This is my setup. Help with parts

Leetian

Honorable
Aug 9, 2013
22
0
10,510
This is my computer I had for a while: Link

I know it would've been better to just custom build one, but I figured it was a good computer for the price. I'm not very familiar with compatibility and I wanted to upgrade a couple parts. The motherboard is a Gigabyte GA-78LMT-S2.

Would it be a good idea to get a 7870 or what graphics card is recommended without bottlenecking too much ($200 budget)
Should I upgrade the PSU (500w)
Is an i5 processor compatible with my mobo

Unrelated: is thermal paste or a thermal pad recommended?
Is there anything you guys would recommend I upgrade/change (I already have better peripherals)
I don't overclock anything
I have a Kingston Hyperx 120g ssd

Thanks!

 

BryanLamoree

Honorable
Jun 11, 2013
30
0
10,540



You have a MoBo that is compatible with AMD CPU's. The i5 is an intel product. So an i5 wont fit. Additionally, your MoBo has an AM3+ socket (the type of CPU that fits).



For power consumption, it depends on everything that you have in your system.
-Soundcard
- Number of fans
- Led's
-HDD, etc, etc.

Thermal Paste: Some thermal pastes have better thermal conductivity. The rate at which they transfer heat to the heatsink. This will allow you to cool your CPU better.
So it depends on your goals. Thermal paste isn't that expensive. I look at it as an investment on the life of your CPU.