GPU advice for older build

Muckster · Mar 11, 2014

I built this rig back in 2006, made a couple upgrades, and am now ready to pass it on to a family member while I move on to something better. Before I do I might like to upgrade the video card.

CPU: Core 2 6600 2.40Ghz
Mobo: GA 965P S3, supporting PCI express x16
Mem: PC2 6400 , 6GB
Vid Card: HD 5770, PCI express 2.1 x16
OS: W7
*PSU: Seasonic S12 500W

Note: I think the mobo PCI slot is actually older architecture PCI than the current vid card. Not sure how that might bottle neck the next vid card upgrade.

1) What's the best video card I can buy RELATIVE TO THE CPU/MOBO? In other words, I don't want to waste money on a vid card that will be bottle necked by the CPU or mobo etc.

2) What's the best bang-for-buck vid card I can buy that will provide a noticeable improvement over the current card (HD 5770)?

#2 I might do soon while the answer to #1 might give me something to bargain shop for in the future....

Thanks for you help!

*Edit

RobCrezz · Mar 11, 2014

750 Ti would be my choice. No worrys about PSU capabilty, runs cool and quiet and will be a good performance match with the Q6600.

Alternativly, if the PSU is half decent, then you could get a GTX 460/560 used.

AshyCFC · Mar 11, 2014

I wouldn't put a costly card in this machine although a 750ti wouldn't be bad

If you want a bit of a cheaper card

What about something like a R7 250X(hd 7770 remodel)

Roland Of Gilead · Mar 11, 2014

Agree with other posters. a 750ti isn't a bad idea. I've the same setup up and run with a 560ti which doesn't get bottlenecked by my CPU. Saying that, I wouldn't go above much more than a GTX660/ti or the 750ti as pointed out above.
With a good overclock, you could put in something slightly more powerful like a GTX760. But you would need an OC of about 3.2-3.4 to alleviate any bottlenecking.

Nikola Aslanov-1338074 · Mar 11, 2014

R7 250x is also a good card.
If you think that 750TI is over budget, consider the non-TI GTX 750 also.
The cards are very new and the first reviews were full of hype.
750 (non ti) is only $10-15 more expensive than the 250x.

RobCrezz · Mar 11, 2014

I would look at the used market then. GTX 460/560 would be similar performance to these and very cheap on ebay.

Trave · Mar 11, 2014

For a CPU like that a r7 260x http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127762 and a
GTX 750ti http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814487025 will be the best.

better cards will just be bottleneck and a waste of money,well maybe if you plan to upgrade that rig little by little(mobo,cpu,psu etc.) then getting a better card will be ok then

Muckster · Mar 11, 2014

I'm still digesting all these great replies! Wanted to add info and some follow up questions:

I added a PSU to my OP above. Seasonic S12 500W It's fair to assume the GPU is the ONLY thing I'll upgrade ever again on this PC. Also, I do not want to OC the CPU, so please assume 2.4 GHz is the ceiling.

I've never really considered buying used components, but this build is already 8 years old. I'd be buying cards that were "used" before the bitcoin era. I know it's a roll of the dice, but what can I expect for longevity from a used card? Any other buying advice for used vid cards?

Thanks

RobCrezz · Mar 11, 2014

Muckster :

Ive bought tons of cards used for builds for friends (you get much more power for yours money), and never had any issues. Did a couple of builds with GTX 460's a while back and they are still going strong with no problems. Got a gtx 560 I bought used in another pc still works totally fine.

Muckster · Mar 11, 2014

Using TH's hierarchy graph, I believe the recommendation is that you jump at least two levels above your current card to make the upgrade worth it. I've noticed some of the suggestions only jump me up one level. Is it still worth the upgrade in terms of what I may get for performance?

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/gaming-graphics-card-review,3107-7.html

Nikola Aslanov-1338074 · Mar 11, 2014

Muckster :

If you do not have the money to jump 2 levels, I'd say the upgrade is not worth it. My mistake, not to check the hierarchy chart. After looking, I'd not recommend 250x. 750TI minimum. Stick with the old card otherwise.

RobCrezz · Mar 11, 2014

Muckster :

If the person who is getting the computer wants to play games, then I would say a GTX 560 would be worth it.

Muckster · Mar 11, 2014

Okay guys, I'll keep your recommendations in mind and check for deals. I'm really starting to hate this "pick as solution" choice I have to make. Everyone is always so helpful and sincere. Thanks to everyone.

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