GPU upgrade for my Workstation

[Kaekae]

Hey Folks,

I currently use a Vostro 430 here at work.

It's an Intel i5-750 - 8GB DDR3 - Basic Intel socket 1156 Mobo (can't OC) - Nvidia GeForce GT220 and a cheap 350W PSU.

In my downtime here at work I am able to play video games, but I'd like to know what I could potentially upgrade to and replace the GT220. It simply isn't cutting it on some games.

I play at 1920x1080 and considering I only have a 350W PSU - what is the best current GPU upgrade I can put on it?

I've heard Radeon 6670 (which may be pushing the 350W) but is there anything better - my budget is $125 max.

 

[Plimogz]

Assuming that this is the box in question and that by "cheap 350W PSU" you mean the one that came stock with that system, Dell specifies 150W of graphics expansion room.

See for yourself, if you want; it's in some bullet points towards the bottom of the product page I linked; under the heading "Expandable and Future-Ready".

To be sure of what you're dealing with, you'd need to check how many amps the +12V line is rated for; it's usually pretty visible on the side of the actual power supply.

If this was a known good quality 350W power supply, there'd be no problem getting a 6770 (or 5770, if the price is right) in there. As it stands, that might be pushing it, but no way is a 6670 going to cause you any grieft. IMO, any way.

Check the +12V amps, maybe you'll find that you can fit a 6750 or 6770 in there, afterall. But it sure would be a shame to blow up your work computer because you just couldn't go without a few more FPS.