Unveiling the Performance Differences: GeForce2 MX 400 Review

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The GeForce2 MX 400 Video Card
3. The Specs
4. The Importance of Bandwidth
5. testing Methodology
6. Performance in Quake II
7. Performance in Quake III
8. Performance in Star Wars: Episode I Racer
9. Performance in Medal of Honor: Allied Assault
10. Performance in Serious Sam: The Second Encounter
11. Performance in Mafia
12. Conclusion

The GeForce2 MX 400 Video Card: Exploring the Performance Differences

The world of computer gaming has evolved tremendously over the years, with newer and more powerful graphics cards becoming the norm. However, in the early 2000s, the NVIDIA GeForce2 MX 400 video card was a popular choice among gaming enthusiasts. This article aims to delve into the performance differences between two variants of this video card and understand how minor variations in specifications can impact gaming experiences.

Introduction

In the early 2000s, the NVIDIA GeForce2 MX 400 video card captured the attention of gamers worldwide. Its sleek design, coupled with the reputation of being a top manufacturer, made it an attractive choice for computer enthusiasts. However, there were subtle differences between the various versions of this card, and tonight, we will uncover the performance variations between two specific variants - an "ugly" 128-bit version and a "gorgeous" 64-bit version.

The Specs

At first glance, the specifications of the two GeForce2 MX 400 video cards may appear identical. However, upon closer inspection, we discover that there are two key differences. The "ugly" version boasts a 128-bit memory bus, whereas the "gorgeous" version only has a 64-bit memory bus. Additionally, there is a slight disparity in memory frequencies, although it is negligible.

The Importance of Bandwidth

Bandwidth plays a critical role in determining the overall performance of a video card. It facilitates the efficient transfer of data between the video card processor and its memory. Higher resolutions and visual options place greater demands on bandwidth. Therefore, it is essential to consider the bandwidth capabilities of a graphics card when aiming for optimal performance.

Testing Methodology

To gauge the performance differences between the two GeForce2 MX 400 video cards, we conducted a series of tests on a carefully selected test platform. The system included a Pentium 4 Northwood processor clocked at 3 GHz, 1 GB of DDR 400 MHz memory, an Intel 865 chipset motherboard, and a reliable Seasonic power supply. We ensured that the system was well-equipped to handle the demands of modern gaming.

Performance in Quake II

Quake II, although released in 1997, remained a demanding Game for video cards of the early 2000s. Even at relatively modest resolutions and settings, the GeForce2 MX 400 video cards revealed performance disparities. Running the game's benchmark, we observed that the 128-bit version consistently outperformed the 64-bit variant by 60-70%.

This discrepancy in performance became more pronounced with higher resolutions. At 1024x768, the 128-bit version exhibited a 64% performance advantage over the 64-bit variant. It was evident that the 128-bit version possessed the necessary bandwidth to handle the game's visual demands, whereas the 64-bit variant struggled to keep up.

Performance in Quake III

As we transitioned to Quake III, another fast-paced game utilizing the same engine as its predecessor, we continued to witness performance disparities between the two GeForce2 MX 400 video cards. At 800x600 resolution with high settings, the 128-bit version consistently outperformed the 64-bit variant by 50-70% in various tests.

Antialiasing, a feature known to impact video card performance, took its toll on both cards. With Antialiasing 2x enabled, the frame rates dropped significantly, mirroring the experiences of users from that era. The 64-bit variant suffered a more drastic performance decline, reaching almost a third of its original performance.

Performance in Star Wars: Episode I Racer

Star Wars: Episode I Racer, a fast-paced game that demanded high frame rates, proved to be a considerable challenge for both GeForce2 MX 400 video cards. The 128-bit version maintained its superiority, delivering around 40% higher performance compared to the 64-bit variant. Achieving a near-perfect synchronization between the races, the 128-bit card consistently outperformed its counterpart.

Performance in Medal of Honor: Allied Assault

Medal of Honor: Allied Assault, set in the 1930s and centered around the American Mafia, showcased the performance differences between the two GeForce2 MX 400 video cards. The 128-bit version effortlessly provided smoother gameplay with frame rates of over 30 FPS, while the 64-bit variant struggled to maintain a playable experience, dropping below 20 FPS at times.

Performance in Serious Sam: The Second Encounter

Serious Sam: The Second Encounter, released in 2002, challenged both versions of the GeForce2 MX 400 video cards. The 64-bit variant suffered significant performance drops, often falling below 20 FPS at 800x600 resolution. Meanwhile, the 128-bit version demonstrated relatively better performance but still struggled to maintain smooth gameplay.

Performance in Mafia

Mafia, an iconic game depicting the American Mafia in the 1930s, further highlighted the performance disparities between the two GeForce2 MX 400 video cards. At the same resolution and settings, the 128-bit version consistently outperformed the 64-bit variant. The difference was palpable, with the 64-bit variant feeling like a significantly less capable option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the performance gaps between the 128-bit and 64-bit versions of the GeForce2 MX 400 video cards were substantial across various tested games. The 128-bit version consistently outperformed its counterpart, providing a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience. For gamers seeking optimal performance from their graphics cards, opting for a version with higher bandwidth is crucial.

Resource:

• NVIDIA