Which mobo-gpu combo is best for me?

[avik735]

I am buying a new rig for casual gaming and video encoding.
What should I opt for-
MSI P35 Platinum+MSI R4850
OR
MSI P7N SLI Platinum+ XFX 8800GT
OR
Gigabyte X38 DS5+ XFX 8400GS & later replace the gpu wth a hd4850?

 

[Sylvanas]

Originally posted by: avik735
I am buying a new rig for casual gaming and video encoding.
What should I opt for-
MSI P35 Platinum+MSI R4850
OR
MSI P7N SLI Platinum+ XFX 8800GT
OR
Gigabyte X38 DS5+ XFX 8400GS & later replace the gpu wth a hd4850?

You will get the best performance from the MSI P35 + 4850- without a doubt the best option. However, I would recommend you consider this MSI P45 Neo-F and this 4850 with custom cooler all for a good price- the P45 board linked is only slightly more expensive ($89 AR) than the cheapest P35 and it is a substantial upgrade. The 4850 linked ($149 AR) is also an excellent option as it is cheap and comes with Sapphires own cooling design.

 

[cmdrdredd]

I agree with going for a newer chipset. I like the P35 but buying now I'd get a P45 or x38/48.