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Alienware x51 Processor Upgrade Help

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  • CPUs
  • Processors
  • Intel
  • Alienware
Last response: in CPUs
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August 31, 2014 12:36:36 AM

My aunt recently bought me an Alienware x51 as a gift. It's the stock alienware that came with:

Intel Core i3 4130, 3.4GHz
NVIDEA GeForce GTX 745
6GB DDR3 RAM
Some alienware motherboard
1TB TOSHIBA DT01ACA100 Hard Drive
and a 180 Watt PSU

I'm looking to upgrade my processor; the computer runs perfectly fine but I am looking to be able to get that extra bit of performance for all the new games that come out that will need it.

I don't really want to get an i7 because I'm on a budget; I'm fine with an i5

Anyway, the Alienware needs a special PSU, which can be bought here:
http://accessories.us.dell.com/sna/productdetail.aspx?c...
I was wondering if I would need to the PSU upgrade to be able to install an Intel Core i5, and if this Intel Core i5 model would be supported:
http://www.amazon.ca/I5-4670-4cores-Threads-3-40ghz-Lga...

More about : alienware x51 processor upgrade

August 31, 2014 3:54:37 AM

You dont really need an i7 if u want to game cause u will pretty much get the same performance as the i5.
And yes i believe that u can change the i3 to an i5 without any problem.
And i would recommend u buy a better psu something like 500w or the bare minimum of 450w.
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August 31, 2014 5:13:51 AM

You mean the i3 4130? Because there is no such CPU as the i3 3140. In that case, I'd recommend upgrading to something like an i5 4440. It wouldn't require custom cooling and is cheaper than other i5's with pretty much the same performance. It would be perfect for your system. But of course, I need to know what exactly your current CPU is. The 4440 may not be compatible with your motherboard.
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August 31, 2014 2:37:54 PM

Oh, sorry, I meant the i3 4130. Don't know why I typed 3140.
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August 31, 2014 2:46:10 PM

Then yeah, go for a i5 4440.
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August 31, 2014 4:39:17 PM

And the i5 4440 would work fine with the 330 Watt PSU? I just want to make sure I don't break my computer.
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August 31, 2014 5:38:48 PM

If they're offering an X51 with a i7 with the same PSU... then it should work fine. Also, there is an external power brick to supply some more power too, if I remember correctly.
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August 31, 2014 5:44:16 PM

The external power brick IS actually the power supply, the x51 is kinda like a non-portable, faster laptop.

I'll be sure to get an i5-4440. Thanks alot!
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