Performance-wise, the X1800 XL is similar to the GeForce 7800 GT, but considering you can buy the 7900 GT for well under $500 it has its work cut out for it.

The Sapphire’s video-in capability — a feature absent on the GTs — may appeal to some, but for everyone else the 3D results tell their own story. With only 256MB of memory onboard, it struggled with Call of Duty 2 at 1600 x 1200, managing just 18fps. By comparison, the 7900 GT — which also has 256MB — scored 25fps. Ramping the XL down to 1280 x 1024 gives a more playable frame rate of 35fps. Far Cry performance was better, with 30fps at 1600 x 1200 and 45fps at 1280 x 1024.

Offering S-Video, composite and component outputs, plus two dual-link DVI ports, there’s something for every setup. In the box are four demo games, one of which you can choose to unlock the full version.

Even with a decent array of features, we can’t escape the fact that the faster 7900 GT costs a great deal less than the X1800 XL. As such, it’s hard to find any real value in this card. If you can stretch to $718 choose the X1900 XT.