Should I upgrade my GPU + Monitor?

[dt97583]

Hello,

Just a simple question really, I'm not one for upgrading parts all the time and the kit I've got has lasted me great. I'm not particularly unhappy with my setup but then again I've never seen what I could have. So just a simple question, is it worth me upgrading my GPU and monitor, and if so what to?

Current setup:

MSI 7950 @ 960 MHz
Dell UltraSharp U2312HM

i5 3570K @ 4.40GHz
Gigabyte Z77-D3H
Alpenfohn K2 CPU Cooler
8GB DDR3 1600MHz 11-11-28 Samsung Green
Intel 335 180GB
Seagate 500GB
Corsair RM650
Antec 300

My basic understanding of GPUs and what's around at the moment suggests a RX 480 or 1070, what monitor might go with these - assuming my current monitor isn't good enough or wouldn't show off what these cards could do? The only thing I'd add is my current setup is very quiet and I'd be looking to try and keep it that way if possible.

Main gaming use is FPS, Counter Strike etc

Is it worth waiting for Vega? Would you wait for a range of monitors up and coming assuming something great is on the horizon?

I've not got a fixed budget so I suppose I'm looking for the best bang for buck and nothing that's silly money.

Cheers

 

[dt97583]

I'm not sure when Vega is due out, though I don't think it's meant to be too terribly far off. In the meantime, I think the RX 500 cards are due out very soon so it may be worth waiting a short time to see how things shape up.

Thanks arc@css - shows my lack of knowledge, I thought Vega meant RX 500 series, I'm just revisiting hardware after years of not paying attention.

In your situation, I would probably aim for a 1440p 27" (or greater) FreeSync or G-Sync monitor

Do any particular monitors stand out at the moment? Hold off for something great and upcoming?

So, to sum up, either pick up an RX 480 and FreeSync monitor, but be prepared to turn some settings down or grab a well priced 1070/1080 along with a G-Sync screen (dearer of the two options). Alternatively, wait a bit longer and check out the RX 500 range and/or Vega - when it materializes.

I'm happy to wait, I'm in no rush - it just feels like the right time to consider something, maybe a 'special deal' card with new ones coming out, or a new one which will last for another 5 years.

 

[dt97583]

I went with 480 + LG 29'' (um68-p). Felt it was the best choice outside of crazy money territory (but still far from a "wow omg i cant believe this" experience from basic 1080p 60hz monitor, or otherwise). Had a 24'' 144hz before, and honestly even in CS:GO I couldn't tell you the difference outside of maybe a slight placebo; and in anything else - not at all. YMMV I think both Gsync&Freesync 144hz 1440p monitors are mostly OK priced, not TOO crazy, so those are worth a look at too.

Cheers Poneros

Very roughly, what is the upper end of what you'd be looking to spend on a screen?

Cheers, I don't really have a figure in mind, just something relative to my setup and potential GPU choice. I'm not a massive gamer (mainly work gets in the way) but equally I've played FPS for half my life so I don't mind chucking a bit of cash to it.

 

[dt97583]

Anyone else?

 

[dt97583]

So I've narrowed it down to these sub £500, 27", 1440p, 144Hz monitors:

My basket at Overclockers UK:

• 1 x AOC AGON AG271QX 27" 2560x1440 TN FREESYNC 144Hz 1ms Gaming Widescreen LED Monitor - Black/Red= £419.99
• 1 x Asus MG278Q ROG Dominator 27" 2560x1440 TN FREESYNC 144Hz Gaming Widescreen LED Slim Bezel Monitor -= £499.99
• 1 x Acer Predator XB270HUDbmiprz 27" 2560x1440 TN G-Sync 144Hz Gaming Widescreen LED Monitor - Black/Red= £499.99

Total: £1,435.27
(includes shipping: £15.30)



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I'll wait for the 500 series, and Vega too, although I guess this will be out of my price range.

Looks like eBay'ing my old monitor will get me about £100 back so not bad!

Thanks for all your help.