Need help with PSU requirements for running my new GPU

[TechnicEclipse]

Im thinking of buying a new GPU just because my Radeon 6670 isnt really performing like i want it to..... my questions is will my PSU run eaither of these graphics cards with my setup i have now.

CPU: Phenom ii 960T 3.0ghz ( CM TX3 cooler)
Asus MB, idk the model, but its a 780 chipset
2- LED 120mm fans
1- non LED 120 mm fan
Samsung DVD/W CD/W drive
500gb WD RE3 HD
atm- XFX Radeon HD 6670

My PSU
Antec Earthwatts 430watt Continuous PSU (about 3-4 months old)


the cards im trying to chose between is eaither a
Radeon HD 6850
or a
Nvidia GTX 550ti

Also which graphics card would you recommend?
thanks for the help

 

[rolli59]

Yes that PSU will handle either card! The HD6850 is the more powerful of the two.

 

[cmichael138]

The 550 has a recommended minimum wattage of 400 whereas the 6850 recommends a minimum of 500 watts.

If you don't want to spend money for a new PSU, then consider the 550ti. I have the 550ti, which is fine for my use as I'm not into games, but as rolli59 stated, the 6850 is a more powerful card.

 

[rolli59]

Regardless of that the Antec EA 430 is more powerful than many generic 500watt units that manufacturers recommendations are based on! Total system load will not exceed 300watts with HD6850 http://www.anandtech.com/show/3987/amds-radeon-6870-6850-renewing-competition-in-the-midrange-market/20

 

[Sunius]

The 550 has a recommended minimum wattage of 400 whereas the 6850 recommends a minimum of 500 watts.

If you don't want to spend money for a new PSU, then consider the 550ti. I have the 550ti, which is fine for my use as I'm not into games, but as rolli59 stated, the 6850 is a more powerful card.

Don't look at recommendations. They are bunch of nonsense. HD 6850 actually consumes LESS power than GTX 550 Ti. Please don't give out misinformation .

 

[nukemaster]

I am with the above poster and rolli59 on this one. Unless you are into extreme overclocking, your current power supply will be just fine.

Point in case AMD says 450 watt for a 5770(6770). But it runs just fine on a good 300 watt unit(with power to spare). Once again, no extreme overclocking or anything.

 

[TechnicEclipse]

Thanks for all the help guys . and i really dont see a need for me to O/C anything.... honestly not really familliar with it so dont want to risk doing it

 

[TechnicEclipse]

I am with the above poster and rolli59 on this one. Unless you are into extreme overclocking, your current power supply will be just fine.

Point in case AMD says 450 watt for a 5770(6770). But it runs just fine on a good 300 watt unit(with power to spare). Once again, no extreme overclocking or anything.

But a quick question, will that PSU run a 6850, if im running BF3 for hours on end? (i usually dont play it hours on end..... but like to know if i decide to if it can handle it)

 

[rolli59]

Yes as stated above! Looking at less than 300watts total system load. Just to add I have one running on Antec HCG400 watt!

 

[nukemaster]

The power supply is rated for continuous operation so its all good.

 

[Deemo13]

That power supply should run a 6850 just fine.