AM2 3800+ or AM2 x2 3800+ Gaming

bache_au

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Would a single core AM2 3800+ overclocked 10 to 20%, beat or match the dual core for general gaming purposes.

Price difference is about $70 Aus.

Thanks,
 

qcmadness

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Single core is a little bit faster for non-multi-core optimized games.

But I would suggest you to buy dual-core processor as it is more future-proof.
 

SidVicious

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Any reasons why you are restricting your choices to AM2 ?

Depending on your budget and current platform, it may not be the best way to go.
 

bache_au

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Any reasons why you are restricting your choices to AM2 ?

Depending on your budget and current platform, it may not be the best way to go.
Yes, AM2 is better for gaming and they run so cool - 40'C full load gaming.

I used to buy only Intel but intels run so hot and there fans are so noisy.

And as I said previously, AMD a noted to be better performers with games.

Check Toms CPU performance charts ie. AM2 3800+ against a comparable Intel CPU.

I hav'nt got a high budget, but can afford $250 Aus to buy a AM2 64 2x 3800+ CPU.

Also, ASUS MB with Nv chipsets and AM2 CPU's in combination run so well.

If you have a better alternative for the price, please post it,

Thanks,
 

bunkgoats

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Intel Core 2 Duos aren't hot nor are they power hogs. Core 2 is based off of the highly successful Pentium M (Mobile), not the hot Pentium 4 Netburst. They are cool and quiet. They are more power efficient than AMD and materially faster. Refer to Tom's CPU charts to quantify. My Core 2 is running at 35 C right now on stock cooling.

Dual core will help you with gaming indirectly. I enjoy playing DS2 with my friends online. We use Microsoft Messenger or Team Speak to comunicate via voice over the internet. I use an antivirus program with realtime protection.

So if you are playing games by yourself, and you turn off your virus scanner, and everything else, dual core won't help.

If you play games online, and use some program to talk to your friends, it will help a lot. Reason: one core is 100% committed to running your game, the other core can use its CPU cycles to take care of the other tasks, such as voice communication, and virus scanning.

On my old Athlon 2100 XP gave me Duengon Seige 2 frame rates of 35+ without a using Microsoft Messenger voice chat. With Messenger voice chat running my fps went down to 15. Obviously thats an older processor, but its also an older game. Do you think playing FEAR on a current single core processor with voice chat running could run better if that conversation was being processed by a separte core? I do.
 

OEM-NIB-OBO

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definetly get the dual core, it the single may be slightly faster (of course, it depends what chips your comparing) but dual core will also benefit applications other than games.
 

Silentsam

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I built an AM2 X2 3800+ system, and I'm pretty happy with it. I noticed a huge performance increase from my old single core S939 3800+.

However, what people are saying about the new Intel chips is true *sigh* but I don't think you'd be dissappointed with the X2 3800+.

If you have no preference for AMD or Intel, then check the cpu charts and price/performance index and let your wallet decide. :)
 

sirheck

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i just got (3 weeks ago) my x2 4400 for 225$ and it actually went
up in price :D . that makes me happy.

and it is currently at 2.6mhz. i paid 289$ for my 3700, but that was
a year ago. now its at 100$ or less.

damn electronics :lol:
 

BaronMatrix

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i just got (3 weeks ago) my x2 4400 for 225$ and it actually went
up in price :D . that makes me happy.

and it is currently at 2.6mhz. i paid 289$ for my 3700, but that was
a year ago. now its at 100$ or less.

damn electronics :lol:

At 2.6 you should see no lag at all, especially with 2GB RAM. Yes, Core 2 is faster but at a point it's more about platform improvements. That's what I like about AMD. 8 cores in Fall 07 may totaly be overkill but I need an upgrade (I bought mine last year for $400 w/Nero).

I don't think Intel will BK if I buy AMD (I would sell both) so.....
 

sirheck

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i am tottally happy with mine.

asus a8n sli32 deluxe
4 xms 512,s
2 68gt,s (only using one now) heat issues 8O
but not much difference in gaming though.

and no difference from the 3700 to the x2 4400 :roll:
i only game and browse the internet.
and troll around here.

mr. ape and g.w. kill me with their emoticons :lol: