$300 upgrades for a two year old build

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Joelb

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Sep 19, 2013
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I built my PC in 2011 for around $600 to run BF3 around medium settings. I now have $300 to spend on a few upgrades, but need some advice on what would be the best bang for my buck. My current specs are:

Intel i3-2120 cpu
Gigabyte GA-Z68A-D3H-B3 mobo
Radeon HD 6850 1GB gpu
Rosewill Stallion RD400 400W psu
8 GB RAM (don't remember spec)

I did have a Raidmax Hybrid 530W psu but it exploded on me this year :-/. I am mainly looking for this rig to run BF4 around medium settings. Any suggestions on what would be the best purchases? Thanks!

 
Solution
geofelt
I think you can get a nice cpu or gpu upgrade, but not both.
To help clarify your options, run these two tests:

a) Run your games, but lower your resolution and eye candy.
If your FPS increases, it indicates that your cpu is strong enough to drive a better graphics configuration.
If your FPS stays the same, you are likely more cpu limited.

b) Limit your cpu, either by reducing the OC, or, in windows power management, limit the maximum cpu% to something like 50%.
This will simulate what a lack of cpu power will do.


Go to control panel/power options/change plan settings/change advanced power settings/processor power management/maximum processor state/
set to 50% and see how you do.


If your FPS drops significantly, it is an...
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geofelt

geofelt

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Oct 9, 2006
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I think you can get a nice cpu or gpu upgrade, but not both.
To help clarify your options, run these two tests:

a) Run your games, but lower your resolution and eye candy.
If your FPS increases, it indicates that your cpu is strong enough to drive a better graphics configuration.
If your FPS stays the same, you are likely more cpu limited.

b) Limit your cpu, either by reducing the OC, or, in windows power management, limit the maximum cpu% to something like 50%.
This will simulate what a lack of cpu power will do.


Go to control panel/power options/change plan settings/change advanced power settings/processor power management/maximum processor state/
set to 50% and see how you do.


If your FPS drops significantly, it is an indicator that your cpu is the limiting factor, and a cpu upgrade is in order.

It is possible that both tests are positive, indicating that you have a well balanced system, and both cpu and gpu need to be upgraded to get better gaming FPS.

If you play BF3 multiplayer, a cpu upgrade to a i5-3350P or a 3570K would be in order.
If it is single player, then a graphics upgrade to a GTX760 or7950 would be appropriate,

For a graphics upgrade, your 400w psu will not do. Buy a quality unit in the 550w range.
 
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