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Increase FPS Through Hardware?

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  • Hardware
  • Video Games
  • Computers
  • Games
  • FPS
Last response: in Video Games
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March 20, 2014 7:13:49 AM

I'm recently into computer gaming, and my computer (designed for school use) is running things at moderately playable levels - this means some lag, even at the lowest settings. I've altered computer and game settings to minimize quality in order to boost my FPS, but it still makes reaction-based games (Titanfall, DayZ, etc.) difficult to play. Razer GameBooster has helped, but not by much. Plus, running games on the lowest settings takes a lot away from the visual excellence I've gotten out of console games.

What hardware should I look into in order to improve my FPS? I do NOT need top-of-the-line gear to make the game run flawlessly on the highest settings; I'm just looking for smooth gameplay on settings ranging from low to moderate. Budget is an issue.

Thanks for taking the time to read this! Computer Specs are below.

Processor: Intel(R) Core (TM) i7-3520M CPU @ 290GHz, 290 GHz
Memory/RAM: 8.00 GB (7.86 GB usable)
Hard Drive: 883 GB (672 GB remaining)
Operating System: Windows 8.1 (64-bit).
Video Card: Intel HD Graphics 4000

More about : increase fps hardware

March 20, 2014 7:18:10 AM

Okay, I'm gonna say something and it's probably not what you're going to want to hear.

As a laptop it's probably very hard to impossible to upgrade. Your main limiting factor is the integrated video card.

What laptop is it? It may be possible to add a video card...it's unlikely though.
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March 20, 2014 7:21:54 AM

A video card, you have none... But this is a laptop correct? If so there really isn't all that much you can do.
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March 20, 2014 7:24:33 AM

AshyCFC said:
Okay, I'm gonna say something and it's probably not what you're going to want to hear.


So you're definitely not going to get "Best Answer", per your sig :D 

Seriosuly, youre absolutely right. The only way the OP can improve FPS is if he/she has a laptop with an SLI swap bay...like some of those new Lenovo's which allow for a second card.

Other than that, I'd recommend BadumPsh either:
1. Sell current laptop and buy one with dedicated graphics
2. Invest in Gaming Desktop

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March 20, 2014 7:26:05 AM

The Intel HD Graphics 4000 is your problem you need a graphics card motherboard gpus don't like the HD Graphics 4000 can't run games well.The Gtx 750ti is a good Budget card that wont need a huge power supply if it's a laptop discard everything I said
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March 20, 2014 7:42:32 AM

The M at the end of the processor indicates that it's a Laptop.

and toddy you're right.
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March 20, 2014 7:45:54 AM

It's a Lenovo 510Z.

I was afraid of the lack of customization in laptops - I'm not sure if I can install a dedicated card. Though, the specific suggestion of card DOES help if I can install something.

I don't see a financially responsible way to invest in a whole new laptop, but I'll do some research.

Thanks for the speedy reply, all! Still open to suggestions, though not hopeful.
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March 20, 2014 7:54:15 AM

BadumPsh said:
It's a Lenovo 510Z.

I was afraid of the lack of customization in laptops - I'm not sure if I can install a dedicated card. Though, the specific suggestion of card DOES help if I can install something.

I don't see a financially responsible way to invest in a whole new laptop, but I'll do some research.

Thanks for the speedy reply, all! Still open to suggestions, though not hopeful.


Just checked out your Lenovo 510Z...nice laptop, but doesnt support a GPU card add on (that I can tell). :( 

It looks like a pretty new system...can you exchange it or trade it in somewhere? You never know, you could get enough credit towards a new laptop (with dedicated graphics) for it to be financially attainable. Not sure of your budget though. GL Friend
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March 20, 2014 7:56:36 AM

In the review, it states that the reviewed model has a 740M.

Wouldn't it possible to then put a 740M in...

Pesky laptops, this is why I stick to building PC's ha.

If you want to game just grab a cheap PC (hand made of course for best value) $600/£450-500 much more enjoyable than a laptop :(  even like $450/£350 better.

I think the moral of the story is, as ever. If you want to game and get good value for money you go PC.
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March 20, 2014 8:02:05 AM

@Ashy CFC - It's the one you posted!
@toddybody - It's about a year old. I'm not sure if its still possible to trade it in somewhere. I can probably add $200 toward a new computer, in addition to any credit I could get from this one.

Is it cheaper to build a desktop? I have to admit, I've always loved the idea. It's always seemed difficult and expensive, though. I'm not sure I have the know-how.
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March 20, 2014 8:11:42 AM

It's only as difficult and expensive as you want it to be, you want a water cooling system with lights that change colour based on the temperature of the PC that's all fancy? sure expensive and take some know how.

You want a gaming machine that will run games and you can enjoy playing on with a simple life? Easy/Not costly.

There's a ton of guides to making your own PC and there's a nice one on toms as well here:

have a read of it and if it's something you're interested in, we can help you out with a build and one final thing the best part about a PC is this "I don't like my GPU" ok, better change it with no hassle(except changing power supply maybe :p )

http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/forum/274745-31-step-step...
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March 20, 2014 11:05:26 AM

The article is helpful, no question. Most of the items it recommends (or uses as an example) are out of stock - can someone who's built a computer give an approximate time and price commitment? I know it will vary greatly depending on parts, tools, and labor, but considering the goals I've listed above, could someone estimate?
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March 20, 2014 11:36:36 AM

trust me if you are going to continue to play games on a pc you really need a desktop because upgrading a laptop is impossible and you will have to buy a new laptop every time you start to bottleneck (lose performance,which usualy takes 3 years) that would cost a lot believe me buy a desktop and if you need any help picking parts or assembling them just contact me i would love to help.
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March 20, 2014 12:13:29 PM

badum that guide just used those parts as examples :) 

I'll be happy to post a 2014 build suggestion, just would like to know a budget.

Labor=built yourself unless yoiu wanna get a local tech shop to help.
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March 20, 2014 12:15:59 PM

@abeer72 - I may take you up on that - most likely with assembly. I'm going to look at AshyCFC's build first.

@AshyCFC - Speaking of which, yes, if you're willing, that'd be perfect. My budget ranges from $500-$600, attainable likely over the next six months, or so.
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March 20, 2014 12:22:15 PM

well your budget is a bit too low,remember this is a pc not a console pcs cost more.
just save some money for a 800$ machine 800 is the lowest "sweet spot" if you plan on spending anything less you won't get the desired performance.
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March 20, 2014 12:33:58 PM

$600 is fine for starting out/upgrading...I'll do a build in a bit.
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March 20, 2014 12:36:50 PM

AshyCFC said:
$600 is fine for starting out/upgrading...I'll do a build in a bit.


only if you expect 30 fps on high settings.:) 
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March 20, 2014 12:38:47 PM

@AshyCFC - You're perfect, thank you!

@abeer72 - True, but I'm not looking to run anything on High settings. Moderate at the most, a combination of low and moderate for almost everything else.
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March 20, 2014 12:39:59 PM

abeer, clearly you don't understand the idea of "starting out"

Making build now.
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March 20, 2014 12:40:46 PM

ok then save yourself some bucks and ask AshyCFC for parts,he seems to know what he is doing.
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March 20, 2014 12:50:51 PM

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: Intel Core i3-4130 3.4GHz Dual-Core Processor ($124.99 @ Newegg)
Motherboard: MSI H81M-P33 Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($44.38 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Ares Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($64.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($57.98 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: XFX Radeon R7 260X 2GB Video Card ($129.99 @ NCIX US)
Case: Thermaltake VL80001W2Z ATX Mid Tower Case ($24.99 @ Micro Center)
Power Supply: XFX 650W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($64.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: LG GH24NSB0 DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($84.99 @ NCIX US)
Total: $602.29
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-20 15:52 EDT-0400)

$3 over after rebates but will basically playing anything you want at medium and is very upgradeable CPU+GPU no trouble although the motherboard is fairly basic so you can't overclock on it.

650W PSU is excessive but only $5 more than the 550W so worth it and if you'd like one for less I'll have this posted updated with a $550 build in a second also a bit of a longshot but do you plan on selling the laptop to help fund the build?
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March 20, 2014 12:55:09 PM

Wow, it looks good. I have no idea what half of it means, but the parts I can understand look solid. If you can get it to $550, that'd be excellent, though $612 still looks pretty great. I DID plan on selling the laptop once I'm out of school (two months from now), but I included the possible sale of a laptop in my budget - I estimate that I could get around $$250-$350 for it - it IS a year old.
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March 20, 2014 1:02:18 PM

You could start with something like this:

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: Intel Pentium G3220 3.0GHz Dual-Core Processor ($65.98 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: MSI H81M-P33 Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($44.38 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Ares Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($64.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($57.98 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: XFX Radeon R7 260X 2GB Video Card ($129.99 @ NCIX US)
Case: Thermaltake VL80001W2Z ATX Mid Tower Case ($24.99 @ Micro Center)
Power Supply: XFX 650W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($64.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: LG GH24NSB0 DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($84.99 @ NCIX US)
Total: $553.28
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-20 16:00 EDT-0400)

and then when you can afford it, upgrade to an i5 4430/4440 or xeon 1230 v3(the xeon has i7 level performance and as such is fairly expensive at $250 but less than an i7)

That sounds fair enough as well for selling that laptop etc.
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March 20, 2014 1:06:20 PM

Ok so I'm going to confuse rather than help I guess. I have a laptop with an i7-3632QM and HD4000, it's a powerful processor and I can play BF4 at 25 FPS on lowest settings in MP. BF3 runs at 30-35 FPS in MP. So it's how you plan to play. But honestly, I never play on my laptop but rather on my GTX 660. I then can get 60 FPS on same settings. In either way I really suggest you take build something like AshyCFC suggested but with a more powerful CPU, aim for a i5 if you can. Also take Win8, it's more compatible with new games' features such as DirectX 11.
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March 20, 2014 1:13:41 PM

Evidence the 8 is more compatible with DirectX 11 than 7 please? I've never heard about this.

Same build with an i5 is $660...

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: Intel Core i5-4440 3.1GHz Quad-Core Processor ($174.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: MSI H81M-P33 Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($44.38 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Ares Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($64.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($57.98 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: XFX Radeon R7 260X 2GB Video Card ($129.99 @ NCIX US)
Case: Thermaltake VL80001W2Z ATX Mid Tower Case ($24.99 @ Micro Center)
Power Supply: XFX 650W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($64.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: LG GH24NSB0 DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($84.99 @ NCIX US)
Total: $662.29
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-20 16:12 EDT-0400)

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/gaming-cpu-review-o... - CPU guide as well.

and i quote on the i3 4130 "Intel's Haswell-based CPUs are very capable in games, though we're increasingly seeing dual-core Pentiums lagging behind in our favorite titles. Conversely, benchmark data makes it clear that the company's Hyper-Threading technology is effective in helping improve the performance of Core i3 CPUs in those same blockbusters. Although a locked multiplier limits overclocking to a few-megahertz bump in BCLK frequency, we still consider Intel's Core i3-4130 to be a good starting point for gamers who might upgrade to a faster LGA 1150-based processor in the future."
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March 20, 2014 1:31:08 PM

AshyCFC said:
Evidence the 8 is more compatible with DirectX 11 than 7 please? I've never heard about this.
"


Yes you're right it's something to do about the fact that DirectX 11.1 won't be supported on Win7. Don't know (think?) that it would be a big deal. As for i3 vs i5 I really think new games would be more CPU demanding than in the past.
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March 20, 2014 1:47:15 PM

The CPU guide this month highlighted the i3 4130 as the best starting CPU is all.
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March 20, 2014 4:56:09 PM

Last question - how certain are we that the $550 system / $612 system will run these games at fluid speed. For example, Titanfall is a HUGE game, as are a few others I would be playing. Are we sure this will accomplish the goal? It'd be pretty rough to build the system and not work the way we thought it would, with $600 down the drain.
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March 20, 2014 6:06:48 PM

AshyCFC said:
Evidence the 8 is more compatible with DirectX 11 than 7 please? I've never heard about this.

Same build with an i5 is $660...

PCPartPicker part list / Price breakdown by merchant / Benchmarks

CPU: Intel Core i5-4440 3.1GHz Quad-Core Processor ($174.99 @ SuperBiiz)
Motherboard: MSI H81M-P33 Micro ATX LGA1150 Motherboard ($44.38 @ Newegg)
Memory: G.Skill Ares Series 8GB (2 x 4GB) DDR3-1600 Memory ($64.99 @ Newegg)
Storage: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive ($57.98 @ OutletPC)
Video Card: XFX Radeon R7 260X 2GB Video Card ($129.99 @ NCIX US)
Case: Thermaltake VL80001W2Z ATX Mid Tower Case ($24.99 @ Micro Center)
Power Supply: XFX 650W 80+ Bronze Certified ATX Power Supply ($64.99 @ NCIX US)
Optical Drive: LG GH24NSB0 DVD/CD Writer ($14.99 @ Newegg)
Operating System: Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 (OEM) (64-bit) ($84.99 @ NCIX US)
Total: $662.29
(Prices include shipping, taxes, and discounts when available.)
(Generated by PCPartPicker 2014-03-20 16:12 EDT-0400)

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/gaming-cpu-review-o... - CPU guide as well.

and i quote on the i3 4130 "Intel's Haswell-based CPUs are very capable in games, though we're increasingly seeing dual-core Pentiums lagging behind in our favorite titles. Conversely, benchmark data makes it clear that the company's Hyper-Threading technology is effective in helping improve the performance of Core i3 CPUs in those same blockbusters. Although a locked multiplier limits overclocking to a few-megahertz bump in BCLK frequency, we still consider Intel's Core i3-4130 to be a good starting point for gamers who might upgrade to a faster LGA 1150-based processor in the future."


I would recommend the OP build a desktop with an FX 6300 (AM3+ Motherboard), you can get great deals for them online...or best yet MicroCenter if thats a possibility for the OP. I just helped my buddy build a new system, and we got an FX 8320 for 100.00 at MicroCenter.

Also, no need to buy the Graphics card right away...if theyve been used to integrated laptop graphics, it would be wise to wait the 2 months until he/she can sell their laptop...and put that money into a REALLY nice card (GTX 660,760...etc).

I would NOT purchase a throwaway CPU, in anticipation of a <12month upgrade...youll inevitably loose money re-selling it.
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March 20, 2014 6:21:31 PM

BadumPsh said:
Last question - how certain are we that the $550 system / $612 system will run these games at fluid speed. For example, Titanfall is a HUGE game, as are a few others I would be playing. Are we sure this will accomplish the goal? It'd be pretty rough to build the system and not work the way we thought it would, with $600 down the drain.

Hey Friend, I agree that it would be wasteful to spend so much money on a "mediocre experience"...but not to worry, any of the builds folks have made above will give you decent performance for Titan Fall @ 1920x1080.

That said, I would buy:

CPU: AMD FX 6300: http://www.microcenter.com/site/products/amd_bundles.as... [109.99]
Motherboard: Gigabyte GA-78LMT (Free with CPU @ MicroCenter)
RAM: HyperX XMP 8GB: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... [64.99]
HDD: WD Blue 1TB: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... [59.99]
PSU: Corsair CX600: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... [49.99]
Case: Antec VSK-3000 mATX: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... [34.99]
OS: Windows 7/8: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... [99.99]
.....
Total: 419.94

Wait till you sell your laptop, then spend as much as you can on a graphics card. I'd recommend these:

MSI TF GTX 660: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... [199.99]

EVGA Superclocked GTX 760 ACX Cooler: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E168... [249.99 with free game]

For that setup above, I guarantee you will be hitting great frames on high settings for most modern titles...including TitanFall.

Goodluck dude!

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March 20, 2014 11:51:57 PM

I don't understand, the i3 4130 is as good as the fx-6300 unless the fx-6300 is OCED and the i3 offers better upgrade potential but yes if you can find a bargain fx-8320/fx-6300 it would be great.

Also would not buy a CX series PSU as there's a similar priced 550W XFX which is simply better quality.
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March 21, 2014 8:09:29 AM

You've all been great, I printed this whole thread to keep in mind in the coming months. You've all been super helpful, and it might take some time, but I'll return and post a picture of the computer when it comes together.
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March 21, 2014 9:07:30 AM

By the way, a system like this in terms of performance can run games fine at 1080p Medium and some at high.

You just need to be realistic with your budget i.e can this PC play titanfall? Yes perfectly well at medium can this PC run titanfall at max? No.

I'll leave you to some over useful links for you to review as well:

http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/radeon-r9-280x-r9-270x-r7... - 260X is part of this review and it has a ton of useful charts/info in a new builder friendly format.

http://www.bit-tech.net/hardware/2013/11/14/intel-core-... i3 4130 review, I've put it at the real world usage page as the stuff before that probably means nothing to you if you've never built before and the pages after this are all useful but of course feel to read it all if you like.

http://www.gamersnexus.net/gg/1352-titanfall-pc-gpu-ben... - Here's some benchmarks and you can clearly see that those are when running the game at HIGH the 260X averages 30fps+ and if you drop it to medium you'll probably gain a considerable amount as well or if you're willing to play at 720p instead of 1080p
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