CPU or GPU Upgrade

[reef]

I am currently running an AMD Athlon 64 X2 Dual Core Processor 4800+ 2.50 GHz and NVIDIA GeForce 8600 GT 512 MB Graphics on the Acer Manufactured F690GVM Motherboard. I want to know which of those two I should upgrade first, the processor or the graphics, to get the best out of modern games. Also if anyone have any suggestions on what to upgrade to from what I have that would be greatly appreciated as well. Thanks

 

[Cabbs]

Throw out the 8600GT first. How much do you have to spend, and what resolution is your monitor?

 

[reef]

1280 by 1024 Pixels maximum but I run it at 1024 x 768.
I want to spend anywhere from $0 - $200 dollars max because I was looking for good stuff on sale at this time of the year, stuff that originally might be expensive that came down during the holiday seasons.

 

[Atomic Rooster]

I agree that a new video card would be your best bet. We also need to know how many watts your power supply has you may also need a higher powered one to handle the new video card's requirements.

 

[JogaBonito1502]

8800GT will fit you fine if your PSU allows it.

 

[reef]

My PSU max output watt is 250 and the 8600 gt that I'm running is working fine, which did replace the stock Integrated ATI Radeonâ„¢ X1250 graphics for display needs when I bought the computer a year ago. So do I need a new power supply if I want to upgrade again from here and is 8800 gt really worth upgrading to like you mentioned JogaBonito when I can buy 9600 gt in my budget unless of course that wont fit?

 

[JogaBonito1502]

The 8800GT outperforms the 9600GT. If you want a 9xxx card I recommend a 9800GTX+. You will definitely need a new power supply. I would get this: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817103940

 

[Cabbs]

You're gonna need a new power supply, even with the 9600GT. If you can afford it, get the 8800GT. How much do you have to spend?

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817151056

The one Joga posted is good too.

 

[Atomic Rooster]

On your $200 budget, I would suggest this:

Leadtek PX9800GT GeForce 9800 GT - $119.99 ($99.99 after $20.00 Mail-In Rebate)

Antec Basiq BP500UB 500W - $29.99

The 9800GT is an excellent performer and requires at least a 400W power supply. The Antec BP500 is more than you need, but you can't beat it's quality at that price.

 

[JogaBonito1502]

That's true. I offered him a modular PSU because I think it's worth the extra money.