What GPU makes sense for an i7-4790 office PC on a $100 budget?
Asked by
MellowPine47
I'm not looking to build a completely new PC right now because component prices are high. My current system has an i7-4790, 16GB of DDR3 memory, and a 1TB SSD. I mainly play RuneScape, Project Zomboid, and Skyrim, so I don't need a high-end gaming card. I was considering an RX 6400, but used models are difficult to find. The PC has a proprietary power supply, although I also have a spare 400W PSU. Ideally, I'd like to spend around $100 or less. What graphics card would pair well with this system?
Answers
A used GTX 1650 around $90 is reasonable if it’s in good condition, includes the correct outputs, and fits your case. Check whether it’s the standard model or a lower-clocked variant, and make sure it doesn’t require a six-pin connector if your current power supply can’t provide one. It should handle your listed games well at 1080p.
Reply to this answer
If you can find one cheaply and your power supply and case support it, a GTX 1080 or 980 Ti would offer much more performance. However, those cards use considerably more power and may be overkill for your games, so they aren’t ideal with a proprietary office-PC power supply. A GTX 1650 is a better match for a simple, low-risk upgrade.
Reply to this answer
The i7-4790 will limit newer or faster graphics cards in some games, but that doesn’t make a modest upgrade pointless. For RuneScape, Project Zomboid, and Skyrim, a GTX 1650-class card should be enough. A complete used budget system or an AM4 upgrade could be better value eventually, but it’s understandable not to replace the whole PC while prices are high.
Reply to this answer
Because the system uses a proprietary power supply, a card that runs entirely from the motherboard is the safest option. A GTX 1650 4GB is probably the most practical choice, provided it fits the case. The RX 6400 is also low-power, but it uses a PCIe x4 connection and can lose performance on an older PCIe 3.0 system. Avoid powering the GPU from a separate PSU unless you know exactly how to synchronize and ground both supplies; replacing the proprietary unit or using a properly compatible PSU is safer.
MellowPine47: That makes sense. I’ll probably keep looking for a GTX 1650 rather than trying to run two power supplies together.
MellowPine47: I found a GTX 1650 4GB listed for about $90. Would that be a reasonable price?
Reply to this answer
Add your answer
Answers are reviewed before publication.
MellowPine47: Exactly—I know a newer build would be better, but I’m trying to keep this machine going without spending much.