Hey guys! I just got a Dell OptiPlex 3020 and I'm wondering if I can put a GTX 970 4GB graphics card in it. I found a computer bundle that I bought off Amazon, but I'm concerned about the power supply since it only has around 290 watts. I really don't want to damage the graphics card. Will I need to upgrade anything to make this work?
3 Answers
The issue with the OptiPlex is twofold: the power supply won't have the connectors for the GTX 970, plus it simply won't deliver enough power for it. You’d likely need a custom PSU since Dell's design is non-standard, so it’s pretty challenging to upgrade. It's usually easier and more reliable to get a low-profile GPU instead.
Make sure to check the compatibility closely. Low-profile GPUs are your best bet here!
Short answer: no, the GTX 970 won't fit in your SFF case. You’ll need a low-profile GPU that doesn’t require extra power connectors. The RTX 3050 is a solid option, but it's on the pricier side. If you're looking for something cheaper, maybe check out the GTX 1050 Ti low-profile model instead, but keep the price constraints in mind.
I found a GTX 970 on eBay for $50, but I know it's low performance. What do you think of that option?
Honestly, for that price, I'd suggest sticking to low-profile options to avoid compatibility issues.
You might run into a couple of issues, not just power. First off, most OptiPlex systems don’t come with the necessary PCIe power connectors unless they were originally ordered with a dedicated GPU. Also, consider the physical size of the GTX 970; the OptiPlex 3020 is a small form factor (SFF) case, so a full-size GPU might not even fit in there without modifications.
I found a low-profile GPU on eBay; do you think it would fit and work? [link]