Upgrade
Upgrade
I’m currently working with an older G41 board and I’m looking for a better upgrade. I’ve gathered a parts list and I’m really hoping for a good deal. The CPU is an i5-6500, DDR4 8x2 at 1600MHz, and I have an Esonic H110 (current specs: Core 2 Duo E8400, which isn’t up to 100%). I also have a GT710 with 2GB RAM. Some of the PSU options are off-brand or overkill.
Yes, I understand the CPU is outdated, but my main concern is finding the right PSU. I’m aiming for under 450 watts and want something reasonably priced. I was considering the EVGA 600BR, but it’s too bulky and expensive. I’m thinking about using my existing GT710 for a while, since it matches the i5’s power draw, and I’ll switch to a better PSU once I’ve got the board, CPU, and RAM decisions finalized.
The PSU from the Core 2 Duo period may not handle the updates introduced with Haswell and low power idle states. An older PSU works best with a Skylake board unless you add a sound card. Make sure it has the correct connectors—4 or 8 pin (EPS12v) and 24 pin for the motherboard. What is the price of the EVGA 600BR? What is your budget?
I've never come across them before. Most brands in the USA aren't familiar to me (I don't reside there). Checking pcpartpicker helped a bit. Thermaltake Toughpower GF1 650 costs $102, while the 850 version reviews at $850. The RM750e is $99.99 for the 1000 watt model from 2023. MSI A650GF is listed at $89.99. I don't have many options left.
This seems to be a high-risk PSU situation. For a 150W unit you could purchase a full set of Dell or HP components that aren’t reliable. What should you do with your PC?
I’d be glad to suggest something at 350, though the PSUs I’ve found in that price range are mostly unreliable—either with a bad reputation, limited warranty, or low-quality parts. Brands I’m not familiar with are also likely to be problematic. Used to recommend Seasonic’s Core GC-500 for budget builds, but it seems they’re no longer in production.