Newby needs advice: Build an AMD or Intel based system???

[brouillet]

I'm looking to build a modest system but am not sure which platform to use -- AMD or Intel. Since I'm not an avid gamer, I don't need the fastest PC. I've considered a an AMD Duron based system which would run me about $230 for a 750 Duron an MSI KT133 board. Or, I was looking at a P-III 800eb and an MSI 815e based board for about $370 total. The difference of $140 is noticeable, however there may be more to this decision than $s. For instance, my main question to you is, which configuration (AMD's socket A or Intel's socket 370) is likely to live longer? If the socket 370 had an longer expected life, then it may be well worth spending the extra $ to go that route. I know that DDR based board are on the way, and that AMD is starting to make specific CPUs that are compatible. Does this mean that all future AMD chips will only support DDR based boards? Will the P-III or Celeron continue to support the current socket 370? Your help is much appreciated. Thank you!

Steve...

 

[mchomicz]

OK, so you don't play agmes and are not interested in overclocking?
Well, what do you use your computer for? If the answer is: web, MS Word and email, then get the cheapest thing you can get your hands on.
If I didn't play games, I would probably still be usingm my Pentium 233... I'm not kidding. For day to day "office" and Internet use, things like DDR memory and lifespan of socket 370 are all but irrelevant, IMHO.

 

[kylebisme]

realy you are bound to find a deal on an old pentum2 or k63 if you dont mind buying used. as for new, a duron with a good motherboard go for just about as cheap as you can get anymore. a 600mhz duron should run about 50$. i have an epox board that goes for about 100$ and people seem realy happy with it including me. find a good deal on on athlon tested ram and get at least 64megs but prefrably 128megs pc100 for about 80$ should suit you fine; however, pc133 can be found fairly cheap too. good luck on the new system.

 

[Super6]

brouillet:
I think your Duron/MSI combo is the best deal. Socket A will be around for a while. Some DDR boards to be released will support both DDR and SDRAM, though not simultaneously. Forget PC100 and get quality name brand PC133.

By the way I'm using an overclocked P3 to respond here but AMD is the most bang for your buck now and MSI makes good motherboards. Current Durons and Tbirds will run with PC1600 DDR without overclocking (essentially 100MHz DDR).

Super6

 

[Nessism]

This is a difficult decision. Since you are not a big game player, I would not worry about trying to put together a super fast system, you will never miss the speed.

Their are lots of great values these days especially if you don't mind buying used stuff. Used P3 550E's are selling in the low $100 range these days and most if not all will run at 733Mhz + with a stock heatsink. I have also seen lots of BX boards, both used and new, in the For Sale forum for between $50 - $80. This combo will give you a great bank for your buck for less than $200! Don't worry about getting used CPU's and motherboards, these parts do not wear out very often. Just make sure you buy from someone that is honest and has a good Heatware history.

If buying used is out, then go with a Duron system. They are the best value these days hands down. Good luck.

 

[Louse]

AMD Duron system is the way to go!! get an A7V by asus and a 650 duron and OC it to at least 900 with no effort at all!!

 

[mchomicz]

>AMD Duron system is the way to go!! get an A7V by asus and a 650 duron and
>OC it to at least 900 with no effort at all!!
True. But so what?

As far as I can tell, the question is "what's the cheapest way to build a PC" an not "what do I buy to get the best price/performance ratio."

Did I miss something from the original post?