Need GPU upgrade advice for someone with a "PCIe 2.0 x16 slot"

MotokoKusannagi

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Apr 19, 2013
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My PC is from 2010 and im a little too strapped on cash to buy a new PC so I am going to wait another year. Was hopping that maybe an upgrade existed for under $200 for my gpu to hold me off.

I am a gamer so the only reason I want to upgrade is to get better performance on some games where the low video setting is now too much for my PC.

This is my PC exactly:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883147092

budget is approximately $200 for gpu

also what do you think about getting new ram? if its a must, then I would have a separate budget for that.

Thank You
 
Solution
You don't need a CPU fan for a stock computer I'm not sure it would fit any way and is not needed since you can't overclock.
If you system has temp issues be sure the vents are all clear of dust, and you have an air intake fan in the front and a exhaust fan in the back. This will create and air flow from front to back of your case removing the hot air and bringing in cooler air.

I would make a list of all the models that fit your budget and checking the specs like base clock speed, boost clock speed and memory speed. Then once you narrow it down to a couple of models check all the sites for the best landed price.

Jak_Sparra

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Mar 31, 2006
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You have more than enough RAM, your CPU can be overclocked with a half decent cheap fan, to about 3.4Ghz or 3.6Ghz so just go for a new GPU and maybe PSU if needed.

If you do not tend to upgrade very often then consider something with a long warranty like a Zotac GTX 760 2GB GDDR5 Dual DVI HDMI DisplayPort PCI-E Graphics Card, it comes with a 5yr warranty. That was just one GPU off the top of my head and I've been drinking so please wait to get some more suggestions before you buy anything. An equally powerful card with a 2-3 year warranty might save you a few $ that you can then put towards parts in the future.

Pro tip, open up an easy access savings account with yr bank and start sticking $10 in it each month if you can, then you can keep your rig semi good for gaming over time. $20 a month and your going to be sorted for some good kit. Make sure you sell all your old stuff, people will buy it.

Pro tip 2, check you garage, attic etc for any stuff you have not used in the last 12 months, chances are you might never use it again. Sell it. Raise funds and buy a BEAST RIG POWERED BY SATAN HIMSELF!
 
Your current GTX260 needs 2 6 pin power connectors and 500w or so.
$200 will buy you a GTX960 which will be a nice boost in graphics capability.
GTX960 only needs one 6 pin connector and 430w.
If your graphics budget were more like $300, you could even use a GTX970.

I see no reason for different ram.
Intel ram controllers are quite efficient and faster ram buys you little.
Your 9gb of ram is more than enough.
 
I'm not sure what power supply you have. The GTX 260s recommended power supply was a 500w, but this is HP so I'm just not sure. For the R9 380 it is recommended you use a 550w so its out, but the GTX 960 recommended ps is a 430w so that seems like the best option.
 

MotokoKusannagi

Honorable
Apr 19, 2013
5
0
10,510
As a brand, I like evga. They seem to have good usa based support and warranty.
This unit is factory overclocked. In a case with poor ventilation like yours, I like the more direct exhaust.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=9SIA24G3KF9386&cm_re=GTX_960-_-14-487-154-_-Product
As to the cooler, check the height available to you.
The hyper212 is about 160mm tall.
For a similar price, the cryorig H7 is only 145mm tall.
Both have a 120mm fan.

Both amazon and newegg have other affiliated sellers. I prefer items to be shipped from out of their own inventory.
I prefer newegg.
 
You don't need a CPU fan for a stock computer I'm not sure it would fit any way and is not needed since you can't overclock.
If you system has temp issues be sure the vents are all clear of dust, and you have an air intake fan in the front and a exhaust fan in the back. This will create and air flow from front to back of your case removing the hot air and bringing in cooler air.

I would make a list of all the models that fit your budget and checking the specs like base clock speed, boost clock speed and memory speed. Then once you narrow it down to a couple of models check all the sites for the best landed price.
 
Solution

Jak_Sparra

Distinguished
Mar 31, 2006
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19,060


I can't find a make or model for the motherboard so I agree overclocking may not be possible.