The HD 5970 delivers faster gaming framerates compared to the GeForce GT 580. However, if you look at the actual usability of those frame the picture is a bit different. The GeForce GTX 580 allows a consistently higher level of the gameplay experience compared to the Radeon HD 5970. We were able to game at higher settings with the GTX 580 than we were with the Radeon HD 5970. The most important factor, beyond framerates, is the visual quality and experience returned by the product. The GeForce GTX 580 allows a more immersive, smoother, and consistent quality of gameplay.

The Radeon HD 5970 is a tad less expensive at $469.99 after $30 MIR (and supports Eyefinity) versus the GeForce GTX 580 at $499 currently. If you already have a Radeon HD 5970, keep it, it is a great card and you already know that if you own one. If you are on a lesser generation, and looking to upgrade right now, no question, get the GeForce GTX 580 if you have the cash. The extra money spent will pay off with its higher VRAM capacity, and higher level of consistent gameplay experience. Plus, you can always hook up two GTX 580 cards in SLI that will surely blow the 5970 away, if you have happen to be independently wealthy.