1920 (24-28"), you'll get a few extra fps, but certainly not worth the price difference in my opinion. At 1680 (20-22"), you won't notice a thing. Less than that, well...don't worry about it. But this is from a gaming standpoint.



From a productivity standpoint, it can make a difference if you're trying to render video, and to a lesser extent photoshop...|||Depending on what you were doing with the card, there would be a world of difference. Then again, some applications and games would show no difference at all.



For instance, using Photoshop would be much smoother with a 1gb card, especially if you are using a high desktop resolution.



In fact, that 1gb card will make everything refresh and display quicker at higher desktop resolutions.