This is not the first thread I have made on this topic, and probably not the last.
My question is, what part in my computer should I replace to best improve performance?
Currently, it’s just a standard DEll Dimension 9150, with some extra RAM and an 9800 GT rammed in.
If you need actual specs, tell me, and I will provide them.
Thanks in advance.
Oh, and will I need a new case if I am to continue modifying, because I have heard that dell cases will often not fit non dell hardware.
You could’ve just post the specs so we don’t have to go look up the model ourselves.
HDD : 80 GB HDD @ 7200 RPM
CPU: Intel Pentium D 2.8 GHz
RAM: 512 mb + whatever this guy added
Graphics: 9800GT
Graphics are fine, but it depends on your processor and RAM right now. The processor isn’t so hot anymore, and depending on how much RAM you put in, you could be lacking.
I didn’t look up your motherboard, but if you want to upgrade your CPU, you may also have to upgrade your mobo. That’s the situation with my mobo right now.
More specs here.
I have 2.5 GB RAM, and way more HDD space.
According to https://www.crucial.com , your mobo supports max 1GB per slot (4 lots) of RAM, so I assume you have 512MB + 1GB + 1GB ? It also supports dual-channel, so make sure you have the 1GB pair installed as such…
Also if you plan to add a lot of stuff in it, make sure your power supply can handle it. Prebuilt computers like this usually will put in exactly what is required to power the default hardware. That 9800GT you added probably takes a lot of juice too.
That doesn’t exactly answer your question, but it might be helpful 
Edit: whoah, i’m a zombie already
Also, dell cases fit non-dell hardware, but they are usually tiny, so any of these 12 inch video cards are out. Same with replacing the motherboard. You may be able to do it, but you’re probably going to have to get a new case.
Improving the processor will always improve performance.
Definetely, you require a new CPU. Like seriously.
Yeah, but like which one…
That was the idea of this thread.
Nothing too upmarket, but not cheap shit either.
No, 512 + 512 + 512 + 1gb.
You really need a new CPU. Tell me how much money you could put in buying a new one and I’ll advise you one.
That’s the same CPU as I have, and it’s fine
Ok, I don’t have a 9800GT though.
I wouldn’t want to go much over 100 euro.
Well, it’s maybe fine but he wants to increase his performance, so…
There’s nothing really interesting under 100€. You could get the E7500 for about 110€, but if you really want better performance for a very nice price, you should definately go for the E8400, which costs about 145€.
How much of a difference is there, + I would like second opinions.
The difference between the e7500 and the e8400 is rather big, you can trust me.
‘rather big’ … can’t you put numbers on this?
I suggest dumping your current mobo and ram and getting an E8400 with a basic asus mobo and 4gb of dual channel ram (2x2gb) because ram is cheap, mobo’s are cheap and that processor overclocks amazingly.
Hmm… Not really.
What end would dumping th mobo serve?
To enable overclocking and add stability.
But moniez
Stability is a BS reason to upgrade your motherboard. If you’re is working fine, then it’s fine.
Reasons why you should upgrade though are more slots (for ram, pci cards or whatever you want to put in), ability to take advantage of new and faster hardware (usb 3.0 is rumored to be coming out this year or early next, and I don’t know what kind of RAM your mobo supports, but I’m sure there’s faster stuff out now that it doesn’t work with).
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