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TheReformer
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February 28th, 2021 07:00
RAM Upgrade Recommendation
Hi, I have absolutely no idea what I'm doing as despite spending ages on my PC every day I've never built/upgraded a PC, so I wondered if anyone could recommend how I could upgrade my RAM?
Sorry if this is a repetitive/lazy question, I've looked at the spec recommendations on the 'Graphics Cards for Alienware Desktops' thread and I just found myself worrying I'd buy the wrong thing.
I currently have an Alienware Aurora R7, it has...
Windows 10 (x64)
Intel core i3-8100 CPU @ 3.60GHz
8GB Installed RAM
AMD Radeon (TM) RX 560 (2GB Dedicated Video RAM)
I often find my PC can get a bit sluggish with some games and large graphics files, and given I need to edit video for my degree I'd like to remove those performance issues. Ideally by upgrading my RAM and/or my graphics card. I just have no idea where to begin and want to just order something and plug it in, but am afraid I'll order the wrong thing or miss something that'll damage the PC!
Anyway, I'd really appreciate if anyone could tell me what I specifically need to order, and whether I should change the graphics card and RAM or just one! Ideally don't want to spend a ton, but obviously if that's the only option then it's good to know!
Thank you very much!
RAM and GPUs are in short supply right now and especially for GPUs like everywhere.
I use 4 x16GB of Kingston HyperX Fury DDR4 2933 for my R7. I got it on amazon for about $250 in 2019.
You can see other compatible options here:
https://www.crucial.com/compatible-upgrade-for/alienware/aurora-r7#memory
Doghouse Reilly
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396 Posts
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Posted February 28th, 2021 08:00
Personally, I would increase the RAM first since you have less then the minimum that I (some) recommend for proper Windows 10 operation (I would currently recommend 16 GB).
See how much that helps before upgrading the video card.
This post should give you some insight...
r72019
8 Professor
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5344 Posts
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Posted February 28th, 2021 08:00
Oh yeah, if you wanted to upgrade the GPU, you'd likely need to upgrade your PSU (unless you purchased the upgraded 850W PSU when you bought the PC).
The RTX 3060 with 12GB VRAM was released a couple days ago, and new stock has still been tricklng coming in, I see some still available now plus others that are still pending release. If you were looking for a decent sub-$500 GPU that is likely your only option right now. Once stock goes back out you're looking at $800+ for it, which is currently the going sold rate on ebay, and much much more for a 3070 or up. You'd still need the upgraded PSU.