Budget Build: Upgrade Processor or Call it Done?

[JKDZ28]

Hi All,

I have an Alienware X51 R2 with the following specs:

Intel I3 - 4130
PNY 16 GB DDR3
PNY GTX 750 Ti XLR8 OC
Samsung 850 Pro - 512 GB SSD
330 Watt Power Supply (Largest Plug in Play Offered)

So basically I have like $700 in everything together. Which I would call a very good budget build.

My question is.... is there anything left to upgrade? Should I go with a better GPU or Upgrade the CPU?

 

[Barty1884]

There's always something to upgrade, but whether it'll make a difference to you is the main question.

What is it you do with this rig? How does it perform? Living up to expectations?
If so, there's likely no point in upgrading. If it's falling short, focus on why.

At a glance, the 750ti is the let down. The i3 will compliment greater GPUs fairly well.
The problem there, is the 330W PSU is likely not going to be sufficient for much more (the 750ti is 60W card at max).

 

[weberdarren97]

I agree. Before we can decide on what component is best to upgrade, it'll be best to find out what you're going to use it for.

 

[JKDZ28]

So can the 330 watt power supply accommodate a larger graphics card? Thanks for the response all!

 

[JKDZ28]

The rig is basically for gaming. I'm trying to get the most bang for the buck with the system I have with the limitations I have (330w PS)

 

[weberdarren97]

As a word of advice, if you do not know the make and model of the power supply and therefore do not know the quality of its internals, then I wouldn't recommend utilizing more than 75% of its output capacity. If you can provide the make and model I can better assist you here.

 

[JKDZ28]

The power supply is an external one that comes with alienware PCs

https://www.amazon.com/Dell-Replacement-Alienware-AM18X-6732BAA-compatible/dp/B00CGA5JQM