Matrox G400

The missing link

Of the current crop of next-generation video cards, we've looked at many of the various 3dfx and nVidia cards that are available or becoming available. Through the great battle that was waged between those two, however, many failed to notice the relatively quiet approach of another contender in the arena. That's right - Matrox is back and at it again. Widely given credit as one of the leaders in image quality, Matrox was a big name in their Millennium days. Then their G200 was released, and due largely to an absent OpenGL ICD, had unremarkable performance.

Now, Matrox is turning the tides with its latest offering, the G400. Matrox has always released cards that are pretty advanced as far as technology goes. Does the same apply for the G400? Without a doubt, the current crop of video chipsets is a tough one. With manufacturers offering so many new features and clock speeds, it's enough to keep your head spinning. The G400 line is relatively modest in the number of cards that are being offered. There are 3 variants so far: the Millennium G400 in 16MB and 32MB varieties, and the Millennium G400 MAX, with 32MB. Of course, Matrox has the distinct advantage of producing their own chipset as well as manufacturing their own cards, just like the 3dfx/STB setup now.

Does the G400 chipset live up to the hype and anticipation that it has spawned? The one that we have in question is the Millnnium G400, 32MB variety. You'll come to learn that the Millennium is a card worthy of being next-generation, as Matrox adds some new tricks into their basket. Let's find out what the card's hard specs are!