More cores or higher speed?

[jana519]

I'm building a SFF HTPC that will also be used for casual gaming. I have a choice between a 4 core, 2.3Ghz CPU or a 2 core, 2.9Ghz CPU. Which one should I go with? (link below)

http://ark.intel.com/compare/65521,65703

*Edit: I have a uSFF case and a 160W picoPSU, so I am looking for a low-power CPU.

 

[Kenmitch]

Why is your choice those two older CPUs?

 

[jana519]

Why is your choice those two older CPUs?

I want to upgrade my G2020T. I already have an 1155 motherboard and I am looking to upgrade the CPU.

 

[Enigmoid]

The 4C 4T CPU should be able to run well on 45W. Intel's 45W mobile quads have similar clocks.

Do you have a dgpu?

 

[jana519]

The 4C 4T CPU should be able to run well on 45W. Intel's 45W mobile quads have similar clocks.

Do you have a dgpu?

Yes, I currently have a GTX 650, and planning on upgrading to a 750 in the future.

 

[AtenRa]

Yes, I currently have a GTX 650, and planning on upgrading to a 750 in the future.

Go for the quad core and wait for the 20-16nm dGPUs.

 

[ShintaiDK]

If you got a dGPU, why not pick a regular chip? You cant be case limited in terms of TDP then.

 

[aigomorla]

*Edit: I have a uSFF case and a 160W picoPSU, so I am looking for a low-power CPU.

do have a 160W power brick to go with your pico?

Otherwise i wouldn't even bother with a dedicated GPU.

Anyhow Id go with more cores because games are being more optimized for at least 4 cores.
Also the fact HT cores are not real cores, so a HT processor with 4 Hyper threaded cores is not the same as a cpu with 4 cores.

Lastly, the turbo mode difference between the two processors is only 300mhz.
I dont know exactly how much that translate to, but im willing to guess less then a couple FPS at most.

However back to one, unless u have a power brick for your pico, i would avoid a dedicated GPU.

 

[jana519]

If you got a dGPU, why not pick a regular chip? You cant be case limited in terms of TDP then.

Good point, I guess I was just worried that 160W wouldn't be enough for a 65W CPU and GPU.

do have a 160W power brick to go with your pico?

Yes I do have the brick.

I think I'm going to go with the regular 65W i5. I'm used to 750W PSUs and 160W feels small but I feel reassured after reading the comments. Thanks.

 

[Xpage]

could always underclock and undervolt the GPU, seems a bit of an overkill for a htpc

 

[Schmide]

Get a Intel Core i3-3225. Better iGPU.