Alienware x51 Processor Upgrade Help

MechaWolf

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Jul 13, 2014
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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=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19&sku=332-1432&mfgpid=227504
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-Lga1150/dp/B00CO8TBR4/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1409470398&sr=8-5
 
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Guest

Guest
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.
 

gear999

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Jun 19, 2014
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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.