Regulator

Research

The GeForce 6800 cards get a boost in both of these levels from the switch to Shader Model 3.0. In Regulator, without AA or aniso, the GeForce 6800 GT outruns the Radeon X800 XT Platinum Edition, even at 1600x1200 resolution. Once edge AA and texture filtering enter the picture, though, things tighten up.

In Research, the results are more dramatic. With Shader Model 2.0, the GeForce 6800GT can't keep up with the Radeon X800 Pro when AA and aniso are at work. Switching to SM3.0 changes the outcome, giving the 6800GT the lead. The Radeon X800 XT PE still leads the entire pack, however.