512MB vs. 256MB VRAM for multiple monitors

[samiznaetekto]

Does amount of video memory affect video performance when using external monitor? Will connecting 2560x1600 monitor to MBP slow down the performance? If yes, would 512MB be beneficial, compared to 256MB?

(I have a Mac Mini and 2 monitors connected to it, 2560x1600 and 1920x1080, and noticed that if I use only one monitor, video is smoother, screen refreshes are faster... hence the question.)

 

[samiznaetekto]

Anyone?

 

[Chupa Chupa]

Yes. If are using dual monitors you will want more 512MB would be better.

 

[Jaro65]

^^^^
Agreed. For dual monitor setup, the more VRAM the better.

 

[Freyqq]

yeah, it'll help for sure..esp at 30" resolutions like you asked about. Since it has to render 2 monitors worth of information instead of one, it'll take that much more vram to do so. My mbp has a 128 vram (8600GT) and you can feel the difference between a single monitor and + 24" monitor. With the 2nd monitor, if I have more than about 10 windows open, it lags a little on expose. With 1 monitor, i can have 20+ and not have any lag. That being said, I think with an additional smaller monitor 256 would be more than enough. If you're going 30" though, maybe 512 would be more necessary.