Should I upgrade or should I restart in preparation for VR

JKDGuy

Honorable
Apr 14, 2013
5
0
10,510
Hey guys, I'm wondering if I should upgrade just my GPU and CPU in preparation for getting a VR headset (most likely the Occulus Rift) in the future, or if I should start from scratch.


Current Specs:

Case: Azza Hurrican 2000 Full Tower Gaming Case
CPU: Intel Core i7-950 3.06 GHz 8M Intel Smart Cache LGA1366 (this ones from like 2009...!)
GPU: nVidia GeForce GTX 680 (MSI Lightning)
MOBO: Asus Sabertooth X58 Intel X58 Chipset
PSU: 800 Watts - XtremeGear Gaming Power Supply - Quad SLI Ready
RAM: 12GB (2GBx6) DDR3/1600MHz

The recommended specs include a GTX 970 or higher, or a Intel i5-4590 equivalent or greater, so Im under the impression that I should be good to just upgrade my GPU and CPU, or are the rest of my components too out of date?
 
Solution
Since you can't really upgrade your CPU without upgrading your motherboard, it may be better to design a new system. You could reuse some components, but you would probably be better off keeping the system together and selling it and starting a new system fresh.
On the other hand, it makes the most sense to hold off on significant upgrades until you actually need them. Next generation GPUs could be much better for VR than the current batch.
Since you can't really upgrade your CPU without upgrading your motherboard, it may be better to design a new system. You could reuse some components, but you would probably be better off keeping the system together and selling it and starting a new system fresh.
On the other hand, it makes the most sense to hold off on significant upgrades until you actually need them. Next generation GPUs could be much better for VR than the current batch.
 
Solution


Good point. I also looked again and realized the Rift also requires more USB 3.0 ports than my MOBO has, so I'd need to upgrade it anyway. Thanks for the advice.
 
I'd sell it whole/part it out (keeping only the case) later in the year when early adopters have their Rifts and whatnot, and the new GPUs/CPUs are out so you have a greater selection. Though this way you will get less for this system. It depends on your financial situation honestly and how patient of a person you are.