suddenly in the market for a new machine

[Ruptga]

So you're saying this with the 3850 would be better than the x6 system?

XPS 8300

• Processor: Intel Core i5-2300 processor (6MB Cache, 2.8GHz)
• Genuine Windows 7 Home Premium
• XPS 8300
• 1 TB SATA II Hard Drive (7200RPM)
• 6 GB DDR3 SDRAM at 1333MHz, (2X2G/2X1G)
• 16X DVD +/- RW Drive

 

[dclive]

I'm simply reiterating what Tom says. http://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/best-gaming-cpu,2971-5.html shows an easy chart you can use to compare the processors against one another.

 

[dclive]

And there's a similar chart for GPUs too. Just slap in a 5770 or something similar for cheap (check Anandtech and the other likely suspects forums for deals) and you're done.

 

[Ruptga]

Yes but how much difference will that really make? I'm looking at Dell Outlet so I can't mix and match ideal components.

The 3850 is free to me.

I could get an i5 2300 system with a 3850 for $550.
I could get an x6 system with 5670 for $540.

Slapping any GPU other than a 3850 into any system will cost me a lot more.

 

[dclive]

Get the nicest CPU you can. It's hard to upgrade that later without large spend, because you have to replace motherboard/etc. too.

Upgrade the graphics card later, after your 3850 starts to bother you.

 

[Ruptga]

Just ordered an i5 2300 system for $487. Thanks for all the help.

 

[mfenn]

Just ordered an i5 2300 system for $487. Thanks for all the help.

Sounds good and a great deal! :thumbsup: