Nvidia Introduces Low Cost GeForce 8

The latest GeForce 8 models make high-end graphics and features available to non-gamers.

Now that Windows Vista has pushed DirectX 10 into the mainstream, Nvidia is looking to mop up customers with a line of DirectX 10-compliant graphics cards that will sell at a mainstream price point.

The GeForce 8500 GT, 8600 GT, and 8600 GTS will retail at prices ranging from $89 to $229. Although the new budget cards won’t pack the same punch as their gamer-geared brethren they will share many of the same features, including the Nvidia Lumenex engine, Nvidia Quantum Effects technology for simulation and rendering of visual effects,  and the Nvidia PureVideo HD video processor. This last feature will allow Blu-ray movies to be viewed on a regular home computer.

"GPUs are no longer a luxury required only by hardcore gamers," said Jeff Fisher, senior vice president of the GPU business unit at Nvidia, in a press release. "These new GPUs extend the reach of our award-winning GeForce 8 Series and offer cutting- edge, next-generation features to everyone from the hardcore gamer to the casual PC user."

Cards based on the GeForce 8600 GTS are available immediately, while the 8500 GT and 8600 GT cards will be out on or before May 1.