PCIe 3.0 x16 graphics card in a PCIe 2.0 x16 slot

Nubnut

Honorable
Mar 29, 2013
3
0
10,510
I'm currently debating upgrading to a GTX 970 4GB 256 bit which calls for a PCI express 3.0 x16 slot. However, I have a relatively old motherboard, an ASUS M4A77D which only has a PCI express 2.0 x16 slot.

I was curious if it was at all possible to actually get the card working without having to buy a new motherboard, and if so would I see any performance problems due to the difference in PCI slots?

Also, as a side question, I'm currently running an AMD Phenom II X4 965 processor. Would I see any significant bottle necking because of the processor?
 

Dark Lord of Tech

Retired Moderator



Yes it's fine and with very very little difference.
https://www.pugetsystems.com/labs/articles/Impact-of-PCI-E-Speed-on-Gaming-Performance-518/
Impact of PCI-E Speed on Gaming Performance
 

andreii707

Reputable
Apr 25, 2015
190
0
4,760
Yes, it will work out just perfectly. Tests were done to see the difference between 3.0 and 2.0 and the results very close. The differences were of 1 or 2 frames at most. In some cases 2.0 ran better. It will fit just fine, you do not need to worry.