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Upgrading Graphics Card?


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#1 Reyvolution

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 11:46 AM

Hello everyone, I am thinking of upgrading my current GTX650 to GTX660. I built my PC two years ago to play MW:O and a few other games. When playing MW:O my average fps is around 50fps, with drops below 30fps every now and again.

Everything at low settings, except for texturing, object detail and environment which are at Medium, Anti-Aliasing is Off. Play at 1920x1080, DX9, v-sync is off. I could play at 1280x720 for better fps... But it's just not as pretty :(


So would it be worth it to upgrade to the GTX 660, or another graphics card that you'd recommend around $250? If not, is there something else that'd be recommended to get constant 60fps, without having to spend a whole lotta money?

The GTX660, I am currently considering is this: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=052981



This is what I am currently running in my PC:

OS: Windows 7 Home Premium 64-Bit
Mainboard: Gigabyte Z77-HD3
CPU: Intel i5-3550 @ 3.30GHz
Graphics Card: EVGA GTX650 1gb "Superclocked"
Memory: 2x4gb Corsair Vengeance - DDR3 1600MHz
PSU: Corsair CX500 - 500watts




BTW... I am still somewhat of a newbie when it comes to PC components and such.

Thanks in advance for the help!

#2 Flapdrol

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 11:49 AM

Don't get a 660, better off waiting for the 960 which should release the 22nd. Will probably improve price/performance for nvidia, might even push amd prices down a little bit in that segment.

#3 Angel Devereaux

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 11:50 AM

I just switched from the GTX680 to the GTX970 and there is a night and day different, if you are going to upgrade right now I wouldn't waste the money on another 600 series card, you would be better off getting a 900 series card or one of the higher end 700 series cards since the have dropped in price.

#4 Lord Letto

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 11:59 AM

http://www.tomshardw...iew,3107-7.html
a Radeon R9 270 is a step above the GTX 660/570/480/295 and the same price: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=065929
in your $250 Budget, the 270X is the Best, that's if Canada Computers Only, if you were to buy from online stores the best for $250 would be the Radeon R9 280X (Same level as the GTX 590/680/770):
http://www.ncix.com/...liateid=7474144

also people, keep in mind that this is Canada where things cost more than in america
PNY GTX 970 4GB XL8R
$329.99 on US Newegg
was $389.99 on Canadian Newegg, currently $20(5%) Off for $369.99
http://www.newegg.co..._source=afc-%zn
http://www.newegg.ca..._source=afc-%zn

also, if used is OK and if transportation isn't too big a issue, I just checked Kijiji for the GTA and there are some GTX 680 and GTX 770 for $250 and under, on the ATI Side there are a lot of R9 280X for $150-180, there was also the occasional R9 290 (On same Level with the GTX 780, 970 & Original Titan) I noticed also for $220-250

Edit: Just noticed you have a 500W PSU, I'd recommend upgrading to a 750W, moreso if you go for a AMD GPU, for $250 you could get a used R9 280X and using the remaining $70-100 for a better PSU that can handle it.

Edited by Lord Letto, 11 January 2015 - 12:27 PM.


#5 -Wulf-

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 12:07 PM

If your on a budget and are ONLY using one monitor, I use the EVGA GeForce GTX 750TI SC With ACX cooler. http://www.evga.com/...=02G-P4-3755-KR


I use this card personally. Its a beast for budget. Im not running the most extreme system out there either. but I do play MWO on max settings DX11, 1920x1080 with this little jewel. Its only a 128bit interface wich is its only downside but for MWO this little CHEAP card packs a helluva punch.


My MWO specs

Mobo: AsRock H61M-DGS

CPU: Intel core I5 2500K @3.2GHz (Not overclocked)

Ram: 8Gb RipJaw X PC3-12800 @1666 mhz

PSU: Rosewill 750 (80 Bronze)

Graphics: Evga GeForce GTX 750 TI SC with ACX cooler.



The biggest expense I have is my MONITOR and Gsync setup. Im running a 27 inch South Korean made Monitor for the 144hz refresh rate, and Gsync. Man in 3D this game is way more realistic and totally enjoyable. My friends all call it the ultimate eyephuck, and cant wait til they get thier own ultra res monitor and Gsync.

Edited by Falkwulf, 11 January 2015 - 12:14 PM.


#6 Summon3r

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 12:16 PM

please do not consider that move its a lateral for the most part, with the 960's on the horizon you will deff want to wait for that, if you absolutely cannot wait then at the very least a 760.

#7 xWiredx

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 12:33 PM

The GTX 960 will be launching soon at the $200 price point. No sense getting a 660. A 960 should allow you to run high settings (except particles at low, maybe shadows at medium).

#8 MechWarrior4172571

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 12:34 PM

View PostReyvolution, on 11 January 2015 - 11:46 AM, said:

Hello everyone, I am thinking of upgrading my current GTX650 to GTX660. I built my PC two years ago to play MW:O and a few other games. When playing MW:O my average fps is around 50fps, with drops below 30fps every now and again.

Everything at low settings, except for texturing, object detail and environment which are at Medium, Anti-Aliasing is Off. Play at 1920x1080, DX9, v-sync is off. I could play at 1280x720 for better fps... But it's just not as pretty :(


So would it be worth it to upgrade to the GTX 660, or another graphics card that you'd recommend around $250? If not, is there something else that'd be recommended to get constant 60fps, without having to spend a whole lotta money?

The GTX660, I am currently considering is this: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=052981



This is what I am currently running in my PC:

OS: Windows 7 Home Premium 64-Bit
Mainboard: Gigabyte Z77-HD3
CPU: Intel i5-3550 @ 3.30GHz
Graphics Card: EVGA GTX650 1gb "Superclocked"
Memory: 2x4gb Corsair Vengeance - DDR3 1600MHz
PSU: Corsair CX500 - 500watts




BTW... I am still somewhat of a newbie when it comes to PC components and such.

Thanks in advance for the help!


New Maxwell based GTX 750i 2GB is highly recommended--low on power usage, plenty of memory in it for your resolution of monitor, and it's peppy enough for games like MWO. It consumes very little electricity.

http://www.newegg.co...=9SIA24G28N1941

WAIT until it is sold by Newegg only--other sellers there will rip you off. Right now it's sold out and it comes with 1 free game of your choosing (from 3 to choose). Make newegg to notify you when it becomes available and go for it. It should be around $140 $150 especially when you have it in a newegg newsletter deal with a promo code or rebate.

#9 Lord Letto

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 12:38 PM

View PostLord Letto, on 11 January 2015 - 11:59 AM, said:

http://www.tomshardw...iew,3107-7.html
a Radeon R9 270 is a step above the GTX 660/570/480/295 and the same price: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=065929
in your $250 Budget, the 270X is the Best, that's if Canada Computers Only, if you were to buy from online stores the best for $250 would be the Radeon R9 280X (Same level as the GTX 590/680/770):
http://www.ncix.com/...liateid=7474144

also people, keep in mind that this is Canada where things cost more than in america
PNY GTX 970 4GB XL8R
$329.99 on US Newegg
was $389.99 on Canadian Newegg, currently $20(5%) Off for $369.99
http://www.newegg.co..._source=afc-%zn
http://www.newegg.ca..._source=afc-%zn

also, if used is OK and if transportation isn't too big a issue, I just checked Kijiji for the GTA and there are some GTX 680 and GTX 770 for $250 and under, on the ATI Side there are a lot of R9 280X for $150-180, there was also the occasional R9 290 (On same Level with the GTX 780, 970 & Original Titan) I noticed also for $220-250

Edit: Just noticed you have a 500W PSU, I'd recommend upgrading to a 750W, moreso if you go for a AMD GPU, for $250 you could get a used R9 280X and using the remaining $70-100 for a better PSU that can handle it.

http://www.kijiji.ca...gationFlag=true
http://www.canadacom...&item_id=052847

Gigabyte Windforce R9 280X REV2 (GV-R928XOC-3GD)=$155
Corsair Builder Series CX750 750 Watt 80 PLUS Bronze Certified Power Supply (CP-9020015-NA)=On sale for $85, Sale ends tomorrow then goes back up to $100

#10 Reyvolution

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 12:44 PM

View PostLord Letto, on 11 January 2015 - 11:59 AM, said:

http://www.tomshardw...iew,3107-7.html
a Radeon R9 270 is a step above the GTX 660/570/480/295 and the same price: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=065929
in your $250 Budget, the 270X is the Best, that's if Canada Computers Only, if you were to buy from online stores the best for $250 would be the Radeon R9 280X (Same level as the GTX 590/680/770):
http://www.ncix.com/...liateid=7474144

also people, keep in mind that this is Canada where things cost more than in america
PNY GTX 970 4GB XL8R
$329.99 on US Newegg
was $389.99 on Canadian Newegg, currently $20(5%) Off for $369.99
http://www.newegg.co..._source=afc-%zn
http://www.newegg.ca..._source=afc-%zn

also, if used is OK and if transportation isn't too big a issue, I just checked Kijiji for the GTA and there are some GTX 680 and GTX 770 for $250 and under, on the ATI Side there are a lot of R9 280X for $150-180, there was also the occasional R9 290 (On same Level with the GTX 780, 970 & Original Titan) I noticed also for $220-250


Totally didn't even think to check Kijiji. I do see a MSI GTX770 OC for $200, that is pretty close to me. I'm doing all the research and comparisons between all the cards you have mentioned, along will the others everyone else has recommended. I am leaning more towards a NVidia card.


View PostSummon3r, on 11 January 2015 - 12:16 PM, said:

please do not consider that move its a lateral for the most part, with the 960's on the horizon you will deff want to wait for that, if you absolutely cannot wait then at the very least a 760.


Now that I have gotten other's opinions I'll definitely not be getting a 660.


Really do appreciate the help and info everyone!

#11 Reyvolution

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 01:05 PM

View PostLord Letto, on 11 January 2015 - 12:38 PM, said:

http://www.kijiji.ca...gationFlag=true
http://www.canadacom...&item_id=052847

Gigabyte Windforce R9 280X REV2 (GV-R928XOC-3GD)=$155
Corsair Builder Series CX750 750 Watt 80 PLUS Bronze Certified Power Supply (CP-9020015-NA)=On sale for $85, Sale ends tomorrow then goes back up to $100



I contacted the person right away... Hopefully hear back from them and they do still have it.

I'm assuming if I was able to get that card, I'd have to get a more powerful PSU? Actually for any of the cards mentioned I would most likely need a more powerful PSU except for the 750,won't I?

#12 MechWarrior4172571

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 01:15 PM

View PostReyvolution, on 11 January 2015 - 01:05 PM, said:



I contacted the person right away... Hopefully hear back from them and they do still have it.

I'm assuming if I was able to get that card, I'd have to get a more powerful PSU? Actually for any of the cards mentioned I would most likely need a more powerful PSU except for the 750,won't I?


750 plenty for most people. 850 is recommended if you can up it a little. Anything beyond that is for triple SLI.

#13 Lord Letto

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 01:15 PM

http://www.kijiji.ca...gationFlag=true
with a $250 budget that would leave you with $50 to upgrade your PSU cause you have a 500W, Nvidia recommends a 600W Minimum for the 770: http://www.geforce.c.../specifications, cheapest 600W @ Canada Computers (According to ca.pcpartpicker.com) is a Thermaltake TR2 600W (Thermaltake TR-600) For $60: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=040842
there are 3 options for under $50 though:
GF S728 650WATT (Golden Field ATX-S728?) for $40: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=076688
LEPA MX-F1 600W ATX 12V White PSU (N600-SB) for $50: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=065850
and a COOLMAX COOLMAX 600W ATX POWER SUPPLY SINGLE PCI-E 14CM SMART FAN V-600 for $40

out of those under $50 options, I'd say go for none of them, they would be crap quality and likely won't have the 1 6Pin and 1 8 Pin PCI-E Power Connector required for the 770, looking @ ca.pcpartpicker.com, Minimum PSU I'd go for is the EVGA 600B 600W 80+ Bronze Certified (EVGA 100-B1-0600-KR) for $60 after a $15 Mail in Rebate @ NCIX: http://www.ncix.com/...liateid=7474144
http://ca.pcpartpick...ply-100b10600kr

if you want more power to be safe, I'd say go with this EVGA SuperNOVA NEX 750W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular (EVGA 110-B1-0750-VR) for $65 after a $20 MIR @ NCIX: http://www.ncix.com/...liateid=7474144
http://ca.pcpartpick...ply-110b10750vr

Edited by Lord Letto, 11 January 2015 - 01:22 PM.


#14 xWiredx

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 01:32 PM

View PostReyvolution, on 11 January 2015 - 01:05 PM, said:



I contacted the person right away... Hopefully hear back from them and they do still have it.

I'm assuming if I was able to get that card, I'd have to get a more powerful PSU? Actually for any of the cards mentioned I would most likely need a more powerful PSU except for the 750,won't I?

If you're willing to wait a couple of weeks, the GTX 960 will have a low power draw requirement (the 970 and 980 also have low power requirements, Maxwell is a pretty efficient architecture).

#15 Goose

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 01:35 PM

View PostReyvolution, on 11 January 2015 - 01:05 PM, said:

I'm assuming if I was able to get that card, I'd have to get a more powerful PSU? Actually for any of the cards mentioned I would most likely need a more powerful PSU except for the 750,won't I?

Maybe?

This your system?
Posted Image

From here, I can say a 770/680 would eat 38.5A, and a 970 needs thirty-one; Anybody whom knows what a 960 eats is under an NDA, but we can assume it'll be less

Your Corsair PSU, on the other hand, has 38A on the 12V rail, soooooo …

If my assumptions are close. ;-)

Edited by Goose, 11 January 2015 - 01:35 PM.


#16 MechWarrior4172571

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 01:47 PM

View PostGoose, on 11 January 2015 - 01:35 PM, said:


From here, I can say a 770/680 would eat 38.5A, and a 970 needs thirty-one; Anybody whom knows what a 960 eats is under an NDA, but we can assume it'll be less

Your Corsair PSU, on the other hand, has 38A on the 12V rail, soooooo …

If my assumptions are close. ;-)


Generic GTX 970 is rated at 145W
Custom and overlocked can push it to 200W max.

Generic system draw is typically 90W at idle.

CPU at full power would add up to 100W to that.

Total = 300W power supply is good enough for most people running new graphic cards from NVidia.

Sure, I would still recommend 500W, like NVidia does, but 300W is good enough.

http://www.geforce.c.../specifications



#17 Reyvolution

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 01:59 PM

View PostJesus DIED for me, on 11 January 2015 - 01:15 PM, said:


750 plenty for most people. 850 is recommended if you can up it a little. Anything beyond that is for triple SLI.

View PostLord Letto, on 11 January 2015 - 01:15 PM, said:

http://www.kijiji.ca...gationFlag=true
with a $250 budget that would leave you with $50 to upgrade your PSU cause you have a 500W, Nvidia recommends a 600W Minimum for the 770: http://www.geforce.c.../specifications, cheapest 600W @ Canada Computers (According to ca.pcpartpicker.com) is a Thermaltake TR2 600W (Thermaltake TR-600) For $60: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=040842
there are 3 options for under $50 though:
GF S728 650WATT (Golden Field ATX-S728?) for $40: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=076688
LEPA MX-F1 600W ATX 12V White PSU (N600-SB) for $50: http://www.canadacom...&item_id=065850
and a COOLMAX COOLMAX 600W ATX POWER SUPPLY SINGLE PCI-E 14CM SMART FAN V-600 for $40

out of those under $50 options, I'd say go for none of them, they would be crap quality and likely won't have the 1 6Pin and 1 8 Pin PCI-E Power Connector required for the 770, looking @ ca.pcpartpicker.com, Minimum PSU I'd go for is the EVGA 600B 600W 80+ Bronze Certified (EVGA 100-B1-0600-KR) for $60 after a $15 Mail in Rebate @ NCIX: http://www.ncix.com/...liateid=7474144
http://ca.pcpartpick...ply-100b10600kr

if you want more power to be safe, I'd say go with this EVGA SuperNOVA NEX 750W 80+ Bronze Certified Semi-Modular (EVGA 110-B1-0750-VR) for $65 after a $20 MIR @ NCIX: http://www.ncix.com/...liateid=7474144
http://ca.pcpartpick...ply-110b10750vr


If I am going to have upgrade my PSU, I might as well wait a bit. Especially with GTX960 coming out.

View PostGoose, on 11 January 2015 - 01:35 PM, said:

Maybe?

This your system?
Posted Image

From here, I can say a 770/680 would eat 38.5A, and a 970 needs thirty-one; Anybody whom knows what a 960 eats is under an NDA, but we can assume it'll be less

Your Corsair PSU, on the other hand, has 38A on the 12V rail, soooooo …

If my assumptions are close. ;-)


That pretty much is my system!



Now I know, I just said I should wait for the GTX960 to come out.... But how bout if I went with a Radeon R9 270? Would I have to upgrade my PSU with that card or should I just wait for the GTX960? If it is a better bet to just wait for the 960 to come out, I'll just wait and go from there.

#18 Summon3r

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 02:11 PM

if u are willing to wait for the 960 DO IT!! i think the rumor is this quarter of 2015?

#19 Flapdrol

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 02:12 PM

You have a reasonable 500W cpu and a cpu with modest powerconsumption. You can run pretty much any gpu apart from the crazy 295x2 dual gpu card.

#20 Goose

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Posted 11 January 2015 - 02:30 PM

View PostReyvolution, on 11 January 2015 - 01:59 PM, said:

That pretty much is my system!

No; Seriously: Drives and fans matter …

View PostReyvolution, on 11 January 2015 - 01:59 PM, said:

… But how bout if I went with a Radeon R9 270?

I'm seeing 33.1A, and I guess it is an upgrade, and much cheaper, but let's wait …





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