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Dying GPU. Is this a good upgrade path?

Tags:
  • Intel
  • Geforce
  • Nvidia
  • MSI
  • Graphics
  • GPUs
Last response: in Graphics & Displays
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July 20, 2013 11:28:35 AM

My rig's card is ready to go to computing heaven. Even 25% downclocked and with full cooling, it's no longer reliable, so I'm in the market for a new one.

This is my rig. I cannot build a new one for at least three years.

MB: ASUS P5Q Pro
GPU: EVGA 9800GTX+ (RIP)
PSU: OCZ 750W
CPU: INTEL Q9550 at 2.83 GHz
MEM: 2Gx2 OCZ
HD: SAMSUNG 1 TB x 2 in Raid 1

I have a budget of ~$120 - 160 (USD). My plan of action right now is to replace the failing GPU with an MSI GTX 650 Ti, redo the CPU thermal compound, and then OC the Q9550 a bit (probably to about 3.1 GHz, stock heatsink) to help alleviate any bottlenecking.

This system runs Windows 7, Linux, and FreeBSD and drives a single 1680 x 1050 display. My usual FPS goal is ~30 - 45 FPS. I don't really care so much about 60+ FPS, just that at 30 - 45 FPS, the game looks as good as it possibly can and has a consistently smooth framerate. I do have a second monitor, but while driving that as well would be very nice, it's not a dealbreaker.

Tasks I use this computer for include light to moderate 3D rendering and video editing, programming and development, and (of course) gaming, with a preference for emulation and western RPGs like Oblivion, Skyrim and Witcher 1 & 2. I would love to try more current gen titles though!

Any other upgrade pathway suggestions I can go would be greatly appreciated. A new GPU is mandatory in any of them. I know the HW is starting to show it's age a bit, but a new build just isn't in the cards right now. Thanks for your help!

More about : dying gpu good upgrade path

July 20, 2013 12:15:43 PM

With that budget I would go with a 650Ti Boost right now......
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Best solution

a b å Intel
a b Î Nvidia
July 20, 2013 12:17:10 PM

http://pcpartpicker.com/part/evga-video-card-01gp43656k... much better than the 650 Ti, almost as good as a 660, available at 140$ after a MIR
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