New Graphics Card

[DogFort]

I've been running on my on board graphics card for the past year with my computer and I've found just scraping by playing games just isn't cutting it anymore, so I need a new graphics card.

My PC is a Gateway

Runs on:
Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium Edition (build 7600), 64-bit
Processor: Intel(R) Core(TM) i3 CPU 540 @ 3.07GHz
Memory: 8 GB of RAM
Physical Memory: 1 Terabyte
Monitor: 1280x1024 (32bit) (60Hz)

I was curious as to where I should start on graphics cards concerning games like Star Wars:The Old Republic, Call of Duty, and Mafia to play at decent settings (not super high settings, but to play them at normal smoothly); and what I should know before getting one and or installing it. My budget is the standard $100-$200 price range.

 

[pro-gamer]

then gtx 460 can do the job.

 

[wintermint]

I would go for the Radeon HD 6770 instead. He's only playing at 1280x1024 and the gtx 460 is a power hog compare to the 6770 and usually costs a lot more. Both choice would be good though. You need an average of 450w power supply. If you have a generic one, you should be careful because it's not as efficient and won't handle overload properly.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121474

Here's a list of HD 6770s
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100006519&IsNodeId=1&Description=HD%206770&bop=And&Order=PRICE&PageSize=20

Here's a list of GTX 460s
http://www.newegg.com/Product/ProductList.aspx?Submit=ENE&N=100006519&IsNodeId=1&Description=gtx%20460&bop=And&Order=PRICE&PageSize=20

I would put the gtx 460 on the same level as a radeon hd 6850 but at your resolution.. the extra money will be a waste. You won't be disappointed with the radeon hd 6770. It handles 1920x1080 well too

 

[DogFort]

How can I tell the power output of my computer?

 

[wintermint]

The easy way is to google the model of your computer and look at the description provided from the manufacturer. Alternatively, you can take off the side of your case (look for screws and stuff) > locate your power supply > find out power output and stuff

 

[DogFort]

Well it seems my computer is short at about 300 watts on the power supply. Is there any way to change this?

 

[monsta]

You can always replace the PSU with a better one , have a look at your budget and im sure we can help you choose a decent one for your needs.

 

[DogFort]

Well just shoot me a few good options and I'll see what I can fit in.

 

[boabs]

dont get any of they cards. geta cheap 6850card .

 

[boabs]

using 6850 at that rez u will get huge fps on games.

 

[DogFort]

Thanks for the input but ATM I'm looking for PSU recommendations.