So many different GTX 970s... which one should I buy?

Lonesomelad

Commendable
May 24, 2016
4
0
1,510
Hello! I looking to buy either a 970 but the thing is there are so many different ones! I'm not very good with pcs (I should learn the basics..), but I need a new graphics card, as I want to play some of the newer games (especially Total War: Warhammer). So I came here to ask all of you! I hope I can find something that will fit my needs, as I'm sure all of you can help me out.

Current System specs:
GPU: AMD Radeon R7 240 2 GB
PSU: (Unknown got this pc pre-built) 350W
Motherboard: AMD 760G
GPU:AMD FX-6300 3.5 GHz
RAM: 8GB G.Skill Ripjaws

I only want to upgrade my graphics card and power supply (upgrading to 500W) but I'm over-explaining this.. I am just looking to buy a 970 but as I said there are so many different ones ranging from 299 to 350 dollars, just want to get something to play the newest games decently.
I appreciate any and all help, and thank you in advance!

- Lonesome
 
Solution
First things first, you'll need to upgrade your power supply to at least a 430 Watt or greater unit to run ANY GTX 970.
After that, it becomes more a question of what is more important to you: $20 cheaper or 2 more FPS?

Starcruiser

Honorable
First things first, you'll need to upgrade your power supply to at least a 430 Watt or greater unit to run ANY GTX 970.
After that, it becomes more a question of what is more important to you: $20 cheaper or 2 more FPS?
 
Solution

Lonesomelad

Commendable
May 24, 2016
4
0
1,510
I am upgrading my PSU to a 500w corsair, what is a good processor that runs with my motherboard, and when does the pascal come out? I'm trying to get a new GPU, and PSU soon, (same order) and processor later. Is the 380 better than a GTX 970? I really need more information as I have no idea when it comes to GPUs.
 

Starcruiser

Honorable
The best processor you'll be able to fit in an AM3+ motherboard (without the 220 Watt CPU compatibility) is the FX 8350 or 8370. Even the 8300 would be a decent upgrade for you though.
The GTX 970 would be a good bit better than the R9 380. It all comes down to your budget and what deals you can find really. If you go for the 380 make sure it's a 4GB model.
A good rough specs comparison site I use is HWcompare. Just keep in mind that due to PhysX acceleration Nvidia is generally faster in the event of a tie. http://www.hwcompare.com/19969/geforce-gtx-970-vs-radeon-r9-380-4g/
 

Lonesomelad

Commendable
May 24, 2016
4
0
1,510
Alright, than what would be a better PSU? I don't know if I said this but I am going to upgrade my CPU eventually, this summer for sure, but first I would like to get a good graphics card and PSU and then when I get more money for a processor I'll buy it. I don't want to buy the R9 380 and then get a better CPU that doesn't bottleneck the 970 and have spent the money on a cheaper GPU just to buy another one in a month or two.