Here is my computer setting: Dell XPS 8300 i5-2300 2.8GHZ, 6G RAM, 128GB SSD, Integrated graphics. I played Starcraft II a lot. The game is slow even if I use medium graphic settings (resolution:1600X900). Went through a few forums, I settled with this card. Here is what I find:

Pros:
1: It is very very quiet. my power supply is 460W. It is plenty for this card.
2: The windows experience index score is now 7.8 (Integrated graphics 5.2)
3: Starcraft II (utra high graphic settings): FPS is between 54-101. Average:75 (Using the integrated graphics, I only get 14-30.)
4: It has two 6pin power connectors I don't need them as my power supply have them). It also comes with a VGA to DVI adaptor. This is really handy.
5: Surprise and bonus: There is no description on Amazon site that this actually include a free game: DIRT3: .
6: Great build quality
7: 3D experience (I have not tested yet)

Cons:
1: This is large card. You want to... Read more

Initially placed an order for a Radeon 6850 but changed my order when i found this card for $3 more. Amazing performance for the price.

Pros-------------------
Great performance.

Price. Can't really justify a 6850 when a 6870 costs just a little more.

Noise. This card is particularly quiet when not stressed. Under load it becomes audible, but probably on par with any case or heatsink fan. Nothing crazy.

Cons*------------------------
Size. This card is massive. The card and attached cooler will occupy two pci slots.

Heat. Doesn't produce excessive amounts of heat, but will make a mess of the airflow in your case. Especially an in an htpc gaming rig. Luckily the fan on the card vents the air out of the back of the case.

Power hog. This card requires two 6 pin pci-e power connectors. There are two molex to pci power adapters included in the box however. Just make sure your power supply can handle it... Read more

Ok, let's begin with this, if you have to be at the top of the heap and have the best for your rig, this card is not for you. If you have a budget, common sense, and a big enough case, this card is a "must have".

I bought this card about a year ago and it still gives back whatever I throw at it. There is enough growth potential that this card should be able to handle anything for the next couple years or so, with that being said, let's review the card itself.

This is a pretty big card, I would definitely recommend a full size case for this one, and a mother board that is of decent size also.
The air flow is not a problem for me as my rig has plenty of fans for heat (sounds like a B-29) lol, however the fans do not bother me.

Games, porn, movies, all are good with this card, it displays blu-ray 1080 just fine without a hitch.

Budget: My rule of thumb has been that a graphics card should be where to spend money. Motherboard and CPU... Read more