Graphics cards

[plewsy2105]

Hi all

im currently looking in to getting a graphics card for my pc and i was wondering if anyone could recommend one.

many thanks

plewsy2105

[Darpor]

Without your system specs, it would be similar to recommending a virtual turd.

[Kromaatikse]

There are good recommendations for all sorts of hardware upgrades in the FAQ section now.

Of course, I may be biased since I wrote them...

[Easilyconfused]

That is a fairly open ended question. The problem with PCs is that you have to have a balanced system. You can have a ninja graphics card and SSD drives but if you only got 1MB RAM the system will run like a dog or more likely hobble like an arthritic old mutt.

What are the rest of your system specifications ?

[plewsy2105]

my system specs are: pentium dual-core CPU E5700 @ 3.00GHz, 2.0GB RAM, Intel G45/G43 express chipset

plewsy2105

[firetrap1]

If you do decide to upgrade your graphics card you must first think about the basics:


Does your current computer power supply look up to the job? i.e. does the wattage (and amperage) cover all your computers needs for an upgrade?
Have you got enough free PCI-E ports on your motherboard? (prettymuch all good graphics cards and 'high-end' graphics cards run on PCI-Express 2.0 X16)
Do you have the right type of Ports?


If you do a search on YouTube you will get 1000's of useless videos on pc upgrades, with the odd occasional 'gem' that you are looking for.

PC world and Currys are pretty much useless for upgrades as well, due to the limited range of equipment (which is sometimes in-compatible) that they sell.




First things first:

Start with manufacturer websites, e.g. nVidia and ATI

Then go further and look at card manufacturer websites, e.g. msi, Gigabyte, EVGA, Gainward and OcUK for 'NVidia cards'

and also:

XFX, Sapphire, Asus and HIS for 'ATI graphics cards'

As a comparison between card types I use suppliers such as Overclockers UK, because they list card types from top to bottom down the left side of their website:
(http://www.overclockers.co.uk/productli ... 1&catid=56)

The best/most powerful cards that produce the best graphics generally have the highest numbers beside the product name.
Different people have different views on which is best, ATI or nVidia. All you need to worry about is finding a card that suits your budget and at the same time, is compatible with your existing hardwear inside your computer.

Always try to find the manufacturers guide or manual for the type of equipment you are looking at before you buy or sign for anything. Some retail outlets have been known to give the wrong information out! so you don't want to throw your hard earned down the drain for useless hardwear.

Check everything upto and including the product dimensions.


Lastly, try to source some good reviews or install videos on YouTube of the exact product you eventually decide on, so that you can see what it is you are looking at before you buy.



P.s. Make sure the graphics card you purchase has enough Amps provided for it on your PSU's (power supply unit) +12Volt rail(s). Otherwise it's pretty much useless to.



Hope that makes some sense! don't rush into anything and take your time.


Regards

Chris.