Upgrading the computer

[rparker]

I am debating about whether to majorly upgrade my system (CPU, motherboard, graphics card, maybe memory too), or minorly upgrade my system (graphics card).

I want a casual gaming computer that is going to last me for 2-3 years, until I can afford a laptop that is able to play high demanding games well. My system was able to play games decently until the graphics card capacitors blew, and now I am thinking about either replacing the card, or most everything. My budget is tight, but I can make it stretch if I think its a worthwhile investment. I also thought about buying a new system, but I don't see all the advantages of getting everything prebuilt since I am happy with my hard drive, psu, and optical drives. I also think it would be more expensive and less upgradable.

I would like to know the community's thoughts before I decide anything though.

My specs are:
Windows vista 32-bit
AMD Athlon 64 X2 4600+
4GB DDR2 memory
500W cooler master psu
Hitachi 320 GB 7200 RPM SATA II Hard Drive (plus other 3 other HDs, 1 external for about 2 TB total storage)
4 gb 4200 ddr2 ram
ECS MCP61-P AM2 Motherboard

The system itself is over 2 years old, although with a new logitech keyboard and mouse.

 

[batuchka]

Curious: unless mobility is of prime importance i would never look to a lappie for gaming as the small display and poor audio takes that much away from the experience of it all hehe

 

[rparker]

True it does, but I can always hook it up to a monitor, and speakers if necessary. The mobility would be of prime importance, but I would still prefer to always have a desktop at home, even if its a bit older.

 

[batuchka]

Hmm for a quickie/low cost upgrade:

AM2+ 760G/770 mobo
Rana 440
Reuse DDR2
HD 4850

 

[lowriderflow]

Well depending on waht a 'tight' budge is, you're best bet is probly to get a new video card. Something like this 5750

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121356&cm_re=5750-_-14-121-356-_-Product

Anything more would be major overkill for the rest of your system.

 

[rparker]

by tight budget, i mean total for major upgrade about $300. About 150 for the graphics card alone.

Lowrider, I am glad to know that that card wouldn't be beyond my system, I saw it before and was considering the upgrade.

 

[lowriderflow]

Well inn all honesty, it MAY be slightly beyond your system. But not way beyond it. I'd put it at the upper echelon of what you want.. and its a great price and Direct x 11 compatible. It should be a nice upgrade for your gaming needs...

 

[rparker]

But, would my computer even be able to handle Direct X 11 games with my current processor?


I am thinking more about upgrading my system, something along the lines of:

rana 445 cpu
am3 & ddr2 compatible motherboard (like batchuka suggested)
same ddr2
and hd 5750

based on what I saw from online retailers, that would run me around 330 CAN. i can live with that price.

maybe I'll just get the hd 5750 now, and the rest later.

Thanks for the help guys