Best value (mid-range processor/MB)

camswinton

Member
Apr 13, 2003
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I am going to be building a new computer in the next month or two and had planned on building around a solid nForce2 board and the AMD Barton 2500+. Recenly I started thinking about waiting a bit longer (I'm not in a rush) and using one of the upcoming Intel 865 (Springdale) boards and perhaps a 2.6 GHz P4 (new 800fsb "C" stepping). The machine will be used for a mix of applications - mostly business apps, photoshop, and other misc. stuff (only occasional gaming). I have machines with both AMD and Intel processors and I'm not looking to start up that debate, but would like some opinions as to which option would give me the most bang for my buck. Do the P4 optimizations in Photoshop make a big difference? Howerver, AMD proc's seems to perform quite well in the office app. area. I imagine I'll have to pay more for the Intel setup (since the boards and processors will have just hit the market). I'm most concerned with building a fast, SOLID machine that will run well for a few years. Your comments are appreciated.
 

ScrapSilicon

Lifer
Apr 14, 2001
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you answered your own question.
Recenly I started thinking about waiting a bit longer (I'm not in a rush) and using one of the upcoming Intel 865 (Springdale) boards and perhaps a 2.6 GHz P4 (new 800fsb "C" stepping).
<edit> and Welcome to AnandTech ! :)
 

Markfw

Moderator Emeritus, Elite Member
May 16, 2002
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Yes, you pretty much answered your own question. Since the 800 fsb P4's are delayed (still I think, no update since yesterday), I would stick with a 2400 or a 2500 Barton and nforce2. Solid is the word everybody I have seen is using, including myself. (I own one)
 

camswinton

Member
Apr 13, 2003
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Well, as I said, I'm not in a rush and would happily wait another 6 weeks or so if it got me a much better system. Markfw900 - assuming the new intel boards/cpu's were available today, would your advice be the same?
 

Markfw

Moderator Emeritus, Elite Member
May 16, 2002
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Well, in value in the mid to low range (2400 and under), unless you find a great deal somewhere the AMD seems to be a better value, especially at the 2100/2200 performance point, 2400 is on the border. Its about money, and if the new 800 fsb ones were available today, I still wouldn't buy one IF I was looking for value, only if I was looking for bleeding edge (your pocket book bleeds too!)