Consider what needs the most improvement first—like the processor, memory, or storage.
Consider what needs the most improvement first—like the processor, memory, or storage.
consider swapping the HDD and selling the old PC to boost your funds for upgrading with an SSD or a 750ti/1050/1050ti/1030(GDRR5)/rx560 model. You can find these options here: [link 1] and [link 2].
I prefer to reuse the system instead of selling it. I ended up spending a lot on it a few years ago from a Microsoft Certified Refurbisher on eBay because my laptop stopped working. Now I have the means to upgrade it with an SSD or GPU if needed.
As discussed, prices from Best Buy are quite steep for that GPU. Consider a 2-core quad with something around a 750 Ti or similar, provided it matches your specs. Look up details online for your exact model. You seem to be talking about the Compaq 8000 Elite, which works well with many 4-core CPUs. System support info: https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/hp-.../c01926347. A solid CPU option is available here: https://www.ebay.com/itm/INTEL-CORE-2-QU...B&LH_BIN=1. It's an older OEM-only card, but the GTX 745 is a better alternative compared to the GT 710.
@Fasauceome Thanks for the reply, I have an HP Compaq Elite 8000 Small Form Factor PC. The most powerful CPU which I could install in this computer (officially supported) would be the Intel Core 2 Quad Q9650. Although, I think that would create too much heat and take too much power from the PSU. All the Core 2 Quad processors which are listed to be compatible with this PC have a TDP of 95 watts. The most powerful processor officially compatible with this system and having a TDP of 65 watts would be the Core 2 Duo E8600, would there be a performance benefit worth upgrading to the E8600 from the E7500? *Upgrade cost to the E8600 would be from $12.25 used to $19.95 new.
Because the Q8400 can cost as little as a quarter of its higher price, it offers great value. I suggest choosing the most affordable 4-core CPU option. The main advantage of moving from 2 to 4 cores is the only real performance gain, and beyond that slight clock speed boost usually won’t be noticeable in today’s tasks. With 8GB of RAM and the GPU I mentioned earlier, the setup would be quite satisfactory.