How to swap out old graphics card on your gaming PC


Now that we're getting an increasing number of GPU announcements, and boy oh boy are they impressive, a lot of people will be considering an upgrade to their existing graphics card.

In fact, we'd wager that more people than ever will be eyeing up these incredibly powerful cards as we still lack information on the cost of the PS5 and Xbox Series X.

What a lot of people might not know though, is how to actually do the upgrade yourself.

That's why we've got you covered. Here's what you need to know about upgrading your graphics card.

How to remove your old graphics card

Naturally, before you can install your shiny new all-powerful GPU, you'll need to remove the old one. So, here's how you can do that.

  • Turn off your PC using the switch on the back of the case
  • Unplug all of the cables, literally all of them
  • Open up your PC case
  • Clean the inside of your PC because it's probably full of dust/snakes
  • Unscrew your GPU if needed
  • Unplug the power connectors from the PSU
  • Remove the card from the motherboard by using the catch at the end of the PCI-e slot

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How to install your new graphics card

The good news is that you've done some of the hard work already. The better news is that you've nearly installed your new graphics card. Here's what you need to do.

  • Plug your GPU into the PCI-e slot on your motherboard
  • Secure it to your case using screws if needed
  • Reconnect the power connectors to the PSU
  • Double-check that you've removed all of the dust/snakes from inside your PC case
  • Screw the cover back onto your PC
  • Plug in all of your cables again
  • Switch the PC on at the back
  • Turn it on
  • Enjoy the power

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