I'm new to building PCs and I'm trying to figure out how to transform my Dell Inspiron 3847 into a gaming rig on a budget of around $300. I've done some research, but I could really use some help thinking about which components I can buy that will be compatible and still keep costs low. Any advice on parts and compatibility would be super helpful!
4 Answers
Running a benchmark test can really help you understand what you’re working with. You could download the PassMark software to check your system’s specs. It’ll give you a clearer picture of what upgrades are necessary. Just a heads up, the testing may shock you a bit when it hits the graphics!
First, check if your Dell has a standard power supply; you might need a proprietary one. You should consider upgrading your CPU and motherboard since that will give you a solid performance boost. It's also important to upgrade the GPU and PSU if necessary. I recommend checking out some used parts for savings.
If you have the full-size version of the Dell Inspiron 3847, you’re in luck! Look for a power supply around 500-600 watts and consider a used graphics card like the GTX 1660 Super or the RX 580. Also, grab 16GB of DDR3 RAM and a SATA SSD for better performance. If you want to take it a step further, think about upgrading to an i7 4770—it's a great choice for gaming on a budget. Feel free to ask if you have more questions!
Don’t stress too much about it; every PC builder started somewhere. Just take your time researching compatible parts. Look for guides specific to the Inspiron 3847, and you'll find helpful information on upgrades!
Thanks for the tip! I didn't know you could find good deals on used parts, I’ll definitely look into that.