Since these two graphics cards are based on a similar architecture to that of their flagship parts, we can anticipate they are quite different in design. That said, 512MB versions of the GeForce 8600 GTS are priced at over $200. And while this may appear to be unfair, we have found that the average 512MB Radeon HD 2600XT graphics card retails for just $140, while the average price of a GeForce 8600 GTS sporting 256MB of memory is $160. While neither product features overclocking out of the box, the Radeon has an obvious advantage in that it sports twice as much video memory.
Today we will be comparing these two mid-range graphics cards head to head using a 512MB VisionTek Radeon HD 2600XT and a 256MB ASUS GeForce 8600 GTS. The more expensive cards all seem to be factory overclocked and generally come with 512MB of on-board memory. We have found that the Radeon HD 2600XT can come fitted with GDDR4 memory as well as GDDR3 memory, which translates in prices ranging from as low as $100 and up to $170. While the majority of GeForce 8600 GTS graphics cards come loaded with 256MB GDDR3 memory, there are as many 256MB Radeon HD 2600XT cards as there are 512MB versions. The Radeon HD 2600XT pricing does vary depending on the brand and specifications, as there are a number of variations of this product.