 |
My current specs for my computer are as follows.
OS: Windows Vista 32-bit OS
Processor: AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 4400+ 2.31 GHZ
Ram: 4 gigs (3.5 cause of the 32 bit os)
Video Card: Nvidia Geforce 9600 GT
I'm trying to get some games to run faster, and I've asked a few people but I figured i'd ask here so I can get some permanent info (you know.. written down) I do plan on upgrading and making my own computer, but I think I can upgrade this computer as I go along until I get everything ready.
I've been told that upgrading my video card would be the best bet for making games run faster seeing as how my dual-core/ram isn't too much of an issue (I do plan on getting windows 7 in the near future)... but I'm wondering if upgrading my processor would be just as good of an alternative for upgrading my computer..
Any thoughts?
Follow me on Twitter! -> http://twitter.com/RolandDaemon
Honestly, the 32-bit OS might be the biggest bottleneck. I have no stats of data to back this up, but from my experience I'd estimate that for similarly spec'd systems running 32 and 64 bit OS, the 64 bit will run a long series of simple operations 30-50% faster.
AMD is set to come out with a new processor chip any time, and prices on Intel processors might drop significantly in response, so keep an eye out.
While Arcy and I don't agree on Intel VS. AMD... We did both agree that your Video Card isn't the biggest chokepoint here.
And again: A quick look at the MOBO specs of your current system shows that upgrading O.S. first will cause more problems than it solves.
The biggest offenders here in order of biggest bottlneck IMO are: M Board --> RAM ---> CPU --> Video.
The video Card you hope to upgrade to should influence your CPU selection b/c there's just a history there.
And CPU selection might influence your Board selection if you're nervous about mounting the CPU yourself.
AFAIK, most dealers will test your CPU + Board combo when you order complimentary deals.
,,,and yeah, heat transfer paste is something to be nervous of if you've never watched someone do it before.
EDIT: I agree with Selka.... the new Bulldozer setup AMD is coming out with might be worth the wait, especially if they stay true to their standard practice of offering good Mid-range models too. I still haven't upgraded my own CPU b/c that's exactly what I'm waiting for.
Last edited by iller; 10-27-2011 at 07:39 PM.
They had a big overview of Bulldozer on Ars the other day and apparently it's got several issues. Might wanna wait for Buldozer-II or just go Intel.
BARK BARK BARK BARK BARK: VVVVVV? More like ZZZZZZ.
Historically, whenever you have a duopoly and one of the firms comes out with a new product, the products of the others firms drop significantly in price, which is why you should wait for Bulldozer to be released even if you end up getting an Intel.
Side question: why would 64 bit cause more problems? Not saying you're wrong, this is just me trying to learn a bit more about computers.
^ Just more bells and whistles basically that the system tries to run all at once through a motherboard that's only made for 32bit.
I actually saw this happen to a guy who upgraded to 64bit OS where his performance actually got WORSE on some UE3 based games.
Not sure if it was because of higher quality textures or particles or what, but there's definitely difference optimizers in games that check that threading value and respond to it. Plus I heard Win7 takes up atleast 2 GB of phys Memory if you let it possibly resulting in less memory overall. So I was telling Roland in TS just to be safe, upgrade atleast some of the Hardware before doing the O.S. (board & RAM)
Posting Permissions
LinkBack URL
About LinkBacks
Reply With Quote
