I have an old PC based on an Athlon 3000 xp and XFX 6800gt AGP.

It's getting a bit long in the tooth so I'd like to build a new dual core base unit for budget gaming but with some good upgrade potential from the motherboard.

These are what I've got picked out for a budget gaming system with some possible OCing potential and future upgradeability.

CPU E2180 retail £53 with
Mobo Gigabyte GA-P35C-DS3R £79

I'm torn between the RAM so I need some help... Do I go for

GeIL 2GB (2x1GB) PC2-6400C4 800MHz Ultra Low Latency DDR2 CAS 4-4-4-12 for £30
or
Corsair 2GB Kit (2x1GB) DDR2 800MHz/PC2-6400 XMS2 Memory Non-ECC Unbuffered CL5(5-5-5-12)

Both ram works out the same because the GeIL needs some postage added so price isn't the deciding factor.

Any thoughts?

Get the Geil...

i would consider changing the board to the non-"c" version
GA-P35-DS3R or even GA-P35-DS3L
The "c" versions support 2xDDR3 and 2xDDR2, have been found to be less friendly than the straight DDR2 models. and the fact that you will never need DDR3 at this stage but you could use more than 4gb DDR2 in the near future

Go here: http://geilusa.com/configurator

Just select your motherboard and the other information they ask, and it will show you all compatible RAM modules from Geil. To compare you'll need to find the serial or model number on the Geil set you mentioned above.

Both of those kits are basically the same, but the Geil may be slightly better for overclocking. I seriously doubt you would notice a speed difference between either set... so as long as they are compatible, you're good to go.

Ok geil it is cheers.

I'll look at the other boards you've mentioned too.

Can I ask another question, what about a p31 board?

Gigabyte GA-P31-DS3L Intel P31.

Is there much difference between the p31 and p35 chipset, would myself a casual gamer notice the difference or do I lose upgradeability options by dropping to a p31 chipset?

The P31 has on board graphics, now sure about the options. Stick with the p35 for your use. Good luck with your build.

OK mate cheers for your advice, p35 it is.

Thanks

Phil

I havent seen a P31 chipset mobo use onboard video yet...

The only difference i know of is that the P31 only supports 4gb of ram rather than 8gb and you also loose a few other smaller features depending on board (firewire, no. of USB ports, SATA etc.)

Here is a comparison chart between P31 vs. P35:
http://compare.intel.com/pcc/showc [...] ture=en-US

So in other words if you werent looking at upgrading to a 1333FSB CPU or more than 4gb ram it would be perfect for a few $$$ saving.

Sorry, brain fade, been along day............

So the best option for upgradeability is going to be p35 chipset and support for the 1333FSB.