Yes, a Dell OptiPlex 330 can handle a Q9650.
Yes, a Dell OptiPlex 330 can handle a Q9650.
I’ve been using a Dell OptiPlex 330 for about a year. I’m thinking about swapping it out for a Ryzen setup and want to pass it along to a friend, but I’d like to upgrade it first. I’m curious if the OptiPlex 330 fits a Q9650 or Q9550. If not, I’ll go with the Q8400 instead.
Start by examining the PSU. If you previously used one of these OptiPlexes, yours had a small PSU to back a different CPU. Check out this site for compatible parts: https://www.userbenchmark.com/System/Del...x-330/1996
Based on this, a Q8400 works fine; power isn't a concern. I'm checking if the Q9650 is also compatible.
Upgraded a used PC using a Q9505. Uncertain about Optiplex support, but it provided a solid performance boost compared to the E8400 it was replacing. More affordable than the Q9550, mainly due to differences in cache size for memory. Bought it around two years ago for just $20 AUD on eBay. It should be possible to find one for around ten dollars easily.