Help With Upgrading GPU - PSU on Pre-built PC

SamuelNebula

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Oct 8, 2015
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Alright, so first off I'd like to say that this is not my area of expertise. Bearing that in mind, about a year or so ago I bought a pre-built gaming PC, namely HP Pavilion 500-221eo with these specifications:

Core i5-4440 3.1GHz
GeForce GTX 654
8 GB RAM

This setup did not give me my desired results, so I planned on upgrading my GPU as it seemed like the weakest component. I consulted with my friend, and he recommended me "EVGA GeForce GTX 970 4GB ACX 2.0+ SC" <----This card is within my budget. As I have no real knowledge in this area, I am not sure if this card will even fit my motherboard, case and so on... Is there any problem with upgrading the GPU from a pre-build? Furthermore, my PSU (300W) is not powerful enough to run this card. Can I upgrade my PSU and GPU in a pre-built computer, and if I can, is it hard to do so?

https://img2.brain3.photobox.com/38208431be5d68095df50011a350dfa17d3ddf35dd472f3a329ccebb8e71edefb0896977.jpg

The case is about 37 cm (14.5 inches) long.
 
Solution
I don't think the case of Pavilion 500-221eo can fit a gpu as long as GTX 970.
You would need to buy new case as well.

If it ends up fitting, the gpu installation is easy plug-in.

Getting old psu out is always the hardest part, especially when you are working inside a small OEM case.
I don't think the case of Pavilion 500-221eo can fit a gpu as long as GTX 970.
You would need to buy new case as well.

If it ends up fitting, the gpu installation is easy plug-in.

Getting old psu out is always the hardest part, especially when you are working inside a small OEM case.
 
Solution

SamuelNebula

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Oct 8, 2015
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Hmm.. I see. So i'd have to remove all components and put them in a new case? Sounds pretty complicated, especially for me.
 


There is also possibility for you to get a GTX 970 ITX. It will fit and still give nearly same performance as full-size 970. In exchange of some heat.
 

SamuelNebula

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Oct 8, 2015
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Might be a viable solution as I don't imagine heat will be a problem for me. May I also ask what PSU is recommended for this card??
 


EVGA, Seasonic, XFX, be Quiet!, some Corsair, Super Flower.
500-600W PSU from one of those manufacturers which is rated minimum 80+ Bronze. Preferably 80+ Gold, but they are often expensive.