Help - need low-profile graphics card that runs on 220w PSU...I found some but not sure if they will be compatible?

jck922

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Mar 20, 2015
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I did some research but I am totally new to this, so please bear with me. I have a Dell Inspiron 3647 with the following specs:

  • - Intel Core i5-4460 Processor 2.9GHz (the listing says 3.2GHz. But it is a lie.)
    - 8GB DDR3-1600 RAM
    - 1 TB 7200 rpm Hard Drive
    - Microsoft Windows 8.1 64-bit
    - Current video card: Intel(R) HD Graphics 4600
I'm able to play Skyrim on low settings, but my Sims 3 keeps crashing (the error log says the video card is not enough). Now I don't need super detailed settings, seeing as the PSU is inadequate and it is a small form factor PC, but I'd love to play those games without lagging or crashing. Cost is not a huge factor so if I can find the best GPU that runs on 220w and is low-profile, that would work.

After some research, I found these. Could you tell me if these will be okay to install on my PC?

1) PNY GeForce GT 730 1GB GDDR5 Graphics Cards VCGGT7301D5LXPB

2) EVGA GeForce GT 730 2GB GDDR5 64bit DVI/HDMI/VGA Low Profile Graphics Card 02G-P3-3733-KR

What is the difference is between PNY and EVGA? Are they different companies?

There is also a 128 bit option for the second one, but I also don't know what that difference means. Someone said it's like a 64 car lane vs. a 128 car lane, but I'm still not entirely sure why the 128 is slightly cheaper then. It says it needs a minimum of 300w, so I'm guessing these are out? Unless since it's a low-profile it won't be as bad?

3) Sapphire Radeon R7 250 1GB GDDR5 Micro HDMI/DVI-I/Mini DP Low Profile PCI-Express Graphics Card 11215-06-20G

The top comment on amazon says they were recommended this card by Toms (hey!) so this one I am not worried about since the reviewer's computer is similar to mine. Also checked on PassMark and the 3rd one seems to be the best option. I can't seem to find the power supply minimum, though.

I'd appreciate any help!