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Resolved Question

What parts do I upgrade my computer to a gaming comp?

by Sep 19, 2012 9:12PM PDT

Hello guys, I'm very new to building a pc so i would love some help! I currently have a HP p7-1225 that I bought from Staples a couple of months back. It was alright playing lower end games, but then I got into playing GW2 recently. I've been getting low fps (30-45fps) and all the visual settings are on low Sad . Which parts do i upgrade so i can get better fps and visual settings or just a better overall gaming performance for the future? My spending cost is roughly $300 or less, but I'll spend a bit more if needed.

Specs: http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/...loc:2&cc=us&dlc=en&lc=en&product=5230179#N169

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XxAkenoxX has chosen the best answer to their question. View answer
5 Posts
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Best Answer

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Yup......like Willy said
by Sep 20, 2012 1:05AM PDT

Gamers trap.

Best bang for the buck will be the gpu.
But your limited by your psu>>>>>300w.

If you keep that psu then shop for a hd 5450 video card.
It won't be great but better than your igp.

If you want to change the psu then you can go higher in the gpu area.
Your call.

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Answer
Best bet
by Sep 19, 2012 11:19PM PDT

You already fell into a "gamer's needs" trap, you're trying to improve an OEM type system. These generally don't lend themselves to better anything until you rethink the whole setup. That requires more cash and thought. However, your best bet is the video card route AND!!! verifying the PSU can handle it, thus replace as well. You can then think more ram and cpu, but video is the best option. Don't forget cooling also, it's becomes important once heat stress/build-up is part of the mix. Check gamer's websites for further help. Also, be warned, you go too cheap on stuff it will bite you, so shop well.

tada ------Willy Happy

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video card?
by XxAkenoxX Sep 20, 2012 7:59AM PDT

thanks for the comment!
I also looked at Bob b's comment and he mentioned about getting the hd 5450 video card.
How do i know if my computer is compatible or capable to use it?
btw any other video card suggestions?

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link
by XxAkenoxX Sep 20, 2012 8:03AM PDT
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Answer
try this
by Sep 20, 2012 5:45AM PDT

GPU and PSU is your best bet. Could also do CPU upgrading to around 3.0ghz if you want to.

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