Graphics cards for 300W power supply?

[Shush]

Alright guys, so here's the deal:

I know next to nothing about graphics cards and power supplies, but I've done a little bit of research.

I looked at my power supply and wrote down all the info on it which are as follows:

Output +12v 15A max +5V5B
Max power +5v 20A max -12v
300W +3.3v 18A max

+5V 3.3V output cannot exceed 160W
50Hz-60Hz


I have the serial number too, if need be just ask. But for now, if anybody could recommend some cards that are compatible with my computer, I would be greatly appreciative!

[Skyguy]

It's a bit difficult to tell without knowing the exact PSU, but I'll assume it's a cheap OEM (no offense). It may or may not have a 6-pin PCI Express cable available, but I wouldn't bet the farm on it.

So........the "safest" advice would be to buy a graphics card that doesn't need additional power cables, and can get enough juice from just the mobo itself.

There are a few models out there that would be suitable, but none of them should be considered "gaming" cards. You simply don't have enough power to push anything that is going to do any gaming beyond 1280x1024 resolution.

You're probably looking at a Radeon 7750. Anything better than that and you'll need an open PCI Express power cable, with no real confidence your power supply can handle the draw.

[Shush]

It's a bit difficult to tell without knowing the exact PSU, but I'll assume it's a cheap OEM (no offense). It may or may not have a 6-pin PCI Express cable available, but I wouldn't bet the farm on it.

So........the "safest" advice would be to buy a graphics card that doesn't need additional power cables, and can get enough juice from just the mobo itself.

There are a few models out there that would be suitable, but none of them should be considered "gaming" cards. You simply don't have enough power to push anything that is going to do any gaming beyond 1280x1024 resolution.

You're probably looking at a Radeon 7750. Anything better than that and you'll need an open PCI Express power cable, with no real confidence your power supply can handle the draw.

Radeon, huh? A friend suggested this one:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16814127586

Do you think that'll do?

[Skyguy]

Yes that one will work. It's a previous-generation card. The "new" equivalent would be a Radeon 7750. Both would work, but if you plan on doing gaming you'll likely need to keep the image quality settings on low so your framerates/performance stay relatively good.

[Shush]

Yes that one will work. It's a previous-generation card. The "new" equivalent would be a Radeon 7750. Both would work, but if you plan on doing gaming you'll likely need to keep the image quality settings on low so your framerates/performance stay relatively good.

Thanks so much man! I've been in the market for a new one for a while now. I think I'll go ahead and buy that one.

[Skyguy]

Not a problem, glad to help. It will be a good step up from your onboard graphics.

If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!

[mybadomen]

isnt that GPU going to bottleneck badly with dual core 2.1ghz and 2 gigs of ram?Could probally just buy a way cheaper card if its going to bottleneck anyway. Bought one for my wifes dual core for like 25 dollars. Direct x 10 card cant remeber the name though but it works out well.She had a dual core 3.0Ghz dual core with 2 gigs of ram.