Windows 7 - ATi Radeon HD 4890 - How long until an upgrade is needed?

Since this is my first gaming PC, I know basically nothing about how long a graphics card will last before needing an upgrade to keep playing newer games. I'm getting a bit worried with the 6000 series already out, and I'm still using a 4000 series. I have the money, I just do not want to buy a new card until it will actually do me some good.

Hello there, mate

Well, the HD 4890 is similar in performance to a GTX 280, it's better than a HD 4870 of course but is less powerful than a HD 5830, GTX 285 and GTX 460.

You'd need it if you run games at extremely high resolutions with extremely high details on graphics, or if you're an enthusiast

The HD 6900 Series are actually top on the line, HD 6970 is between the GTX 480 and the GTX 570.

But again, if your games are perfect now, you don't need to upgrade

Also, HD 4000 Series supports Dx10.1, HD 5000/6000 series have full Dx11 support, that's another thing to have in mind.

your 4890 is fine. its like a 58xx series graphics card.

judging by the length of the card already installed, you will have many upgrading options, if you want to upgrade (but this is not necessary).

the only reason why youd go with anything higher is to get dx11 or to obtain a higher stream processing unit count.

an upgrade is needed when you notice you can't play the latest games at max settings, and it really bothers you.

i've got a 4890, but i hope to have a 6950 soon.

If I remember correctly, the GTX 460 performs just slightly better than a HD 4890.
But, it has DX11 support, and runs a bit cooler.
Still, not really worth the cost to upgrade too, as the gain is minimal.

I think the worthwhile upgrades would probably be:
ATI HD6950
or for a bit more The HD6970 or Nvidia GTX570.
These 2 are about the same price & performance-wise. They just trade punches back & forth so your call whichever camp you prefer in this price range.

Of course, the biggest factor as far as upgrading is concerned are:
1)What resolution you play at
2)What Games You Play
3) How does it perform for you currently

I too am looking to upgrade my 4890 as there are a couple games where its starting to show its age.

But overall, I think they still have some life left in them. If its doing OKnow, may as well hang in there just a bit longer and maybe prices will drop a bit.

4890's are preety rare.
if you were to upgrade consider selling it as it can go for 200+ since it is rare(not manufactured anymore).

who wants to buy mine for £200?

I'd keep it until you start experiencing performance issues with newer games.

According to techpowerup's.com performance chart, a HD 4890 is ~10% slower than a GTX 460 1GB/HD 6850.

And the last time I looked, those cards were more than capable at running newer games at mid/high @ 1680x1050/1920x1080.

Personally I replace my video card every 14-18 months, it's not too excessive and still keeps me with good hardware.

I'd say the 4890 will suit you fine for now unless you absolutly want / need something for x11 - eyfinity - or 3x monitors.