I currently run a 4400x2 in a Dell E521. Being the bios is locked no o'cing can be done. I got a 5000x2 for $119.00
Any thoughts that I'm paying $119.00 to go from 2.3ghz to 2.6ghz? I also run a 8600GT XXX in my system. Thanks

Change the mobo and keep all other hardware

300mhz increase wont worth $5 nor the 10 min to change the cpu. OC on a new mobo.

Agreed go with a Sli 590 Mb(AM2) from Asus or EVGA for around $100, will be worth it.Youll be able to OC that 5000 to near 3Ghz with good cooling.

Thank you for the feedback. The problem is my system is under a year old, under warrenty, and the parts for the most part are Dell propriety. I've already added 1GB ram for a total of 3GB, swapped-out the 7300LE for a 8600GT, so that leaves the cpu as the only other modification that is feasible. The 4400x2 runs great but with the price cuts the other day I have a 5000x2 on the way, reg. $169.00-$119.00. The 5000 is the most I can go to since my 4400 is a brisbane 65nm 65w and the 5000 is also 65nm 65w. Stock psu is 305w(22amps). Thanks again

If you put the things together to send to warranty they won't find.
Now I see you have another problem. You'll be right on the edge with that psu if overclocking your system.

Can't be overclocked, the only Dells you can are the XPS 710's and 720's.

Actually, you can overclock on the Dell Dimension e520, 9100, Precision, and XPS 410

Go on eBay, and look up the username jmsandrsn

You won't hardly notice the upgrade.

Better to save some more money and buy a better graphics card.

Cancel your order if possible. Seriously.

Yeah that really isn't much of an upgrade for the money