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I am so confused about which CPU I should get

Forum CPU & Components : CPUs - I am so confused about which CPU I should get

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Okay, this will be my first time build for starters.
I have been reading and researching CPU's for hours now, since everyone says the CPU is where you start when building your own computer. I suddenly came to the conclusion that I am not getting anywhere. I know this so far, I want a 4 quad since I am reading the the duo quads are making an exit from the scene. My purpose for this machine will be first and foremost online gaming, followed by watching movies online and video editing. I am not trying to max out my wallet, but I'm a realist and know you get what you pay for. So any insight to help me choose the brain of my computer would be fantastic. Looking forward to seeing some reply's.

Thanks in advance

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OK, let's do the usual song and dance:

1) Decide on a budget. Keep in mind that your choice of CPU will influence your choice of motherboard, memory, and PSU (and vice versa).
2) Go to a comparative benchmark list (Tom's has a very nice one right here: http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/char [...] rs,6.html)
3) Pick a processor that does what you want and fits within your budget.

Based on your "4 quad" and "duo quad" comments, I assume you're shopping for Intel rather than AMD. In that case I suggest you look at the Core i5 or entry-level Core i7. But don't discount AMD completely, their Phenom II range offers great value for money.

Happy hunting.

Reply to Herr_Koos

Herr_Koos wrote :

OK, let's do the usual song and dance:

1) Decide on a budget. Keep in mind that your choice of CPU will influence your choice of motherboard, memory, and PSU (and vice versa).
2) Go to a comparative benchmark list (Tom's has a very nice one right here: http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/char [...] rs,6.html)
3) Pick a processor that does what you want and fits within your budget.

Based on your "4 quad" and "duo quad" comments, I assume you're shopping for Intel rather than AMD. In that case I suggest you look at the Core i5 or entry-level Core i7. But don't discount AMD completely, their Phenom II range offers great value for money.

Happy hunting.



The link you gave me for benchmarking is taking me to an dead page. =(

Reply to Zombietoy

Do you have details of what games you want to play

Reply to jamesgoddard

Zombietoy wrote :

The link you gave me for benchmarking is taking me to an dead page. =(



Try http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/charts/processors,6.html

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http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3098/2577559521_edb3ac038e_o.png
http://valid.canardpc.com/cache/banner/679275.png
Reply to Lucuis

Thanks Lucuis, must have copied it wrong somehow...

But anyway, there is a larger-than-life button called "Charts" at the top of the page, for those who haven't noticed it by now....

Reply to Herr_Koos

Well since you didnt pick a price range here is one for 900. you can cut off $80 by going with the intel core i5 processor if you want to save some cash.

*GIGABYTE GA-P55-UD3R LGA 1156 Intel P55 ATX Intel Motherboard - $420 combo
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Comb [...] mbo.270433
-- The 860 is just as good as the 720, but will save you money on the Mobo and RAM

*mushkin HP 4GB (2 x 2GB) 240-Pin DDR3 SDRAM DDR3 1333 (PC3 10666) Dual Channel Kit Desktop Memory Model 996652 - $75 after MIR
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6820146868

* SAPPHIRE Vapor-X 100269VXLE Radeon HD 4890 1GB 256-bit GDDR5 PCI Express 2.0 x16 HDCP Ready CrossFire Supported Video Card - $175 after MIR
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6814102848

*Western Digital Caviar Black WD6401AALS 640GB 7200 RPM 32MB Cache SATA 3.0Gb/s 3.5" Internal Hard Drive - $75
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6822136319

*Antec Three Hundred Illusion Black Steel ATX Mid Tower Computer Case - $60
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6811129066

*OCZ ModXStream Pro OCZ500MXSP 500W ATX12V V2.2 / EPS12V SLI Certified CrossFire Ready 80 PLUS Certified Modular Active PFC Power Supply compatible with core i7 - $40
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6817341016

*SAMSUNG Black 22X DVD+R 8X DVD+RW 22X DVD-R 16X DVD-ROM 48X CD-ROM 2MB Cache SATA DVD Burner LightScribe Support - $32
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6827151188

* Stock Fan will work fine if you dont overclock, and can be replaced later on when you get $45. I would suggest this one tho:
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Prod [...] 6835233029

For the power supply, anything over 500 watts will work and also from Antec, Corsair, Thermaltake, or PC. And for the dvd+rw, any brand will work for the most part.


Total Price: $895 after mail in rebates

Reply to snurp85
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