Looking for low profile graphics card using less than 250 watts

[superman007]

I have a (somewhat) older Gateway model SX2802 slim design (small form factor) desktop that came stocked with Intel's integrated GMA X4500 graphics solution video card. There is only one VGA output and I want to "upgrade" to dual monitors. I have one PCI 16 expansion slot and only 220 watt Liteon power supply and thinking of a new video card? I do not do much gaming, but do watch video...any recommendations for a "good" low power video card that can fit in small form factor computer case? Or is there another way to have dual monitor?

 

[GOM3RPLY3R]

Hello sir, it seems we have the exact same PC.

Luckily I can really help you here. Now first off, what games do you play. Secondly, I know that with that 220 PSU you can't get too far with your GPU options. However, I did happen to get a HD 5570 in there no problem. So would you rather go with an AMD card or an Nvidia card is the next question.

I'm really helping you with that answer dependent on what games you play. If you play games that are more like RPG, FPS, or games like WoW, LoL, or Guild Wars, it would be much better to with the AMD side. But if you mostly play BF3, ArmA, or highly graphics intensive simulation type game, it'd be much better to go with Nvidia. (This all said in general)

 

[GOM3RPLY3R]

Here's a couple AMD options I found:

Radeon HD 7750
Radeon HD 6790
Radeon HD 6850
Radeon HD 5750/5770

The 7750 is more of the intermediate card. The 5750 and the 5770 are less expensive, and the 5770 is really a 5750 just much higher clock. The the 6850 and 6790 are the higher end, at about $130. But instead of the 128 bit memory bus, it has 256. Also higher clock, 200 more transistors, and 100+ more shaders.

Honestly for the half size computers, AMD has really got it down, and usually the AMD cards (in the half size perspective) do great.

Here's a good link to look at: http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/Club_3D/HD_7750_Low_Profile/1.html