Noise, Overclocking, 2D Quality

The noise from the cooling system of the MSI NX6800-TD128E is rather low but it is louder than the noise from the reference cooling system of the ATI RADEON X800 XL in 2D applications. We think you won’t hear the NX6800-TD128E in a closed system case even in 3D games because this graphics card cannot adjust the speed of its fan while the RADEON X800 XL can speed its fan up in some cases.

Both samples of the MSI NX6800-TD128E that we had did well in our overclocking tests. We managed to speed the GPU up by 135MHz, from 325MHz to 460MHz. The memory, unfortunately, could only achieve 650MHz frequency, never making it to its theoretical rating of 700MHz. The memory is clearly a weak spot of the reviewed product due to the reduced voltage or the simplified PCB wiring or to both.

Our samples of the MSI NX6800-TD128E both delivered a satisfactory image in 2D applications, but there was some blurring in the 1600x1200@85Hz mode on our Dell P1130 monitor. You should be aware of this if you own a large CRT monitor.