Creative Radeon 9800XT

Creative makes a whole host of multimedia devices, such as soundcards and speakers, and has released more than a few graphics cards over the past few years. Historically, the company has always favoured the Nvidiabased graphics cards and a quick look at its product line shows that it still has faith in them, with a grand total of eight to choose from. However, it now also sells three ATI-based cards, with the 9800XT being the flagship model and the one it decided to submit as its bestperforming card.

Creative has decided not to alter the reference design for the Radeon and has stuck with the standard Radeon heatsink and fan combination, along with the ATI logo on the heatsink itself.

The software bundle is a bit of a letdown, since all that's included is the drivers and some ATI demos. You don't get any of the extra utilities that are bundled with similarly priced cards.What's more, Creative hasn't supplied any games to show off the 9800 XT?s power. You do, however, get ATI's Half-Life 2 voucher that you can exchange for the full game (once it finally appears), along with the free download of the Valve Premiere Pack. There's also a suitable selection of cables and adapters included.

Priced just shy of £400, this card is the most expensive Radeon 9800 XT in this group test and the only card that is more expensive is the Nvidiabased Terratec. Considering the small selection of software, this is a bit disappointing.

Not so long ago, you would expect to pay at least this much for a 9800XT but, as is always the case in the graphics card market, prices soon started to tumble. It seems that Creative is trying to hold on to the old price, but it surely can't be long before it drops the RRP of this model.

Contact: Creative
www.creative.com