celeron + CUSL2 or duron + ?

[Jamey]

Oh great ones of endless computer knowledge, I have a question. I have just built a CUSL2 system with a 966 mhz P3 computer. I have been asked to build 3 systems for friends/family. Graphics speed isn't that much of an issue, but cost is. I want to build something reasonably fast, that can do most things other than play quake at 100 FPS. My logic is to get the CUSL2 board with onboard video. This will cut my cost down dramatically. I was thinking of going with a A7V + a Geforce 256 card, but that is going to cost about $100 more going that route. I know the duron is faster than the celeron, but 10% speed isn't worth the extra money when a Video card will have to be purchased seperately. I really don't want to go with a video card that I can't count on for stability or driver support, so the 3dfx cards aren't that attractive especially due to rebates to get a good deal. Overclocking may be an option to squeeze out a little extra, but the heat normally generated by the Duron's will keep that to a minimum unless I go with the celeron. I don't want to build room heaters. I have put together a CUSL2 system, so I know where the bugs are. Please give me some input. So far I have gone back and forth in my mind three times Is it worth the extra $100 to go with a duron based system over a celeron based system at teh same clock speed is what I'm asking I guess.

 

[SuperSix]

For the use you decribe, an Intel i815 chipset board may be the best bet. Although the CUSL2 is a great board, if you don't need to tweak, the Intel boards are hard to beat. Manuf. link

The "L" version integrates a nice Intel 10/100 adapter. They are plentiful and about 20-30 dollars cheaper than the CUSL2. More stable that the Asus board too. If you don't want/need the onboard LAN, the other version has a CL SB PCI128 on the board. Good sound cheap.

The Duron is also a viable option, but more attention to the motherboard is necessary. *I* would only use Microstar boards for all Athlons. I am of the school that I will sacrifice ~1-2% performance for rock-solid stability. A Duron 800, a good fan, and an MSI K7T-Pro2 will serve for years to come. More expensive, as a video card needs to be added..

 

[Cpt. Duke]

That's a tough question. I currently have a Celeron 533 @ 800 that's performed fairly well for me, but I just don't feel its the real value it used to be (I used to have a 300a @ 450) Personally I am looking to upgrade my system to a Duron in a few months, which in IMHO is the best chip in terms of bang for the buck. So initially I would recommend the Duron. However, you already have experience with the Asus board, which is very valuable. In your case I would make the argument that Celeron are "roughly" equivalent to Durons, and that your positive experience with the CUSL2 would be the difference.

Also, are you absolutly sure you won't be playing any 3d games? Although integrated cards save cash initially, you may be spending that money later upgrading your video. I hope this helps!

 

[Jamey]

Thanks for the help you two. I was sterring towards the CUSL2 boards because of the integrated video. These are gifts, in which I am paying for, so....Let them buy the new graphics cards if they need to play quake at 100 FPS.

 

[Cpt. Duke]

Ok, good call!

 

[Jamey]

Make that gone back and forth 4 times now. A friend just came over and asked why I wasn't playing D2 in 3d (say that 3 times real fast ). I told him about the integrated video I am using now off of the CUSL2. I know I am getting a video card for htis machine, but it really makes me wonder about saving a few bucks on the MB and CPU by going Duron, and buying video cards. I will look into those microstar boards for price/features. Are they good for O/Cing? Which would you guys rather have...p3 @ 1 ghz, or a duron @ ~900?

 

[CADbad]

I am getting the same type of sys request-MSI 815E Pro for approx $110-with good sound, video, and 100ATA, plus the ability to tweek, also very stable-and plenty of help on this forum-a couple of great threads. Later, they can add the MSI 816 or 817 video card. also a great value.
Good Luck

 

[Jamey]

Just ordered 3 Geforce 256 cards for about $340 shipped with the staples/onvia deal. I guess I am committed now on the Durons. I will give my P3/ CUSL2 system to my mother (I don't think she'll play much Quake ). The others, I will have the video cards on and the new MSI k7t Pro-A. Now, only to find them in stock somewhere. I might go ahead and grab some duron 700's from buy.com whil they have free shipping and a $10 off coupon today. With the MSI, they may make it to around 800-900 without too much extra heat.