PCI Express 1x16

[Stalwart]

Howdy Folks,
I've picked up a new toy, a 2006 vintage Dell Optiplex GX280 with a single 3.2 GHz HT CPU.
I have an open PCI Express 1x16 slot for a graphics upgrade.

Since I don't know video products in depth, I'm concerned I'll waste money on a card my machine can't take full advantage of.   I see a used GeForce 9500 on ebay for about $50, and I'm tempted.

Within the nVidia GPUs, what's the best performance/price model to shop on a budget?

[Delirium]

You might want to post your PSU outputs too, it can make or break a vid card upgrade.

[MrRiplEy[H]]

Howdy Folks,
I've picked up a new toy, a 2006 vintage Dell Optiplex GX280 with a single 3.2 GHz HT CPU.
I have an open PCI Express 1x16 slot for a graphics upgrade.

Since I don't know video products in depth, I'm concerned I'll waste money on a card my machine can't take full advantage of.   I see a used GeForce 9500 on ebay for about $50, and I'm tempted.

Within the nVidia GPUs, what's the best performance/price model to shop on a budget?

www.tomshardware.com has a videocard comparison chart where the models are categorized and sorted by relative performance. I'd start from there. PSU you can replace (unless it's some Dell proprietary bs which is possible).

[Tigger29]

Just be careful.. on newegg.com you can get a BRAND NEW 9500GT for $54 with shipping (after $10 mail in rebate).. or you can get a low-end Fermi.. the GT430 for $50 with shipping (after $10 mail in rebate)!

The price on that used card isn't so hot...

And definitely.. check the power supply demands of the card you buy.  Dell's aren't known for having very strong power supplies.  Without enough juice, the video card won't work right and you can even burn it up!

[Stalwart]

Thanks for the tips.  I've got a 250 watt PS, so I would have been in trouble without the heads-up.