What sort of graphics card do i need for my computer?

Question

I dont know a lot about technical stuff with computers but il try and describe everything right. I want to play sims 3 on my desktop computer, and i was told when i bought the computer that i would need to get a graphics card for it. I can play movies on my computer if that means anything. When i buy a graphics card does each model and year of computer require its own graphics card or do i just need to get one that is the same brand of my computer?

wingzero1929 · Accepted Answer

Any graphics card will do. It doesn't need to be the same brand as your computer. The compatibility considerations would be:
1. Does your motherboard have a PCI-E slot? (it's where you plug the graphics card into). I would say 99% of computers nowadays have a PCI-E slot, so you're probably safe, but check anyways :P
2. How much power can your computer's power supply output? You have to check your computer's spec again for this. I'm asking this because the more powerful a graphics card is, the more power it requires (usually).
3. Can your computer case fit it. This is a trivial question but one to consider nonetheless.

For Sims 3, a lower end graphics card such as the AMD HD6670 can play it in highest quality settings without any problem (It is around $60). The link I included below is very useful.

http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/gaming-graphics-card-review,3107-2.html

If you want to play more intensive games, then it would be safer to get a graphics card in the ($100-$200) range. I wouldn't recommend going beyond that price range.

EDIT: 60 USD = 57.06 AUD

Good luck!

Evan · Answer

Store bought computers will need a power supply upgrade before you start adding graphics cards.

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What sort of graphics card do i need for my computer?

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