Which Core 2 Duo cpu around $100?

[qbfx]

My existing rig specs are:

- ASRock Conroe 1333-1394 LGA 775
- Intel P4 3.0Ghz
- 4GB DDR2 667
- ATi HD3850 512MB
- Mad-X 580W
- Samsung 245BW

So I'm looking for a Core 2 Duo cpu around $100. I'll be using this pc mainly for 3DS Max with Vray and AutoCAD. I know these would benefit from a C2Q but my mobo doesn't support quads and they are out of my budget anyway.

I was looking at the Pentium DC E5200, C2D E7200 and the C2D E7300. Would the programs I mentioned benefit from the more cache and faster FSB on the E7200 and E7300? If yes is the E8200 worth to look at in my case?

Finally are there any cheap mobo+C2Q combos around $200?

Thanks!

 

[edplayer]

Originally posted by: qbfx

Finally are there any cheap mobo+C2Q combos around $200?

Thanks!

If you have a Fry's near you they come up every so often. Cheapest I have seen was a Q6600 and ECS motherboard for $150. You will probably start seeing Q9300/ECS motherboard deals for $180 at Fry's soon.

 

[VirtualLarry]

I'd go with the E7200 or E7300, on your budget.

 

[qbfx]

Thanks guys, I think I'll wait after the holydays for a nice mobo+quad combo deal.

 

[Lemon law]

From the price performance point, the e5200 is probably it, at a current $83.00, because you spend at least $133.00 to go the e7200 or e7300 to get 20% more performance.

But if you need performance, wait, save your pennies, nickles, and dimes, and go with a quad core and board that is a good over clocker.

 

[edplayer]

Originally posted by: Lemon law
..., because you spend at least $133.00 to go the e7200 or e7300 to get 20% more performance.

E7200 is $100 and the E7300 is $105 at Microcenter

Everyday prices also not limited time sale prices

 

[qbfx]

Thanks edplayer, while these deals are certainly tempting, I decided to keep my pennies, nickels and dimes for a mobo/quad deal

 

[aigomorla]

Originally posted by: VirtualLarry
I'd go with the E7200 or E7300, on your budget.

+1

Originally posted by: qbfx
Thanks edplayer, while these deals are certainly tempting, I decided to keep my pennies, nickels and dimes for a mobo/quad deal

Jumping to quad?

I hope you did some research on them.. like... HEAT and PSU

I dont think your gonna grab a yorkfield @ 100 dollars anytime soon....

Kentsfield is about getting shelf'd out, so you'd probably get lucky on that... but then you need to account for HEAT.

So watch out.