Looking to upgrade my GPU for the first time

[tomhoangle]

Hi, I'm using Gateway FX6800-01e series. The spec is in the link below

http://reviews.cnet.com/desktops/gateway-fx6800-01e/4507-3118_7-33392302.html

The only thing that changed is the power supply, mine died 2 years back so i upgraded it to 900W PSU. I'm looking to upgrade my graphic card from Radeon HD 4850 to Radeon HD 6850 or some others in the price range of 150$. So far this is the two I'm considering at the moment.

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814102908

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814121419

Will it works with my desktop or is there better option? I'm new at this so I'm thankful for any help.

 

[Cyrak07]

ok, first of all check the space inside your case. By the specs I believe the depth is 11 inches, and if nothing is in the way the hd 6850 will fit just fine. Also check if the pcie slot is in a position where a dual-slot card can fit (no annoying heatsinks in the way). Finally check that your psu has all the needed cables (a 6 pin for the hd 6850)

If you want a better card, right now i would suggest the hd 6870 for $20 more. (2 six pins i believe)

 

[termhn]

The GTX 460 will also be comparable to the 6850 and about $20 cheaper... really it's just if you're partial to AMD or nVidia.

 

[Combat Wombat]

IMO go the AMD

 

[tomhoangle]

Best answer selected by tomhoangle.

 

[bassilisk]

Check out 'pcpartpicker.com' too. They'll show you the prices of all online merchants for whatever parts you get. About half of my last build was cheaper elsewhere than newegg.

 

[tomhoangle]

Thank you for replying. I do have 6 pins power as my 4850 is currently using 6 pins and takes up 2 PCIE slots by itself so if 6850 is roughly around same size, it should fit.

I'm more partial to AMD because my graphic card is like 5 years old and still haven't broke down until now(the fan is making loud noise lately). I usually just replace my whole computer but from asking around, my processor is still pretty good in this age so I'll save money by upgrading graphic card only.

I had a look at 6870 and it doesn't look like it's much better than 6850 so i think I'll stick with 6850. Thank you for your suggestion.