Intel or AMD with >600 system

[Natedog3280]

Hey guys I'm throwing together a cheap build for some relatives that would otherwise overspend on a Dell. So my question is should I go with an Intel E5200 or AMD 6000+ or something else.

I'm limited to around 600 total with a monitor so i'd like to keep processor and mobo around 160-180 to give room else where.

Also is there much difference between onboard ATI 3200 HD graphics and an 8400 GS?

Thanks for any input!

 

[ohiou_grad_06]

Honestly, if you are going AMD, I'd drop down, spend a little less on a 5000+, or a 5200+. Then if you are even considering an 8400 gs, don't. You can grab a 4670 for 80 bucks on newegg for that 30 bucks you could save going from a 6000+ to say the 5000+, and I don't know that you would see that much difference in those 2 chips honestly. But if they do any light games or have kids that would, the 4670 would be a nice little card for the money I think.

 

[megamanx00]

^+1

The 4670 is a good budget choice if there is going to be any gaming involved. As for the 8400GS it's kind of a waste of money. Yeah it might provide better performance in some cases than the onboard 3200, but I don't think they will care about the difference between 5fps and 7.2fps . If there is no real gaming involved the the onboard graphics will be fine for running Vista and some older games.