Tired of low FPS whilst gaming and need advice!

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FaythDark

Honorable
Dec 25, 2013
13
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10,510
Hello there, first off I would like to say HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

I have been playing computer video games recently within these last 2 years, and my computer is just horrid at running these games. My graphics are terrible (not that I really mind) and above all, my framerate is equally as bad. Back when I started gaming on my pc, I just ran out and bought the nvidia geforce 8400gs graphics card because the bestbuy rep said it was a great card (Pretty positive I got conned)
I need your help and advice on components that my computer could replace or make use of to boost it's gaming ability.
My current specs:
Processor: Pentium(R) Dual-Core CPU E5400 @ 2.70GHz
Video card: NVIDIA GeForce 8400GS
System Model: Vostro 230 Installed
Ram: 4 gb (3 gb usable)
OS: Windows 7 professional 32bit.
300 Watt power supply.
If you guys need other specs just let me know.
My question is; in order to get better framerate in my games, do I just need to upgrade to a better graphic card? All I want from this computer when I am done upgrading it is that I can run my games fluidly, and without fps lag. I would honestly be happy with anything above a stable 35+FPS. Would I need to grab a new power supply, stick it in, and then attach a new graphics card, and then my FPS rises drastically?

Example of games I play and FPS I have.
Path of Exile: Hovers between 15 - 25 fps. Gets to 5 FPS during intense action/fights. Borderlands: 10-15 fps. League of Legends: 20-30fps.
I would appreciate all the help I could get! I don't really want to run very high graphic games like battlefield 4 and such, I just want to play my MMORPGs and be able to tackle most average graphic games with an acceptable FPS.
Also, I am extremely new to computer lingo and relevant stuff, so if you didn't mind, I would really appreciate being able to read and understand your comments haha. Most computer terminology will probably fly over my head.
My monitor resolution is 1280 x 1024 if it helps (Acer LCD Monitor AL1916)
 
Solution
ImperialistMillitant
Doesn't matter, it has a full PCI x16 slot, your GPU will go into that slot. A 300w PSU might struggle to power a new graphics card. I think its a must.

~Going to sleep, will return tomorrow.
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FaythDark

Honorable
Dec 25, 2013
13
0
10,510
Well, it is a tricky situation I am in where my father doesn't approve of me video gaming as a recreation, but my mother is fine with it. So long as my computer doesn't make a general change in aesthetics he will never realize I have been spending money on upgrading my build.

I would prefer to stick with the same system. But if you can find me a power supply that can fit within my mini dell vostro 230 tower and a video card to go with it, I would be more than happy.

My budget for this is under $300. Anything a little over is acceptable.
 
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ImperialistMillitant

ImperialistMillitant

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Oct 22, 2012
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10,960
Well I shouldn't advise on upgrades if your father would disprove.

If I "we're" you, I can get a 500w PSU and a cheap GPU in that budget. The only issue I can see is that its an OEM system, and I dont know how far it can be modified. As far as I'm aware, you can stick a simple 500w psu and a mid end GPU in that. Something like:

PSU: Cooler Master 500W 12V Elite
GPU: Gigabyte NVIDIA GTX660

I wouldn't put too much money into it, your CPU will undoubtedly be a bottleneck. But you will be able to run games like skyrim at playable settings.

If this wasnt a dell or other model I would press onward, but I don't know how such as system would react. Perhaps someone else who has done it before can chip in. As far as I am aware, an upgrade will work.

-I am not responsible for any repercussions caused by this thread, this is advise only.
 
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FaythDark

Honorable
Dec 25, 2013
13
0
10,510
Do you have any suggestions if I didn't want to switch out my power supply? Also, if I were to change the power supply, do I just unplug whatever was attached to it, screw in the new PSU, and then plug it all back in?

Do you know if my motherboard has the PCI slots needed to run that gigabyte nvidia gtx660?
 
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FaythDark

Honorable
Dec 25, 2013
13
0
10,510
So, invest in a 500 w power supply? Can you find me one that will fit into my computer and allow me to close the lid properly? And could you list some options for video cards?

I am really sorry if I am asking for a lot, I am extremely new to this. I really do appreciate the help so far.
 
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