Upgrading PC - which CPU should I get?

LordSnailz

Diamond Member
Nov 2, 1999
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Hey guys, haven't been catching up with all the CPU and mobo changes, hoping I can get some insight here :)

I'm thinking of building 2 computers, one desktop for every work, browsing, burning, Photoshop, and a second one for HTPC. The CPU choices I have are -

Intel® Pentium® D Processor 830
Intel® Pentium® D Processor 820
Intel® Pentium® 4 Processor 650 supporting Hyper-Threading Technology
Intel® Pentium® 4 processor 640 supporting Hyper-Threading Technology
Intel® Pentium® 4 processor 650 supporting Hyper-Threading Technology

Which CPU would best fit my needs? I guess once I have a better idea of what chip I'm getting, I'll decide on the mobo.

THanks!
 

LordSnailz

Diamond Member
Nov 2, 1999
4,821
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:(

For a regular desktop, can someone post the pros/cons of going with the 800 and 600 series? When would one pick the 600 series over the 800 and visa versa? Seems like dual core would be the best choice, either way.

Also, how would the answer change if overclocking was in the picture?
 

Cerb

Elite Member
Aug 26, 2000
17,484
33
86
Dual-cores?
Read Anand's review.
Heck, read Tom's review.

Even Duvie has gone to AMD, now. The 820 is the only one with any advantage at all, and that advantage is price. For the money, the 3800+ will still end up better. You won't find much in the way of glowing Intel recommendations, here.
 

JEDIYoda

Lifer
Jul 13, 2005
33,986
3,321
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The point is he`s asking for infor on intel NOT AMD!!!

So why all the flaming?

He wants Intel just answer his questions....sheeese

For every AMD person out there there is an Intel person ......apples and oranges to some degree!!

He wants Intel what his wishes and what equipment he wants to use should be respected....

Just my opinion-- I have been known to be wrong!

 

metapy

Senior member
Jul 9, 2001
230
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Well with no budget in mind get the fastest CPU on the list, the 650. It will be the "best". Unless you use software that is written for dual processors or cores then skip the dual core solutions, but you would already know if dual cores were for you so skip dual core. Seriously, you did put out a fairly generic, "Here is what I do, what processor would be best?" minus then inclusion of Intel procs I think AMD would be best. You gave no reason why you were picking Intel and no reason why AMD will not work.

Keep in mind for the HTPC AMD is running much cooler than Intel right now and cool = quiet. I think it would be easier to build a low noise/silent HTPC starting with a Venice or San Diego AMD. I just built my first AMD system 3000+ Venice and the temps were 20C coooler than my P4 2.4B and the newer P4 cores only get worse.