My setup...just for documentation

[capt. windh]

Originally Posted by whoarmongar

Well adding RAM and a vid card will give you better performance and is very easy. also you can slot them into your new computer in the future when you upgrade. You have win7x64 so I would certainly add extra RAM, however upgrading your Vidcard may mean having to buy a new PSU so adding cost.
Upgrading in steps like this is a pretty good cost effective way to go. You will never have a cutting edge machine and will remain "behind the curve" on the latest,fastest newer rigs.

Cheers,

yes I will be starting with more RAM.. I did change the PSU earlier this year, and I think it will support newer Video cards. And you´re right about being a bit behind the curve, but hey.. Even if you buy a brand new rig, you will be behind the curve again in about 6 months or so..

[Madfish]

Sorry but I don't think it makes sense to upgrade. Or at least only buy some ddr3 1600 ram, 8gb or something, and eventually a new graphics card so you can use these components for a new system.

The GPU is at it's limit, the CPU as well. The mainboard and socket doesn't offer any great upgrade options anymore... so I guess it's best to not patch it and get a new system.

I must say that 6 months is only correct if you buy budget video cards. With higher end models you can play for 1-2 years without problems. Both approaches work fine - it really depends on personal preference when it comes to game settings. If you want them maxed out then only the top tier cards will allow you to do so. If you're okay with lowered settings then most cards with great price points will do.