new GPU for old CPU, Do I exploit a power of GPU?

[Tose]

Hello,

i wanna buy a new GPU. Also i have old PC. So i want to know, if my current CPU (C2Q q9550 - overclocked 3,4GHz) is able to cooperate with R9280X, or it is unnecessary power and for example R9 270 would be enough. Thank you.

 

[EasyLover]

Which GPU you are using? R9 280X would be too much. Stick with R9 270 or better 750Ti 2GB version

 

[Tose]

yeah sry, i have Radeon HD 6850 (1GB) now

 

[coozie7]

I'd split the difference and go for the R9 280/HD 7950, with several AAA titles wanting 3Gb of VRAM these faster cards are, in my opinion, worth the extra, but only if you have a 1080 monitor, if you're using a lower rez and have no intention of upgrading soon, the R9 270/HD7870 is a better fit.
If you want to go with the Green Team, the GTX760 actually fits between my AMD choices: It's a little faster than the R9 270 and just a little slower than the R9 280 overall but in this latter case the differences are very small.
Here's how the cards stack up: http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/gaming-graphics-card-review,review-32899-7.html
As always, check the power supply specs, the AMD cards can require 1x6 and 1x8 pin leads and they'll all want a good quality 500 Watt unit.

 

[Tose]

Well, my monitor is old as my CPU 😀, im playing 1280*960. But if will be posibille, Id like to play GTA V and Witcher III and these sandbox titles gonna need >2GB VRAM. Also im planning to buy GPU like used. ---->

660GTX - 140$
270x - 170$ (new 220$)
280x - 200$ (new 350$)
(price in my country, GPU has still warranty about one year)

280x has very interesting price/performance ratio. But if CPU doesnt exploit performance of GPU, it doesnt worth for purchase

Supply isnt problem, i have Corsair 650W

 

[coozie7]

At that rez I'd go for the GTX660, and even that is really a little too much for 1280x960.

 

[EasyLover]

I won't opt for 660 as I'l keep in mind the future upgrade and still opt for R9 270+ MHO