Since my laptop died a while ago I bought a new PC, but one without real videocard, so even just playing Guild Wars 1 can only be done by putting all graphics sliders down to the absolute minimum if I want to be able to play the game with keeping a normal framerate.
So yeah, I'm looking for a videocard that should be able to run Guild Wars 1 easily at max. But I don't want an overly expensive one, as I'll be buying the best videocard I can afford when Guild Wars 2 comes out (hopefully in a year or so).
Looking to spend something between 50-100 Euro's (64-128 USD).
LF Cheap decent videocard
Milennin
Elektraaa
What country in Europe?
What motherboard?
What motherboard?
Milennin
I live in Sweden.
Where or how do you check motherboard?
Where or how do you check motherboard?
Master Ketsu
Nvidia 9600 GT or Radeon 4850 should do it. Both are 80~130$ depending on where you shop and can run Guild wars + most other games just fine.
Milennin
Thanks, I'll look into those two.^^ Still open for more suggestions before I'm going to make a final decision.
Elektraaa
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=how+do+I+find+o...oard+I+have%3F
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=how+do+I+find+o...pply+I+have%3F
http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html
Can't make any suggestions, you might have AGP, PCI-E 1.0, PCI-E 2.0 etc. Power supply also needs to be adequate. I'm assuming that because the computer didn't come with a good graphics card, it's probably not.
P.S Look into getting second hand if you don't intend on using it long-term.
*excuse edits, but mods will probably shit a brick otherwise.
http://lmgtfy.com/?q=how+do+I+find+o...pply+I+have%3F
http://www.cpuid.com/softwares/cpu-z.html
Can't make any suggestions, you might have AGP, PCI-E 1.0, PCI-E 2.0 etc. Power supply also needs to be adequate. I'm assuming that because the computer didn't come with a good graphics card, it's probably not.
P.S Look into getting second hand if you don't intend on using it long-term.
*excuse edits, but mods will probably shit a brick otherwise.
Elder III
go ahead and download CPUID - it's a nice little program, as for the power supply, you could take the side off your case and see what the sticker on it says.... What's the make and model of your new desktop? You may need to look for a low profile option. Also, what resolution do you play at?
Milennin
Alright, I used that CPUZ thing...
I guess getting second hand is a good idea yeah.
Ehh, I'll go check inside my computer in a minute then.
EDIT: I've had a look inside, and hope this is the thing I was supposed to look up:
DELTA ELECTRONICS INC.
Model: DPS-250AB-22 D REV 07F
Input: 220-240V ~/3. 15A 50Hz
Output: 250W MAX.
My fullscreen resolution is 1920 x 1080 on a 22 inch screen.
I guess getting second hand is a good idea yeah.
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Elder III
go ahead and download CPUID - it's a nice little program, as for the power supply, you could take the side off your case and see what the sticker on it says.... What's the make and model of your new desktop? You may need to look for a low profile option. Also, what resolution do you play at?
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EDIT: I've had a look inside, and hope this is the thing I was supposed to look up:
DELTA ELECTRONICS INC.
Model: DPS-250AB-22 D REV 07F
Input: 220-240V ~/3. 15A 50Hz
Output: 250W MAX.
My fullscreen resolution is 1920 x 1080 on a 22 inch screen.
Armageddon
Do you have an Acer Veriton M221 ? Ill fill some info in here if it is, and if its not Ill just edit this out 
you will probably need a new power supply as well as a graphics card, but dont get a cheap generic one, it would probably be worse than the one youve got (250w)
The Corsair CX 400W is looking great value atm at only £32.99 (manufactured by Seasonic)
Since you really only want a temporary graphics card, I think this is great value at £52.86 - GeForce 8800 GTS 640MB
you will probably need a new power supply as well as a graphics card, but dont get a cheap generic one, it would probably be worse than the one youve got (250w)
The Corsair CX 400W is looking great value atm at only £32.99 (manufactured by Seasonic)
Since you really only want a temporary graphics card, I think this is great value at £52.86 - GeForce 8800 GTS 640MB
Milennin
Uhmm, as far as I know I have an Acer Veriton, but not sure about the number.
If I were to buy the Corsair power supply you just linked me to, would that be good enough to keep for when I want to upgrade my graphics card for Guild Wars 2? Because I don't think I'd want it if I have to go buy a new one next year.=p
And thanks a lot for the links btw.8)
If I were to buy the Corsair power supply you just linked me to, would that be good enough to keep for when I want to upgrade my graphics card for Guild Wars 2? Because I don't think I'd want it if I have to go buy a new one next year.=p
And thanks a lot for the links btw.8)
Elektraaa
It'd be pushing it, and don't buy from England either. I'll try and find a decent swedish shop.
The power supply you currently have won't power much. It's a way they can cut costs - don't put in graphics card, then they can put in a cheap PSU.
I'd look for something a bit more powerful if I was you.
The power supply you currently have won't power much. It's a way they can cut costs - don't put in graphics card, then they can put in a cheap PSU.
I'd look for something a bit more powerful if I was you.
Armageddon
np
without knowing what you would be upgrading to its really hard to say, its likely it will be ok, especially since the newer cards are getting more efficient, the 8800 GTS draws a max of 150w - if your new card draws less power then it should be ok (the 5770 for eg only draws 108w max, whereas the 5970 can draw upto 300w)
without knowing what you would be upgrading to its really hard to say, its likely it will be ok, especially since the newer cards are getting more efficient, the 8800 GTS draws a max of 150w - if your new card draws less power then it should be ok (the 5770 for eg only draws 108w max, whereas the 5970 can draw upto 300w)
Undead Cheese
I'd recommend getting a new 400w PSU or so, and then going for a HD 4770/4670/4850 or something similar.
Refer to this for my personal recommendations on PSU's: http://www.guildwarsguru.com/forum/s...8&postcount=12
Refer to this for my personal recommendations on PSU's: http://www.guildwarsguru.com/forum/s...8&postcount=12
Elektraaa
I don't really think 400 is going to be enough if he goes for a power hungry GFX card in the future. You might get away with it, but it really is pushing it. Wouldn't it be worth spending a bit more on the PSU and then just getting a second hand 8800/9600?
Milennin
Thanks for the help and suggestions. I'll go look into this some more myself.8)
Undead Cheese
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Milennin
Uhmm, as far as I know I have an Acer Veriton, but not sure about the number.
If I were to buy the Corsair power supply you just linked me to, would that be good enough to keep for when I want to upgrade my graphics card for Guild Wars 2? Because I don't think I'd want it if I have to go buy a new one next year.=p And thanks a lot for the links btw.8) |
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Elektraaa
I don't really think 400 is going to be enough if he goes for a power hungry GFX card in the future. You might get away with it, but it really is pushing it. Wouldn't it be worth spending a bit more on the PSU and then just getting a second hand 8800/9600?
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Darcy
If this is temporary, then go for the used equipment. You should be able to get a better power supply and a decent graphics card without exceeding your budget. Also keep in mind that you might need to increase the cooling somehow. A graphics card will add to the heat and efficient cooling is another neglected item on lower end PCs.
Milennin
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Darcy
If this is temporary, then go for the used equipment. You should be able to get a better power supply and a decent graphics card without exceeding your budget. Also keep in mind that you might need to increase the cooling somehow. A graphics card will add to the heat and efficient cooling is another neglected item on lower end PCs.
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Undead Cheese
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Milennin
The cooling is the thing in the center inside the computer? What would you suggest?
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Milennin
Hmm, would this card be good enough to run Guild Wars 1 at max? http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showpr...56&subcat=1833
Found it to be cheaper than the previous ones mentioned.^^ And as long as it can run GW1 at max I'll be happy. How do I see if I would need a new cooler or power supply for this one?
Found it to be cheaper than the previous ones mentioned.^^ And as long as it can run GW1 at max I'll be happy. How do I see if I would need a new cooler or power supply for this one?
Armageddon
I really dont think it will, its really an old low end card
you can compare the 2 cards here
http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/charts...d[3527]=on
I think whatever card you get, you will need a new power supply, cooling can wait till you can see if theres a problem, your airflow will probably be ok as it is, if not it would just need a few € for a fan or two
you can compare the 2 cards here
http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/charts...d[3527]=on
I think whatever card you get, you will need a new power supply, cooling can wait till you can see if theres a problem, your airflow will probably be ok as it is, if not it would just need a few € for a fan or two
Milennin
Aaha, I see. I was hoping I could avoid getting a new power supply, but I guess that won't happen.^^ Hmmm, I'll try if I can find a webshop that sells those in Sweden.
EDIT: Got one.=p
EDIT: Got one.=p
Undead Cheese
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Milennin
Hmm, would this card be good enough to run Guild Wars 1 at max? http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showpr...56&subcat=1833
Found it to be cheaper than the previous ones mentioned.^^ And as long as it can run GW1 at max I'll be happy. How do I see if I would need a new cooler or power supply for this one? |
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showpr...=56&subcat=938 or http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showpr...56&subcat=1009
That's probably the best card you can get in your price bracket. Keep in mind the 4850 is faster than the 9800GT.
Elektraaa
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Undead Cheese
400-450W would be enough for a GTX 460 or a 5850, that's it, provided you do not overclock. If you wan't more power hungry cards, for example a 5870, GTX 465/470/480 you will need more power.
Depends on what you think is ''power hungry'', any card around the 150Wish mark can be powered by a 400w. |
. 5870 is actually pretty good on current draw.Not to confuse the OP, but you may not need to spend as much as the 9800, considering you're going to be upgrading later anyway. Look around for a 9600/8800GT if you can.
Obviously manufacturers over-rate their cards but it's nice to feel comfortable that you can add hdd's etc.
www.inet.se
www.komplett.se
Shops for the OP.
Milennin
Thanks alot, I couldn't find the 8800 nor 9600 versions on the Swedish shops (closest results were 8400 and 9800 instead). I was looking at this card: http://www.inet.se/artikel/5408392/l...e-8400gs-512mb - It's a 8400, I guess it should be enough if I get the Corsair 400W with it?
Lord Sojar
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Undead Cheese
400-450W would be enough for a GTX 460 or a 5850, that's it, provided you do not overclock. If you wan't more power hungry cards, for example a 5870, GTX 465/470/480 you will need more power.
Depends on what you think is ''power hungry'', any card around the 150Wish mark can be powered by a 400w. |
A quality 450w will power the cards you listed. A 400w will not, at least properly without either decreasing the cards performance or damaging it.
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Milennin
Thanks alot, I couldn't find the 8800 nor 9600 versions on the Swedish shops (closest results were 8400 and 9800 instead). I was looking at this card: http://www.inet.se/artikel/5408392/l...e-8400gs-512mb - It's a 8400, I guess it should be enough if I get the Corsair 400W with it?
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You want this card:
http://www.komplett.se/k/ki.aspx?sku=579472
You won't have to upgrade your PSU to power that card.
It will run Guild Wars 2, but it certainly won't be maxing it out. I suspect you will be able to run it at a midrange resolution with some effects on medium, others on low, maybe 1 or 2 on high (that's a big maybe on last one) But, it will run it.
If that card is too much (it shouldn't be, 85 Euros by conversion, which is in your 50-100 Euro range), then you could go with this one, albeit for a big performance hit.
http://www.komplett.se/k/ki.aspx?sku=584573
Elder III
There's no way in hell a 8400 will max GW out if you plan to play at 1080p - If you can swing it go for the 240, unless you can increase your budget enough to upgrade the PSU as well....
Armageddon
heres a good article from tomshardware about the total system power consumption, its from early last year so a little out of date and doesnt have the latest graphics cards but it gives a good idea of the total power needed
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/...ower,2122.html
http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/...ower,2122.html
Darcy
If you add a video card, you will definitely need a better power supply. There is no question about that.
The 8800 GTS would be better and might even do GW2 at low settings, giving you more time to complete your upgrade.
As for cooling, I was talking about case cooling, not necessarily your cpu cooling. Graphics cards put out quite a bit of heat. You could replace your case fan with a better one and make sure the case is up off the floor where it won't get as dusty. Keep it clean by blowing out any dust on a regular basis as dust holds in the heat.
The 8800 GTS would be better and might even do GW2 at low settings, giving you more time to complete your upgrade.
As for cooling, I was talking about case cooling, not necessarily your cpu cooling. Graphics cards put out quite a bit of heat. You could replace your case fan with a better one and make sure the case is up off the floor where it won't get as dusty. Keep it clean by blowing out any dust on a regular basis as dust holds in the heat.
Lord Sojar
You do no need a new power supply if the card has no PCIe power connector.... That means that the card draws 75W or less, which is gets from the PCIe 16x slot.
So for a GT240, the OP will NOT need a new power supply.
So for a GT240, the OP will NOT need a new power supply.
Undead Cheese
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Lord Sojar
A quality 450w will power the cards you listed. A 400w will not, at least properly without either decreasing the cards performance or damaging it.
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A 400w can power a 5850 or a GTX 460 provided there isn't any overclocking, the OP is also using a low power dual core. Stop over estimating the amount on pwoer a PC uses so much. Get a standard GTX 460 and a stock CPU with a Kill-a-watt and I garuantee your full Prime95/Furmark load is under 400w. Even less when you take the 80% effiency into account. Under general gaming load it will be 300w or so. Quote:
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Originally Posted by Lord Sojar
You do no need a new power supply if the card has no PCIe power connector.... That means that the card draws 75W or less, which is gets from the PCIe 16x slot.
So for a GT240, the OP will NOT need a new power supply. |
I honestly can't be bothered having to argue with you again, just so you can go ahead and close the thread, but I have stated facts here, nothing else.
Milennin
EDIT - after reading above post. Hmmm...
Aaha yes. Just searched for some information, and the recommended PSU for it is 400W.
Aaha yes. Just searched for some information, and the recommended PSU for it is 400W.
Undead Cheese
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Milennin
EDIT - after reading above post. Hmmm...
Aaha yes. Just searched for some information, and the recommended PSU for it is 400W. |
And just a FYI, most manufacturers (ATI and Nvidia in this case) over spec the amount of wattage you need for your card. The reason they do it is because alot of people (most of the market) buy generic/bad quality powersupplies that actually don't deliver their rated wattage and when they start to fail/get damaged, the manufacturers have to deal with the returns/RMA's which costs them alot of money.
Milennin
The GT240 does need 400W.
I'm kinda annoyed by how hard it is to upgrade graphics card, the numbers on those things don't seem to make any sense (like how you guys recommended 7900 to me, but said 8400 is crap, then recommend a 8800). I might just stick with my current card and play on minimum.>__>
Choices choices...
I'm kinda annoyed by how hard it is to upgrade graphics card, the numbers on those things don't seem to make any sense (like how you guys recommended 7900 to me, but said 8400 is crap, then recommend a 8800). I might just stick with my current card and play on minimum.>__>
Choices choices...
Lord Sojar
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Undead Cheese
Umm, no
A 400w can power a 5850 or a GTX 460 provided there isn't any overclocking, the OP is also using a low power dual core. Stop over estimating the amount on pwoer a PC uses so much. Get a standard GTX 460 and a stock CPU with a Kill-a-watt and I garuantee your full Prime95/Furmark load is under 400w. Even less when you take the 80% effiency into account. Under general gaming load it will be 300w or so. You tell me about an insufficient PSU decreasing and damaging a component, yet you don't think the OP would need a new PSU if he got a new <75W card on a generic PSU? hypocrite. I honestly can't be bothered having to argue with you again, just so you can go ahead and close the thread, but I have stated facts here, nothing else. |
SIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGH!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm getting really tired of this arguing in Tech...
This isn't an issue of purely wattage in regards to high end gaming GPUs. It comes down to stable voltages on the 12v rails, enough amperage to power the PC properly, and since PSUs are only efficient at 80-90% and drop off sharply above that, that means you need to have a PSU that provides the needed stability at 80-85% of its peak power output.
A 400W PSU can provide a total of 33 amps (in theory) on the 12v rail. That's way too close for comfort. It might cut it, provided it was a top top quality 400w, but that's it.... and just cutting it isn't worth it.
To your second (insulting for no reason) point....
His power supply is already bloody providing the PCIe channel with the 75W it needs. So no, he won't need a new PSU to power a card that his power supply is already providing power to. He has a low power CPU and very few system components. He doesn't own a gaming rig! Honestly, I think you are just trying to start arguments for the sake of starting arguments at this point...
Milennin: HERE IS RELEVANT INFO TO YOUR THREAD>
The GT240 requires a 300w PSU... nothing more.
Specifically...
Thermal and Power Specs:
- Maximum GPU Temperature (in C) 105C
- Maximum Graphics Card Power (W) 69 W
- Minimum Recommended System Power (W) 300 W
It isn't difficult to upgrade your GPU. Just buy the GT240, and you won't need to upgrade your PSU. Trust me, I worked for nVidia for nearly 2 years, I know their products inside and out.
Milennin
Alright alright, sorry.xD I'll take the GT240 and shut up before I say any more stupid things.=p Anyways, I appreciated the help lots.^^ This thread can be closed then.
Elder III
Sorry friend, it would be easier on everyone if the better video card = the higher number, but that's not the case. I'm going to list the cards that should be able to play GW1 at the high resolution that you said you play at (1920 x 1080). This list won't include every card and it won't say which is better, but it will at least give you a rough idea of what to shop for and what not to even consider if it was free.
NVIDIA Geforce 8800 series, 9600GT, 9800 series, 240, 250, 260, 275, 280, 295, 460, 470, 480 -
ATI (AMD now) Radeon 4670, 4770, 4800 series, 5670, 5800 series, 5970 -
anyone of those should do just fine with GW1 at 1080p. I suspect they would all play GW2 as well, but the cheaper ones listed here likely will not be able to "Max" GW2 out at 1080p resolution.
Once again, that's not a total list of every video card, and I'm sure I left a couple capable options off the list as well, but until I get my morning coffee, that's the best I can do, and it ought to help you some with your decision.
***I do suggest that you try to upgrade your Power Supply if the cash is available; if not I would probably wait a few months and upgrade your video card at that time.... your choice, but unless you get one of the "weaker" cards (ie. not as good for GW2) on there it likely won't let you game on that power supply that you currently have.***
NVIDIA Geforce 8800 series, 9600GT, 9800 series, 240, 250, 260, 275, 280, 295, 460, 470, 480 -
ATI (AMD now) Radeon 4670, 4770, 4800 series, 5670, 5800 series, 5970 -
anyone of those should do just fine with GW1 at 1080p. I suspect they would all play GW2 as well, but the cheaper ones listed here likely will not be able to "Max" GW2 out at 1080p resolution.
Once again, that's not a total list of every video card, and I'm sure I left a couple capable options off the list as well, but until I get my morning coffee, that's the best I can do, and it ought to help you some with your decision.
***I do suggest that you try to upgrade your Power Supply if the cash is available; if not I would probably wait a few months and upgrade your video card at that time.... your choice, but unless you get one of the "weaker" cards (ie. not as good for GW2) on there it likely won't let you game on that power supply that you currently have.***
Lord Sojar
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Milennin
Alright alright, sorry.xD I'll take the GT240 and shut up before I say any more stupid things.=p Anyways, I appreciated the help lots.^^ This thread can be closed then.
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Misinformation abounds. Your 250w PSU should be enough to power the GT240. It will be a bit starved for power, but nVidia's lower end cards feature some amazing power management technology. The GT240 will throttle down.I'd still save for a 500w PSU and toss that in when you get the chance/money, but it's no rush. Just don't go pushing that card using Furmark or Crysis. ^_^
You are most welcome for the help as well, and I'm sure you'll be a lot happier with the GT240 than the aging ATi you have now.
Milennin
Yeah, I probably won't be playing any other graphic-heavy games on my PC until I get my full Guild Wars 2 upgrade.8)
And yes, I wil consider upgrading my PSU if my current one is going to cause problems.
And yes, I wil consider upgrading my PSU if my current one is going to cause problems.
Lord Sojar
Quote:
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Originally Posted by Milennin
Yeah, I probably won't be playing any other graphic-heavy games on my PC until I get my full Guild Wars 2 upgrade.8)
And yes, I wil consider upgrading my PSU if my current one is going to cause problems. |
I wouldn't say problems, that only really happens on higher end GPUs. Voltage fluctuations are more likely to occur with direct line power (aka PCIe power connectors going to the card) Mainboard 20(4) pin power is very well regulated by the board in almost all instances, so the determent to the card should be minimal or more likely, nonexistent.
Still, and upgrade can't hurt down the road. Not only that, but it will open the door to a higher end GPU (example: GTX 460) that will slaughter GW2 for you at high/max settings, should you decide to upgrade again. You can then demote the GT240 to a CUDA/PhysX dedicated card, which is always nice to have.