Graphics card to go with E8200 to maximize performance?

[dwluv3333]

Hi,

I currently have an Intel C2D E8200 at stock frequency. I was wondering what video card I can get (single card, for a 22" monitor at 1680 x 1050) that would make the CPU become the bottleneck, and not the GPU.

I am currently running a GTS 250 512 mb. Is there a lot of untapped performance I'm not getting from using this GPU?

Thanks in advance---

 

[daedalus685]

You CPU is already the bottleneck... You don't really need anything more for that resolution.. Generally a 260/4870 would be the most anyone would recommend for that resolution and there is absolutely no point to upgrade given how small the increase would be.

 

[dwluv3333]

Hey,

Thanks for the responses guys, I'm coming from a reallllly old computer which couldn't run any games at all, so I wouldn't be able to tell ya if I'm having issues playing games til I get some more recent ones. But so far this one is running the COD4 demo flawlessly which seems to be a good sign.

Is my CPU really that outdated? I was hoping that with this combo I could run new games for a while.. at least 2 years. Also, if it makes a difference, i AM able to return the GTS 250 and spend the extra money for a GTX 260. Would this then be worth it? Or is the GTS 250 a pretty good match for me down the road?

Thanks

 

[rambo117]

if you can get a GTX 260 then hell ya, the performance gains will be excellent.
and your CPU isnt outdated, but a slight OC wouldnt hurt

a gts 250 will last you a good while though.
hey, im still usin my 3870s xfired and rockin through stalker clear sky DX10 high settings

 

[ahslan]

i definitely wouldnt say your cpu is outdated...a simple OC, as previous posters have said, will definitely unlock more performance...this cpu will definitely last you at least 2 years...

 

[michaelmk86]

Also, if it makes a difference, i AM able to return the GTS 250 and spend the extra money for a GTX 260.

Do it. It is worth the extra money even if you not OC you cpu the bottleneck will be very minimal.